bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy metals toxicity on epigenetic modifications in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD)
Authors: Venkatesan Dhivya , Muthukumar Sindduja , Iyer Mahalaxmi , Babu Harysh Winster Suresh , Gopalakrishnan Abilash Valsala , Yadav Mukesh Kumar , Vellingiri Balachandar
Published: May 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive decline in cognitive ability and behavior which eventually disrupts daily activities. AD has no cure and the progression rate varies unlikely. Among various causative factors, heavy metals are reported to be a significant hazard in AD pathogenesis. Metal‐induced neurodegeneration has been focused globally with thorough research to unravel the mechanistic insights in AD. Recently, heavy metals suggested to play an important role in epigenetic alterations which might provide evidential results on AD pathology. Epigenetic modifications are known to play towards novel therapeutic approaches in treating AD. Though many studies focus on epigenetics and heavy metal implications in AD, there is a lack of research on heavy metal influence on epigenetic toxicity in neurological disorders. The current review aims to elucidate the plausible role of cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), and lithium (Li) metals on epigenetic factors and the increase in amyloid beta and tau phosphorylation in AD. Also, the review discusses the common methods of heavy metal detection to implicate in AD pathogenesis. Hence, from this review, we can extend the need for future research on identifying the mechanistic behavior of heavy metals on epigenetic toxicity and to develop diagnostic and therapeutic markers in AD.
Efficient electrochemical immunosensor for detection of bovine interferon gamma‐based gold nanoparticles/chitosan composite
Authors: Wang Yuru , Li Jiayin , Yang Juan , Yang Linan , Chen Qingwen , Long Yan , Cao Liuyang , Yang Zhanjun , Chen Hui , Li Juan
Published: May 2024

Interferon gamma (IFN‐γ) released by T lymphocytes, plays an important role in immune regulation and is also an important biomarker for the early diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis. In this work, an electrochemical immunosensor based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)/chitosan composite was developed for highly sensitive determination of bovine IFN‐γ. AuNPs/chitosan composite shows high surface area and good hydrophilicity. The bovine IFN‐γ immunosensor was prepared by immobilizing IFN‐γ antibody on AuNPs/chitosan composite‐modified glassy carbon electrode. The immunosensors were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Using horseradish peroxidase (HRP)‐labeled IFN‐γ antibody as amplification probe, the concentration of bovine IFN‐γ can be monitored via the increasing current signal, which can be attributed to the specific immune binding between bovine IFN‐γ antigen and HRP‐labeled IFN‐γ antibody, as well as the efficient catalysis reaction between thionine and HRP with the presence of H2O2. The developed electrochemical immunosensor exhibited a wide linear range of 0.01 to 30 ng/mL, and low detection limit of 0.003 ng/mL with good specificity and stability. This study provides a simple and promising method for diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis, which can be expanded to determine other biomarkers.
The LTAR Cropland Common Experiment in the Lower Mississippi River Basin
Authors: Locke Martin A. , Witthaus Lindsey M. , Lizotte Richard E. , Heintzman Lucas J. , Moore Matthew T. , O'Reilly Andrew , Wells Robert R. , Langendoen Eddy J. , Bingner Ronald L. , Gholson Drew M. , Taylor Jason M. , Johnson Frank E.
Published: May 2024

The Lower Mississippi River Basin Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research Site (LMRB‐LTAR) encompasses six states from Missouri to the Gulf of Mexico and is coordinated by the USDA‐ARS National Sedimentation Laboratory, Oxford, MS. The overarching goal of LTAR is to assess regionally diverse and geographically scalable farming practices for enhanced sustainability of agroecosystem goods and services under changing environment and resource‐use conditions. The LMRB‐LTAR overall goal is to assess sustainable row crop agricultural production systems that integrate regional environmental and socioeconomic needs. Primary row crops in the region include soybeans, corn, cotton, rice, and sugarcane with crop rotations influenced by commodity crop price and other factors. The field‐scale common experiment (CE) includes four row crop farms (26–101 ha) established in 2021 and 2023. Three fields are managed with alternative practices, including reduced tillage, cover crops, and automated prescription irrigation, and three fields are managed with prevailing farming practices, consisting of conventional tillage, no cover crop, and nonprescription irrigation. Treatment effects on crop productivity, soil quality, water use efficiency, water quality, and carbon storage are assessed. Research from the LMRB CE will deliver outcomes linked to overarching LTAR network goals, including innovative agricultural systems, strengthened partnerships, data management technologies, and precision environmental tools.
No difference was found between double‐bundle and single‐bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions in terms of osteoarthritis at 15‐year follow‐up
Authors: Seppänen Arttu , Kiekara Tommi , Suomalainen Piia , Mäenpää Heikki , Huhtala Heini , Järvelä Timo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to determine whether the grade of osteoarthritis (OA) is higher with single‐bundle (SB) or double‐bundle (DB) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The hypothesis was that there will be no difference in the grade of OA between the techniques.

