bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edge Computing for Effective and Efficient Traffic Characterization
Authors: Khan Asif , Khattak Khurram S. , Khan Zawar H. , Gulliver Thomas Aaron , Abdullah
Published: November 2023

Traffic flow analysis is essential to develop smart urban mobility solutions. Although numerous tools have been proposed, they employ only a small number of parameters. To overcome this limitation, an edge computing solution is proposed based on nine traffic parameters, namely, vehicle count, direction, speed, and type, flow, peak hour factor, density, time headway, and distance headway. The proposed low-cost solution is easy to deploy and maintain. The sensor node is comprised of a Raspberry Pi 4, Pi camera, Intel Movidius Neural Compute Stick 2, Xiaomi MI Power Bank, and Zong 4G Bolt+. Pre-trained models from the OpenVINO Toolkit are employed for vehicle detection and classification, and a centroid tracking algorithm is used to estimate vehicle speed. The measured traffic parameters are transmitted to the ThingSpeak cloud platform via 4G. The proposed solution was field-tested for one week (7 h/day), with approximately 10,000 vehicles per day. The count, classification, and speed accuracies obtained were 79.8%, 93.2%, and 82.9%, respectively. The sensor node can operate for approximately 8 h with a 10,000 mAh power bank and the required data bandwidth is 1.5 MB/h. The proposed edge computing solution overcomes the limitations of existing traffic monitoring systems and can work in hostile environments.
A Robust GPS Navigation Filter Based on Maximum Correntropy Criterion with Adaptive Kernel Bandwidth
Authors: Jwo Dah-Jing , Chen Yi-Ling , Cho Ta-Shun , Biswal Amita
Published: November 2023

Multiple forms of interference and noise that impact the receiver’s capacity to receive and interpret satellite signals, and consequently the preciseness of positioning and navigation, may be present during the processing of Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation. The non-Gaussian noise predominates in the signal owing to the fluctuating character of both natural and artificial electromagnetic interference, and the algorithm based on the minimum mean-square error (MMSE) criterion performs well when assuming Gaussian noise, but drops when assuming non-Gaussian noise. The maximum correntropy criteria (MCC) adaptive filtering technique efficiently reduces pulse noise and has adequate performance in heavy-tailed noise, which addresses the issue of filter performance caused by the presence of non-Gaussian or heavy-tailed unusual noise values in the localizing measurement noise. The adaptive kernel bandwidth (AKB) technique employed in this paper applies the calculated adaptive variables to generate the kernel function matrix, in which the adaptive factor can modify the size of the kernel width across a reasonably appropriate spectrum, substituting the fixed kernel width for the conventional MCC to enhance the performance. The conventional maximum correntropy criterion-based extended Kalman filter (MCCEKF) algorithm’s performance is significantly impacted by the value of the kernel width, and there are certain predetermined conditions in the selection based on experience. The MCCEKF with a fixed adaptive kernel bandwidth (MCCEKF-AKB) has several advantages due to its novel concept and computational simplicity, and gives a qualitative solution for the study of random structures for generalized noise. Additionally, it can effectively achieve the robust state estimation of outliers with anomalous values while guaranteeing the accuracy of the filtering.
Towards Semantic Smart Cities: A Study on the Conceptualization and Implementation of Semantic Context Inference Systems
Authors: Lee Jieun , Song JaeSeung
Published: November 2023

Smart cities provide integrated management and operation of urban data emerging within a city, supplying the infrastructure for smart city services and resolving various urban challenges. Nevertheless, cities continue to grapple with substantial issues, such as contagious diseases and terrorism, that pose severe financial and human risks. These problems sporadically arise in various locales, and current smart city frameworks lack the capability to autonomously identify and address these issues. The challenge intensifies especially when trying to recognize and respond to unprecedented problems. The primary objective of this research is to predict potential urban issues and support their resolution proactively. To achieve this, our system makes use of semantic reasoning to understand the ongoing situations within the city. In this process, the 5W1H principles serve as inference rules, guiding the extraction and consolidation of context. Firstly, utilizing domain-specific annotation templates, we craft a semantic graph by amalgamating information from various sources available in the city, such as municipal public data and IoT platforms. Subsequently, the system autonomously infers and accumulates contexts of situations occurring in the city using 5W1H-based reasoning. As a result, the accumulated contexts allow for inferring potential urban problems by identifying repeated disruptions in city services at specific times or locations and establishing connections among them. The main contribution of this paper lies in proposing a comprehensive conceptual model for the suggested system and presenting actual implementation cases and applicable use cases. These contributions facilitate awareness among city administrators and citizens within a smart city regarding potential problem-prone areas or times, thereby aiding in the preemptive identification and mitigation of urban challenges.
An Exploration of Tri-Axial Accelerometers in Assessing the Therapeutic Efficacy of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy in Children with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Hwang Youngsub , Kwon Jeong-Yi , Na Yoonju
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to elucidate the role of tri-axial accelerometers in assessing therapeutic interventions, specifically constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP). The primary focus was understanding the correlation between the actigraphy metrics recorded during CIMT sessions and the resultant therapeutic outcomes. Children with UCP, aged between 4 and 12 years, participated in this study from July 2021 to December 2022. In conjunction with in-clinic sessions, during which participants wore tri-axial accelerometers on both limbs, we analyzed actigraphy data over three days of routine activities pre- and post-CIMT. While not all metrics derived from the accelerometers indicated significant improvements post-intervention, there was a clear trend towards a more balanced usage of both limbs, particularly evident in Axis 3, associated with vertical movement (p = 0.017). Additionally, a discernible correlation was observed between changes in the magnitude ratio derived from actigraphy data during CIMT (Δweek3–week1) and variations in traditional assessments pre- and post-intervention (ΔT0–T1), specifically the Assisting Hand Assessment grasp and release. Using tri-axial accelerometers has helped clarify the potential impacts of CIMT on children with UCP. The preliminary results suggest a possible link between actigraphy metrics taken during CIMT and the subsequent therapeutic outcomes determined by standardized tests.
The Accommodation of Communication in the Family as an Adjustment of Cultural Values between Generations
Authors: Wahyuningtyas Bhernadetta Pravita , Asteria Donna , Sunarto
Published: November 2023

