bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Man vs. machine: Automated bioink mixing device improves reliability and reproducibility of bioprinting results compared to human operators
Authors: Wu Dongwei , Pang Shumin , Röhrs Viola , Berg Johanna , Ali Ahmed S. M. , Mei Yikun , Ziersch Mathias , Tolksdorf Beatrice , Kurreck Jens
Published: February 2024

The bioink mixing process is highly relevant to the bioink quality, which is the basis for reproducible extrusion-based three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting (EBB). Currently, most bioinks mixed by skilled human operators show variations in terms of cell homogeneity and biological properties as well as other properties. For preparation of many types of bioinks, striking the balance between homogeneity and cell viability remains a major challenge. This study investigates the relationship between bioink homogeneity and mixing parameters, particularly mixing speed and number of exchanges, utilizing a customized automated device. We found that up to a certain point, increasing the rate of mixing led to a better distribution of cells within the bioink, but beyond that point, there was a detrimental effect on cell viability. In contrast, the mixing number had less impact on the physiological properties of the cells in the bioink. Furthermore, a comparison between skilled human and machine bioink mixing revealed that the machine consistently provided better outcomes in terms of bioink homogeneity, cell distribution, and cell viability, highlighting the advantages and importance of standardizing the bioink mixing process. The methodology and approaches in this study can improve the reproducibility and reliability of EBB bioink and may thereby advance the field of 3D bioprinting in various applications.
Parametric design and performance study of continuous gradient triply periodic minimal surface bone scaffold
Authors: Liu Shuangyu , Feng Jinlong , Zhang Fulong , Jiang Weibo , Vasilieva Tatiana Mikhailovna , Lu Ping , Lu Sen
Published: February 2024

Continuous gradient triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) porous structure has been proven to be one of the most suitable structures for bone implants due to their excellent mechanical properties and high porosity. This study establishes a parametric modeling method for continuous gradient TPMS structures and optimizes the TPMS porous structure with a continuous gradient change in porosity. Ti-6Al-4V continuous gradient TPMS porous structures were prepared using powder bed fusion (PBF). The mechanical properties and permeability of the continuous gradient TPMS porous structure were studied. The results indicate that the porosity control parameter C for gradient continuous change follows a linear function, with the porosity increasing linearly within the specified range of values. The influence of the periodic parameter ω on the mechanical properties and permeability of different types of TPMS structures varies. The Gyroid continuous gradient structure aligns more closely with the mechanical properties and permeability of bone scaffolds. Furthermore, a TPMS continuous gradient porous structure that is more suitable for trabecular bone implants was obtained through topology optimization design. A bone implant model and object suitable for human trabecular bone were designed and printed, providing technical support for subsequent performance testing and application research of bone implants.
Effects of Building a Highway and Wildlife Crossings in a Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) Habitat in Hungary
Authors: Ballók Zsuzsa , Náhlik András , Tari Tamás
Published: February 2024

We examined how the movement of red deer (Cervus elaphus) was modified in an area that had a new fenced off highway built across it. The first step was the collection of data from the track marked for construction. We continued collecting data on wildlife crossings after the construction of the highway and the completion of the fences. After the completion of the highway, it was observed that only 5.9% of the original deer track counts remained, spread across the crossings. After the construction was finished, the wider crossing structures were used more often by deer for crossing to the other side of the highway than the smaller ones. During construction of the highway, a number of animals chose to walk tens of kilometres to get around the construction site instead of using the crossings. An existing highway, or a highway under construction not only changes the frequency of deer crossings, but affects their distribution as well.
Genetic and Ecotype Characterization of European Beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) in Poland
Authors: Sułkowska Małgorzata
Published: February 2024

European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) is one of the most important forest tree species in Poland and it covers 5.2% of forest area. Present genetic structure of beech populations has been formed within the last few thousand years and influenced by many different factors, not only of environmental (postglacial) and genetic origin, but also by anthropogenic ones. In Poland, beech attains its north-eastern limit of natural range, and is limited by continental climate, winter temperatures, air humidity and soil conditions. The growth of beech stands outside the natural beech limit indicates that the species possesses a potentially wider range. Based on their phytosociological characteristics, nine beech experimental plots of one hectare area were established in selected seed stands, representing the typical plant associations and the most important beech provenance (seed) regions. The genetic analyses were performed using isoenzyme electrophoresis for seven loci (GOT, LAP, MDH, MNR, PGM, PGI, SKDH) and DNA markers using RAPD primers. The following genetic parameters were calculated: average number of alleles per locus, percentage of polymorphic loci and heterozygosity (on the basis of isoenzyme analysis). Dendrograms based on genetic distances were constructed. There is a slight decrease of genetic variation of beech populations towards the north of Poland, which can be explained by migration paths and selection after the glacial period. The genetic differentiation of beech in Poland does not allow distinguishing provenance regions. The data show a mosaic character of species differentiation and an ecotypic variation.
An EOQ Model Under the Condition of Permissible Delay in Payments with Allowed Stock-Out Cost and Lead Time
Authors: J Jayanthi
Published: February 2024

