bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Potential Vectors and Detection of Rift Valley Fever Virus in Mosquitoes Collected Before and During the 2022 Outbreak in Rwanda
Authors: Nsengimana Isidore , Hakizimana Emmanuel , Mupfasoni Jackie , Hakizimana Jean Nepomuscene , Chengula Augustino A. , Kasanga Christopher J. , Eastwood Gillian
Published: January 2025

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging mosquito-borne arbovirus of One Health importance that caused two large outbreaks in Rwanda in 2018 and 2022. Information on vector species with a role in RVFV eco-epidemiology in Rwanda is scarce. Here we sought to identify potential mosquito vectors of RVFV in Rwanda, their distribution and abundance, as well as their infection status. Since an outbreak of RVF occurred during the study period, data were obtained both during an interepidemic period and during the 2022 Rwanda RVF outbreak. Five districts of the eastern province of Rwanda were prospected using a combination of unbaited light traps and Biogents (BG Sentinel and Pro) traps baited with an artificial human scent during three periods, namely mid-August to mid-September 2021, December 2021, and April to May 2022. Trapped mosquitoes were morphologically identified and tested for viral evidence using both RT-PCR and virus isolation methods on a Vero cell line. A total of 14,815 adult mosquitoes belonging to five genera and at least 17 species were collected and tested as 765 monospecific pools. Culex quinquefasciatus was the most predominant species representing 72.7% of total counts. Of 527 mosquito pools collected before the 2022 outbreak, a single pool of Cx. quinquefasciatus showed evidence of RVFV RNA. Of 238 pools collected during the outbreak, RVFV was detected molecularly from five pools (two pools of Cx. quinquefasciatus, two pools of Anopheles ziemanni, and one pool of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato), and RVFV was isolated from the two pools of Cx. quinquefasciatus, from Kayonza and Rwamagana districts, respectively. Minimum infection rates (per 1000 mosquitoes) of 0.4 before the outbreak and 0.6–7 during the outbreak were noted. Maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analysis indicates that RVFV detected in these mosquitoes is closely related to viral strains that circulated in livestock in Rwanda and in Burundi during the same RVF outbreak in 2022. The findings reveal initial evidence for the incrimination of several mosquito species in the transmission of RVFV in Rwanda and highlight the need for more studies to understand the role of each species in supporting the spread and persistence of RVFV in the country.
Enhancing Carriers’ Confinement by Introducing BAlGaN Quantum Barriers for the Better Optoelectronic Performance of Deep UV LEDs
Authors: Bashir Jamshad , Usman Muhammad , Arteev Dmitri Sergeevich , Noor Zoya , Ali Ahmed
Published: January 2025

Ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (LEDs) based on Aluminum Gallium Nitride (AlGaN) suffer from poor carriers’ confinement effect, one possible solution to this problem is to increase the barrier heights for carriers by increasing Aluminum content in quantum barriers (QBs), which results in a higher turn-on voltage. Keeping this in mind, we have improved the carriers’ confinement by introducing a small amount of Boron nitride (BN) (2%) in ternary QBs and an electron injecting layer, which results in higher barriers that restrict the out-of-active region movement of electrons and holes. With quaternary BxAlyGazN QBs, significantly enhanced electrons and hole concentrations can be observed in the active region of quantum wells (QWs), which leads to a 4.3 times increased radiative recombination rate with a 68% better internal quantum efficiency (IQE) than the referenced conventional LEDs. Relying on the fairly improved IQE and radiative recombinations, other optoelectronic characteristics such as luminous power, emission intensity, etc., are also enhanced. Our whole analysis is based on numerical techniques but we believe that fabricating the proposed type of LEDs will result in desirable light extraction and external quantum efficiencies.
Analysis of the CHS Gene Family Reveals Its Functional Responses to Hormones, Salinity, and Drought Stress in Moso Bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis)
Authors: Su Shiying , Xuan Xueyun , Tan Jiaqi , Yu Zhen , Jiao Yang , Zhang Zhijun , Ramakrishnan Muthusamy
Published: January 2025

Chalcone synthase (CHS), the first key structural enzyme in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, plays a crucial role in regulating plant responses to abiotic stresses and hormone signaling. However, its molecular functions remain largely unknown in Phyllostachys edulis, which is one of the most economically and ecologically important bamboo species and the most widely distributed one in China. This study identified 17 CHS genes in Phyllostachys edulis and classified them into seven subgroups, showing a closer evolutionary relationship to CHS genes from rice. Further analysis of PeCHS genes across nine scaffolds revealed that most expansion occurred through tandem duplications. Collinearity analysis indicated strong evolutionary conservation among CHS genes. Motif and gene structure analyses confirmed high structural similarity, suggesting shared functional characteristics. Additionally, cis-acting element analysis demonstrated that PeCHS genes are involved in hormonal regulation and abiotic stress responses. RNA-Seq expression profiles in different bamboo shoot tissues and heights, under various hormone treatments (gibberellin (GA), naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), abscisic acid (ABA), and salicylic acid (SA)), as well as salinity and drought stress, revealed diverse response patterns among PeCHS genes, with significant differential expression, particularly under hormone treatments. Notably, PeCHS14 consistently maintained high expression levels, suggesting its key role in stress response mechanisms. qRT-PCR analysis further validated the expression differences in five PeCHS genes under GA and ABA treatments. Subcellular localization analysis demonstrated that PeCHS14 and PeCHS15 proteins are localized in the nucleus. This study provides a foundation for investigating the potential functions of PeCHS genes and identifies candidate genes for future research on the responses of Phyllostachys edulis to abiotic stresses and hormone signaling.
Acoustic, Mechanical, and Thermal Characterization of Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA)-Based Wood Composites Reinforced with Beech and Oak Wood Fibers
Authors: Cherradi Youssef , Cerbu Camelia , Rosca Ioan Calin , Seman Adnane , El Qarnia Hamid , Dimokrati Ahmed , Benyoucef Mustafa
Published: January 2025