Methods

This study was a randomised controlled trial (RCT) with a follow‐up period of 15 years. Patients were randomly assigned to either the SB group (n = 78) or the DB group (n = 75). Surgical techniques were anatomic, and the rehabilitation protocol was standardised. Evaluation included Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) difference and absolute OA results. OA was defined as a KL grade of at least 2.

Results

At 15‐year follow‐up, information was available on 101 patients (66%), of whom 56 (37%) were accepted in the final statistical analysis. No difference was found between the SB and DB techniques in terms of KL difference or absolute OA results. Significantly less OA was found in the contralateral knee (21%) than in the reconstructed knee (59%) (p < 0.001). Patients with meniscal tears who underwent partial meniscal resection during ACL reconstruction had a significantly higher rate of OA changes (82%) compared with patients with isolated ACL tears (33%) (p < 0.001). A longer delay between initial injury and surgery did not appear to affect the severity of the KL classification.

Conclusion

At 15‐year follow‐up, no difference was found between the DB and SB techniques in terms of OA.

Level of Evidence

Level I.
Genetically Predicted Sleep Traits and Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Gao Yan , Qiu Yuanzheng , Lu Shanhong
Published: May 2024

Objective

Observational studies suggest a potential association between sleep characteristics, sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), and sudden SNHL (SSNHL), but causal evidence is scarce. We sought to clarify this issue using two‐sample Mendelian randomization analysis.

Methods

The inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) method was performed as primary analysis to assess bidirectional causal associations between sleep traits (chronotype, sleep duration, insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and snoring) and SNHL/SSNHL using publicly available Genome‐Wide Association Studies summary data from two large consortia (UK Biobank and FinnGen). Sensitivity analyses, including Mendelian randomization (MR)‐Egger, Mendelian randomization pleiotropy residual sum and outlier, weight median, Cochran's Q test, leave‐one‐out analysis, and potential pleiotropy analysis, were conducted to ensure robustness.

Results

IVW analysis found suggestive associations of morning chronotype (odds ratio [OR] = 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.16, p = 0.031) and daytime sleepiness (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.24–2.87, p = 0.003) with SNHL onset. Additionally, morning chronotype was nominally associated with SSNHL onset using IVW method (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.10–1.71, p = 0.006). However, there was no evidence for the causal effect of SNHL and SSNHL on different sleep traits (all p > 0.05). Sensitivity analysis showed that the results were stable.

Conclusion

Within the MR limitations, morning chronotype and daytime sleepiness were underlying causal contributors to the burden of SNHL, indicating that optimal sleep might facilitate the prevention and development of SNHL.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:4723–4729, 2024
Survey finds well‐being, social determinants key to employers
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2024

Maintaining employees' well‐being continues to play an important role in most employers' overall workforce strategy, and employers said they would maintain funding for these programs at current levels, according to responses to an employer‐sponsored health and well‐being survey about workplace benefits and programs.
Deep learning‐based magnetic resonance imaging analysis for chronic cerebral hypoperfusion risk
Authors: Yang Meiyi , Yang Lili , Zhang Qi , Xu Lifeng , Yang Bo , Li Yingjie , Cheng Xudong , Zhang Feng , Liu Ming , Yu Nengwei
Published: May 2024

Background

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is a frequently encountered clinical condition that poses a diagnostic challenge due to its nonspecific symptoms.

Purpose

To enhance the diagnosis of CCH and non‐CCH through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), offering support in clinical decision‐making and recommendations to ultimately elevate diagnostic accuracy and optimize patient treatment outcomes.

Methods

In the retrospective research, we collected 204 routine brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from March 1 to September 10 2022, as training and testing cohorts. And a validation cohort with 108 samples was collected from November 14 2022 to August 4 2023. MRI sequences were processed to obtain T1‐weighted (T1WI) and T2‐weighted (T2WI) sequence images for each patient. We propose CCH‐Network (CCHNet), an end‐to‐end deep learning model, integrating convolution and Transformer modules to capture local and global structural information. Our novel adversarial training method improves feature knowledge capture, enhancing both generalization ability and efficiency in predicting CCH risk. We assessed the classification performance of the proposed model CCHNet by comparing it with existing state‐of‐the‐art deep learning algorithms, including ResNet34, DenseNet121, VGG16, Convnext, ViT, Coat, and TransFG. To better validate model performance, we compared the results of the proposed model with eight neurologists to evaluate their consistency.

Results

CCHNet achieved an AUC of 91.6% (95% CI: 86.8–99.1), with an accuracy (ACC) of 85.0% (95% CI: 75.6–95.2). It demonstrated a sensitivity (SE) of 80.0% (95% CI: 71.6–95.6) and a specificity (SP) of 90.0% (95% CI: 82.3–97.8) in the testing cohort. In the validation cohort, the model demonstrated an AUC of 86.0% (95% CI: 80.3–93.0), an ACC of 84.2% (95% CI: 70.2–93.6), a SE of 83.3% (95% CI: 68.3–95.5), and a SP of 84.7% (95% CI: 70.3–96.8).

