bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Value Conversion Relationship and Appropriate Scale of Xinjiang Oasis Based on GEP and MOP Model
Authors: Long Ziyu , Wang Xudong
Published: February 2025

Soil and water resources are crucial for the stability and sustainable development of oases in inland arid zones. The conflict between socio-economic development and ecological environmental protection is a major challenge. Establishing a harmonious, stable, efficient, and sustainable oasis is key to balancing economic growth and environmental protection. This study evaluates oasis value through Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP), revealing the current economic and ecological value of oases and the relationship between oasis value conversion in Xinjiang. This is achieved by combining land value transfer, oasis water-heat balance equation, and oasis value system, thereby assessing oasis stability and sustainability amid changes in value scale. The results indicate significant differences in the development trajectories of artificial and natural oases in Xinjiang since 2000. There has been a considerable expansion in the area and GEP of artificial oases, while the GEP of natural oases has continuously decreased. The land value transfer matrix reveals that converting ecological spaces to construction land and arable land has resulted in the loss of land GEP while simultaneously generating substantial GDP. The MOP model's optimization of oasis structures in each region indicates that areas like Aksu and Altay need to prioritize ecological security over the economic value of artificial oases. In contrast, regions like Bortala and Changji, with higher carrying capacities, can expand artificial oases to boost economic benefits without compromising ecological safety. This study offers a framework for evaluating and optimizing the value and sustainability of oases, playing a crucial role in balancing ecological security and socio-economic value in arid zones.
A Synergistic Approach to Characterizing Chemically Deposited TiO2 Thin Films: Unraveling Structural, Optical, Morphological, Electrochemical, and Photoelectrochemical Attributes
Authors: Padwal Sachin , Wagh Rahul , Padwal Shaurya , Patil Rajendra
Published: February 2025

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin films were deposited onto a substrate via chemical bath deposition, a versatile and scalable coating process. This work comprehensively characterizes the resulting films, elucidating their key structural, optical, morphological, electrochemical, and photoelectrochemical properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of anatase TiO2 with a tetragonal crystal structure, providing insights into the film’s crystalline nature. Optical properties, including absorbance, energy band gap (3.07 eV by Tauc’s plot), and extinction coefficient, were determined using UV-visible spectroscopy, crucial for understanding the material’s interaction with light. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the surface morphology and cross-sectional microstructure, enabling measurement of the average film thickness (9.875 μm). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, conducted with a polysulfide electrolyte, assessed the charge transfer resistance and electron lifetime in the absence of a dye sensitizer, providing fundamental electrochemical insights. Current-voltage (IV) characteristics demonstrated a nominal current density of 0.0884 mA/cm², a key parameter for potential applications. This detailed characterization provides a comprehensive understanding of the chemically deposited TiO2 thin films, relevant to various applications including functional coatings and surface modifications.
Designing Co-located Social Interaction: The Role of Multimodal Media in Facilitating Sociability
Authors: Lyu Yanjun , Hayes Lauren , Sha Xin Wei
Published: February 2025

Technologically-supported social interaction has gained significant attention within the Human-Computer Interaction community, particularly for facilitating remote social connections. However, less emphasis has been placed on co-located situations and multi-user scenarios where participants have unfamiliar relationships. We propose an augmented multimodal media method for co-located social interaction. Our study identifies three design principles for designing technologically-supported responsive environments: (1) Interaction over time, (2) Improvised social activity, and (3) Relational interaction. Grounded in these principles, we designed and evaluated four technology-mediated interventions in various social settings, including meal and open-ended play scenarios. Our findings demonstrate the impact of augmented sensory media on dynamic social cues, influencing bodily engagement, mutual eye contact, proximal sensitivity, and spontaneous conversation. We categorized a series of design insights as learning outcomes for researchers implementing augmented multimodal media approaches.
Mathematical Modeling and Analysis of HIV/AIDS with Optimal Control
Authors: Gurmu Eshetu Dadi , Boro Muluneh Lelisa , Obsu Legesse Lemecha
Published: February 2025

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant global health challenge, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART), the disease continues to spread due to direct human-to-human transmission and potential environmental reservoirs. This study develops a mathematical model that incorporates both transmission pathways, along with the impact of ART and environmental contamination. The model stratifies the population into compartments, including susceptible individuals, those with HIV, individuals receiving treatment, and those in the AIDS stage, as well as an additional compartment for HIV-contaminated materials. Stability and bifurcation analyses reveal conditions under which the disease-free equilibrium remains stable or transitions to an endemic state. The study also explores optimal control strategies using Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle to identify effective intervention measures. Numerical simulations demonstrate the importance of ART distribution, behavioral interventions, and environmental decontamination in reducing disease prevalence. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and public health officials in designing evidence-based strategies for mitigating HIV transmission and improving health outcomes.
The Rapid Convergence of the Indian Plate with the Eurasian Plate Resulted in the Fracture of Musandam Mountains Leading to the Formation of the Strait of Hormuz
Authors: Thomas Sunil
Published: February 2025