From this present study, derive the two consecutive demands between the time intervals: economic order quantity and total annual variable cost. The solution for this inventory model is optimizing the total annual variable cost. Here, given an arithmetical example and sensitivity analysis for the provision of the inventory model, assume the planning horizon and replenishment rate are infinite. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to find out the total annual variable cost using various costs under the condition of a permissible delay in payments with an allowed stock-out cost and lead time.
Magnesium of Dead Sea Salts as a Key Factor for the Treatment of Seborrheic and Atopic Dermatitis: A Case Report
Authors: Sudan Bernard J.L.
Published: February 2024

Background: Seborrheic and atopic dermatitis are common and chronic inflammatory skin diseases. Conventional treatments are often ineffective and can have significant side effects. Magnesium dead sea salt has a high concentration of magnesium, and previous research shows its potential to help improve skin conditions.

Case presentation: Patients with chronic seborrheic and atopic dermatitis were treated with topical 5% dead sea salt magnesium for 4 days. Patients experienced significant improvement in their symptoms.

Conclusion. Dead Sea salt magnesium can be a safe and effective treatment for seborrheic and atopic dermatitis.
Three-Phase Distortion Analysis based on Space-Vector Locus Diagrams
Authors: Bellan Diego
Published: February 2024

This work deals with the use of the space vector concept to characterize the harmonic content of a three-phase voltage/current. It is shown that the shape of the trajectory of the space vector on the complex plane (i.e., the locus diagram) provides information about its harmonic content. In particular, it is shown that each harmonic contributes to the locus diagram with a number of lobes depending on the relative angular frequency between the harmonic and the fundamental component. To this aim, the different contributions of positive-sequence and negative-sequence harmonics is explained and put into evidence with specific examples. The expressions for the magnitude and phase of the space vector as functions of the harmonics are derived analytically. Numerical examples are provided to show how the locus diagram can represent a three-phase quantity with positive-sequence and negative-sequence harmonics.
Evaluación del uso de simuladores virtuales aplicados a la electricidad en el sistema de Educación Superior como herramienta de enseñanza – aprendizaje
Authors:   Instituto Superior Tecnológico Rumiñahui, Vera Maria Gabriela , Catota Pablo ,   Instituto Superior Tecnológico Rumiñahui, Sulbaran Migdalia ,   Instituto Superior Stanford, Cajamarca Méndez Gerardo
Published: February 2024

El uso de simuladores virtuales en la enseñanza de la electricidad en la educación tecnológica superior en Ecuador. Se destaca la importancia de combinar conocimientos teóricos con habilidades prácticas y relevancia en el mundo real para una enseñanza integral. Los simuladores virtuales se presentan como una herramienta valiosa que mejora la comprensión de conceptos eléctricos y enriquece la experiencia de aprendizaje. Los resultados de la evaluación muestran una percepción mayoritariamente positiva por parte de los estudiantes, quienes consideran que los simuladores virtuales son efectivos para aprender sobre dispositivos y componentes eléctricos. Se resalta la necesidad de adaptar las prácticas educativas y mantenerse actualizado con los avances en tecnología eléctrica y estrategias educativas. En general, el uso de simuladores virtuales ha demostrado ser beneficioso para mejorar la enseñanza de la electricidad en la educación.
When the small is beautiful: five years publishing short communications
Authors: Fernandes Daniell R. R. , Pitta Rafael M.
Published: February 2024

Since the publication of the first issue in 2019, Entomological Communications has been publishing original and current short communications of basic and applied research in all areas of Entomology (including acarology and related arthropods). Throughout these years, Entomological Communications published 194 articles in six of its seven different sections (Bioassay, Editorial, Letter, Nomenclatural Act, Protocol & Techniques, Scientific Note, and Viewpoint). As of 2024, we are starting a new era to adapt the journal to Open Science. To this end, we encourage authors to publish in a new section focused on Data Papers.
Watching videos of a drawing hand improves students’ understanding of the normal probability distribution
Authors: Zhang Icy , Guo Xiaohan Hanna , Son Ji Y. , Blank Idan A. , Stigler James W.
Published: February 2024

Understanding normal probability distributions is a crucial objective in mathematics and statistics education. Drawing upon cognitive psychology research, this study explores the use of drawings and visualizations as effective scaffolds to enhance students' comprehension. Although much research has documented the helpfulness of drawing as a research tool to reveal students’ knowledge states, its direct utility in advancing higher-order cognitive processes remains understudied. In Study 1, qualitative methods were utilized to identify common misunderstandings among students regarding canonical depictions of the normal probability distribution. Building on these insights, Study 2 experimentally compared three instructional videos (static slides, dynamic drawing, and dynamic drawings done by a visible hand). The hand drawing video led to better learning than the other versions. Study 3 examined whether the benefits from observing a hand drawing could be reproduced by a dynamic cursor moving around otherwise static slides (without the presence of a hand). Results showed no significant learning difference between observing a hand drawing and a moving cursor, both outperforming a control. This research links the cognitive process of drawing with its educational role and provides insights into its potential to enhance memory, cognition, and inform instructional methods.
Water Quality Prediction Based on an Innovated Physical and Data Driving Hybrid Model at Basin Scale
Authors:   Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China, A Y. L. , Wang G. Q. ,   Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China,   Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China, Zhang Q. Z. ,   Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China, Wang P. Z. ,   China Water Resources Beifang Investigation, Design and Research Co. Ltd., Tianjin 300222, China, Xue B. L. ,   Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China, Gao Z. Y. ,   Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China, Peng Y. B. ,   Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
Published: February 2024

