bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformación digital en el sector turismo: Una revisión de literatura
Authors: Restrepo-Sarmiento Jhulianna , Gómez Torres Paola Andrea , Londoño-Cardozo José
Published: August 2024

La digitalización en el sector turismo experimenta un crecimiento significativo en la última década. Sin embargo, ha sido impulsada por la pandemia de covid-19. Aunque la adopción tecnológica en el turismo ha sido lenta debido a la naturaleza de la industria, se reconoce su importancia para mejorar las actividades y servicios turísticos. La transformación digital se ha convertido en un fenómeno relevante, y se espera un aumento en la investigación sobre temas como la adopción tecnológica, la economía digital y la inteligencia artificial en el sector. En tal sentido, este documento presenta una revisión bibliográfica a partir de una bibliometría que se realizó en el marco de un proyecto transformación digital en el sector turismo. Como resultado se revela que existe un interés académico y sectorial en comprender el impacto de la tecnología digital en este sector. Los documentos analizados muestran un crecimiento anual promedio del 23,77 % en las publicaciones sobre el tema y una influencia significativa de la pandemia en el enfoque temático de la investigación. De igual forma, se destaca la importancia de la digitalización en la planificación de destinos turísticos inteligentes y la adopción de nuevas tecnologías para generar valor para los clientes. La digitalización también se presenta como una oportunidad para que las organizaciones turísticas sean estratégicamente ágiles y se adapten a un entorno en constante cambio. Aunque la industria turística aún enfrenta desafíos debido a la pandemia, se reconoce que la digitalización seguirá siendo fundamental para su recuperación y desarrollo futuro.
Study Analyzes Selection of Subsea System Architectures for Offshore CCS
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2024

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 34987, “Selection of Subsea System Architectures for Offshore CCS,” by Ana Requejo Olivan, OneSubsea; Andrew Ripley, Subsea 7; and Ian Pringle, OneSubsea, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2024 Offshore Technology Conference.

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Different subsea-control-system architecture scenarios that could be used to inject CO2 offshore from a carbon capture plant onshore were assessed. Each scenario represented a qualification step toward a minimalist, fit-for-purpose configuration, with the final system featuring simple and all-electric subsea architecture. The authors adopted a holistic approach to a hypothetical subsea carbon capture and storage (CCS) project, evaluating the effect of subsea-control-system equipment technical readiness, CCS regulatory requirements, umbilical sizing, and installation strategy.

Introduction

Experience indicates that one of the more-common types of offshore CCS developments comprises a coastal-based carbon capture and compression plant (generally located in a region with high industrial emitters) and an offshore reservoir selected for CO2 injection, typically a depleted hydrocarbon reservoir or an aquifer, which requires a long tieback to shore, often in excess of 100 km.
Path to Green and Circular Decommissioning Explored
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2024

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 216338, “Path to a Green and Circular Decommissioning,” by C.H. Friederichs, Eni. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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The author describes the operator’s development of a culture of circular decommissioning, with the main goal of establishing a structured process to improve environmental performance by implementing principles of circular economy during the engineering and execution of decommissioning projects.

Culture of Circular Decommissioning

Within the operator’s energy-transition strategy, the culture of circularity has been developed to maximize mature-asset life and ensure that decommissioning projects adhere to an environmentally friendly circular process. The process is composed of the following four main systematic steps:

- Reuse or repurposing of an asset (for example, for carbon capture, use, and storage or for hydrogen, offshore-wind, photovoltaic, or geothermal purposes)

- Reuse of a portion of an asset (for example, reuse or reconversion of part of a platform or onshore installation)

- Reuse of components (for example, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, and compressors)

- Recycling of materials (for example, steel, copper, aluminum, or rare elements)

Circular Approach for Engineering New Assets

Embedding circularity into the engineering of new assets is critical because proper setting of component design can increase the probability of future reuse and repurpose with only minor technical changes or specifications. Application of this circularity during the early stage of asset design is based on the transformation from a linear economy (take/make/dispose) to the circular economy (make/use/reuse/recycle).