Marriage is a cultural heritage based on a social system that forms certain habits. Generational differences in families often lead to diverse orientations and values regarding wedding rituals. Both mothers and daughters undertake Javanese marriage preparation, which may conflict with what they desire the marriage ceremony to include. These relationships are conflictual in preparing for the event because they involve two generations. This study aims to explore the communication that occurs between mothers and daughters in preparation for a wedding and is analyzed through a communication accommodation process lens. This study uses a qualitative approach, with in-depth interviews and observation as data collection techniques. A data analysis is conducted using thematic analysis techniques. The results indicate the existence of two contexts: the communication accommodation that takes place produces convergence that can solve problems between generations, and generational differences caused by changes in social culture cause differences in communication styles. The findings indicate that (1) marriage is a synchronous part of socializing for both mothers and daughters and (2) the emerging differences refer more to technical aspects. These findings show differences between generations in interpreting various things related to traditional weddings.
Life Satisfaction of Immigrants and Length of Stay in the New Country
Authors: Ainsaar Mare
Published: November 2023

A large amount of research is dedicated to the measurement of immigration trends and integration processes, but comparative studies of the components of immigrants’ well-being are rare. This paper investigates the link between the length of stay and the subjective well-being (SWB) of immigrants. A step-by-step regression method is used to understand interactions between different individual- and macro-level factors in the life satisfaction of immigrants. The results of the European Social Survey (ESS) show that the effect of length of stay on SWB is mitigated by numerous individual- and country-level variables. After all background variables are considered, newly arrived immigrants and those who have been in the new country for more than 20 years had a similar life satisfaction to that of the local-born population. Immigrants with 10 to 20 years’ experience in the country seem to have lower life satisfaction than the local-born population. The SWB of different immigrant groups is shaped by cultural background, economic coping, number of social contacts, perception of discrimination, and democracy. These factors influence the life satisfaction of migrants with different lengths of stay differently. The most vulnerable immigrant groups in Europe are those from Africa region.
The Significance of Maximal Squat Strength for Neuromuscular Knee Control in Elite Handball Players: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Augustsson Sofia Ryman , Gannby Erik
Published: November 2023

Both weak muscle strength and impaired neuromuscular control has previous been suggested as risk factors for future traumatic knee injury. However, data on the relationship between these two factors are scarce. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship and influence of the one repetition maximum (1RM) barbell squat strength on dynamic knee valgus in elite female and male handball players. In this cross-sectional study 22 elite handball players (7 females) were included. A unilateral drop jump (VDJ) test was used for the assessment of frontal plane dynamic knee valgus. Players also performed a one repetition maximum (1RM) barbell squat test, expressed relative to bodyweight (r1RM), to assess maximal strength, which were dichotomized to analyze ‘weak’ versus ‘strong’ players according to median. Correlations were noted between r1RM in squat and knee valgus angle for both the non-dominant (r = −0.54; p = 0.009) and dominant leg (r = −0.46, p = 0.03). The odds of knee valgus were eight times higher, for the dominant leg, in the weak group compared to the strong group (p = 0.03) and 27 times higher, for the non-dominant leg (p = 0.002). The outcome of the present study suggests that maximum squat strength plays an important role when it comes to neuromuscular control of the knee, and that weak handball players are at higher risk of knee valgus compared to strong players during jumping activity.
Sustainable Land Use and Management
Authors: Zhang Lu , Kuang Bing , Yang Bohan
Published: November 2023

With the rapid development of urbanization and social economy, the utilization and protection of land have become one of the great social problems globally [...]
Coal Fire Sublimates: Are We Missing Something?
Authors: Finkelman Robert B. , Dodds Henry R. , Nichols Naomi T. , Stracher Glenn B.
Published: November 2023