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow and strategically vital maritime corridor connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is one of the most critical chokepoints for global oil transportation. The Strait of Hormuz facilitate the transit of millions of barrels of crude oil daily, and it is indispensable to global energy security. Despite its immense geopolitical importance in the modern world, the geological processes that shaped the Strait of Hormuz remain only partially understood. The region’s origins can be traced back approximately 120 million years ago to the breakup of the Gondwana supercontinent, which set the Indian plate on a rapid northward trajectory. This movement culminated in its collision with the Eurasian plate around 55 million years ago, an event that profoundly altered the region's geology. The impact of this collision not only led to the dramatic uplift of the Himalayan mountain range and the formation of the Tibetan Plateau but also exerted tectonic forces on the Arabian Plate. During or prior to the early stages of Himalayan formation, the Arabian Plate collided with the Eurasian Plate. This tectonic interaction involved the subduction of the oceanic portion of the Arabian Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate, leading to the development of the Makran Range. Eventually the Musandam Peninsula of Arabia collided with the Makran Range, near the southern Zagros Mountains, giving rise to the Musandam Mountains. However, the rapid movement of the Indian Plate toward the north disrupted the nascent Musandam Mountains from the Eurasian plate. This tectonic activity fractured the developing landscape, contributing to the formation of the Strait of Hormuz. The geological processes in this region highlight the dynamic interplay of plate tectonics that shaped its distinctive features. This paper explores the tectonic processes associated with the Indian Plate's trajectory and their role in shaping the Strait of Hormuz, a geological feature of enduring significance to global trade.
Tomographic Evaluation of Nasal Structures Changes After Orthognathic Surgery
Authors: Prado Bruno Nifossi , Pereira Lucas Cavalieri
Published: February 2025

The bimaxillary orthognathic surgeries, function and aesthetics are always associated. However, it has become evident that there are nasal changes in the postoperative period whenever the maxilla is positioned superiorly or advanced [1]. With Lefort I osteotomy, there is a widening of the nasal base associated with the flattening and thinning of the upper lip. Depending on the patient's nasal anatomy, skin thickness, and soft tissue characteristics, other nasal changes such as those in the dorsum or tip may occur. The maxillary movement associated with dissection and detachment of the facial muscles at the anterior nasal spine and nasolabial region causes lateral muscle retraction and widening of the nasal base [2]. Methods: Computed tomography scans of 21 patients who underwent orthognathic surgery were used. These CT scans were performed prior to the surgical procedure (T1) and at least 6 months after orthognathic surgery (T2). The intercanthal distance, the alar width of the nose, the intercrural distance, the right and left nostrils (horizontal and vertical) and the nasolabial angle were measured. Maxillary advancement was measured in millimeters through the ANS (anterior nasal spine) point of the maxilla; (3) Results: Regarding gender, the distribution was balanced, with 52.4% of the partici-pants being male and 47.6% female. The age of the patients ranged from 18 to 46 years, with a mean of 29.3 years (standard deviation of 8.5) and a median of 28 years. The mean mean surgical maxillary advancement was 4.9 mm (standard deviation of 1.2), with a median of 4.7 mm and a range between 3.1 and 7.2 mm. (4) Conclusions: The nasal structures measured in orthognathic surgeries, the distance from the alar base, the na-solabial angle, and the horizontal dimensions of the right and left nostrils show statistically significant differences in the postoperative period.
Rethinking Economic Measurement Using Statistical Ensembles
Authors: Abel Cal Richard
Published: February 2025

Statistical ensembles are a new and unfamiliar concept in economics. Many of the longstanding problems in economics such as the Allais paradox and being unable to formally aggregate micro-principles into macro-observations are readily resolved through the analytical framework of ensembles. We apply the canonical ensemble to three distinct economic spheres. We examine choice under uncertainty and find that the Allais paradox disappears; having acted as a barrier to exploring human choice for over a seventy-years by masking actual choice heuristics. We connect the canonical ensemble to the idea of a Cobb—Douglas production function and examine income distributions in the United States over a 24-year period and find that we can predict with surprising accuracy economic behavior just using the income distribution and the total exergy input into the economy. Finally, we examine the ideas of equality of outcome versus equality of opportunity. We show how equality of outcome can be formally considered in economics and how its achievement leads to a necessary collapse in economic activity. This is by no means an exhaustive exposition of Statistical Economics. It is merely a highlight of various areas that economists have been unable to resolve within their current analytical frameworks.
Permutation Entropy and its Niche in Hydrology: A Review
Authors: Mihailovic Dragutin
Published: February 2025