The prediction of basin water quality has become an urgent need for water environment management, where water pollution is on the increase. Currently, physical models are primarily used for water quality predictions, but the models are not adaptable for the automatic future prediction of watershed water quality owing to their non-automatic boundary setting. The development of big data, which has led to artificial intelligence (AI) technology, has remedied the deficiency of physical models and has been widely used in water quality prediction. However, the accuracy of AI models depends only on the quantity and quality of dataset, which is applied on specific and discrete sections with enough data and difficult to extend to regions with limited monitoring data. Thus, we constructed migration and distribution gates to express the spatial influence of different variables from different sections on the water quality of a specific and discrete section. The temporal processes were expressed by degradation equation. The migration gate, distribution gate and degradation equations were incorporated into Long Short-Term Memory Network (LSTM) to improve the operation mechanism of the LSTM algorithm to create the Im-LSTM model, which considers both the temporal influence of a specific section and the spatial influence of other sections on a specific section at basin scale. Compared to ANN, LSTM, Im-LSTM showed the best performance for basin water quality prediction, especially for mainstream sections at sudden pollution process. Thus, the proposed Im-LSTM provides a new approach for water environment supervision.
Petróleo em águas profundas : uma história da evolução tecnológica da Petrobras na exploração e produção no mar
Authors: Morais José Mauro de
Published: February 2024

Analisa a trajetória histórica brasileira na exploração de petróleo, com foco nas tecnologias desenvolvidas pela Petrobras para a exploração e produção de petróleo em águas profundas e ultraprofundas da plataforma marítima e na área geológica do pré-sal, localizada principalmente sob águas ultraprofundas. Para a melhor compreensão do desenvolvimento do setor de petróleo no Brasil e como o país se situa em relação à história geral do petróleo, o livro descreve, em linhas gerais, as primeiras descobertas de petróleo em algumas das principais regiões petrolíferas do mundo e analisa as inovações tecnológicas em equipamentos e plataformas de produção voltadas para explorações no mar a partir da década de 1930. Esta edição atualiza e complementa o livro publicado em 2013, com a revisão dos capítulos e a reelaboração do capítulo 9, com novas informações sobre as descobertas no pré-sal. Foram acrescentados o capítulo 8, sobre a Política de Conteúdo Local para petróleo e gás, o capítulo 10, que trata da criação do Fundo Social, o capítulo 11, que analisa a saída da Petrobras dos mercados de gás natural e de energias renováveis, e o capítulo 12, que trata da história recente da Petrobras, dos grandes planos de investimentos adotados em 2000-2014, e das medidas empregadas para a recuperação financeira da companhia, de 2015 a 2022.
Circumstellar Disk Accretion Across the Lagoon Nebula: The Influence of Environment and Stellar Mass
Authors: Venuti Laura , Cody Ann Marie , Beccari Giacomo , Rebull Luisa M. , Irwin Michael J. , Thanvantri Apoorva , Thanvantri Sowmya , Alencar Silvia H. P. , Leal Clara O. , Barentsen Geert , Drew Janet E. , Howell Steve B.
Published: February 2024

Pre-main-sequence disk accretion is pivotal for determining the final stellar properties and the early conditions for close-in planets. We aim to establish the impact of internal (stellar mass) and external (radiation field) parameters on the disk evolution in the Lagoon Nebula massive star-forming region. We employ simultaneous u, g, r, i, Hα time-series photometry, archival infrared data, and high-precision K2 light curves to derive the stellar, disk, and accretion properties for 1012 Lagoon Nebula members. We estimate that of all young stars in the Lagoon Nebula, 34%–37% have inner disks traceable down to ∼12 μm, while 38%–41% are actively accreting. We detect disks ∼1.5 times more frequently around G, K, and M stars than around higher-mass stars, which appear to deplete their inner disks on shorter timescales. We find tentative evidence for a faster disk evolution in the central regions of the Lagoon Nebula, where the bulk of the O/B population is located. Conversely, disks appear to last longer at the nebula outskirts, where the measured fraction of disk-bearing stars tends to exceed that of accreting and disk-free stars. The derived mass accretion rates show a nonuniform dependence on stellar mass between ∼0.2 and 5 M
⊙. In addition, the typical accretion rates appear to differ across the Lagoon Nebula extension, with values twice lower in the core region than at its periphery. Finally, we detect tentative radial density gradients in the surface accretion shocks, leading to lags in the appearance of light curve brightness features as a function of wavelength that can amount to ∼7%–30% of the rotation period.
Radio Jet Feedback on the Inner Disk of Virgo Spiral Galaxy Messier 58
Authors: Ogle Patrick M. , López Iván E. , Reynaldi Victoria , Togi Aditya , Rich R. Michael , Román Javier , Caceres Osmin , Li Zhuofu (Chester) , Donnelly Grant , Smith J. D. T. , Appleton Philip N. , Lanz Lauranne
Published: February 2024