Conclusions

The model improved the diagnostic performance of MRI with high SE and SP, providing a promising method for the diagnosis of CCH.
The efficiency of micellar solubilization of naphthalene from aqueous solutions using rhamnolipid as a biological surfactant according to NMR diffusometry
Authors: Arkhipov Victor P. , Arkhipov Ruslan V. , Filippov Andrei
Published: May 2024

The micellar solubilization of naphthalene from its saturated aqueous solutions using the biosurfactant rhamnolipid was studied. Using the NMR diffusion method, selective measurements of the self‐diffusion coefficients of molecules of all components of the solution—naphthalene, rhamnolipid, and water—were carried out at various rhamnolipid concentrations from 0.06 to 100 g/L. Based on the results of diffusometry, the distribution of naphthalene molecules between the states free in solution and states bound by micelles was found. With an increase in the concentration of rhamnolipids, the proportion of bound naphthalene molecules increases from 50% at CRL = 2 g/L to 100% at CRL ≥ 50 g/L. The micelle‐water partition coefficient Km and the molar solubilization ratio MSR were calculated.
Through‐space H‐F coupling in a series of 4‐substituted‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazoles
Authors: Kempton Robert J. , Bradley Saige , Bozarth Seth August , Wheatcroft Gabriel , Onorato Amber J. , Hare Patrick M.
Published: May 2024

In the 1H‐NMR spectra of a series of N‐1 substituted 4‐substituted‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazoles that have been prepared, the lone heterocyclic ring hydrogen (H‐5) appears as a singlet in all cases except those compounds that contain a 2‐fluorophenyl moiety at Position 4. In those cases, H‐5 is a doublet with J ~3.7 Hz. Based on computational chemistry results and geometric considerations, we attribute this splitting to through‐space H‐F coupling.
Improving MR axon radius estimation in human white matter using spiral acquisition and field monitoring
Authors: Veldmann Marten , Edwards Luke J. , Pine Kerrin J. , Ehses Philipp , Ferreira Mónica , Weiskopf Nikolaus , Stoecker Tony
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To compare MR axon radius estimation in human white matter using a multiband spiral sequence combined with field monitoring to the current state‐of‐the‐art echo‐planar imaging (EPI)‐based approach.

Methods

A custom multiband spiral sequence was used for diffusion‐weighted imaging at ultra‐high ‐values. Field monitoring and higher order image reconstruction were employed to greatly reduce artifacts in spiral images. Diffusion weighting parameters were chosen to match a state‐of‐the art EPI‐based axon radius mapping protocol. The spiral approach was compared to the EPI approach by comparing the image signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and performing a test–retest study to assess the respective variability and repeatability of axon radius mapping. Effective axon radius estimates were compared over white matter voxels and along the left corticospinal tract.

Results

Increased SNR and reduced artifacts in spiral images led to reduced variability in resulting axon radius maps, especially in low‐SNR regions. Test–retest variability was reduced by a factor of approximately 1.5 using the spiral approach. Reduced repeatability due to significant bias was found for some subjects in both spiral and EPI approaches, and attributed to scanner instability, pointing to a previously unknown limitation of the state‐of‐the‐art approach.

Conclusion

Combining spiral readouts with field monitoring improved mapping of the effective axon radius compared to the conventional EPI approach.
Structured replacement policies for a system subject to random mission types
Authors: Zheng Rui
Published: May 2024

This paper optimizes condition‐based replacement policies for a mission‐oriented system. The key challenge in our problem is that the system does not work under a fixed mission type but is subject to an infinite sequence of random types of missions assigned in a Markovian manner, which is realistic in many practical situations. The mission process modulates the deterioration process. Taking advantage of the opportunities when missions are switched, condition monitoring is conducted to support replacement decision‐making. This paper considers two practical scenarios in which the type of the next mission is either available or unavailable at each decision epoch. The objective is to determine the optimal replacement decisions for both scenarios that minimize their long‐run expected average cost rates. The optimization problems are analyzed in the framework of the Markov decision process. The optimal decisions of both scenarios are proven to be of partially monotone control‐limit forms. Near‐optimal policies with multilevel thresholds are provided for more convenient decision‐making. The policy iteration algorithm is modified for efficient optimization. A numerical example is used to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach.
Bridging the public administration‐AI divide: A skills perspective
Authors: Trajkovski Goran
Published: May 2024