The following aspects must be taken into consideration in order to embed the circular approach during the engineering of new assets:

- Reuse of preused assets for new projects

- Design for long-life assets, products, and components

- Modularization

- Design to reuse

Based on the operator’s previous experience, besides jackets and decks, the main types of preowned assets are represented by living quarters and process modules; offshore complex fields could offer considerable availability (Fig. 1). Another important concept is the reuse of huge structures such as jackup rigs or semisubmersibles and verifying their suitability for potential repurpose. To monitor possible opportunities (reuse of structures and modules to be refurbished for reuse in other projects), a continuous market inquiry is mandatory.
Numerical Rate Transient Analysis Workflow Applied to Dry Gas Wells
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2024

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper URTeC 2023-4026063, “Numerical Rate Transient Analysis for Dry Gas Wells,” by Mathias L. Carlsen, SPE, Whitson; Curtis H. Whitson, SPE, Whitson and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology; and Mohamad M. Dahouk, SPE, Whitson. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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The complete paper outlines the importance of numerical rate transient analysis (RTA) for dry gas wells. The authors write that the simple, fully penetrating planar fracture model proposed is a useful numerical symmetry element model that provides the basis for the work presented. Synthetic and field examples are used in the complete paper to illustrate the application of numerical simulation to perform rigorous RTA.

Introduction

RTA methods to correct for superposition and multiphase flow effects have been studied extensively. Analytically (In this context, “analytical” refers to linearization of partial differential equations) correcting for the combined effect of both superposition and multiphase flow at the same time is not possible because one needs to know saturations and pressure/volume/temperature (PVT) properties as a function of space for all times. Multiple cycles of hysteresis in a multiphase, complex PVT and relative permeability system are impossible to handle analytically.

The complete paper aims to achieve the following goals:

- Outline the importance of numerical RTA for dry gas wells

- Generalize the workflow for dry gas systems as opposed to only liquid-rich or oil reservoirs

- Incorporate geomechanical effects (pressure-dependent permeability) in the workflow

- Validate the workflow with both dry gas simulated data and real field data

Underlying Assumptions: 1D Reservoir Model

The theory presented in this paper assumes a “symmetry element” model, in which the underlying numerical model represents one-quarter of a fracture (Fig. 1). The model is 1D in that no flow contributions exist beyond the fracture tips or beyond the fracture height. Thus, there is only one no-flow boundary, resulting in two dominant flow regimes over time—infinite acting linear flow, followed by boundary-dominated flow. In this study, only one permeability zone is assumed. Nevertheless, most of the underlying concepts presented in the complete paper also are relevant for more-complex reservoir geometries.

The authors devote a subsection of the complete paper to a discussion of RTA fundamentals before describing their own work. They move on to subsections describing important aspects of numerically assisted RTA, including key geometric variables; relationships between modified liner flow parameter, original gas in place, and well performance; a modification of a numerically assisted workflow well-known in the literature; and geomechanical effects.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Hydrogen Generation in Hydrocarbon Reservoirs
Authors: Sheng James J.
Published: August 2024

To reduce carbon emissions and meet increasing energy demands, efforts are being made to seek clean energy such as hydrogen (or H2). Currently, the dominant method to generate hydrogen is steam methane reforming at a surface plant. It would be ideal to extend this method to subsurface hydrocarbon reservoirs; hydrogen is separated from the other generated gases via a downhole hydrogen-selective membrane separator. By doing so, hydrogen is extracted from the wellhead, and other gases are left in the reservoir. The purpose of this paper is to provide a techno-economic analysis of this idea. The energy of generated hydrogen is compared with the energy of the hydrocarbon feedstock. The hydrogen selectivity (concentration) in the generated synthesis gas (syngas) and the amount of hydrogen generated per unit mass of oil in the literature are reviewed and discussed. The constraints to the hydrogen generation conditions in subsurface reservoirs are discussed. The effectiveness of the downhole membrane is discussed.