Considering the growing need for developing ecological materials, this study investigates the acoustic, mechanical, and thermal properties of wood composites reinforced with beech or oak wood fibres. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a complex network of interconnected pores within the composite materials, with varying pore sizes contributing to the material’s overall properties. Acoustic characterization was conducted using a two-microphone impedance tube. The results revealed that the fibre size significantly impacts the sound absorption coefficient, demonstrating that the highest sound absorption coefficient of 0.96 corresponds to the composites reinforced with oak wood fibres with a size of 2 mm in the low-frequency range of 1000–2500 Hz. Mechanical testing revealed a significant reduction in compressive strength as fibre size increased from 0.4 mm to 2 mm, correlating with the observed changes in sound absorption and thermal properties. Thermal analysis indicated thermal conductivity (λ) values ranging from 0.14 to 0.2 W/m·K, with a notable increase in conductivity as fibre size decreased. It was shown that composites reinforced with beech or oak wood fibres with a size of 2 mm are recommendable for insulation materials due to the lowest thermal conductivity of 0.14 W/(m·K). Oak wood composites with a fibre size of 0.4 mm recorded the highest heat capacity, which is 54.4% higher than the one corresponding to the composites reinforced with the largest fibres. The results regarding heat diffusion rates are also reported. The findings about the effects of fibre size and pores on thermal, acoustic and mechanical properties provide valuable insights for designing sustainable materials, offering potential applications in industries where balanced performance across multiple properties is required.
Engineering Management and Modular Design: A Path to Robust Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Mollajan Ali , Thomson Vincent James , Iranmanesh Seyed Hossein
Published: January 2025

Manufacturing environments, characterized by dynamic changes and uncertainties, demand effective strategies to minimize disruptions. This study introduces an innovative approach that integrates engineering management principles with modular design to prioritize risk mitigation and enhance robustness in manufacturing processes. From a systems engineering perspective, all manufacturing activities are perceived as interconnected components within a unified system. Leveraging the Axiomatic Design (AD) theory and the Design Structure Matrix (DSM) method, the study modularizes manufacturing process architecture to effectively curb risk propagation and manage system complexity. This study identifies the most optimal design as a pivotal architectural configuration, significantly improving the structural robustness and stability of the System of Interest (SOI). Empirical evidence supports this design’s capability to reduce complexities, thereby enhancing robustness within the broader system architecture. Notably, the proposed approach results in a substantial reduction in complexity, with the most optimal design exhibiting an approximately 82.79 percent reduction in work volume compared to the original design. Our research underscores the critical relationship between manufacturing and engineering management. Effective collaboration between these domains optimizes resource allocation, decision-making processes, and overall organizational strategy, leading to improved production processes and increased efficiency. Importantly, the study demonstrates a significant enhancement in modularization, resulting in elevated overall robustness in manufacturing processes. This highlights the proactive involvement of engineering management in the design phase to address production challenges, ultimately optimizing system performance. Thus, this research contributes to both practical applications and academic discourse by offering a novel approach to enhancing the robustness in manufacturing processes. By integrating engineering management principles and modular design strategies, organizations can fortify their processes against disruptions and effectively adapt to evolving circumstances.
Sectarian and Secular: Lay Perspectives in Stūpa Burials at Mount Zhongnan During the Tang Dynasty (AD 618–906)
Authors: Sun Wen
Published: January 2025

The canonical limitations on stūpa burial for ordinary monks and prohibitions on non-Buddhist stūpas underwent significant changes in medieval China. A key question emerges when considering how the use of stūpas expanded beyond honoring the Buddha and saints to include lay individuals. People’s interpretation of stūpas—whether they were clergy or lay followers—varied based on their distinct social contexts, living circumstances, and religious beliefs. This article examines lay participation in the stūpa forest at Mount Zhongnan in Chang’an during the seventh and eighth centuries, drawing primarily on inscriptions evidence. By reassessing funerary stūpas erected for laypeople at Mount Zhongnan, this article calls for a reconsideration of the traditional sectarian view of lay-oriented funeral rituals. Even within the laity, motivations for constructing funerary stūpas differed. For some lay Buddhists, the Three Stages teachings influenced their burial practices, while for others without a direct connection to this community, stūpa burials were often more personal, centered on family commemoration. This study highlights the interplay between religious rituals and social structures, as evidenced by the historical and cultural significance of specific material culture.
How Reducing Fossil-Based Plastic Use Can Help the Overall Sustainability of Oyster Farming: The Case of the Gulf of La Spezia
Authors: Summa Daniela , Tamisari Elena , Lanzoni Mattia , Castaldelli Giuseppe , Tamburini Elena
Published: January 2025