Spitzer spectral maps reveal a disk of highly luminous, warm (>150 K) H2 in the center of the massive spiral galaxy Messier 58, which hosts a radio-loud active galactic nucleus (AGN). The inner 2.6 kpc of the galaxy appears to be overrun by shocks from the radio jet cocoon. Gemini NIRI imaging of the H2 1–0 S(1) emission line, Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array CO 2–1, and Hubble Space Telescope multiband imagery indicate that much of the molecular gas is shocked in situ, corresponding to lanes of dusty molecular gas that spiral toward the galactic nucleus. The CO 2–1 and ionized gas kinematics are highly disturbed, with velocity dispersion up to 300 km s−1. Dissipation of the associated kinetic energy and turbulence, likely injected into the interstellar medium by radio-jet-driven outflows, may power the observed molecular and ionized gas emission from the inner disk. The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) fraction and composition in the inner disk appear to be normal, in spite of the jet and AGN activity. The PAH ratios are consistent with excitation by the interstellar radiation field from old stars in the bulge, with no contribution from star formation. The phenomenon of jet-shocked H2 may substantially reduce star formation and help to regulate the stellar mass of the inner disk and supermassive black hole in this otherwise normal spiral galaxy. Similarly strong H2 emission is found at the centers of several nearby spiral and lenticular galaxies with massive bulges and radio-loud AGNs.
Heliospheric Diffusion of Stochastic Parker Spirals in Radially Evolving Solar Wind Turbulence
Authors: Bian N. H. , Strauss R. D. , Li G. , Engelbrecht N. E.
Published: February 2024

We present a stochastic field line mapping model where the interplanetary magnetic field lines are described by a density distribution function satisfying a Fokker–Planck equation that is solved numerically. Due to the spiral geometry of the nominal Parker field and to the evolving nature of solar wind turbulence, the heliospheric diffusion of the magnetic field lines is both heterogeneous and anisotropic, including a radial component. The longitudinal distributions of the magnetic field lines are shown to be close to circular Gaussian distributions, although they develop a noticeable skewness. The magnetic field lines emanating from the Sun are found to differ, on average, from the spirals predicted by Parker. Although the spirals remain close to Archimedean, they are here underwound, on average. Our model predicts a spiral angle that is smaller by ∼5° than the Parker spiral angle at Earth’s orbit for the same solar wind speed of V
sw = 400 km s−1. It also predicts an angular position on the solar disk of the best magnetically connected footpoint to an observer at 1 au that is shifted westward by ∼10° with respect to the Parker’s field model. This significantly changes the angle of the most probable magnetic connection between possible sources on the Sun and observers in the inner heliosphere. The results have direct implications for the heliospheric transport of “scatter-free” electrons accelerated in the aftermath of solar eruptions.
Simulating Compressive Stream Interaction Regions during Parker Solar Probe’s First Perihelion Using Stream-aligned Magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Wraback E. M. , Hoffmann A. P. , Manchester W. B. , Sokolov I. V. , van der Holst B. , Carpenter D.
Published: February 2024

We used the stream-aligned magnetohydrodynamics (SA-MHD) model to simulate Carrington rotation 2210, which contains Parker Solar Probe’s (PSP) first perihelion at 36.5 R
⊙ on 2018 November 6, to provide context to the in situ PSP observations by FIELDS and SWEAP. The SA-MHD model aligns the magnetic field with the velocity vector at each point, thereby allowing for clear connectivity between the spacecraft and the source regions on the Sun, without unphysical magnetic field structures. During this Carrington rotation, two stream interaction regions (SIRs) form, due to the deep solar minimum. We include the energy partitioning of the parallel and perpendicular ions and the isotropic electrons to investigate the temperature anisotropy through the compression regions to better understand the wave energy amplification and proton thermal energy partitioning in a global context. Overall, we found good agreement in all in situ plasma parameters between the SA-MHD results and the observations at PSP, STEREO-A, and Earth, including at PSP’s perihelion and through the compression region of the SIRs. In the typical solar wind, the parallel proton temperature is preferentially heated, except in the SIR, where there is an enhancement in the perpendicular proton temperature. This is further showcased in the ion cyclotron relaxation time, which shows a distinct decrease through the SIR compression regions. This work demonstrates the success of the Alfvén wave turbulence theory for predicting interplanetary magnetic turbulence levels, while self-consistently reproducing solar wind speeds, densities, and overall temperatures, including at small heliocentric distances and through SIR compression regions.
Chandra’s Insights into SN 2023ixf
Authors: Chandra Poonam , Chevalier Roger A. , Maeda Keiichi , Ray Alak K. , A. J. Nayana
Published: February 2024