Uncontrolled coal fires present a nearly unparalleled environmental and human health disaster. These fires can cause the destruction of the ecosystem, ignite forest fires, become a source of windblown dust and siltation of streams, and pollute surface water, ground water, and crops. They can cause significant disruption of families and communities resulting from physical hazards of collapse or explosion, excessive heat, visual blight and loss of potentially valuable acreage, deterioration of cultural infrastructure, personal and public property, and loss of a valuable energy resource. The emission of CO2 and other greenhouse gases presents a significant health hazard due to respiration of dust and aerosols, and exposure to acidic gases, potentially toxic trace elements, and organic compounds. Numerous studies have described many dozens of phases that have condensed from the effluents of these fires. However, many of these studies may have overlooked the nano- and ultra-fine particles that exist beside, in, and under the brightly colored, often spectacular crystalline macro phases. Using a scanning electron microscope with an energy dispersive X-ray detector we examined a small (30 mm × 10 mm) piece of condensate from an uncontrolled coal fire in the Jharia region of India and found more than 30 different phases in this one small piece. The phases included ammonium, copper, iron, lead, bismuth chlorides; bismuth, lead, and ammonium silici-fluorides; ammonium and lead iodates; iron, barium, lead, copper, and zinc sulfides; iron and silicon oxides; and others. Broken fragments revealed multiple generations of phases. Though not strictly nanoparticles (smaller than 0.1 μm), many of these particles are in the micrometer to sub-micron range and it is likely that there are phases present in the nanoparticle size range. Certainly, particulates in the nanoparticle and ultra-fine particle range are being released from the uncontrolled coal fires and may be impacting the environment and the health of the mine workers and nearby residents, an issue that should be investigated.
Optimization Strategy for Selecting the Combination Structure of Multilayer Phase Change Material (PCM) Glazing Windows under Different Climate Zones
Authors: Lu Yao , Aldawood Faisal Khaled , Hu Wanyu , Ma Yuxin , Kchaou Mohamed , Zhang Chengjun , Yang Xinpeng , Yang Ruitong , Qi Zitong , Li Dong
Published: November 2023

To improve the energy efficiency and photo-thermal performance of a double-layer PCM glazing window (DP), multilayer PCM glazing windows integrating DP (combination structures) with installations and low-e coating have been developed. However, the energy efficiency of a multilayer glazing window is not higher than DP in all climate zones. The selection of the appropriate optimization strategy of DP, i.e., selecting the most energy-saving multilayer glazing window, should take into account the specific climatic conditions. In this study, five PCM glazing windows (DP and four multilayer combination structures) are proposed. Physical heat transfer and mathematical models were conducted to numerically investigate the thermal and energy performance by Fluent in different climate zones in China. Evaluation indexes for different climate zones were established, and the energy-saving potential of each PCM glazing window was compared, and the resulting combination structure with the most energy-saving potential in each climate zone was regarded as the optimization strategy of DP. The results demonstrated that DP with the external silica aerogel has been identified as the optimization strategy for severe cold zones with 40.28% of energy saved, but it increases energy consumption in mild zones and hot summer and warm winter zones. DP with an external air layer and internal low-e coating is considered for the optimization strategies for cold zones, hot summer, and cold winter zones, and hot summer and warm winter zones, with energy-saving potential rates up to 40.67%, 46.42%, and 46.99% respectively. However, it increases energy consumption in mild zones and cold zones. In addition, DP is proven to possess the lowest energy consumption in mild zones.
Long-Term Effect of Wood Ash and Wastewater Sludge Fertilization on Tree Growth in Short-Rotation Forest Plantations on Abandoned Agricultural Land: A Case Study
Authors: Makovskis Kristaps , Dūmiņš Kārlis , Štāls Toms Artūrs , Vendiņa Viktorija , Bārdule Arta , Lazdiņa Dagnija
Published: November 2023

Short-rotation forest plantations on former agricultural land capture CO2, provide bioeconomic materials, and mitigate climate change. This study aimed to enhance our understanding of the long-term effects of wood ash and wastewater sludge fertilization on various tree species (birch, hybrid aspen, grey alder, black alder, and hybrid alder) in short-rotation forestry plantations on abandoned agricultural land where tree growth measurements were taken over an 11-year period. After 11 years, the highest aboveground biomass (AGB) was observed for hybrid aspen clone No. 4 under wastewater sludge treatment (109.0 t ha−1), birch under wood ash treatment (34.3 t ha−1), black alder under wastewater sludge treatment (33.6 t ha−1), grey alder under wastewater sludge treatment (40.9 t ha−1), hybrid alder under control conditions (36.2 t ha−1), and hybrid aspen clone No. 28 under wood ash treatment (37.2 t ha−1). The average survival rate was 73% in control plots, 81% under wastewater sludge treatment, and 78% under wood ash treatment. Short-term positive impacts on tree growth were observed, effects that were not consistent over the long term. The impact of these treatments on tree growth varied between species, and the effects tended to diminish over time, which must be considered before fertilization.
Effective Placement Strategies for Portable Fishways in Agricultural Drainage Canals: A Numerical Investigation
Authors: Maeda Shigeya , Yoshida Yuri , Yoshinari Kanuka , Takahashi Naoki
Published: November 2023