It is found that the energy from generated hydrogen is much less than the energy input even in a surface reactor where reactants are fully mixed for reactions. In a subsurface reservoir, injected reactants cannot fully mix with the in-situ oil and gas, and reactions may occur only near the flood-front zone of a high temperature. As injected gas (such as steam or oxygen) displaces the oil and gases ahead, the produced hydrocarbons are much higher than hydrogen. Separation of hydrogen from other gases downhole presents challenges in many aspects in reality, such as membrane permeability or separation rate, work life (mechanical and chemical stability), and so on. Therefore, unless a revolutionary technology breakthrough occurs, the generation and production of hydrogen in a subsurface hydrocarbon reservoir may not be feasible.
The effect of social integration among the locals on reducing the fear of crime
Authors: Park Jae Poong , Kim Byeong Jun ,   Korean Association of Public Safety and Criminal Justice
Published: August 2024

Crime leaves critical damage to victims and evokes the fear of crime in others. The study analysed the effect of social integration among the locals on the fear of crime to identify if social factors affect the fear of crime except for individual and environmental factors as the cause of the fear of crime. The independent variable is the social integration among the locals and the dependent variable is the fear of crime that the locals have. It tested the correlation between the variables through Multiple Regression Analysis.
According to the analysis, the level of social integration significantly contributes to predicting the locals’ fear of crime. The higher the social integration is, the less the fear of crime is. The social integration could reduce the fear of crime. As a demographic factor, the female has more fear of crime than male. The respondents with children have less fear of crime but those with high household income have more fear of crime.
In conclusion, it needs to improve the social integration among the locals to reduce the fear of crime. The fear of crime will naturally decrease when the locals can solve community problems by themselves and faith and trust among the locals should be formed through building friendships and increasing contact with neighbours in areas that have weak ties and solidarity among the locals.
A study on public perceptions of police legitimacy: Focusing on Procedural Justice Theory
Authors: Kim Soyeong , Aum Yoojin , Jung Jaehoon ,   Korean Association of Public Safety and Criminal Justice
Published: August 2024

In 1990, Tyler proposed the procedural justice theory, explaining that if the police's law enforcement process is fair, citizens will believe that the police and its law enforcement actions are justified, and this perception of legitimacy will promote citizens' voluntary compliance with the law and cooperation with the police. In other words, there are differences in the level of police cooperation depending on the degree of citizens' perception of police legitimacy. Many studies have been conducted on police legitimacy perception as a major variable affecting police cooperation based on the research models of Tyler(2003) and Tankebe(2009). However, police legitimacy perceptions are sometimes confused with trust and obligation to obey the law, and the constructs differ among researchers. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to validate Tankebe(2013)’s four-factor(lawfulness, procedural fairness, distributive fairness, and police effectiveness) model of police legitimacy perception and make recommendations on which factors are appropriate to study in Korea. The results of the study confirm that the three-factor(lawfulness, procedural fairness, and distributive fairness) construct model is more appropriate in Korea, except for police effectiveness, which is instrumental in nature, unlike Tankebe(2013)’s study. Accordingly, it suggested the need to raise awareness of police legitimacy by securing normative methods such as legal and procedural fairness in police activities and providing security services to citizens without discrimination rather than instrumental methods to show how successfully the police suppress and solve crimes to attract citizen cooperation.
Contemporary Foreign Legal thought on the New Phenomena of Digital Transformation
Authors: Begishev I. R. , Zharova A. K. , Gromova E. A. , Zaloilo M. V. , Filipova I. A. , Shutova А. A.
Published: August 2024

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Legal Regulation of International Trade in Cryptographic Products and Technologies: WTO Tools and Regional Agreements
Authors: Hashimy S. Q. , Magoge J. S.
Published: August 2024

Objective: to demonstrate the complex legal landscape which is being changed under the influence of the modern digital landscape developing with the integration of cryptographic technologies into international trade and especially into the field of information and communication technology products.