The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize governance and public administration, presenting both opportunities and challenges. This paper provides a roadmap for public agencies, detailing steps from preparation to mainstream AI implementation. It proposes a skills framework encompassing technical, ethical, legal, and management aspects, supplemented by continuous training recommendations. Emphasizing a human‐centric and ethical approach, it aims to foster innovative and responsible governance. Collaboration is highlighted as vital for accelerating AI adoption and equipping administrators with tools to navigate this complex yet promising landscape. The paper also addresses the equality and inclusion challenges posed by AI, particularly in bridging the divide between the Global North and Global South, using international examples from both developed and developing countries. These insights ensure a comprehensive perspective on AI integration in public administration, promoting a holistic and nuanced approach to addressing these challenges.
Atmospheric Pressure Enhanced Self‐Sealing Rotation‐SlipChip with Programmable Concentration Gradient Generation for Microbiological Applications
Authors: Wan Chao , Yi Longyu , Yuan Huijuan , Li Shunji , Wang Xin , Shu Yuxiao , Xie Han , Lei Mengcheng , Miao Zeyu , Du Wei , Feng Xiaojun , Li Yiwei , Chen Peng , Liu Bi‐Feng
Published: May 2024

In microbiological research, traditional methods for bacterial screening and antibiotic susceptibility testing are resource‐intensive. Microfluidics offers an efficient alternative with rapid results and minimal sample consumption, but the demand for cost‐effective, user‐friendly platforms persists in communities and hospitals. Inspired by the Magdeburg hemispheres, the strategy adapts to local conditions, leveraging omnipresent atmospheric pressure for self‐sealing of Rotation‐SlipChip (RSC) equipped with a 3D circular Christmas tree‐like microfluidic concentration gradient generator. This innovative approach provides an accessible and adaptable platform for microbiological research and testing in diverse settings. The RSC can avoid leakage concerns during multiple concentration gradient generation, chip‐rotating, and final long‐term incubation reaction (≥24 h). Furtherly, RSC subtypes adapted to different reactions can be fabricated in less than 15 min with cost less than $1, the result can be read through designated observational windows by naked‐eye. Moreover, the RSC demonstrates its capability for evaluating bacterial biomarker activity, enabling the rapid assessment of β‐galactosidase concentration and enzyme activity within 30 min, and the limit of detection can be reduced by 10‐fold. It also rapidly determines the minimum antibiotic inhibitory concentration and antibiotic combined medications results within 4 h. Overall, these low‐cost and user‐friendly RSC make them invaluable tools in determinations at previously impractical environment.
Influence of ground motion characteristics on the heating effect of lead‐rubber bearings in base‐isolated structures
Authors: Xue Bin , Lu Wensheng , Yang Yongqiang , Ren Xiangxiang
Published: May 2024

Under earthquake excitations, the lead core inside the lead‐rubber bearing (LRB) generates heat, causing the mechanical degradation of LRBs. However, the heating effect is not commonly considered in the seismic analysis and design of base‐isolated structures with LRBs, which may underestimate the seismic response of structures, especially under ground motions with certain specific characteristics. This paper aims to reveal the influence of ground motion characteristics on the heating effect and provide useful references for the seismic analysis and design. In this study, the validated LRB model considering heating effect was employed in a base‐isolated building calibrated by testing data. Ground motion characteristics including amplitude, duration, and frequency content were separated by spectrally equivalent and different records. The results indicate that the rate and peak of the lead core temperature rise are strongly correlated to ground motion characteristics. Seismic responses ignoring the heating effect are underestimated, and this underestimate varies as the amplitude, duration, and frequency content change and reaches up to 60% in the studied case. Note that seismic responses of the isolation system are more affected by heating effects than the superstructure, and the duration shows a more significant influence on the stiffness degradation of LRBs than the frequency content. It is strongly recommended that the required duration of ground motions should be raised and the low stories of the superstructure should be reinforced for isolated structures with LRBs. The significant duration indicator DS5–95 is more reasonable than DS5–75 in the analysis of the heating effect.
Greek Consumers’ Perceptions of Traceability in the Food Supply Chain
Authors: Nanos Ioannis , Kotzaivazoglou Iordanis , Papaioannou Eugenia , Assimakopoulos Costas , Fragidis Garyfallos
Published: May 2024

Traceability is an issue of major importance and is related to the provision, sharing and tracking of information about products in every part of the food supply chain. However, traceability faces issues and challenges that eventually lead to increased consumers’ concerns. This paper examines Greek consumers’ perceptions of traceability in the food supply chain. The research was based on the Theory of Planned Behavior, as modified and used on previous studies, and was conducted with a structured questionnaire between April and May 2023, in a sample of 222 respondents. Findings indicate that consumers’ perceptions about traceability influence their intention and behavior in buying traceable food. Attitude, subjective norm, trust and perceived behavioral control influence positively-but rather weakly-the intention to buy traceable food, whereas the perceived behavioral control affects the Greek customers’ behavior in buying traceable food. Finally, consumers’ intention to buy traceable food influences their behavior in buying traceable food. The results can be used by academics in order to explore food traceability in a national context or validate results from similar studies in international context. They may also help food sector managers to better understand consumers’ perceptions about food traceability and formulate their strategy accordingly.
“In Search of an ‘I’ and a ‘We’ in ‘Team’”: A Group-Analytic Tool for Teaching Teamwork
Authors: Katsiveli Stamatina
Published: May 2024