Oyster farming plays a crucial role in sustainable food production due to its high nutritional value and relatively low environmental impact. However, in a scenario of increasing production, it is necessary to consider the issue of plastic use as a limitation to be addressed. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted on oyster farming in La Spezia (Italy) as a case study, utilizing 1 kg of packaged oysters as the functional unit. Fossil-based plastics and wooden packaging were identified as the primary environmental concerns. To analyze potential strategies for reducing the environmental impact of oyster farming, alternative scenarios were considered wherein fossil-based materials were replaced with bio-based materials. Specifically, this study examined the substitution of the current packaging, consisting of a wooden box and a polypropylene (PP) film, with a fully recyclable PP net. Additionally, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and bio-based polyethylene terephthalate (Bio-PET) were proposed as alternatives to virgin high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and PP for buoys, oyster bags, and boxes. Among the scenarios analyzed, the sole effective strategy to reduce the impact of plastics on the process is to replace them with PHA. In the other cases, the high energy consumption of their non-optimized production renders them disadvantageous options. However, the assessment must include the effects of degradation that traditional plastics can have in the marine environment, an aspect that potentially renders natural fibers more advantageous. The use of PP net packaging has demonstrated high efficacy in reducing impacts and provides a foundation for considering the need to combine sustainability and marketing with current legislation regarding food packaging.
Short- to Medium-Term Weather Forecast Skill of the AI-Based Pangu-Weather Model Using Automatic Weather Stations in China
Authors: Xu Siyi , Zhang Yize , Chen Junping , Zhang Yunlong
Published: January 2025

Pangu is an AI-based model designed for rapid and accurate numerical weather forecasting. To evaluate Pangu’s short- to medium-term weather forecasting skill over various meteorological parameters, this paper validated its performance in predicting temperature, wind speed, wind direction, and barometric pressure using data from over 2000 weather stations in China. Pangu’s performance was compared with ECMWF-HRES and GFS to assess its effectiveness relative to traditional high-precision NWP models under real meteorological conditions. Furthermore, the more recent FuXi and FengWu models were included in the analysis to further validate Pangu’s forecasting skill. The study examined Pangu’s forecast performance from spatial perspectives, evaluated the dispersion of forecast deviations, and analyzed its performance at different lead times and with various initial fields. The iteration precision of Pangu’s four forecast models with lead times of 1 h, 3 h, 6 h, and 24 h was also assessed. Finally, a case study on typhoon track forecasting was conducted to evaluate Pangu’s performance in predicting typhoon paths. The results indicate that Pangu surpasses traditional NWP systems in temperature forecasting, while its performance in predicting wind direction, wind speed and pressure is comparable to them. Additionally, the forecast skill of Pangu diminishes as the lead time extends, but it tends to surpass traditional NWP systems with longer lead times. Moreover, FuXi and FengWu demonstrate even higher accuracy compared to Pangu. Pangu’s performance is also dependent on initial fields, and the temperature forecasting of Pangu is more sensitive to the initial field compared with other meteorological parameters. Furthermore, the iteration precision of Pangu’s 1 h forecast model is significantly lower than that of the other models, but this discrepancy in precision may not be prominently reflected in Pangu’s actual forecasting process due to the greedy algorithm employed. In the case study on typhoon forecasting, Pangu, along with FuXi and FengWu, demonstrates comparable performance in predicting Bebinca’s track compared to ECMWF and outperforms GFS in its track predictions. This study demonstrated Pangu’s applicability in short- to medium-term forecasting of meteorological parameters, showcasing the significant potential of AI-based numerical weather models in enhancing forecast performance.
Gradient Enhancement Techniques and Motion Consistency Constraints for Moving Object Segmentation in 3D LiDAR Point Clouds
Authors: Tang Fangzhou , Zhu Bocheng , Sun Junren
Published: January 2025

The ability to segment moving objects from three-dimensional (3D) LiDAR scans is critical to advancing autonomous driving technology, facilitating core tasks like localization, collision avoidance, and path planning. In this paper, we introduce a novel deep neural network designed to enhance the performance of 3D LiDAR point cloud moving object segmentation (MOS) through the integration of image gradient information and the principle of motion consistency. Our method processes sequential range images, employing depth pixel difference convolution (DPDC) to improve the efficacy of dilated convolutions, thus boosting spatial information extraction from range images. Additionally, we incorporate Bayesian filtering to impose posterior constraints on predictions, enhancing the accuracy of motion segmentation. To handle the issue of uneven object scales in range images, we develop a novel edge-aware loss function and use a progressive training strategy to further boost performance. Our method is validated on the SemanticKITTI-based LiDAR MOS benchmark, where it significantly outperforms current state-of-the-art (SOTA) methods, all while working directly on two-dimensional (2D) range images without requiring mapping.
An Improved Tree Crown Delineation Method Based on a Gradient Feature-Driven Expansion Process Using Airborne LiDAR Data
Authors: Jia Jiaxuan , Zhang Lei , Yin Kai , Sörgel Uwe
Published: January 2025