Agricultural drainage canals that connect upstream fish spawning areas to downstream rivers and lakes serve as crucial habitats for migrating fish. However, disconnections, such as drops and chutes, have been constructed in these canals due to agricultural modernization and flood control measures, hindering the movement of fish that find it difficult to ascend in fast-flowing currents. Portable fishways offer a promising solution to reconnect waterbodies in agricultural canals, as they can be easily removed during high water discharges to avoid impeding the canals’ drainage function. In addition to experimental assessments of fishway functionality, employing a hydrodynamic model to explore effective placement strategies for portable fishways is essential to maximize their effectiveness. This study presents a method for determining the best horizontal location of a portable fishway in an agricultural drainage canal using two-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations within the specified cases. The applicability of this method is demonstrated by addressing the positioning challenge of a portable fishway on a chute in an agricultural drainage canal in Japan. The results indicate that the proposed method allows for the selection of a suitable location, considering preferable hydraulic conditions both within the portable fishway and around its entrance.
Analytical Explicit Formulas of Average Run Length of Homogenously Weighted Moving Average Control Chart Based on a MAX Process
Authors: Sunthornwat Rapin , Sukparungsee Saowanit , Areepong Yupaporn
Published: November 2023

Statistical process control (SPC) is used for monitoring and detecting anomalies in processes in the areas of manufacturing, environmental studies, economics, and healthcare, among others. Herein, we introduce an innovative SPC approach via mathematical modeling and report on its application via simulation studies to examine its suitability for monitoring processes involving correlated data running on advanced control charts. Specifically, an approach for detecting small to moderate shifts in the mean of a process running on a homogenously weighted moving average (HWMA) control chart, which is symmetric about the center line with upper and lower control limits, is of particular interest. A mathematical model for the average run length (ARL) of a moving average process with exogenous variables (MAX) focused only on the zero-state performance of the HWMA control chart is derived based on explicit formulas. The performance of our approach was investigated in terms of the ARL, the standard deviation of the run length (SDRL), and the median run length (MRL). Numerical examples are given to illustrate the efficacy of the proposed method. A detailed comparative analysis of our method for processes on HWMA and cumulative sum (CUSUM) control charts was conducted for process mean shifts in many situations. For several values of the design parameters, the performances of these two control charts are also compared in terms of the expected ARL (EARL), expected SDRL (ESDRL), and expected MRL (EMRL). It was found that the performance of the HWMA control chart was superior to that of the CUSUM control chart for several process mean shift sizes. Finally, the applicability of our method on a HWMA control chart is provided based on a real-world economic process.
Hyperparameter Optimization and Combined Data Sampling Techniques in Machine Learning for Customer Churn Prediction: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Imani Mehdi , Arabnia Hamid Reza
Published: November 2023

This paper explores the application of various machine learning techniques for predicting customer churn in the telecommunications sector. We utilized a publicly accessible dataset and implemented several models, including Artificial Neural Networks, Decision Trees, Support Vector Machines, Random Forests, Logistic Regression, and gradient boosting techniques (XGBoost, LightGBM, and CatBoost). To mitigate the challenges posed by imbalanced datasets, we adopted different data sampling strategies, namely SMOTE, SMOTE combined with Tomek Links, and SMOTE combined with Edited Nearest Neighbors. Moreover, hyperparameter tuning was employed to enhance model performance. Our evaluation employed standard metrics, such as Precision, Recall, F1-score, and the Receiver Operating Characteristic Area Under Curve (ROC AUC). In terms of the F1-score metric, CatBoost demonstrates superior performance compared to other machine learning models, achieving an outstanding 93% following the application of Optuna hyperparameter optimization. In the context of the ROC AUC metric, both XGBoost and CatBoost exhibit exceptional performance, recording remarkable scores of 91%. This achievement for XGBoost is attained after implementing a combination of SMOTE with Tomek Links, while CatBoost reaches this level of performance after the application of Optuna hyperparameter optimization.
Trace Metal Accumulation in Rats Exposed to Mine Waters: A Case Study, Bor Area (Serbia)
Authors: Caraba Ion Valeriu , Caraba Marioara Nicoleta , Hutanu Delia , Sinitean Adrian , Dumitrescu Gabi , Popescu Roxana
Published: November 2023

Zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) levels were measured in the Bor City water supply system (control) and two watercourses exposed to mining wastewaters, i.e., the Lutarica River (one site) and the Kriveljska River (two sites). The same parameters were determined in the brain, heart, lungs, stomach, liver, spleen, kidneys, and testes of male Wistar rats given water from these sources for 2 months. Water Cu, Fe, Cd, and Pb were outside the safe range, excepting the reference site. Significant impacts on intra-organ metal homeostasis were detected, especially in the brain, stomach, kidneys, and testes. The dynamics and magnitude of these changes (versus controls) depended on the target organ, analyzed metal, and water origin. The greatest number of significant intra-organ associations between essential and non-essential metals were found for Cd-Zn, Cd-Cu, and Cd-Mn. A regression analysis suggested the kidneys as the most relevant organ for monitoring water manganese, and the stomach and brain for lead. These results highlight the environmental risks associated with mining wastewaters from the Bor area and could help scientists in mapping the spatial distribution and severity of trace metal contamination in water sources.
Pneumococcal Vaccine Breakthrough and Failure in Infants and Children: A Narrative Review
Authors: Feemster Kristen , Weaver Jessica , Buchwald Ulrike , Banniettis Natalie , Cox Kara S. , McIntosh E. David , Spoulou Vana
Published: November 2023