Complexity is one of the most discriminating properties of complex systems. In principle, this property cannot be fully captured by any single model, although contemporary approaches strive to address this limitation. Current calculations of complexity by models indicate only trends of evolving the complex system. Another method of analysis complexity is using the information measures applied to time series obtained by measurements. Permutation entropy (PE) is one of those measures. This non-parametric information measure quantifies the degree of disorder or complexity within a time series by examining the order relations among its values. Its benchmark is the quality of simplicity, robustness, and very low computational cost. The advantages and drawbacks of PE are considered. The diverse applications of PE in hydrology categorizing the uses of PE across various subfields, examining its role in runoff prediction, streamflow analysis, water level forecasting, assessment of hydrological changes, measurement of statistical complexity, and the impact of infrastructure on hydrology, is reviewed.
Using Invitation Letters to Increase HPV Vaccination Among Adult Women
Authors: Bunzeluk Kelly , Coulter Laura , Turner Donna , Jeong Chaeyoon , Krueger Carla , Hill Austin
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: In Manitoba, most people get the HPV vaccine in the publicly-funded school-based program. If they miss the school-based program, they remain eligible for the free HPV immunization program. This study explored whether invitation and reminder letters would increase HPV vaccine uptake among adult women who remained eligible for the publicly-funded program. (2) Methods: Eligible individuals were randomized into three groups of 4,650 women. Intervention groups I and II were mailed an information package inviting them to be vaccinated. Six weeks later, intervention group II received a reminder letter if they remained unvaccinated. Vaccination status, defined as at least one dose of an approved HPV vaccine, was calculated six months after the packages were mailed. (3) Results: 4.0% of individuals in intervention group II (invitation/reminder) and 2.5% of individuals in intervention group I (invitation) received one dose of the HPV vaccine. Compared to the control group, sending invitation/reminder and invitation packages increased the likelihood of getting at least one dose of the HPV vaccine by 4.9 times (3.4 - 6.9) and 3.0 (2.1 - 4.4) times, respectively. (4) Conclusion: Sending invitation and reminder letters to unvaccinated women may be an effective and low-cost way to increase HPV vaccination coverage among adults who are eligible for the publicly-funded immunization program.
Numerical Simulation of Non-Isothermal Two-Phase Flow in Oil Reservoirs: Slab Geometry and Heated Fluid Injection
Authors: Heringer Juan Diego dos Santos , de Freitas Mayksoel Medeiros , de Souza Grazione , Amaral Souto Helio Pedro
Published: February 2025

We address the numerical simulation of non-isothermal two-phase water-oil flow in oil reservoirs and deal with the problem of heavy oil recovery by heating the reservoir (via injection of heated fluid), aiming at reducing its viscosity and increasing its mobility. We write the governing equations in terms of the non-wetting phase pressure (oil), the wetting phase saturation (water), the reservoir average temperature without assuming the local thermal equilibrium hypothesis, and we consider that relative permeabilities vary with temperature. The Finite Volume Method is employed, and we linearize the resulting algebraic equations using the Picard method. The linearized discretized equations are solved sequentially to obtain the pressure, saturation, and average temperature using the Preconditioned Conjugate Gradient (pressure and average temperature) and Preconditioned Stabilized Biconjugate Gradient Method (saturation) methods. After validating the numerical results, we performed a sensitivity analysis considering a reservoir with slab geometry. The results showed the positive impact that reservoir heating has on the recovery of heavy oils.
Agentic AI: A Quantitative Analysis of Performance and Applications
Authors: Sawant Prashant
Published: February 2025

This study presents a comprehensive quantitative analysis of Agentic AI performance and applications across various industries. Agentic AI, an emerging field combining advanced AI techniques with enterprise automation, has shown promise in creating autonomous agents capable of complex decision-making and problem-solving. Our research, conducted over a 12-month period, employed a mixed-methods approach, analyzing data from 500 organizations and incorporating insights from 50 industry experts. The study aimed to evaluate the efficiency, accuracy, and impact of Agentic AI systems compared to traditional AI approaches.Results demonstrate that Agentic AI systems significantly outperform traditional AI, with a 34.2% reduction in task completion time, 7.7% increase in accuracy, and 13.6% improvement in resource utilization. Productivity gains varied across industries, with the technology sector showing the highest improvement at 45%. The study also revealed high scalability of Agentic AI solutions across different organizational sizes, although implementation time increased with organization complexity.Key challenges identified include data privacy concerns, integration difficulties with legacy systems, skill gaps, and ethical considerations. Despite these challenges, the study concludes that Agentic AI has significant potential to transform business processes and decision-making across various sectors. Future research directions include enhancing interpretability, optimizing domain-specific applications, and exploring multi-agent collaborations.This research contributes valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of Agentic AI, providing a foundation for further development and implementation strategies in this rapidly evolving field.
Combining UAV Photogrammetry and TLS for Change Detection on Slovenian Coastal Cliffs
Authors: Kregar Klemen , Kozmus Trajkovski Klemen
Published: February 2025