Accurate individual tree crown delineation (ITCD), which can be used to estimate various forest parameters such as biomass, stem density, and carbon storage, stands as an essential component of precision forestry. Currently, raster data such as the canopy height model derived from airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data have been widely used in large-scale ITCD. However, the accuracy of current existing algorithms is limited due to the influence of understory vegetation and variations in tree crown geometry (e.g., the delineated crown boundaries consistently extend beyond their actual boundaries). In this study, we achieved more accurate crown delineation results based on an expansion process. First, the initial crown boundaries were extracted through watershed segmentation. Then, a “from the inside out” expansion process was guided by a novel gradient feature to obtain accurate crown delineation results across different forest conditions. Results show that our method produced much better performance (~75% matched on average) than other commonly used methods across all test forest plots. The erroneous situation of “match but over-grow” is significantly reduced, regardless of forest conditions. Compared to other methods, our method demonstrates a notable increase in the precisely matched rate across different plot types, with an average increase of 25% in broadleaf plots, 18% in coniferous plots, 23% in mixed plots, 15% in high-density plots, and 32% in medium-density plots, without increasing over- and under- segmentation errors. Our method demonstrates potential applicability across various forest conditions, facilitating future large-scale ITCD tasks and precision forestry applications.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on the Landscape Stability in the Mediterranean World Heritage Site Based on Multi-Sourced Remote Sensing Data: A Case Study of the Causses and Cévennes, France
Authors: Zhu Mingzhuo , Zhu Daoye , Huang Min , Gong Daohong , Li Shun , Xia Yu , Lin Hui , Altan Orhan
Published: January 2025

Global climate fluctuations pose challenges not only to natural environments but also to the conservation and transmission of human cultural and historical heritage. World Heritage Sites are pivotal regions for studying climate change impacts and devising adaptation strategies, with remote sensing technology showcasing significant utility in monitoring these impacts, especially in the Mediterranean region’s diverse and sensitive climate context. Although existing work has begun to explore the role of remote sensing in monitoring the effects of climate change, detailed analysis of the spatial distribution and temporal trends of landscape stability remains limited. Leveraging remote sensing data and its derived products, this study assessed climate change impacts on the Causses and Cévennes Heritage Site, a typical Mediterranean heritage landscape. Specifically, this study utilized remote sensing data to analyze the trends in various climatic factors from 1985 to 2020. The landscape stability model was developed utilizing land cover information and landscape indicators to explore the landscape stability and its distribution features within the study area. Finally, we adopted the Geographical Detector to quantify the extent to which climatic factors influence the landscape stability’s spatial distribution across different periods. The results demonstrated that (1) the climate showed a warming and drying pattern during the study period, with distinct climate characteristics in different zones. (2) The dominance of woodland decreased (area proportion dropped from 76% to 66.5%); transitions primarily occurred among woodland, cropland, shrubland, and grasslands; landscape fragmentation intensified; and development towards diversification and uniformity was observed. (3) Significant spatiotemporal differences in landscape stability within the heritage site were noted, with an overall downward trend. (4) Precipitation had a high contribution rate in factor detection, with the interactive enhancement effects between temperature and precipitation being the most prominent. The present study delivers a thorough examination of how climate change affects the Causses and Cévennes Heritage Landscape, reveals its vulnerabilities, and offers crucial information for sustainable conservation efforts. Moreover, the results offer guidance for the preservation of similar Mediterranean heritage sites and contribute to the advancement and deepening of global heritage conservation initiatives.
Analysis of Roadside Land Use Changes and Landscape Ecological Risk Assessment Based on GF-1: A Case Study of the Linghua Expressway
Authors: Wen Mengdi , Zhang Liangliang , Wan Huawei , Shi Peirong , Lu Longhui , Zhao Zixin , Zhang Zhiru , Wu Jinhui
Published: January 2025

The rapid construction of expressways in China has brought significant economic and social benefits, but it has also imposed substantial ecological pressures, particularly in sensitive regions. Landscape ecological risk assessment, as an important means to predict and measure the adverse effects of human activities on the ecological environment, is being paid more and more attention. However, most studies focus on the static landscape mosaic pattern and lack dynamic analysis. Moreover, they mainly focus on the ecological effect of the road operation stage, ignoring the monitoring and analysis of the whole construction process. Based on this, the current study examines the landscape ecological risk and land use changes along the Linghua Expressway in Gansu Province using high-resolution GF-1 remote sensing imagery. A landscape ecological risk assessment (LERA) model was employed to quantify the land use changes and assess the ecological risks before and after the expressway construction between 2018 and 2022. The results revealed a decrease in cropland and forest land, accompanied by an increase in the grassland and road areas. The landscape ecological risk index decreased from 0.318 in 2018 to 0.174 in 2022, indicating an improvement in ecological resilience. However, high-risk zones remain near the expressway, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and proactive ecological management strategies. These findings contribute to sustainable infrastructure planning, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions.
The Impact of Integrating Open Data in Smart Last-Mile Logistics: The Example of Pamplona Open Data Catalog
Authors: Al-Rahamneh Anas , Serrano-Hernandez Adrian , Faulin Javier
Published: January 2025

Last-mile logistics is one of the most complicated operations in the whole logistic process. This concept describes the final leg of a product travel from a warehouse or hub to specific customers. One of the last-mile logistics challenges that courier delivery companies face is route planning. Ineffective route planning can cause operational delays that cascade and affect several last-mile deliveries. Thus, numerous factors need to be considered to plan and optimize effective delivery routes. These involve many extraordinary and unpredictable events, including weather, traffic conditions, and traffic regulations. A lack of accessible data hinders dynamic, efficient, and reliable route planning, leading to these factors being overlooked. In this paper, we propose the use of open data (OD) to overcome these limitations. OD are information available for anyone to access, reuse, and distribute for free with minimal attribution and sharing restrictions. Therefore, the aim of this work is to examine the impact of incorporating specific open data elements on the performance of the Clarke and Wright algorithm, particularly in calculating savings, and identifying optimal routes. The results we obtained showed the effect of considering OD with an increase rate of approximately 2% on the total distance compared to not considering them.
Spatiotemporal Interpolation of Actual Evapotranspiration Across Turkey Using the Australian National University Spline Model: Insights into Its Relationship with Vegetation Cover
Authors: Yener İsmet
Published: January 2025