We report Chandra-ACIS observations of supernova (SN) 2023ixf in M101 on day 13 and 86 since the explosion. The X-rays in both epochs are characterized by high-temperature plasma from the forward shocked region as a result of circumstellar interaction. We are able to constrain the absorption column density at both Chandra epochs, which is much larger than that due to the Galactic and host absorption column, and we attribute it to absorption by the circumstellar matter in the immediate vicinity of SN 2023ixf. Combining our column density measurements with the published measurement on day 4, we show that the column density declines as t
−2 between day 4 to day 13 and then evolves as t
−1. The unabsorbed 0.3–10 keV luminosity evolves as t
−1 during the Chandra epochs. On the Chandra first epoch observation, when the SN was 13 days old, we detect the Fe Kα fluorescent line at 6.4 keV indicating presence of cold material in the vicinity of the supernova. The line is absent on day 86, consistent with the decreased column density by a factor of 7 between the two epochs. Our analysis indicates that during 10–1.5 yr before explosion, the progenitor was evolving with a constant mass-loss rate of 5.6 × 10−4
M
⊙ yr−1.
First record of Caligus dussumieri Rangnekar, 1957 (Copepoda, Siphonostomatoida, Caligidae) from Malaysia, with notes on caligids found from Malaysia and on host-specificity of caligids on lutjanid fishes
Authors: Ismail Norshida , Nishida Yusuke , Ohtsuka Susumu , Boxshall Geoff , Bernot James P.
Published: February 2024

In total, 14 species of Caligus have been reported from Malaysia. Amongst them, four species are reported from lutjanid fishes.

Caligus dussumieri Rangnekar, 1957 is reported from Malabar snapper, Lutjanus malabaricus, purchased from a local wet market in Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia. This is the first record of this species in Malaysia and it is only the second species assigned to the bonito-group of the genus Caligus to be reported from Malaysia. A key to species of the bonito-group is presented herein. The list of caligids infecting lutjanid fishes and the geographical distributions plus the known hosts of members of the bonito-group of Caligus are discussed.
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Lavastre Olivier , Ageron Blandine
Published: February 2024

Énoncé En 2011, les cinq grands de l’aviation européenne (Airbus, Dassault, EADS, Safran et Thales) décident de déployer une plateforme commune (BoostAeroSpace) à toute l’industrie aérospatiale européenne pour faciliter les relations avec leurs partenaires industriels et plus globalement pour coordonner les acteurs de leur Supply Chain (SC) (Figure 1). Depuis cette date, ce système n’a cessé d’évoluer pour prendre en charge de nombreux processus inter-organisationnels, notamment ceux liés au Supply Chain Management (SCM), comme par exemple la Gestion Partagée des Approvisionnements (GPA). Le cas porte plus particulièrement sur les pratiques de SCM des activités avioniques de Thales.
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Claye-Puaux Sophie , Rouquet Aurélien
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Jaegler Anicia
Published: February 2024

Énoncé La région française Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes est historiquement une région textile. Il y a dix ans, une entreprise textile y est créée à Romans-sur-Isère. L’idée est de fabriquer un jean grâce à un ensemble d’acteurs situés à moins de 1 083 km du client français et de répondre au treizième objectif du développement durable. L’entreprise a aujourd’hui 100 employés et a créé 65 emplois indirects.
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Chaze-Magnan Ludivine , Gerard Jessica , Hoareau Émilie , Zouari Dorsaf
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
Hospitalization forecast to inform COVID-19 pandemic planning and resource allocation using discrete event simulation
Authors: Wikman-Jorgensen Philip Erick , Ruiz Angel , Giner-Galvañ Vicente , Llenas-García Jara , Seguí-Ripoll José Miguel , Salinas Serrano Jose María , Borrajo Emilio , Ibarra Sánchez José María , García-Sabater José P. , Marin-Garcia Juan A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study aims to address the pressing need for accurate forecasting of healthcare resource demands during the COVID-19 pandemic. It presents a novel approach that combines a stochastic Markov model and a discrete event simulation model to dynamically predict hospital admissions and daily occupancy of hospital and ICU beds.Design/methodology/approach: The research builds upon existing work related to predicting COVID-19 spread and patient influx to hospital emergency departments. The proposed model was developed and validated at San Juan de Alicante University Hospital from July 10, 2020, to January 10, 2022, and externally validated at Hospital Vega Baja. The model involves an admissions generator based on a stochastic Markov model, feeding data into a discrete event simulation model in the R programming language. The probabilities of hospital admission were calculated based on age-stratified positive SARS-COV-2 results from the health department's catchment population. The discrete event simulation model simulates distinct patient pathways within the hospital to estimate bed occupancy for the upcoming week. The performance of the model was measured using the median absolute difference (MAD) between predicted and actual demand.Findings: When applied to data from San Juan hospital, the admissions generator demonstrated a MAD of 6 admissions/week (interquartile range [IQR] 2-11). The MAD between the model's predictions and actual bed occupancy was 20 beds/day (IQR 5-43), equivalent to 5% of total hospital beds. For ICU occupancy, the MAD was 4 beds/day (IQR 2-7), constituting 25% of ICU beds. Evaluation with data from Hospital Vega Baja showcased an admissions generator MAD of 2.42 admissions/week (IQR 1.02-7.41). The MAD between the model's predictions and actual bed occupancy was 18 beds/day (IQR 19.57-38.89), approximately 5.1% of hospital beds. The ICU occupancy MAD was 3 beds/day (IQR 1-5), making up 21.4% of ICU beds.Practical implications: The dynamic predictions of hospital admissions, ward beds, and ICU occupancy for COVID-19 patients proved highly valuable to hospital managers, facilitating early and informed planning of resource allocation. Additionally, this study underscores the importance of utilizing simulation techniques to predict and manage hospital occupancy levels, thereby enhancing decision-making in hospital bed management, not only during pandemics but also during regular periods.Originality/value: This study introduces a novel hybrid approach that combines stochastic modeling and discrete event simulation to forecast healthcare resource demands during the COVID-19 pandemic. The methodology's effectiveness in predicting admissions and bed occupancy contributes to improved resource planning and situational awareness.
Efficient numerical method for multi-term time-fractional diffusion equations with Caputo-Fabrizio derivatives
Authors: Fan Bin
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we consider a numerical method for the multi-term Caputo-Fabrizio time-fractional diffusion equations (with orders $ \alpha_i\in(0, 1) $, $ i = 1, 2, \cdots, n $). The proposed method employs a fast finite difference scheme to approximate multi-term fractional derivatives in time, requiring only $ O(1) $ storage and $ O(N_T) $ computational complexity, where $ N_T $ denotes the total number of time steps. Then we use a Legendre spectral collocation method for spatial discretization. The stability and convergence of the scheme have been thoroughly discussed and rigorously established. We demonstrate that the proposed scheme is unconditionally stable and convergent with an order of $ O\left(\left(\Delta t\right)^{2}+N^{-m}\right) $, where $ \Delta t $, $ N $, and $ m $ represent the timestep size, polynomial degree, and regularity in the spatial variable of the exact solution, respectively. Numerical results are presented to validate the theoretical predictions.
Methodological approaches to exploring the spatial variation in social impacts of protected areas: An intercomparison of Bayesian regression modeling approaches and potential implications
Authors: Malesios Chrysovalantis , Jones Nikoleta , Begley Alfie , McGinlay James
Published: February 2024