This article examines the combined use of UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) photogrammetry and TLS (Terrestrial Laser Scanning) to detect changes in coastal cliffs in the Strunjan Nature Reserve. Coastal cliffs present unique surveying challenges, including limited access, unstable reference points due to erosion, GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) signal obstruction, dense vegetation, private property restrictions and weak mobile data. To overcome these limitations, UAV and TLS techniques are used with the help of GNSS and TPS (Total Positioning Station) surveying to establish a network of GCPs (Ground Control Points) for georeferencing. The methodology includes several epochs of data collection between 2019 and 2024, using a DJI Phantom 4 RTK for UAV surveys and a Riegl VZ-400 scanner for TLS. Data processing includes point cloud filtering, mesh comparison and DoD (Difference of DEM) analysis to quantify cliff surface changes. The study addresses the effects of vegetation by focusing on vegetation-free regions of interest distributed across the cliff face. The results aim to demonstrate the effectiveness and limitations of both methods for detecting and monitoring cliff erosion and provide valuable insights for coastal management and risk assessment.
The Perspective of General Practitioners on the Role and Competences of Nurses During a Euthanasia Process: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Demedts Dennis , Mathé Rosalie-Marianne , Bilsen Johan
Published: February 2025

Background: The legalization of euthanasia in Belgium in 2002 has positioned nurses as possible participants in the euthanasia process. However, ethical and legal dilemmas necessitate a clear definition of their roles and competencies in this context. Given that general practitioners (GPs) are the primary medical professionals performing euthana-sia, understanding their perspective on the role of nurses is crucial. Aim: This study aims to explore GPs' perceptions of the roles and competencies of nurses during the euthanasia process. The research question addressed is: "What are GPs' views on the roles and competencies of nurses in euthanasia?" Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among licensed GPs in Flanders, Belgium. Data were collected via an online survey using Qualtrics and analysed with SPSS Statistics. Ethical approval was obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee of the university. Results: The study in-cluded responses from 237 GPs. GPs value the roles and competencies of nurses, rec-ognizing euthanasia as a multidisciplinary process. They acknowledge the critical support nurses provide to patients and their families. GPs assert that the administration of euthanasia medication should remain the exclusive responsibility of the GP. The analysis further indicated that demographic factors did not significantly influence the results. Discussion/Conclusion: GPs in Belgium generally rated the roles and compe-tencies of nurses positively. Enhancing multidisciplinary collaboration, legislating the roles of nurses, and incorporating practical euthanasia training in nursing curricula, e.g. via simulations, are recommended.
Chronicling the Journey of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Introduction in India
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Ray Arindam , Kumari Amrita , Sultana Abida , Hora Rhythm , Singh Kapil , Mehra Rashmi , Kaur Amanjot , Koshal Seema Singh , Quadri Syed F , Singh Shyam Kumar , Roy Arup Deb
Published: February 2025

Background: Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in under-5 children in India. The phased rollout, which began in high-burden states and was completed nationwide by 2021, was a major initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected logistics and required creative solutions, the campaign succeeded in maintaining progress and achieving nationwide coverage. This narrative review highlights the significant decisions, dedication and coordinated efforts of various stakeholders involved that led to accomplishment of successful PCV rollout.
Methodology: A comprehensive desk review of both published and unpublished literature relevant to the burden of pneumonia, pneumococcal pneumonia mortality in children under five, the efficacy and effectiveness of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines (PCVs), and the documentation of PCV introduction and scale-up in India was carried out.
Results: The documentation of PCV journey has been broken down in four sections: pre-introduction, PCV Phase I introduction, Pan India rapid expansion, and post-introduction. Since the nationwide rollout in 2021, PCV coverage in India has steadily increased reflecting successful immunization efforts. The WHO/UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage (WUENIC) also show a positive trend in vaccination coverage, which aligns with the goals of the WHO and UNICEF’s Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Pneumonia and Diarrhoea (GAPPD).
Conclusion: The phased rollout, starting with high-burden states and completing nationwide expansion by 2021, was an ambitious effort by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), particularly challenging given the overlap with the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these hurdles, the MoHFW, with strong collaboration from development partners and stakeholders, successfully navigated the complex rollout. This is a noteworthy achievement considering the unprecedented scale of the COVID-19 vaccination drive that was simultaneously ongoing.
Oral Intake and Topical Application of Hyaluronic Acid Ameliorates Skin Aging Signs: Efficacy Results of a Placebo-Controlled In & Out Trial
Authors: Nobile Vincenzo , Roveda Gloria , Spartà Eleonora , Tursi Francesco
Published: February 2025