Accurate and precise prediction of actual evapotranspiration (AET) on a large scale is a fundamental issue in natural sciences such as forestry (especially in species selection and planning), hydrology, and agriculture. With the estimation of AET, controlling dams, agriculture, and irrigation and providing potable and utility water supply for industry would be possible. Gathering reliable AET data is possible only with a sufficient weather station network, which is rarely established in many countries like Turkey. Therefore, climate models must be developed for reliable AET data, especially in countries with complex terrains. This study aimed to generate spatiotemporal AET surfaces using the Australian National University spline (ANUSPLIN) model and compare the results with the maps generated by the inverse distance weighting (IDW) and co-kriging (KRG) interpolation techniques. Findings from the interpolated surfaces were validated in three ways: (1) some diagnostics from the surface fitting model include measures such as signal, mean, root mean square predictive error, root mean square error estimate, root mean square residual of the spline, and the estimated standard deviation of noise in the spline; (2) a comparison of common error statistics between the interpolated surfaces and withheld climate data; and (3) evaluation by comparing model results with other interpolation methods using metrics such as mean absolute error, mean error, root mean square error, and adjusted R2 (R2adj). The correlation between AET and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was also evaluated. ANUSPLIN outperformed the other techniques, accounting for 73 to 94% (RMSE: 3.7 to 26.1%) of the seasonal variation in AET with an annual value of 83% (RMSE: 10.0%). The correlation coefficient between observed and predicted AET based on NDVI ranged from 0.49 to 0.71 for point-based and 0.62 to 0.83 for polygon-based data. The generated maps at a spatial resolution of 0.005° × 0.005° could provide valuable insights to researchers and practitioners in the natural resources management domain.
Estimation of Energy Recovery Efficiency in Solid Recovered Fuel Manufacturing and Use Facilities
Authors: Park Sein , Moon Heesung , Son Junik , Kang Jungu , Jeon Taewan
Published: January 2025

The importance of waste energy is increasing with increasing emphasis on carbon neutrality. Solid recovered fuels (SRFs) are manufactured to recycle waste into fuel form and can replace fossil fuels by recovering the heat generated by using them. This study calculated the manufacturing and energy recovery efficiency of SRF facilities. The manufacturing efficiency was calculated as the amount of SRFs manufactured compared to the amount of input waste. The energy recovery efficiency was calculated using the R1 method, which is applied to incineration heat energy recovery facilities. The manufacturing efficiency was 69.5%, which varies depending on the combustible material content of input waste. The energy recovery efficiency was 85.4%, which satisfied Korean energy recovery efficiency facility standards. Our study highlights the manufacturing and use of SRFs as one of the options for recycling waste and its potential as a substitute for fossil fuels.
Sustainable Applications of Satellite Video Technology in Transportation Land Planning and Management
Authors: Lu Ming , Yan Yan , Tu Jingzheng , Yang Yi , Li Yizhen , Wang Runsheng , Zhou Wenliang , Wu Huisheng
Published: January 2025

The accurate perception and prediction of traffic parameters like vehicles is essential to transportation land planning and management. Video satellites launched in recent years have brought promising opportunities into this field, providing a wide perspective and high frame frequency for extracting moving vehicles. However, detecting moving vehicles remains a challenge due to their small size, which diminishes shape and texture details, often causing them to blend with noise or other objects. To address this issue, we propose an effective method for moving vehicle detection in video satellites by integrating road maps. Experiments conducted on videos sampled from Jilin-1 and Skysat satellites show that our approach achieves F-scores of 0.98 and 0.87, respectively, which are superior to the three traditional methods, Gaussian mixture model (GMM), improved frame difference (IFD), and visual background extractor (ViBe). Our method can be used for accurate parameter estimation in real traffic, which paves the way for the application of video satellites in transportation land planning and management.
Hydrogen and Pionic Atoms Under the Effects of Oscillations in the Global Monopole Spacetime
Authors: Vitória R. L. L. , da Silva Kleber Anderson T.
Published: January 2025

In this analysis, we investigate hydrogen and pionic atoms subjected to Dirac and Klein-Gordon oscillators, respectively, in the global monopole spacetime. Through a purely analytical analysis, we determine solutions of bound state, in which we define the allowed energy values for the lowest energy state of both proposed systems. In addition to the influence of the topological defect on the results obtained, we note another quantum effect: the oscillation frequencies of both systems depend on the system quantum numbers, that is, the angular frequencies are quantized.
Bisphenol S Induces Lipid Metabolism Disorders in HepG2 and SK-Hep-1 Cells via Oxidative Stress
Authors: Lin Kai-Xing , Wu Zi-Yao , Qin Mei-Lin , Zeng Huai-Cai
Published: January 2025