Protected Areas (PAs) are widely used to conserve biodiversity by protecting and restoring ecosystems while also contributing to socio-economic priorities. An increasing number of studies aim to examine the social impacts of PAs on aspects of people's well-being, such as, quality of life, livelihoods, and connectedness to nature. Despite the increase in literature on this topic, there are still few studies that explore possible robust methodological approaches to capturing and assessing the spatial distribution of impacts in a PA. This study aims to contribute to this research gap by comparing Bayesian spatial regression models that explore links between perceived social impacts and the relative location of local residents and communities in a PA. We use primary data collected from 227 individuals, via structured questionnaires, living in or near the Peak District National Park, United Kingdom. By comparing different models we were able to show that the location of respondents influences their perception of social impacts and that neighboring communities within the national park can have similar perceptions regarding social impacts. Simulation based on existing data using the Bootstrap sub-sampling was also conducted to validate the association between social impacts and mutual proximity of residents. Our findings suggest that this type of data is better treated, in terms of accounting for potential spatial effects, using models that allow for proximity effects to be stronger between people living nearby, e.g. between neighbors in the same community and have minimum effects otherwise. Understanding the spatial clustering of perceived social impacts in and around PA, is key to understanding their causes and to managing and mitigating them. Our findings highlight therefore the need to develop new methodological approaches to assessing and predicting accurately the spatial distribution of social impacts when designating PAs. The findings in this paper will assist practitioners in this regard by proposing approaches to the consideration of the distribution of social impacts when designing the boundaries of PAs alongside typical ecological and socio-economic criteria.
Examining the relationship between public debt and private consumption in European OECD countries (2011–2020)
Authors: Morina Fisnik , Misiri Valdrin , Alijaj Shpejtim
Published: February 2024