The centrality of teamwork in today’s marketplace is undeniable and well-researched. Its numerous benefits are accompanied by various challenges which make teamwork a valuable aspect of the soft skills that students need to acquire in communication courses. This paper proposes a tool for teaching teamwork in the classroom as well as for maximizing team performance in organizational settings, drawing on Group Analysis, i.e., a group-focused approach to psychotherapy which explores the simultaneous individual and social development of members of a group. The tool in question follows the SPeCS acronym, which relies on two interrelated dimensions, namely Self-Perception of each member and Communication Style he/she adopts. Contrary to common conceptualizations of teamwork as a soft skill on its own, the paper argues that, in order to perform in team settings, members need to work in parallel on multiple interpersonal communication skills (e.g., audience-centered design of message, listening skills) and on their combined, simultaneous perception of themselves from an ‘I’ and a ‘we’ perspective. SPeCS may be used by both students and future professionals as a self-reflective tool which promotes critical thinking as well as engaging and fruitful collaborations.
Artificial Intelligence’s Revolutionary Role in Search Engine Optimization
Authors: Ziakis Christos , Vlachopoulou Maro
Published: May 2024

In recent years the digital landscape has been rapidly evolving as the application of artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly important in shaping search engine optimization (SEO) strategies and revolutionizing the way websites are optimized for search engines. This research aims to explore the influence of AI in the field of SEO through a literature review that is conducted using the PRISMA framework. The study delves into how AI capabilities such as generative AI and natural language processing (NLP) are leveraged to boost SEO. These techniques in turn allow search engines to provide more accurate, user-centric results, highlighting the importance of semantic search, where search engines understand the context and intent of a user’s search query, ensuring a more personalized and effective search experience. On the other hand, AI and its tools are used by digital marketers to implement SEO strategies such as automatic keyword research, content optimization, and backlink analysis. The automation offered by AI not only enhances efficiency but also heralds a new era of precision in SEO strategy. The application of AI in SEO paves the way for more targeted SEO campaigns that attract more organic visits to business websites. However, relying on AI in SEO also poses challenges and considerations. The evolving nature of AI algorithms requires constant adaptation by businesses and SEO professionals, while the black-box nature of these algorithms can lead to the opaque and unpredictable evolution of SEO results. Furthermore, the power of AI to shape online content and visibility raises questions about equality, control, and manipulation in the digital environment. The insights gained from this study could inform future developments in SEO strategies, ensuring a more robust, fair, and user-centric digital search landscape.
Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) in Public Sector
Authors: Chronopoulos Vasilis I. , Sepetis Anastasios , Pierrakos George
Published: May 2024

Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) are one of the leading forms of Social Enterprises in Europe. The analogy of the Public Procurements that Greek Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) acquire on the total monetary resources of the WISE, was connected to the ability of the WISE to develop job positions that are sufficient to keep the employ above the monetary poverty line and bring it closer to the concept of a full-time job. A response rate of 62.50% resulted in primary data from 51.47% of the population of WISEs in Greece. Ordinal Regression Analysis showed that WISEs that relied heavily on Public Procurements had low performance in developing job positions that were sufficient to keep the employee above the monetary poverty line, and low performance in creating job positions that are close to the concept of a full-time job. There is evidence that Greek WISEs should reinvent their entrepreneurial nature and act more as innovative challengers and less as adjustable followers. Policymakers could consider relating the amount of public procurements that a WISE acquires to the open market share of the WISE, at least after the initial state of the WISE’s development.
Domestic Tourism Preferences of Polish Tourist Services’ Market in Light of Contemporary Socio-economic Challenges
Authors: Chomać-Pierzecka Ewa , Stasiak Jacek
Published: May 2024

The available literature insufficiently explores the themes of socio-economic conditions determining the state of Polish tourism sector. In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and its economic impact is an important factor creating the contemporary operating reality. Recognising the important role of tourism in the Polish economy and the diagnosed gap in the literature, it was considered reasonable and valuable to scientifically identify the presented issues, with particular emphasis on the national dimension of tourism activity. The aim of this paper is to analyse and evaluate domestic tourists’ preferences in the tourism sector in Poland and in particular, in the coastal town of Ustka. A survey was conducted to investigate these preferences. The methodology in terms of detailed research is statistical survey instruments—correlation of variables, logit function model together with odds ratio findings, for the estimation of variables, using PQstat software. Findings point to the significant impact of external environment conditions on the state of the domestic tourism industry in Poland. The key condition negatively affecting the sales of domestic tourism services is the impoverishment of the Polish community, which is a derivative of high inflation caused by the pandemic and reinforced by the armed conflict in Ukraine. Expenditure on travel is significantly reduced in domestic visitors' budgets, the length of journeys is shortened, and the cost of accommodation is optimized. The above, on the one hand, increases flexibility and reduces the cost of travel, while on the other hand, it has a negative impact on the sales value of tourism services of entities running in the explored industry. The results enrich the source material that can be used by decision-makers in designing a marketing strategy for the development of the domestic tourism services sector in Poland.
Development of Innovative Applications Through the Exploitation of Landmarks for the Promotion of Ancient Greek Technology Exhibits
Authors: Kotsopoulos Konstantinos , Kotsanas Konstantinos G. , Bellos Georgios , Kotsanas Panagiotis , Tsolis Dimitrios , Likothanassis Spiridon , Pavlidis George
Published: May 2024