Methods: the study of the documents is built primarily on a set of ways of interpreting legal acts, which allows analyzing the content of primary legal sources, namely the provisions for cryptographic products circulation, and proposing solutions to fill the gaps in this area. Also, secondary sources were collected and summarized to form an idea of the study subject.

Results: areas of uncertainty in the protection of digital cryptographic products under the WTO agreements have been identified, raising questions about the adequacy of existing protection measures. It is noted that in some countries this situation has led to restrictions or bans on the import and export of cryptographic technologies and encrypted data on security grounds. The authors pay attention to the concept of non-discriminatory treatment of cryptographic products, which is being developed primarily within the framework of regional trade agreements to address the shortcomings of WTO agreements. It is emphasized that regional trade agreements, although stimulating cooperation and competition in international trade, demonstrate various approaches to the regulation of cryptographic products. The authors note that this creates challenges for business and it must be prepared to take into account the specificities of regional agreements, local legislation and evolving legal requirements. A conclusion is made that it is important to balance the innovation protection with the promotion of trust and cooperation, between the cryptographic technologies development and the issues of security and intellectual property rights protection.

Scientific novelty: a vision of the complex legal landscape surrounding cryptographic products is presented, showing the differences in approaches to regulating relations around digital and non-digital products under WTO agreements and approaches to regulating cryptographic products applied in regional trade agreements.

Practical significance: the study results are of interest to government agencies, policy makers, commercial entities and individuals involved in international trade in cryptographic technologies, as they can help all stakeholders to make informed decisions, navigate the complexities of regulating these relationships and advocate for fair treatment in the evolving digital trade environment.
Experience of Legal Regulation of Lootboxes in Different Countries: a Comparative Analysis
Authors: Pour S.
Published: August 2024

Objective: to show how the use of a new business model called Loot boxes, on which modern video games are based, has become a legal problem for jurisdictions in different countries.

Methods: drawing on existing literature and contemporary sources, the article explores the potential negative consequences of Loot boxes, provides a comprehensive analysis of existing or proposed regulation, and compares the approaches taken in various national jurisdictions.

Results: the article examines the growing concern surrounding the widespread use of a particular form of in-game purchases called Loot boxes. It is strongly criticized on the grounds that Loot boxes are presumed to be a form of gambling within a video game. On this basis, this article argues in favor of their legislative regulation. Having examined the regulatory framework in countries that have already taken action against the use of Loot boxes, such as Belgium, the Netherlands, China, Japan and the Republic of Korea, as well as in countries currently debating their regulation, the author emphasizes the need to adopt consumer protection measures in the gaming industry. This is particularly relevant for vulnerable strata exposed to gambling-related harms. In addition, there is a need to ensure the ethical and responsible use of Loot boxes, as well as to reduce the health and financial risks associated with the use of this business model.

Scientific novelty: the paper presents a comparative study of the problems of current or projected social regulation of Loot boxes in video games. The author proposes to seek the solution in a balance between game industry innovations, consumer protection and user well-being, which will ultimately contribute to the creation of a healthier environment for gamers.

Practical significance: the study highlights the international scope of the problem the difference in legal and ethical regulatory measures taken in different countries to address the psychological, social and financial consequences associated with the proliferation of lootboxes in video games. These measures are yet to be assessed, taking into account the findings concerning the gaming industry.
Prospects and Issues Concerning the Regulatory Regime of E-Payment System in Nigeria
Authors: Haruna I. O. , Aidonojie P. A. , Beida O. J.
Published: August 2024

Objective: to reveal the legal challenges impeding the smooth operation of electronic payment systems in Nigeria, given that Nigerian official bodies and individuals have already taken some steps to regulate the electronic payment system in the country, but the said step are insufficient.