Hyaluronic acid (HA) content in the skin progressively decreases with age, thus its supplementation - either topical, oral and by subcutaneous injection - represents a first line intervention to ameliorate skin aging signs. The present multicenter randomized placebo-controlled trial (RCT) evaluated the skin antiaging efficacy of an In&Out treatment, i.e. a concomitant topical, through a cosmetic cream, and oral administration of a specifically designed HAs, the Full Spectrum HAs (FS-HA), in a multiethnic population by instrumental measurements and clinical assessments. Efficacy of FS-HAs was evaluated also in groups receiving FS-HA in a single administration route and in presence of the placebo in the counterpart route. The above treatment scheme was applied for fifty-six days to eighty-eight adult subjects, equally divided in four groups. Treatments containing at least one FS-HA molecule showed progressive and significant intragroup ameliorations of all instrumental skin parameters evaluated. The In&Out treatment resulted in a higher improvement with respect to the two other active groups and in significant intergroup differences with respect to its placebo counterpart. FS-HA treatments resulted, as well, in significant improvements of clinical parameters that correlated with the subjects’ appreciation recorded by a Self-Assessment, hence confirming that the In&Out administration of FS-HA represents an interesting approach to counteract skin aging signs.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation Studies on the Flow Field Effects of Three Artificial Fish Reefs
Authors: Peng Guo , Shuo Zhang , Shishi Zhu , Zhaoyang Jiang
Published: February 2025

This paper focuses on three artificial reefs with different functionalities to be placed in the marine pasture in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, and investigates the effects of different incoming current velocities and headward current angles on their flow field effects, aiming to explore the flow field effects of the three reefs and analyze the functionality of their flow fields and flow regimes on the sea area. A combination of PIV experiments and numerical simulation is used to analyze the velocity at the measurement point of the flume, the characteristics of the cross-section flow pattern, and the flow field effects under different incoming velocities and head-on angles, and the accuracy of numerical simulation is verified by flume tests. The results show that the changes in the incoming velocity and the angle of flow on the three reefs have different effects on the volume of upwelling and back eddy; the shape of the reef and the internal structure of the reef do not have any impact on the flow pattern, and the changes of the flow field are different under different conditions. The scale of the flow field reaches the optimization under specific conditions.
The Hidden Cost of AI: Unraveling the Power-Hungry Nature of Large Language Models
Authors: Chowdhury Md Naseef Ur Rahman , Haque Ahshanul , Soliman Hamdy
Published: February 2025

Large Language Models (LLMs) have revolutionized artificial intelligence, driving advancements in natural language processing, automated content generation, and numerous other applications. However, these models' increasing scale and computational requirements pose significant energy consumption challenges. This paper comprehensively reviews power consumption in LLMs, highlighting key factors such as model size, hardware dependencies, and optimization techniques. We analyze the power demands of various state-of-the-art models, compare their efficiency across different hardware architectures, and explore strategies for reducing energy consumption without compromising performance. Additionally, we discuss the environmental impact of large-scale AI computations and propose future research directions for sustainable AI development. Our findings aim to inform researchers, engineers, and policymakers about the growing energy demand.}
A Multi-Objective Evaluation Tool (MUVT) for Optimizing Inputs in Cropping Systems: A Preliminary Test on Three Herbaceous Crops
Authors: Garofalo Pasquale , Vonella Alessandro Vittorio
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces the Multi-objective Evaluation Tool (MUVT), a user-friendly framework for evaluating the environmental sustainability of inputs in complex sys-tems like agriculture. MUVT enables quick analysis of how different agro-inputs (e.g., irrigation, fertilization, CO2) affect various cropping system variables (e.g., yield, in-come, water use efficiency). It integrates responses from all variables and allows users to adjust the importance of each in decision-making. The tool was tested on three crops—processing tomato, maize, and sugar beet—focusing on water-related compo-nents such as production, irrigation efficiency, and net income under various irrigation scenarios simulated with AquaCrop. For balanced productivity and environmental performance, optimal seasonal irrigation volumes were 400-500 mm for maize and tomato, and 300-400 mm for sugar beet. When prioritizing environmental sustainabil-ity, volumes decreased to 300 mm for maize, 300-400 mm for tomato, and 200 mm for sugar beet. The tool identified maize as the crop with the best overall performance, followed by tomato and sugar beet.
Integración y validación de una encuesta para evaluar cultura corporativa y productividad en trabajadores administrativos
Authors: Camargo Gómez Adriana , Hernández Arellano Juan Luis , Campoya Morales Ángel Fabián
Published: February 2025

Hoy en día, el factor humano ha tomado relevancia dentro de la organización. Los seres humanos son individuos con características diferentes y únicas que constituyen al elemento diferenciador y esta es la más importante innovación en el ramo público organizacional del siglo XXI para generar ventaja competitiva. Dentro de los estudios organizacionales la cultura es uno de los paradigmas al que pocas empresas suelen dedicarle tiempo, es un campo poco explorado y de grandes beneficios si es correctamente aplicado y orientado. El objetivo de la investigación es integrar y validar una encuesta que analice y relacione los constructos cultura corporativa y productividad, tomando como caso de estudio los servidores de las dependencias públicas recaudadoras del estado de Guanajuato, México. El diseño de la investigación fue cuantitativa, no experimental, transversal y de alcance correlacional, utilizando como técnica de recolección de datos un instrumento tipo cuestionario con escala Likert autoadministrado. El análisis de confiabilidad y correlaciones mostraron niveles de alfa de Cronbach y correlaciones considerados como altos. Por lo tanto, el instrumento se considera confiable y ha sido validado para su aplicación.
Periprosthetic Joint Infection Surrounding Lower-Extremity Endoprostheses After Tumor Resection
Authors: Sanders Philip , Scheper Henk , van der Wal Robert , van de Sande Michiel , de Boer Mark , Sander Dijkstra Pieter Durk , Bus Michael
Published: February 2025