This study examined the impact of public debt on private consumption in 26 European Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member countries from 2011 to 2020. Analyzing data from OECD, World Bank, and International Monetary Fund reports, we employed various statistical methods, including correlation analysis, linear regression, fixed effect, random effect, and the Generalized Method of Moments model via the Arellano-Bond estimation approach. Our findings indicated that public debt, foreign direct investments, inflation, and gross domestic product (GDP) growth positively influence private consumption, while gross fixed capital formation and exports of goods and services have a negative impact. The study underscores the need for careful consideration of the repercussions of public debt on citizens' daily lives, especially in terms of private consumption, emphasizing the crucial need for policymakers to consider the delicate balance between public debt management and sustainable economic growth in OECD countries for shaping effective economic policies that foster responsible debt management to support long-term economic development.
Understanding the Perspectives of Paediatric Physicians on Physiotherapy in Paediatric Rehabilitation in Chennai, India: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Kanniappan Vadivelan , Rajeswari Abishek Jayapal , Padma Lawrence Pearlyn Esther , Sundar Subash
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Children with disabilities may exhibit a multitude of symptoms, and treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach for a satisfactory outcome. Lack of awareness among physicians, lack of referral, and lack of inter-sectoral coordination have hindered paediatric practice in Tamil Nadu, a state in India with a striking childhood disability rate that warrants a timely interdisciplinary approach. However, the perspectives of paediatricians on paediatric physiotherapy are unknown. The aim of the study was to investigate the perspectives of practicing paediatric physicians in Chennai on the role of physiotherapy in paediatrics.Methods: For an in-depth exploration, qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted in person with 10 paediatricians. Audio from the sessions was recorded and transcribed, and data saturation was achieved through iterative analysis.Results: A grounded theory analysis of the results yielded 5 domains under which the perspectives and expectations of the physicians were described, along with the barriers experienced by patients’ parents as explained by their paediatrician. The responses highlighted deficits in awareness, structural support, accessibility and direct communication between physicians and physiotherapists.Conclusions: Paediatric physicians have different opinions, and some ignorance persists concerning paediatric physiotherapy. This study warrants a proper structure of the paediatric rehabilitation unit and regular interdisciplinary meetings and focus group discussions to increase access for parents and improve patient outcomes.
Environmental Health Literacy Regarding Fine Particulate Matter and Related Factors Among Village Health Volunteers in Upper Northern Thailand
Authors: Pansakun Nattapon , Naksen Warangkana , Boonchieng Waraporn , Ong-artborirak Parichat , Prapamontol Tippawan
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Fine particulate matter pollution has emerged as a significant life-threatening issue in Thailand. Recognizing the importance of environmental health literacy (EHL) in disease prevention is crucial for protecting public health. This study investigated EHL levels and aimed to identify associated factors among village health volunteers (VHVs) in the upper northern region of Thailand.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data from 710 VHVs using the EHL assessment tool developed by the Department of Health, Thailand.Results: The overall EHL score was moderate (mean, 3.28 out of a possible 5.0), with the highest and lowest domain-specific mean score for the ability to make decisions (3.52) and the ability to access (3.03). Multiple linear regression revealed that the factors associated with EHL score were area of residence (urban areas in Chiang Mai: B=0.254; urban areas in Lampang: B=0.274; and rural areas in Lampang: B=0.250 compared to rural areas in Chiang Mai), higher education levels (senior high school: B=0.212; diploma/high vocational certificate: B=0.350; bachelor’s degree or above: B=0.528 compared to elementary school or lower), having annual health checkups compared to not having annual health check-ups (B=0.142), monthly family income (B=0.004), and individuals frequently facing air pollution issues around their residence (B=0.199) compared to those who reported no such issues.Conclusions: The VHVs exhibited moderate EHL associated with residence area, education, health check-ups, family income, and residential air pollution. Considering these factors is vital for enhancing VHVs’ EHL through strategic interventions.
Empowering Rural Housewives in Iran: Utilizing the Transtheoretical Model to Increase Physical Activity
Authors: Borhani Mahboobe , Hosseini Zakieh Sadat , Shahabodin Najme , Mehri Ali , Kiani Mohadese , Abedi Marzieh
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Rural housewives are integral to household management and family care, yet their sedentary lifestyles present significant health risks. This study used the transtheoretical model (TTM) to investigate strategies that encourage and maintain regular exercise habits among rural housewives.Methods: A semi-experimental study was conducted in 2021 with 114 housewives aged 30 to 59 who attended rural health centers in Gorgan, Iran. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups. Data collection involved a validated questionnaire that gathered demographic information and constructs of the TTM. The intervention group participated in a comprehensive educational program, which included four 60-minute sessions. Data were collected again 6 months post-intervention and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS version 21.Results: The study encompassed women with an average age of 39.75±6.05 years, the majority of whom had educational levels below a diploma, and over 90% were married. We observed strong correlations between the processes of change, self-efficacy, and decisional balance. At the outset, there were no significant differences in demographics or model structures between the 2 groups. However, 6 months post-intervention, the intervention group exhibited statistically significant differences in the mean scores of model structures, stages of change, and body mass index (<>p<0.05).Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of physical activity training for rural housewives. The findings suggest that the educational intervention, which utilized the TTM, significantly impacted the participants’ model structures and their stages of change.
El canon literario no académico: propuesta metodológica para su estudio
Authors: Lluch Gemma
Published: February 2024

Este estudio se centra en el canon popular (la llamada paraliteratura) y la influencia que en su formación tiene la comunicación virtual. El objetivo de la investigación es doble: en primer lugar, se revisan las principales investigaciones sobre el canon no académico para indagar qué metodología utilizan, qué rasgos proponen para caracterizarlo, cuál es el proceso de formación o los agentes y las acciones que llevan a cabo para construirlo. A partir de los resultados, se describe la base metodológica que permita analizar y verificar la construcción del canon no académico en el ecosistema de comunicación virtual.
En torno a la semiosfera y al nachleben de lo monstruoso en la literatura de la Guerra Civil española
Authors: Rivas Venegas Miguel
Published: February 2024