This study presents the evaluation results of the “ATANA” research program, which focuses on a platform that integrates the creation and management of narratives associated with cultural tourism applications. Considering the objectives of this study and the target audience, the proposed method could be beneficial to museums and cultural institutions by providing interactive tours and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Additionally, it can be advantageous for cultural tourism stakeholders and local businesses in the surrounding areas as it may attract more tourists and increase footfall. The platform leverages augmented reality and narrative techniques within an ambient-intelligence environment that encompasses a museum and its surrounding landmarks. The case study pertains to the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology (MAET), an institution with a continuous presence for 25 years, represented through a network of museums on the same theme located in Ancient Olympia and Athens, and an exhibition in which the organisation has participated in Malta. The methodology employed leverages the principles of ambient intelligence, enabling tourists to traverse the historic centre of Athens or the archaeological site of the Olympia, and to explore ancient Greek technological inventions through a mobile application supporting augmented reality. The proposed approach also supported the participation of MAET in an exhibition in Malta by projecting a variety of 3D inventions presented in MAET museums through augmented reality.
Metaverse and Education for Sustainable Global Citizenship: Ethical Paradoxes
Authors: Fonseca Josélia , Borges-Tiago Teresa
Published: May 2024

The emergence of the metaverse and the urgent need for educating sustainable global citizenship raises critical ethical considerations. If on the hand, the metaverse has the potential to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, creating an international community focused on sustainability and global citizenship. On another hand, given its characteristics as a virtual metaphor, the metaverse can create artificial societies inhabited by alter egos, capable of violent situations, based on the moral uncompromising of individuals under the guise of a fictitious personality. In this article, we intend to reflect on including the metaverse in the education for sustainable global citizenship, alerting to possible ethical dangers that may arise from it, and supporting this reflection methodologically with a bibliometric study on the subject. The metaverse presents an opportunity to integrate ethics, sustainability, and global citizenship into education. The metaverse paradox comprehends the dialectical relationship between the metaverse, ethics, global citizenship, and sustainability, constituting an excellent opportunity to promote ethics education for global citizenship. Harnessing the immersive and interactive nature of the metaverse, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of global issues and their ethical implications. Educating with and for the metaverse can contribute to the development of an ethical and moral digital consciousness, fostering the development of values and skills such as responsibility, fairness, empathy, and digital literacy, which are essential to empower individuals to take sustainable action and cultivate a global community committed to creating a more sustainable future.
Attributes of Effective Online Promotion Strategies: Case Study of European Universities
Authors: Bularca Maria-Cristina , Coman Claudiu , Nechita Florin , Briciu Victor-Alexandru
Published: May 2024

Living in the age of technology, universities are in need of keeping up with the development of the means of communication and the way new generations of students use these means. The purpose of the research was to identify the online promotion strategies used by the best European universities that provide master programs in communication based on a top made by Times Higher Education, in order to create an online promotion and communication procedure for Transilvania University of Brasov and other universities. Firstly, we analyzed the way the first 20 European universities with master programs in communication, according to a top made by The Times Higher Education, promote themselves online. Secondly, in order to be able to make a comparison and break down rules of good practice we analyzed the online promotion of 5 universities that occupy lower positions in the top. The universities were analyzed based on an adapted content grid with 29 criteria, including: contact information, real time assistance, social media instruments, information about: study programs, campus, employees, admission. Our results showed that the best European universities offering masters programs in communication, use various integrated online promotion and communication strategies and utilize combinations of tools that match their profile. Therefore, while there are similarities between the strategies used by the best European universities and the European universities with lower positions in the top, strategies of the best ranked universities and their promotion and communication methods can be adapted and used by other universities in order to improve their procedure of online promotion and communication.
Automatic Generation of Restaurant Reviews Using Natural Language Processing
Authors: Maldonado Castillo Idalia , Aguirre Miranda Ignacio Adrián , Olvera Mendoza Alexis
Published: May 2024