Globally, Streptococcus pneumoniae is a leading cause of vaccine-preventable morbidity and mortality in infants and children. In recent decades, large-scale pediatric immunization programs have substantially reduced the incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease. Despite this, residual vaccine-type pneumococcal disease remains in the form of vaccine breakthrough and vaccine failure. This targeted literature review aims to discuss aspects of vaccine breakthrough and failure in infants and children, including disease epidemiology, clinical presentation, risk factors, vaccination schedules, vaccine serotypes, correlates of protection, comorbidities, disease surveillance, and potential implications for future vaccine development.
Inapparent Tick-Borne Orthoflavivirus Infection in Macaca fascicularis: A Model for Antiviral Drug and Vaccine Research
Authors: Illarionova Victoria , Rogova Anastasia , Tuchynskaya Ksenia , Volok Viktor , Rogova Yulia , Baryshnikova Victoria , Turchenko Yuriy , Litov Alexander , Kalyanova Anna , Siniugina Alexandra , Ishmukhametov Aydar , Karganova Galina
Published: November 2023

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) and Powassan virus (POWV) are neurotropic tick-borne orthoflaviviruses. They cause mostly asymptomatic infections in hosts, but severe forms with CNS involvement can occur. Studying the early stages of viral infections in humans is challenging, and appropriate animal models are essential for understanding the factors determining the disease severity and for developing emergency prophylaxis and treatment options. In this work, we assessed the model of the early stages of TBEV and POWV mono- and co-infections in Macaca fascicularis. Serological, biochemical, and virological parameters were investigated to describe the infection, including its impact on animal behavior. Viremia, neutralizing antibody dynamics, and viral load in organs were chosen as the main parameters distinguishing early-stage orthoflavivirus infection. Levels of IFNα, monocyte count, and cognitive test scores were proposed as additional informative indicators. An assessment of a tick-borne encephalitis vaccine using this model showed that it provided partial protection against POWV infection in Macaca fascicularis without signs of antibody-dependent enhancement of infection.
A Phase I/II Clinical Trial of Intradermal, Controllable Self-Replicating Ribonucleic Acid Vaccine EXG-5003 against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Koseki Takenao , Teramachi Mayumi , Koga Minako , Ko Minoru S. H. , Amano Tomokazu , Yu Hong , Amano Misa , Leyder Erica , Badiola Maria , Ray Priyanka , Kim Jiyoung , Ko Akihiro C. , Achour Achouak , Weng Nan-ping , Imai Takumi , Yoshida Hisako , Taniuchi Satsuki , Shintani Ayumi , Fujigaki Hidetsugu , Kondo Masashi , Doi Yohei
Published: November 2023

mRNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have played a key role in reducing morbidity and mortality from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled phase I/II trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of EXG-5003, a two-dose, controllable self-replicating RNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. EXG-5003 encodes the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 and was administered intradermally without lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). The participants were followed for 12 months. Forty healthy participants were enrolled in Cohort 1 (5 µg per dose, n = 16; placebo, n = 4) and Cohort 2 (25 µg per dose, n = 16; placebo, n = 4). No safety concerns were observed with EXG-5003 administration. SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibody titers and neutralizing antibody titers were not elevated in either cohort. Elicitation of antigen-specific cellular immunity was observed in the EXG-5003 recipients in Cohort 2. At the 12-month follow-up, participants who had received an approved mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273) >1 month after receiving the second dose of EXG-5003 showed higher cellular responses compared with equivalently vaccinated participants in the placebo group. The findings suggest a priming effect of EXG-5003 on the long-term cellular immunity of approved SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines.
Virus-Like Particles Based on the Novel Goose Parvovirus (NGPV) VP2 Protein Protect Ducks against NGPV Challenge
Authors: Shang Yu , Ma Yao , Tang Sheng , Chen Xing , Feng Helong , Li Li , Wang Hongcai , Zeng Zhe , Yao Lun , Zhang Tengfei , Zeng Chi , Luo Qingping , Wen Guoyuan
Published: November 2023