Background:

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) surrounding an endoprosthesis after reconstruction of a lower extremity following tumor resection is a common complication, and the treatment of these infections is challenging and often requires multiple surgical interventions or even implant removal. Because there has been limited evidence to support treatment strategies and understanding of the epidemiology of the causative microorganisms, we analyzed the effectiveness of debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR), risk factors for the failure of DAIR, and causative microorganisms in patients with a PJI surrounding a lower-extremity endoprosthesis after tumor resection.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary referral center for orthopaedic oncology. All patients treated between 2000 and 2018 for PJI surrounding a lower-extremity endoprosthesis after tumor resection were included. Treatment outcomes and risk factors for failure were analyzed in patients primarily treated with DAIR. Causative microorganisms were recorded. The minimum follow-up period was 2 years.

Results:

Of the 337 patients who underwent endoprosthetic reconstruction of a lower extremity after tumor resection, 67 patients (20%) developed a PJI surrounding the endoprosthesis. Of those patients, 55 were primarily treated with DAIR. The functional cure rate of DAIR was 65% (36 of 55). A median of 2 debridements per patient was needed. Chemotherapy (odds ratio [OR], 3.1 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.0 to 9.3]) and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate of >50 mm/hr at diagnosis (OR, 4.5 [95% CI, 1.3 to 15.4]) were associated with treatment failure. Nineteen patients (28%) had a polymicrobial infection.

Conclusions:

Although sequential procedures are often needed, DAIR has acceptable clinical outcomes and should be considered, dependent on expected survival and the risk factors for treatment failure noted in this study.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Ten to 15-Year Outcomes of Monoblock Uncemented Dual Mobility Cups
Authors: Batailler Cécile , Lustig Sébastien , Balot Emmanuel , Farizon Frédéric , Fessy Michel Henri , Philippot Rémi
Published: February 2025

Background:

Dual mobility cups (DMCs) have effectively prevented dislocations after total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, use of these cups in primary THAs remains controversial, especially in young patients. This study aimed to determine the long-term survival rate and functional outcomes of a contemporary DMC used in primary THA.

Methods:

This retrospective multicenter study identified a cohort of 614 primary THAs performed with the same uncemented monoblock DMC between 2007 and 2010. Survival analysis included 572 THAs, while clinical analysis involved 394 THAs at a minimal follow-up of 10 years. The mean follow-up was 11.1 ± 1.2 years. The mean age was 71.4 ± 11.7 years, with 4.2% of patients under 50 years old. The mean body mass index was 27.0 ± 5.3 kg/m2. The 10-year Kaplan-Meier survival rate was calculated based on cup removal for any reason or cup revision for an aseptic reason as the end point. Harris hip scores were collected at the last follow-up.

Results:

The cup-revision-free survival rate was 98.6% at 10 years and 96.2% at 13 years. No cup revisions were reported due to aseptic loosening or dislocation. The cup revisions were due to infection (7 of 572; 1.2%), acetabular fracture (1 of 572; 0.17%), and psoas impingement due to cup malpositioning (n = 1 of 572; 0.17%). Only 3 dislocations (0.52%) were observed, and they did not require revision. The mean Harris hip score significantly improved from 54.1 ± 14.4 preoperatively to 88.0 ± 14.3 at the last follow-up (p < 0.0001). For patients under 50 years old at the time of surgery, the mean Harris hip score showed significant improvement from 53.0 ± 10.2 preoperatively to 89.7 ± 12.8 at the last follow-up (p < 0.0001), with no significant difference compared with the older patients (p = 0.50). No revision or complication was reported in the younger patient population at 13 years of follow-up.

Conclusions:

The monoblock uncemented DMC demonstrated excellent survival rates with no DMC-specific complications during a minimum 10-year follow-up. The dislocation rate was very low, and a younger age was not identified as a risk factor for failure. Therefore, monoblock cementless DMCs can be safely used, even in primary THA.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Apoyo social y desigualdades socioeconómicas asociadas con inseguridad alimentaria en la vejez
Authors: Garofalo Carolina Sofía , Bonfiglio Juan Ignacio , Rodríguez Espínola Solange
Published: February 2025