Currently, there is plenty of information available on restaurant rating platforms, but sometimes it can be contradictory or difficult to analyze in depth. An important challenge for consumers is searching for useful opinions and making decisions based on reviews usually obtained from different social networks or rating platforms. This project addresses this issue through the design, development, and implementation of a system that generates global recommendations for a set of restaurants based on the analysis of reviews using Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques. The system is based on a corpus of restaurant reviews in Mexico City, from which relevant aspects are extracted and synthesized to generate comprehensive reviews from various sources. The system can also evaluate customer satisfaction by identifying the positive and negative aspects mentioned in their reviews. In this way, it provides comprehensive information that helps diners make informed decisions. By gathering data from various sources, the system classifies and analyzes the information, providing an analysis rather than just displaying data. Another important aspect is that the project contributes to the promotion of the gastronomic offer in Mexico City, supporting tourism in a more informed way. By integrating customer perspectives, a more complete and realistic view of the restaurant experience is obtained. The importance of this project lies in the empirical evidence showing that consumer reviews are influenced by the average rating and the number of reviews. Given the overwhelming number of options and the need to provide relevant information efficiently, this project offers a solution by generating detailed reviews based on aggregated information from multiple sources, including consumer reviews and influencer critiques.
Solutions
Authors: Rapp Christoph
Published: May 2024

In Chapter 17 solutions to the problems of Chapter 16 are presented.
Optimisation of the operation level at Uppenbornwerk 1
Authors: Rapp Christoph
Published: May 2024

The optimal operation level of a run-off river hydropower plant which receives water from two supply channels is the task in Chapter 21.
On Convergences and Divergences: Gendered and Layered Political Citizenship in Ghana and Uganda
Authors: Madsen Diana Højlund , Ahikire Josephine
Published: May 2024

This chapter explores the dynamics of contemporary political citizenships in West African Ghana and East African Uganda with a focus on junctures of convergences and divergences shaping the pathways for gendered in-/exclusions of citizenships. It interrogates the ways women’s political citizenships have developed and the pathways to power in the two countries. It draws on the notion of Ubuntu and afro communitarianism as a pathway for understanding collective political citizenships and belongings as an alternative to Western state-centric and individualised notions of citizenship. By mapping historical trajectories, the chapter seeks to understand the continuities, and changes defining present gendered citizenships. Despite being on similar paths in terms of the development of political systems, institutions, and the gender subtext in the post-colonial eras, the two countries have developed unevenly. Whereas Uganda is characterised by authoritarian features with a relative high level of women’s political representation, the more democratic Ghana has a low level of women’s political representation. It concludes that related to the notion of Ubuntu the achievement of women’s substantive political citizenship will be located within women’s collective lived realities and demands a broad-based intersectional mobilisation.
Pseudo-scalar meson spectral properties in the chiral crossover region of QCD
Authors: Bala Dibyendu , Kaczmarek Olaf , Lowdon Peter , Philipsen Owe , Ueding Tristan
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Determining the type of excitations that can exist in a thermal medium is key to understanding how hadronic matter behaves at extreme temperatures. In this work we study this question for pseudo-scalar mesons comprised of light-strange and strange-strange quarks, analysing how their low-energy spectral properties are modified as one passes through the high-temperature chiral crossover region between T = 145.6 MeV and 172.3 MeV. We utilise the non-perturbative constraints satisfied by correlation functions at finite temperature in order to extract the low-energy meson spectral function contributions from spatial correlator lattice data in Nf = 2 + 1 flavour QCD. The robustness of these contributions are tested by comparing their predictions with data for the corresponding temporal correlator at different momentum values. We find that around the pseudo-critical temperature Tpc the data in both the light-strange and strange-strange channels is consistent with the presence of a distinct stable particle-like ground state component, a so-called thermoparticle excitation. As the temperature increases this excitation undergoes collisional broadening, and this is qualitatively the same in both channels. These findings suggest that pseudo-scalar mesons in QCD have a bound-state-like structure at low energies within the chiral crossover region which is still strongly influenced by the vacuum states of the theory.
Treatment of unstable forearm fractures at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction in children: antegrade ESIN vs. transepiphyseal intramedullary K-wire fixation
Authors: Dietzel Markus , Scherer Simon , Spogis Jakob , Kirschner Hans Joachim , Fuchs Jörg , Lieber Justus
Published: May 2024

Background

Treatment of unstable forearm fractures in the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction (MDJ) zone is still a matter of debate. Major drawbacks of all types of fixations include either invasiveness, technical impracticality, or lack of acceptance by patients. This study reports results after antegrade ESIN (a-ESIN) compared to transepiphyseal intramedullary K-wire (TIK) for unstable MDJ forearm fractures.

Methods

The MDJ of the forearm was defined as the square over the joints of both forearm bones subtracted with the square over the metaphysis of the radius alone. The data of 40 consecutive patients < 16 years of age who were treated either by a-ESIN (later treatment period) or TIK (early treatment period) for an unstable MDJ forearm fracture at a single high-volume pediatric trauma center were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The average age was slightly lower in the first group (TIK = 7.42 years; a-ESIN = 10.5 years). An additional ulna fracture was found in 50% of cases and was treated with a classic antegrade ESIN in 10/20 (TIK) and 6/20 cases (a-ESIN). Additional plaster cast immobilization was performed in all cases with TIK and in three cases with a-ESIN. After TIK, no complication, malalignment, or functional limitation occurred. After a-ESIN, 19/20 patients had an event-free course with stable retention and healing without axial malalignment. In one case, a temporary sensor dysfunction occurred. The same patient suffered a refracture two months after the original trauma, which required a closed reduction. Metal removal was performed after 84 days (TIK) and 150 days (a-ESIN). The outcome in all patients was good.