Novel goose parvovirus (NGPV), a genetic variant of goose parvovirus, has been spreading throughout China since 2015 and mainly infects ducklings with the symptoms of growth retardation, beak atrophy, and protruding tongue, leading to huge economic losses every year. A safe and effective vaccine is urgently needed to control NGPV infection. In this study, virus-like particles (VLPs) of NPGV were assembled and evaluated for their immunogenicity. The VP2 protein of NGPV was expressed in Spodoptera frugiperda insect cells using baculovirus as vector. The VP2 protein was efficiently expressed in the nucleus of insect cells, and the particles with a circular or hexagonal shape and a diameter of approximately 30 nm, similar to the NGPV virion, were observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The purified particles were confirmed to be composed of VP2 using western blot and TEM, indicating that the VLPs of NGPV were successfully assembled. Furthermore, the immunogenicity of the VLPs of NGPV was evaluated in Cherry Valley ducks. The level of NGPV serum antibodies increased significantly at 1–4 weeks post-immunization. No clinical symptoms or deaths of ducks occurred in all groups after being challenged with NGPV at 4 weeks post-immunization. There was no viral shedding in the immunized group. However, viral shedding was detected at 3–7 days post-challenge in the non-immunized group. Moreover, VLPs can protect ducks from histopathological lesions caused by NGPV and significantly reduce viral load in tissue at 5 days post-challenge. Based on these findings, NGPV VLPs are promising candidates for vaccines against NGPV.
Analysis of UAV Flight Patterns for Road Accident Site Investigation
Authors: Vida Gábor , Melegh Gábor , Süveges Árpád , Wenszky Nóra , Török Árpád
Published: November 2023

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) offer a promising solution for road accident scene documentation. This study seeks to investigate the occurrence of systematic deformations, such as bowling and doming, in the 3D point cloud and orthomosaic generated from images captured by UAVs along an horizontal road segment, while exploring how adjustments in flight patterns can rectify these errors. Four consumer-grade UAVs were deployed, all flying at an altitude of 10 m while acquiring images along two different routes. Processing solely nadir images resulted in significant deformations in the outputs. However, when additional images from a circular flight around a designated Point of Interest (POI), captured with an oblique camera axis, were incorporated into the dataset, these errors were notably reduced. The resulting measurement errors remained within the 0–5 cm range, well below the customary error margins in accident reconstruction. Remarkably, the entire procedure was completed within 15 min, which is half the estimated minimum duration for scene investigation. This approach demonstrates the potential for UAVs to efficiently record road accident sites for official documentation, obviating the need for pre-established Ground Control Points (GCP) or the adoption of Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) drones or Post Processed Kinematic (PPK) technology.
The Role of Naturally Occurring Fe(II) in Removing Arsenic from Groundwater: Batch Experiments and Field Studies
Authors: Shafiquzzaman Md. , Ahsan Amimul , Hasan Md. Mahmudul , Ahmed Abdelkader T. , Bari Quazi Hamidul
Published: November 2023

Higher levels of arsenic (As) and iron (Fe) in groundwater have been reported globally. This study aims to enhance our understanding of the role of naturally occurring dissolved Fe(II) in removing As from groundwater. Field experiments were conducted using five clay filters to investigate As and Fe removal from contaminated groundwater. The field results revealed a wide range of arsenic removal (7.3% to 80%) using the clay filters. The filter with the highest Fe concentration (14.5 mg/L) exhibited the highest As removal, while the lowest Fe concentration (2.2 mg/L) resulted in the lowest percentage of As removal. A direct correlation was observed between effluent As levels and the Fe/As molar ratio. An Fe/As molar ratio of 40 or more was identified as necessary to achieve effluent As concentrations below 50 µg/L. Laboratory batch experiments revealed that Fe(II) was more effective than Fe(III) in removing both As(III) and As(V) from contaminated groundwater. As(V) removal was consistently higher than As(III) removal, regardless of whether Fe(II) or Fe(III) was used. The results suggested that the oxidation of As(III) and the subsequent in situ formation of Fe(III) hydroxide were more efficient in As adsorption than direct Fe(III) treatment. The X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) analysis of the floc samples confirmed the dominant peaks of As(V), indicating that most of the As(III) oxidized to As(V) in the As(III)-Fe(II) system. The use of natural Fe(II) in groundwater, possibly supplemented with additional sources of Fe(II), is suggested as a promising, cost-effective, and efficient method for As(III) and As(V) removal.
Immunotherapy in the treatment of chronic tonsillitis
Authors:   SBI RR City Clinical Hospital No. 20, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Yun T. B. , Gracheva E. V. ,   SBI RR City Polyclinic No. 12, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Krashennikova E. A. ,   SBI RR Children»s City Polyclinic No. 45, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Abgaryan L. S. ,   FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia
Published: November 2023

Chronic tonsillitis is one of the most common diseases in children. The aim of the work was to study the feasibility of using OM-85 for the treatment of chronic tonsillitis in children. The study was conducted on the basis of four polyclinics in Rostov-on-Don. We studied 126 children aged 3 to 6 years with chronic tonsillitis. The control group consisted of 15 healthy children of the same age. All children underwent a course of preventive treatment with OM-85 according to the standard scheme. The results of treatment were assessed by indicators of local and systemic immunity, as well as clinically, i. e. observing the change in frequency of acute tonsillitis. As a result of the treatment, both clinical and immunological signs of improvement were registered.
Helminthofauna and the level of infection of the main commercial species of semi-migratory and riverine fish in the lower zone of the Volga delta
Authors:   Volga-Caspian Branch of the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (KaspNIRKh), Russia, Astrakhan, Proskurina V.V. , Voronina E.A. ,   Volga-Caspian Branch of the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (KaspNIRKh), Russia, Astrakhan, Kharchenko N.N. ,   Volga-Caspian Branch of the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (KaspNIRKh), Russia, Astrakhan, Lakhtina A.E. ,   Volga-Caspian Branch of the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (KaspNIRKh), Russia, Astrakhan
Published: November 2023