Objetivo. Dar cuenta de la influencia del apoyo social (estructural y funcional) y de aspectos socioeconómicos e individuales sobre la inseguridad alimentaria en personas mayores de zonas urbanas de Argentina. Material y métodos. Se desarrolló un diseño descriptivo-explicativo y se utilizaron los datos de entrevistados de 60 años o más, provenientes de la Encuesta de la Deuda Social Argentina, recolectados en 2019 (n= 1 357) y 2021 (n= 1 289). Se realizaron análisis descriptivos y se propuso un modelo de regresión logística binaria. Resultados. Los hallazgos muestran la incidencia negativa de factores socioeconómicos e individuales; se destaca la pobreza por ingresos (RM= 4.27; IC95%: 2.83,6.43) y el residir en un hogar compuesto por distintas generaciones (RM= 1.48; IC95%: 1.02,2.14). Contar con una red social es un factor protector ante las carencias alimentarias (RM= 2.04; IC95%: 1.53,2.71). La pobreza por ingresos y la falta de apoyo social afectivo son los factores que, en interacción, indican mayor probabilidad de experimentar inseguridad alimentaria (RM= 3.14; IC95%: 1.22,8.06). Conclusión. A partir de estos hallazgos se busca contribuir a la discusión sobre la vinculación entre la privación alimentaria en personas mayores y aspectos tanto económicos como psicosociales. Estos hallazgos aportan a diagnósticos que consideren la complejidad del déficit alimentario en personas mayores.
Acute and chronic substance use among patients with a road traffic injury in Mexico City
Authors: Borges Guilherme , Orozco Ricardo , Borges-Monroy Rebeca
Published: February 2025

Objective. To report on the prevalence acute and chronic substance use among patients attending an emergency department (ED) in Mexico City because of a road traffic injury (RTI) and possible effect modifiers for the relationship between acute alcohol and cannabis use and RTI. Materials and methods. Adult RTI patients, admitted to an ED (January to April 2022). Breath Alcohol Concentration and six types of drugs were assessed using a saliva screen test. Patients also self-reported their alcohol and drug use. Results. 13.9% reported an alcohol use disorder in the last 12 months. Acute alcohol use was frequent, with 18.9% being positive. We found a large association between habitual and acute substance use. In a case-crossover analysis, there was no significant effect modification. Conclusion. Patients positive for substance use at entry to the ED should have a comprehensive evaluation of their substance abuse habits and a referral to a mental health specialist.
Shale Gas Production Prediction Based on Modified Graph Attention and Memory-Augmented Neural Networks
Authors: Hua Jinyu , Du Xin , Dong Yilun , Lu Detang
Published: February 2025

Predicting shale gas production is crucial for optimizing shale gas well operations. However, production is influenced by numerous factors such as reservoir conditions, engineering parameters, human interventions, and interwell interference, posing significant challenges to accurate prediction. To address these complexities, we present a hybrid neural network model that combines a modified graph attention network (MGAT) with a memory-augmented neural network (MANN). MGAT enhances the extraction of spatial features from shale gas wells, while MANN uses gated recurrent units (GRUs) as its core architecture. It further incorporates production-related factors within its external memory module. MANN combines these components through an attention mechanism (AM), enabling it to efficiently extract relevant information from the external memory, thereby enhancing predictive performance. The effectiveness of the model is validated using field data from six wells with spatial relationships, and its performance is benchmarked against traditional models. Model hyperparameters are optimized using multiobjective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO). The results indicate that the proposed model achieves superior accuracy and robust generalization capabilities. Additionally, an ablation study highlights the critical role of temporal and spatial correlations for optimal model performance.
The determinants of greenhouse gas reduction levels among smallholder farmers: Insights from the adoption of climate-smart dairy Strategies in Central Kenya
Authors: Chelang'a Naomi , Mathenge Mary , Okello Dickson , Sassi Maria
Published: February 2025

In Kenya’s dairy sector, climate change mitigation focuses on sustainable milk production. However, dairy producers often overlook emission reduction, creating a gap between national policies and local practices. This study uses a fractional response model to examine factors influencing greenhouse gas reduction at the farm level based on survey data from 385 dairy farmers. Greenhouse gas reduction was measured using a composite index, with proxies drawn from the literature. Key factors include education, social capital, entrepreneurial orientation, awareness, and risk perception. The study recommends that the national and county governments promote and support the adoption of climate-smart dairy strategies that increase milk production while simultaneously reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This support could include technical assistance and educational programs to encourage complementary adoption by dairy farmers.
Insider Threat Detection: A Novel Approach Combining User Behaviour Trust Evaluation and Fuzzy Recommendations
Authors: Wu Zenan , Zhang Tiancai , Tian Liqin , Bai Zhangxuan , Dong Yuejun , Wang Yan
Published: February 2025