Bisphenol S (BPS) is a typical endocrine disruptor associated with obesity. To observe BPS effects on lipid metabolism in HepG2 and SK-Hep-1 human HCC cells, a CCK-8 assay was used to assess cell proliferation in response to BPS, and the optimal concentration of BPS was selected. Biochemical indices such as triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (T-CHO), and oxidative stress indices such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT) were measured. ROS and MDA levels were significantly increased after BPS treatment for 24 h and 48 h (p < 0.05), indicating an oxidative stress response. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), T-CHO, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels also increased significantly after 24 or 48 h BPS treatments (p < 0.05). RT-PCR and Western blot analyses detected mRNA or protein expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP1C). The results indicated that BPS could inhibit the mRNA expression of PPARα and carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1B (CPT1B), reduce lipid metabolism, promote mRNA or protein expression of SREBP1C and fatty acid synthase (FASN), and increase lipid synthesis. Increased lipid droplets were observed using morphological Oil Red O staining. Our study demonstrates that BPS may cause lipid accumulation by increasing oxidative stress and perturbing cellular lipid metabolism.
Estratégias de marketing digital em empresas agrícolas no município de Confresa-MT
Authors: Silva Moreira Wallas , Ferreira Silva Karolayne , Souza Gonçalves Thiago , Silva Rodrigues de Jesus Janile
Published: January 2025

As empresas do setor agrícola estão progressivamente adotando estratégias de marketing digital para alcançar seu público-alvo por meio de diversos canais de comunicação. Nesse contexto, este estudo buscou diagnosticar a aplicação de estratégias de marketing digital em empresas agrícolas no município de Confresa, MT. Utilizou-se uma abordagem quantitativa-descritiva, avaliando dados de 10 empresas agrícolas quanto à sua presença online. Foram considerados aspectos como o uso de publicidade paga em redes sociais, interação com seguidores, existência de um site, utilização de aplicativos ou sistemas de atendimento instantâneo (chatbots), presença em múltiplas plataformas digitais, criação de conteúdo específico para o seguimento agrícola e participação em marketplaces rurais online. A análise revelou que o uso de sites, a presença em várias plataformas digitais e a criação de conteúdo específico para o setor destacam-se como principais estratégias de marketing adotadas pelo ramo agrícola em Confresa-MT. Conclui-se que o setor está se adaptando ao ambiente digital, implementando estratégias de marketing online para atingir seu público-alvo e promover efetivamente seus produtos e serviços.
Exploring rural Scottish GPs’ migration decisions: a secondary qualitative analysis considering burnout
Authors: Latham Helen Ann , Maclaren Andrew S , De Kock Johannes H , Locock Louise , Murchie Peter , Skea Zoë
Published: January 2025

Background

The challenges of recruiting and retaining rural GPs are well described. UK data suggest high levels of burnout, characterised by detachment, exhaustion, and cynicism, plays a role in GP turnover. The contrast is engagement with work. There is limited evidence examining the relationship between work engagement and recruitment and retention in rural areas.

Aim

To qualitatively investigate GPs decisions to move or stay in rural areas through exploring areas that can promote work engagement.

Design and setting

This was a secondary analysis of qualitative data with Scottish GPs.

Method

A secondary analysis of 44 semi-structured interviews with GPs from across Scotland was undertaken. Data were analysed thematically and the Areas of Worklife Scale was used to structure data.

Results

Factors associated with burnout were identified and experienced as barriers to moving or staying rurally. Fear of dealing with pre-hospital emergency cases, clinical isolation, and rural training were concerns. Personal factors such as lack of partner employment played a key role in migration decisions. Factors associated with engagement were identified and experienced as facilitators for moving or staying rurally. Professional networks reduced professional isolation and rural GPs valued increased autonomy and time. Many felt being a rural GP was more aligned with their professional values and highly valued the rural lifestyle for themselves and their families.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that factors associated with engagement and burnout can contribute to rural GPs’ migration decisions. We highlight four areas that could promote desirable work environments by mitigating burnout and promoting engagement at work.
Primary care transformation in Scotland: a comparison two cross-sectional national surveys of general practitioners’ views in 2018 and 2023
Authors: Donaghy Eddie , Sweeney Kieran , Ng Lauren , Haines Holly , Thompson Alexandra , Henderson David , Wang Harry H.X. , Thompson Andrew , Guthrie Bruce , Mercer Stewart W.
Published: January 2025

Background: The 2018 Scottish GP contract established GP Clusters and multidisciplinary team (MDT) expansion. Qualitative studies have suggested sub-optimal progress. Aim: To quantify progress since the introduction of the new contract. Design and Setting: Cross-sectional postal survey of all qualified GPs in Scotland in 2023 Methods: Comparison of GPs working lives, career intentions and views on the new contract with a similar survey conducted in 2018. Results: 1378/4529 (30%) GPs responded to the survey compared to 2465/4371 (56%) in 2018. Job satisfaction and negative job attributes were similar in both surveys. Both positive job attributes (p=0.011) and job pressures (p=0.004) increased but the changes were small (effect sizes < 0.15). Significantly more GPs were planning to reduce hours (p<0.001) and leave direct patient care (p=0.008) in 2023 than 2018. Quality leads views on Cluster working were unchanged, with 70-80% reporting insufficient support. Cluster knowledge and engagement was unchanged but there were small increases in knowledge of quality improvement. More than half felt that MDT expansion was insufficient to reduce their workload. Significantly more practices were trying to recruit GPs, and GPs reported worsening NHS services, higher workload, and lower practice sustainability in 2023. Only 5% of GPs in the 2023 survey thought that the new contract had improved the care of patients with complex needs. Conclusions: GPs report few improvements in working life five years after the new contract was introduced, and are responding by planning to reduce their hours or leave direct patient care.
Strengthening Public Child Healthcare: Development of an Immunization Management Information System for a Local Community in Southern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Catedrilla Jypzie M. , Castillon, Jr. Roger , Alonzo Zandro E. , Vesorio Gwyneth B.
Published: January 2025