On the territory of the Volga Delta and the northern part of the Caspian Sea, there are natural epizootic foci of anisakiosis, corynosomiasis, eustrongilidosis, pseudamphistomosis and opisthorchiasis. Many species of commercial semi-migratory and riverine fish have a high epidemiological significance. Therefore, monitoring the level of their infection with larvae of pathogens of anthropozoonosis is very relevant. The aim of the work was to determine the qualitative composition of epidemiologically significant helminth fauna and the level of infection with pathogenic helminth larvae of the main commercial species of semi-aquatic and riverine fish in the lower zone of the Volga delta in modern conditions. The material for the study was 660 copies . mature commercial fish of eight species, the study of parasitic purity of which was carried out by the method of incomplete helminthological research in accordance with the requirements of regulatory documents of the Russian Federation. The qualitative composition of the epidemiologically significant component of the helminth fauna was represented by seven species. All examined fish species are infested with larvae of pathogenic helminths. The maximum species diversity of dangerous parasites was found in the roach (5 species), the minimum — in the bream (1 species). The localization of helminth larvae was diverse, but most of the identified pathogenic species also invaded the muscle tissues of fish. The exceptions were Anisakis schupakovi and Corynosoma strumosum, which were located only in the abdominal fat and internal organs of the examined representatives of the ichthyofauna. Parasitological parameters of infection with dangerous parasites in different species of hydrobionts differed significantly. The larvae of the nematodes A. schupakovi and Eustrongylides excisus were characterized by the maximum distribution, while the frequency of their occurrence prevailed in predatory fish. Metacercariae Apophallus muehlingi dominated in number. The rarest representative of the community of pathogens of biohelminthiasis was C. strumosum, which was parasitized only in walleye. Most of the identified pathogenic organisms were viable, which indicated the need for mandatory disinfection of fish before sale.
Origen y evolución de la educación emocional
Authors: Machado Pérez Yumary
Published: November 2023

En la actualidad la educación emocional se ha convertido en uno de los grandes desafíos de la escuela del siglo XXI, ya que esta debe educar a los estudiantes tanto en lo académico como en lo emocional. La educación emocional tiene sus orígenes en las diferentes teorías de inteligencia emocional. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo sistematizar el origen y la evaluación de la educación emocional, para ello se desarrolló una síntesis y análisis de diferentes teorías de inteligencia emocional considerando los autores Salovey y Mayer, Bar-On, Goleman, Bisquerra y Fernández-Berrocal y Extremera. Lo que permitió conocer la evolución y el estado actual de las teorías de inteligencia emocional y su vinculación   y aplicabilidad en el ámbito educativo. Para ello se trabajó con la metodología de investigación documental siguiendo el método hermenéutico.
Exploring the Critical Role of Circular Economy in Green Energy Transition in India
Authors: Tripathi Mishu , Pachauri Rahul , Rihan Mohammad
Published: November 2023

n line with the national commitments of reduction in carbon emissions India is undergoing a radical transition to green energy. The revised targets declared at Glasgow are ambitious and far reaching. But this transition is based on use of many precious elements used in batteries and solar panels as well as many potentially hazardous components. The transition, therefore, needs to be sustainable and should not be the cause of any environmental degradation. The implementation of circular economy with the integrated principles of reuse and recycle is imperative to achieve this objective.
Constituintes voláteis da inflorescência de Montrichardia linifera (Arruda) Schott
Authors: Batista Raimundo Junior da Rocha , De Souza Yago Borges , Do Nascimento Lidiane Diniz , Andrade Eloisa Helena de Aguiar , Do Amarante Cristine Bastos
Published: November 2023

As inflorescências Montrichardia linifera foram coletadas no aningal do Mangal das Garças, às margens da Baía do Guajará/Rio Guamá, localizado na cidade de Belém do Pará. Os materiais fresco e seco foram submetidos à hidrodestilação em aparelho tipo Clevenger e analisados por CG-EM, resultando na extração de 43 substâncias distribuídos em aproximadamente 17 grupos de componentes (alcanos, cetonas, aldeídos, álcoois, ésteres e sesquiterpenos). As análises do perfil cromatográfico dos constituintes voláteis das inflorescências evidenciaram majoritariamente duas substâncias, a (Z)-jasmona (cetona) e o álcool veratril, presentes em todas as partes estudadas.
Recuperação de manifestações patológicas - estudo de caso de uma residência unifamiliar no bairro Tarumã, em Manaus/AM
Authors: Fernandes Jurgen Sales , Carvalho Carlos Fábio Cortezão , Pinheiro Érika Cristina Nogueira Marques , Santos Karoline Socorro da Fonseca
Published: November 2023