Insider threats can cause significant damage to a business or organisation, and insider threat detection is critical to maintaining the security of vital corporate information. By evaluating and monitoring the behaviours of visiting users, abnormal behaviours, unusual activities or potential threatening behaviours can be detected at an early stage, which will help to improve the identification of insider threats in a business/organisation and to take effective measures to deal with potential risks. Existing insider threat detection methods rely more on predefined rules, require explicit feature engineering, and generate more false positives.To overcome these limitations, the focus of the work proposed in this paper is to introduce an enhanced insider threat detection method based on credible assessment of user behaviour. It enables fewer false positives, faster threat detection, and significantly higher classifier accuracy. This enhancement is achieved due to the fact that: firstly, the model contains both a direct and an indirect assessment module, and ensures the dynamics of the assessment by balancing the factors; furthermore, the model optimises the balance of the subjective and objective weights in the direct assessment module, which effectively solves the impact of the unequal distribution of the subjective and objective weights on the assessment results; and, based on the trust recommendation of the user by the service provider of a comparable system, the user is evaluated by using a fuzzy Petri net to assess the indirect trust attributes of the user. Finally, the model was tested on the CMU-CERT v4.2 dataset using four different performance evaluation metrics, and compared and analysed with existing evaluation models. The test results show that the model has higher accuracy for untrustworthy user detection and better applicability of the model.
Awareness of HIV, HPV, and Gonorrhea, and acceptance of vaccines against them, among displaced persons and their host communities in Bangladesh
Authors: Rego Ryan T. , Barman Ashok K. , Wagner Abram , Carlson Bradley , Boulton Matthew L. , Rana Gurpreet K. , Watson Samuel I. , Raqib Rubhana , Lee Haeun , Waljee Akbar K. , Islam Md. Sirajul
Published: February 2025

Introduction
New vaccines are forthcoming for various diseases, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Acceptance by populations is critical for vaccine programs. Considering the ever-increasing number of displaced people globally, given conflict and climate change, displaced populations and their host communities are key but under-studied groups. We examined the acceptance of the current Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine and hypothetical Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and Gonorrhea vaccines, as well as awareness of these STIs among displaced populations and their host communities in Bangladesh.
Methods
The study, conducted between September 2022 and February 2023, examined four groups: forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals in Teknaf; the host community of Bangladeshi citizens living in Teknaf; climate internally displaced people in Dhaka; and the host community of permanent residents in Dhaka. We aimed to randomly recruit 400 households per group. Participants were asked for consent and screened for eligibility. Once consented, a survey was administered, which measured: 1) household composition, 2) demographics, 3) healthcare use, 4) perspectives on government policy and neighborhood dynamics, and 5) STI awareness and vaccine hesitancy. Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate analyses.
Results
Overall 1,617 respondents were included. Disease knowledge was low - 34[95%CI(31.7,36.3)]% had heard of HPV, 50[95%CI(47,53)]% had heard of HIV, and 5[95%CI(4,6)]% had heard of gonorrhea. Awareness varied by group - with the displaced populations generally having less awareness than their host communities; and those in Dhaka having higher awareness than those in Teknaf. Covariates associated with awareness include gender, with women more likely to be aware of STIs than men; education, with those with tertiary education more likely to be aware of HPV than those with below primary education; and watching TV - with watching TV increasing awareness of HIV and HPV. Almost all respondents reported willingness to be vaccinated against each STI.
Conclusions
Despite the low awareness of STIs, acceptance of STI was high. This presents a promising opportunity for reducing the burden of STIs, however it calls for increasing educational activities to increase deeper knowledge on various STIs.
Intravenous streptozotocin induces variants in painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy in female mice
Authors: Hagenimana Michelle , Green Audrey R. , Tierney Jessica A. , Lenert Melissa E. , Burton Michael D.
Published: February 2025

Purpose: At least half of the 34 million diabetic patients in the U.S. develop painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Recent evidence suggests that there are sex differences in the prevalence and mechanisms underlying pathological pain states. However, due to technical limitations in murine models, there is a dearth of the use of females in diabetic neuropathy research. There is a need to develop a reproducible model to induce painful DPN in both sexes. The predominately used model employs streptozotocin (STZ) administration via intraperitoneal injections. This strategy consistently induces diabetic pathology in males, but not females. We set out to enhance a current murine DPN model by identifying a method for inducing diabetic pathologies in male and female mice and tracking the development of painful neuropathy.
Methods: Painful DPN was induced in both male and female mice through five daily intravenous injections of STZ. Metrics of diabetic pathology and pain behaviors were assessed across the development of painful DPN. To investigate neuronal sensitivity, calcium imaging assessing dorsal root ganglia neurons was performed.
Results: We found that after intravenous administration of STZ, both male and female mice exhibited elevated blood glucose levels, impaired glucose tolerance, and increased mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. Interestingly, we observed a subset of STZ-insensitive animals that displayed comparable elevated glucose levels to the STZ-sensitive animals. Calcium imaging was performed to investigate neuronal sensitivity and we found that both male and female mice with diabetic pathology had a lower latency to peak capsaicin-induced response compared to their control counterparts.
Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that intravenous administration of STZ can induce comparable diabetic neuropathy in male and female mice and opens the door for future preclinical studies on diabetic neuropathy.