While the private healthcare sector rapidly embraces technological advancements, public and local communities struggle to keep pace with these innovations. Community health personnel's reliance on outdated manual methods for managing children's immunization records hinders timely updates and impedes the creation of reliable vaccination schedules, creating obstacles in providing accurate services to the growing young population. To address these challenges, the researchers developed an Immunization Management Information System, employing the Evolutionary Prototyping Software Development Model, which allowed for iterative improvements and customization to meet specific requirements. It incorporates technologies such as a centralized database, a web-based interface, and Short Message Service notification functionality to automate immunization management tasks. Healthcare professionals can record and track immunization details, manage vaccine inventory, generate reports, and send notifications to parents about upcoming immunization schedules. The results demonstrated a system that streamlines and enhances the management of immunization records and processes at the health center, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of services. Discussions on the system's technological features and future research directions are provided, encouraging Information System scholars to contribute to impactful research and development.
Pendidikan Kesehatan Gizi dan Pijat Oksitosin dalam Upaya Mengatasi Produksi ASI pada Ibu Post Partum
Authors: Wahyu Indah Lestari  , Widayati  , Masruroh  , Ryan Nabela Maha Rani  , Nova Oktaviani  , Nafa Nofitasari  , Anissa Regita  , Alya Fernanda Khairani  , Vanisa  , Eva Desita Sari
Published: January 2025

WHO recommendations in order to achieve optimal growth and development are giving breast milk to babies immediately within 30 minutes after the baby is born, giving only breast milk (ASI) or exclusively breastfeeding from birth until the baby is 6 months old, providing complementary foods for breast milk ( MP-ASI) from when the baby is 6 months old to 24 months or more. Providing nutrition to newborns is done by providing good breast milk, namely exclusive breastfeeding, but sometimes mothers experience difficulties in giving breast milk because they think that the milk has not yet come out and they are still stiff in giving breast milk, especially for young mothers who are giving birth for the first time. Prevention can be done by providing health education about nutrition during breastfeeding and oxytocin massage therapy to increase breast milk production.  Prevention can be done by providing health education about nutrition during breastfeeding and oxytocin massage therapy to increase breast milk production. The results of this community service show that the average knowledge of postpartum mothers has increased, where the average post-test knowledge is greater than the average pre-test score. Therefore, postpartum mothers’ knowledge about nutrition and oxytocin massage has increased.
 
ABSTRAK
Menurut WHO untuk mencapai tumbuh kembang yang optimal yaitu memberikan air susu kepada bayi segera dalam waktu 30 menit setelah bayi lahir, memberikan hanya air susu ibu (ASI) saja atau pemberian ASI secara ekslusif sejak lahir sampai bayi berusia 6 bulan, memberikan makanan pendamping ASI (MP-ASI) sejak bayi berusia 6 bulam sampai dengan 24 bulan atau lebih. Pemberian nutrisi pada bayi baru lahir dilakukan dengan cara pemberian ASI yang baik yaitu ASI Eksklusif, tetapi kadang ibu mengalami kesulitan dalam pemberian ASI karena anggapan ASI belum keluar dan masih kaku dalam pemberian ASI terlebih pada ibu muda yang pertama kali melahirkan. Pencegahan dapat dilakukan dengan diberikan pendidikan kesehatan tentang gizi selama menyusui dan terapi pijat oksitosin untuk meningkatkan produksi ASI. Hasil pengabdian masyarakat ini menunjukkan bahwa rata-rata pengetahuan ibu nifas mengalami peningkatan dimana rata-rata pengetahuan post retsnya lebih besar daripada nilai rata-rata pre test. Oleh karena itu, pengetahuan ibu nifas tentang gizi dan pijat oksitosin mengalami peningkatan.
Retos y desafíos de la no discriminación por motivos religiosos
Authors: Badillo Gutiérrez Cristian David , Cuevas Urrea Sergio , Silva Abbott Max , Patiño Reyes Alberto , Chávez Hernández Efrén , Chávez Gutiérrez Héctor , Loaiza Gómez Guillermo , Alvarez Angulo Erika Giannina , Martínez Martínez Verónica Lidia , Calvi del Risco José Antonio , Subía-Cabrera Andrea , Vázquez Sánchez Omar
Published: January 2025

Presentamos en esta edición el número cincuenta y cinco de la Revista IUS, donde examinamos los retos y desafíos de la no discriminación por motivos religiosos en el contexto contemporáneo, integrando aportes científicos provenientes de México, Ecuador, Perú y Chile.
الشكلية القانونية وأثرها في لزوم العقد ونفاذه في الفقه والقانون الأردني: دراسة تطبيقية على عقد البيع وعقد الزواج
Authors: Al Shdeifat Areej Amin
Published: January 2025