O estudo de patologias estruturais na construção civil está em crescente desenvolvimento com o passar dos anos. Isso explica devido a importância de saber identificar anomalias construtivas que diminuem o desempenho estrutural de uma edificação. Dessa forma, quando identificadas as manifestações patológicas, torna-se possível aplicar a correta manutenção para recuperação de esforços e revestimentos, além de garantir a estabilidade na segurança geral de estruturas. Nesse sentido, este artigo trata-se de um estudo de caso onde foram abordadas as manifestações patológicas encontradas em uma residência unifamiliar de alto padrão, localizada em um condomínio da cidade de Manaus/Am, com vistas de realizar os serviços de recuperação nececessários para o tratamento efetivo do da residência. Após a inspeção da edificação foi verificado que as manifestações possuem grau de risco mínimo, com impacto recuperável, ou seja, sem maior comprometimento da estrutura total, sem perda considerável do desempenho e funcionalidade da construção, sendo elas fissuras e trincas.
Survey of Consumer Behaviour in Selected International Catering Establishments in Czechia
Authors: Kajzar Patrik , Mura Ladislav
Published: November 2023

Conducting research in the field of consumer purchasing behaviour gained an attention during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors of this study decided to focus their attention on selected factors influencing tourism. Since consumer purchasing behaviour is a broad topic, only selected factors that influence tourism demand are addressed. The expected research result is an insight into consumer behaviour in selected international catering establishments in Czechia. Moreover, at a time when the COVID pandemic is slowly fading, purchasing behaviour is becoming increasingly important. The aim of this contribution was to find the factors that most influence the choice of selected tourism facilities in Czechia. Among the key factors that influence the choice of international catering establishments in the Czech Republic, the majority of customers consider the atmosphere of the establishment, the opinion of friends, the right choice of music, and the location of the restaurant as the most important based on their preferences. A more detailed analysis of the survey results revealed that more than one-third of men consider the ability to pay by card to be an important factor that influences their choice of international catering establishments and the right choice of music is moderately important for most respondents in terms of their education. The exceptions to this are respondents with a university diploma who mention the factor of the right choice of music for selecting international catering establishments as the most important.
Attractive Human Face as a Communication Tool: Age and Gender Specifics of the Attractiveness of Sexually Dimorphic Features in Facial Composites
Authors: Démuthová Slávka , Hudáková Alexandra
Published: November 2023

An attractive human face is a significant communication tool used in visual media. Due to various psychological mechanisms, a beautiful face is associated with additional characteristics; individuals with attractive faces are perceived as trustworthy, intelligent, and qualified, thereby increasing their impact on the perceiver. However, the question remains as to what constitutes an attractive human face and what parameters it should possess. One of the most influential characteristics associated with facial attractiveness is the presence of sexually dimorphic features. Since previous research has yielded conflicting findings, this study examines the influence of masculinity and femininity on the attractiveness of computer-generated facial composites, both generally and in the context of the age and gender of the evaluators, using a quasi-experimental approach. The study involved 2,159 participants (mean age = 24.18 years; SD = 10.167), with women comprising 59.6% of the sample. The results showed that while the femininity of facial features universally increases the attractiveness of female faces (most notably among younger men), the effect of sexually dimorphic features on the attractiveness of male faces is nonspecific. Therefore, for the universal utilisation of the attractive face effect on the evaluator (perceiver), it is recommended to employ a feminine female face. In the case of male faces, the attractiveness of masculine features may be contingent on additional circumstances/factors.
Caricature as a Tool of Freedom of Expression
Authors: Solík Martin , Lomen Martin , Francistyová Bianka , Blahút Dušan
Published: November 2023

Cartoon humour does not provoke reactions of laughter and amusement randomly, immediately, without any particular intention or thought, but because it is dependent on our physical and mental dispositions to perceive and interpret the observed image, which is inherently polysemic. Just as we are able to analyse social interactions and their meanings, we are able to analyse the meanings of images and notice their subjective and objective levels of interpretation. Cartooning is all about perceiving and observing details that we have learned to overlook over time. Cartoon and caricature imply visual, cultural and semantic components, especially the cartoon or otherwise caricatured image, the theme, the content and the humour – the comic, ironic or satirical sphere of life or cultural and artistic expression, taking the form of a joke, anecdote or aphorism. A caricature is a deliberate modification of a phenomenon with the intention of retouching or hyperbolizing some particulars or a single part of the phenomenon. In our study we are concerned with caricature, which not only represents an artistic representation, but can also be a criticism, a tool of propaganda, but primarily represents a tool of freedom of expression.
The $(\psi,\varphi)$-Generalized Weakly Reich Contraction Mapping Theorem
Authors: Ampadu Clement Boateng
Published: November 2023

In this paper we introduce a concept of $(\psi, \varphi)$-generalized weakly Reich contraction mapping and obtain a fixed point theorem. Some corollaries are consequences of the main result.