Conclusion

Both a-ESIN and TIK are minimally invasive procedures that are technically easy to perform. Both methods are safe and lead to a complete restoration of the forearm’s range of motion. The decisive advantage of a-ESIN is the possibility of postoperative immobilization-free rehabilitation.
Reducing behavior problems in children born after an unintended pregnancy: the generation R study
Authors: Enthoven Clair A. , Labrecque Jeremy A. , Koopman-Verhoeff M. Elisabeth , Lambregtse-van den Berg Mijke P. , Hillegers Manon H.J. , El Marroun Hanan , Jansen Pauline W.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To examine differences in behavior problems between children from intended versus unintended pregnancies, and to estimate how much the difference in problem behavior would be reduced if postnatal depression was eliminated and social support was increased within 6 months after birth.

Methods

Data from the Generation R Study were used, a population-based birth cohort in Rotterdam, the Netherlands (N = 9621). Differences in child internalizing and externalizing behavior at ages 1.5, 3, 6, 9 and 13 years between pregnancy intention groups were estimated using linear regression. Associations of postnatal depression and social support with internalizing and externalizing problems were also estimated using linear regression. Child behavior outcomes where compared before and after modelling a situation in which none of the mothers experienced a postnatal depression and all mother experienced high social support.

Results

Most pregnancies (72.9%) were planned, 14.8% were unplanned and wanted, 10.8% were unplanned with initially ambivalent feelings and 1.5% with prolonged ambivalent feelings. Children from unplanned pregnancies had more internalizing and externalizing problems at all ages as compared to children from a planned pregnancy, especially when ambivalent feelings were present. Hypothetically eliminating on postnatal depression reduced the differences in internalizing and externalizing problems by 0.02 to 0.16 standard deviation. Hypothetically increasing social support did not significantly reduce the difference in internalizing and externalizing problems.

Conclusions

Children from an unplanned pregnancy have more behavior problems, in particular when mothers had prolonged ambivalent feelings. Eliminating postnatal depression may help to reduce the inequality in child behavior related to pregnancy intention.
Internal exposure to heat-induced food contaminants in omnivores, vegans and strict raw food eaters: biomarkers of exposure to acrylamide (hemoglobin adducts, urinary mercapturic acids) and new insights on its endogenous formation
Authors: Monien Bernhard H. , Bergau Nick , Gauch Fabian , Weikert Cornelia , Abraham Klaus
Published: May 2024

The urinary mercapturic acids N-acetyl-S-(2-carbamoylethyl)-L-cysteine (AAMA) and N-acetyl-S-(2-carbamoyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-L-cysteine (GAMA) are short-term biomarkers of exposure from acrylamide and its metabolite glycidamide, respectively. The medium-term exposure to acrylamide and glycidamide is monitored by the adducts N-(2-carbamoylethyl)-Val (AA-Val) and N-(2-carbamoyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-Val (GA-Val) in hemoglobin (Hb), respectively. Three questions were addressed by application of these biomarkers in two diet studies including 36 omnivores, 36 vegans and 16 strict raw food eaters (abstaining from any warmed or heated food for at least four months): first, what is the internal acrylamide exposure following a vegan or a raw food diet in comparison to that in omnivores? Second, did the exposure change between 2017 and 2021? And third, what is the stability over time of AAMA/GAMA excretion compared to that of AA-Val/GA-Val levels in Hb between both time points? Median urinary AAMA excretion per day in non-smoking omnivores, vegans and raw food eaters were 62.4, 85.4 and 15.4 µg/day, respectively; the corresponding median AA-Val levels were 27.7, 39.7 and 13.3 pmol/g Hb, respectively. Median levels in strict raw food eaters were about 25% (AAMA excretion) and 48% (AA-Val) of those in omnivores. In comparison to 2017, AAMA and GAMA excretion levels were hardly altered in 2021, however, levels of AA-Val and GA-Val in 2021 slightly increased. There was a weak correlation between AAMA excretion levels determined four years apart (rS = 0.30), and a moderate correlation between levels of AA-Val (rS = 0.55) in this timeframe. Our data in strict raw food eaters confirm a significant endogenous formation to acrylamide in a size range, which is—based on the levels of AA-Val—distinctly higher than reported previously based on levels of urinary AAMA excretion. The relatively lower AAMA excretion in raw food eaters likely represents a lower extent of glutathione conjugation due to missing hepatic first-pass metabolism in case of endogenous formation of acrylamide, which leads to a higher systemic exposure.