الأهداف: يهدف البحث إلى بيان مشروعية اشتراط شكلية معينة في العقود، وتطبيقاته عند الفقهاء، وفي القانون المدني المعاصر، وتوضيح ما يتوجب يتوفر فيه شكلية من التصرفات، وما لا يتوجب، بيان أثر العرف في اعتبار الشكلية القانونية للعقد شكلية شرعية، كما تهدف أخيراً إلى بيان أثر هذه الشكلية على العقد بتحديد اعتبارها عنصر جوهري للانعقاد في بعض العقود، وعنصر نفاذ في العقود الأخرى.
المنهجية: اعتمد البحث على ثلاثة مناهج، وهي: المنهج الاستقرائي، والمنهج التحليلي، والمنهج المقارن، وتم فيه تتبع المادة العلمية من مظانها الشرعية والقانونية، وتحليل المقصود بالتعبير عن الإرادة من خلال طرفين بناءً على العرف، كما تمت المقارنة ما بين ترتب أحكام العقد عند الفقهاء، وترتب الأحكام بعد اشتراط شكلية معينة للعقد.
النتائج: تبين أن اشتراط شكلية مخصوصة للعقد مشروع بالأدلة الشرعية، وبوجود شكليات معينة عند الفقهاء، كما تبين أن الشكلية العقدية في القانون الأردني هي تصرفات مخصوصة، والشكلية لا تعم كامل العقود والتصرفات، فالتصرفات الرضائية والعينية لا يلزم لها شكلية معينة، وظهر من خلال البحث أن التعبير عن الإرادة دون التسجيل في الهيئات الرسمية هو مجرد وعد لا عقد، ولا يترتب به أي أثر من آثار العقد؛ لاشتهار الشكلية العقدية عند الناس واعتيادهم أنه من خلالها ينعقد العقد، وما قبله هو مجرد مشروع تحت الدراسة بالإمكان العدول عنه دون أي مسؤولية قانونية. كما تم طرح فكرة عقد البيع والزواج كمثال واقعي لبرهان الفكرة.
الخلاصة: ضرورة العمل على تفعيل دور الفتوى في إصدار الأحكام بما يناسب العرف المقارن.
تناول وتسويق اللحوم المستزرعة دراسة فقهية
Authors: Mansour Heba
Published: January 2025

الأهداف: تهدف هذه الدراسة إلى تحديد مفهوم اللحوم المستزرعة، وتاريخها، ودواعي استخدامها، وبيان كيفية إنتاج هذه اللحوم، وأبرز الآثار الصحية لاستهلاكها، وصولاً لاستنتاج الأحكام الشرعية المتعلقة بها.
المنهجية: اتبع البحث منهج الاستقراء لمفهوم اللحوم المستزرعة وتاريخها ودواعي استخدامها، والآثار الصحية المترتبة عليها. واتبع البحث المنهج التحليلي لتحليل النصوص العلمية الواردة في الموضوع، وتحليل مراحل إنتاجها والمواد المستخدمة فيها. واتبع البحث المنهج الاستنتاجي؛ لاستنتاج الحكم الشرعي العام والتفصيلي؛ لانتاج وأكل وتسويق اللحوم المستزرعة. 
النتائج : توصل البحث بأنه يمكن تعريف اللحوم المستزرعة: بأنها لحوم يتم إنتاجها وتصنيعها في المختبر من خلال الخلايا الجذعية للحيوان بحيث تضاهي لحوم الماشية، دون الحاجة إلى ذبح الحيوان. يمكن اعتبار هذه العملية صورة من صور الاستنساخ الجسدي الحيوي، لا جنسي، المعتمد على هندسة الأنسجة والهندسة الوراثية. يمكن القول بجواز أجزاء العملية المركبة لإنتاج اللحوم المستزرعة بدءً بالحصول على الخلايا الجذعية والانتفاع بها، وتطبيق هندسة الأنسجة عليها ضمن الضوابط التي وضعها العلماء، وكذلك جواز الاستنساخ الحيواني بشروطه.
  الخلاصة: يجوز تصنيع وأكل وتسويق اللحوم المستزرعة التي تتوافر فيها الضوابط الشرعية والطبية والتسويقية التي   أشرنا إليها في البحث، وإذا وجد أي خلل في هذه الضوابط يحكم عليها بالحرمة من ناحية التصنيع والأكل والتسويق على حد سواء.
CRITICAL THINKING ASSESSMENTS: AN ANALYSIS
Authors: Selvaraj Bawani
Published: January 2025

Critical thinking skills and dispositions are crucial for an individual and society at large. Research has shown that it has an impact on our ability to make decisions pertaining to education, employment, health, finances, rejecting fake conspiracy theories, pseudoscientific claims to name a few. It is also one of the primary objectives of higher education which is often stated implicitly or explicitly as an intended learning outcome. Critical thinking serves as a reliable prognostic tool of academic performance and has been demonstrated to be a more inclusive construct than cognitive ability or intelligence. This paper will highlight some of the critical thinking assessments available which can be used to measure critical thinking skills and dispositions. In the wake of artificial intelligence (AI) the ability to think critically as well as dispositions to do so is of paramount importance. The need to critically assess information using knowledge, expertise, judgement and creativity can avoid the pitfall known as AI hallucination and at the same time promotes empathy, ethics, informed citizenship among others. Hence these assessments should be used in a discerning manner to measure the educational outcomes required by the university and faculty.