A lo largo de este artículo, reflexionaremos y contextualizaremos el discurso sobre lo monstruoso, lo contra natura y lo extraordinario en la España de los años treinta y cuarenta, centrándonos en la producción literaria de la Guerra Civil y del primer franquismo. Tomando la noción de semiosfera «como espacio de lo seguro» y frontera con lo diferente que desarrollase Yuri Lotman (1990), se ubicarán aquellos relatos de lo monstruoso y la elaboración de la alteridad en la literatura de la Guerra Civil y del primer franquismo en la tradición cultural del monstruo (monstrum) como elemento que «muestra» y como artefacto delimitador. Partiendo de los «arsenales léxicos» (Rivas Venegas, 2020) y de las «palabras gruñido» (Hayakawa, 1939) como elementos clave en la construcción de lo horripilante, se pondrá en relieve la «persistencia» y la «supervivencia» –en clave de nachleben, como lo definiera Aby Warburg– de una serie de iconografías y construcciones de lo monstruoso y de lo «otro» que encontró su espacio de gestación en la producción literaria del bando golpista y posteriormente en el franquismo.
La séparation des pouvoirs. Aux origines d’un lieu commun
Authors: Olivesi Stéphane
Published: February 2024

La « séparation des pouvoirs » est une formule régulièrement mobilisée par divers acteurs des mondes politiques et journalistiques, voire académiques. Héritage de Montesquieu, elle relèverait à la fois d’une évidence historique et d’un dogme constitutionnel. À l’encontre de ces présupposés, l’article esquisse une archéologie de ce lieu commun qui s’apparente à un mythe. D’où vient-il ? Pourquoi Montesquieu en serait-il l’inventeur ? Et surtout, quels profits rhétoriques cherchent à en tirer ceux qui le mobilisent ? Comment expliquer leur attachement à ce dernier ? En esquissant des réponses à ces questions, l’article explore les limites d’une pensée politique qui reproduit une conception juridique du « Pouvoir » pour le moins (dé-)passée.
Analysis on the Influence of Tax Reduction and Fee Reduction Policies on Digital Development Level of Enterprises Based on AHP-DEMATEL
Authors: Wang Yao , Kang Zhijie
Published: February 2024

Since structural tax cuts were first incorporated into active fiscal policy in 2008, various tax breaks have been introduced. Based on the detailed enumeration of tax reduction policy measures, this study constructs an evaluation index system for the level of digital development of enterprises in terms of strategy implementation, operation status, technology level, and quality management. Then DEMATEL hierarchical analysis method and big data analysis method are used to analyse and determine the comprehensive influence degree of each index. Finally, this paper analyses the benefits and convenience brought by tax reduction and fee reduction to the digital development of enterprises and puts forward countermeasures and suggestions for the development of digital transformation of enterprises in the context of tax reduction and fee reduction. This study aims to put forward relevant countermeasures for enterprises to enhance their digital transformation and development capabilities.
Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor: a retrospective clinicopathological analysis of 24 cases from Pakistan
Authors: Zafar S. , Ud Din N. , Nisar M.
Published: February 2024

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Embracing Mobile Learning: Exploring the Acceptance Among Undergraduates in Sri Lankan Universities
Authors: Samarasinghe K. T. A. R. , Dassanayake D. M. C.
Published: February 2024

This research explores the emerging trend of mobile learning in the higher education sector, with a focus on identifying key factors influencing its adoption in Sri Lanka. In this study, a quantitative approach was employed, encompassing a participant pool of 323 undergraduates drawn from Sri Lankan national universities. The study scrutinizes the factors that influence the acceptance of mobile learning by investigating performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, perceived playfulness, and self-management of learning employing mainly correlation and multiple regression data analysis techniques. A notable revelation emerges as the research highlights "self-management of learning" as the most influential factor, surpassing the conventional assumption regarding the significance of "performance expectancy," which surprisingly exhibits no direct impact on mobile learning acceptance. The model effectively explains an impressive almost sixty-eight percent of the variance in undergraduates' acceptance of mobile learning. Beyond the academic context, the insights that emerged from this study hold the potential to revolutionize educational practices in Sri Lanka, offering valuable guidance to educators, policymakers, and educational technology developers striving to seamlessly integrate mobile learning into the higher education landscape while contributing to the broader discourse on innovative pedagogical strategies.
TIPE2: A Candidate for Targeting Antitumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Xu Luxia , Pan Feiyan , Guo Zhigang
Published: February 2024

TNF-α–induced protein 8–like 2 (TIPE2 or TNFAIP8L2) is a recently discovered negative regulator of innate and adaptive immunity. TIPE2 is expressed in a wide range of tissues, both immune and nonimmune, and is implicated in the maintenance of immune homeostasis within the immune system. Furthermore, TIPE2 has been shown to play a pivotal role in the regulation of inflammation and the development of tumor. This review focuses on the structural characteristics, expression patterns, and functional roles of TIPE proteins, with a particular emphasis on the role and underlying mechanisms of TIPE2 in immune regulation and its involvement in different diseases. However, the current body of evidence is still limited in providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex role of TIPE2 in the human body, warranting further investigation to elucidate the possible mechanisms and functions of TIPE2 in diverse disease contexts.