Methods: the study is built on several approaches to the issues of the legal regime of electronic payments in Nigeria. Alongside with the doctrinal interpretation of the legal framework regulating the relations associated with the use of electronic payment system, the authors used sociological cognitive tools and conducted a survey of respondents residing in different geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The description and analysis of the data obtained shows the actual attitude of the respondents to the ongoing processes.

Results: international regulation and national legislation on electronic payments in force in Nigeria were examined. The study revealed that e-payments are an effective means of transactions but there are some legal challenges that may hinder the smooth use of e-payments in Nigeria. It was found that although the country has enacted a number of laws relating to the regulation of banking and other financial activities, they are not sufficient to address the challenges posed by modern technologies. The article reflects the issues of electronic signature, trust in technology, data privacy, security of electronic transactions, fraud, authentication and authorization, certainty of rights and obligations, jurisdiction and platforms for resolving online disputes, taxation of electronic payments, and others. The authors note that the task of creating a secure digital environment for the smooth operation of e-commerce and e-payments in Nigeria should not be solely imposed on the government.

Scientific novelty: by the example of one of the most promising African states, the authors revealed a spectrum of issues related to the work of electronic payment systems, supporting it with a survey of public opinion. They managed to find out the citizens’ attitude to a number of issues that are most often faced when using the system of electronic payments, and possible areas of change.

Practical significance: the current legal issues raised in the study largely hinder the smooth use of the electronic payment system in Nigeria. Hence, the possible ways to improve it suggested by the authors are increasingly significant.
Ethical and Legal Regulation of Using Artificial Intelligence in Morocco
Authors: Jabir H. , Lagtati K. , Pohe-Tokpa D.
Published: August 2024

Objective:to explore and identify the issues and opportunities for the ethical and legal regulation of artificial intelligence by the example of digital transformation in Morocco.

Methods:the study was conducted using analytical and comparative approaches to address the emerging legal issues arising from the development of artificial intelligence. The traditional scientific method in law is based on legal analysis, which was applied to the study of legal texts, scientific literature, diagnosis of the condition of the study field at the national and international level. Along with this, the comparative approach in law was used, which made it possible to examine the Moroccan legislation comparison with that of other countries.

Results:the article presents a review of scientific literature on the legal and ethical issues of using artificial intelligence. Legal texts and decrees developed at national and international level, directly or indirectly linked to the use of artificial intelligence, were reviewed. Moroccan legislation was compared with that of other countries. The findings suggest that, in the absence of a specific legal framework for artificial intelligence systems, the adoption of ethical standards in the form of guidelines, best practices and ethical charters is preferable. These mechanisms appear to be a viable alternative to legal regulation. In this sense, several initiatives were taken to promote “soft law”, which aims to encourage appropriate behavior of technological agents.

Scientific novelty: the analysis of digital transformations in Morocco made it possible to present a comprehensive view on the role of ethical aspects and on the sufficiency of law to respond to the changes in the modern society, transformed by the development of artificial intelligence.

Practical significance: the study allows identifying ways to find a more flexible balance between “soft” and “hard” law in the regulation of relations, taking into account the technological reality. This should encourage the appropriate behavior of technological agents and positively affect the specificity of the current situation. Today, the “hard law” slowly recognizes and addresses the problems associated with the digital technologies’ regulation and slowly takes into account the possible risks posed by artificial intelligence and the insufficiency of its regulation.
The Impact of the EU-Turkey Agreement on the Number of Lives Lost at Sea
Authors: Tafani Irene , Riccaboni Massimo
Published: August 2024

The European Union is facing a major challenge: irregular migration. Our aim in this paper is to shed light on a past EU migration policy through the lens of a rigorous analysis of its impact. To this end, we look at the EU-Turkey statement, an agreement reached in March 2016 to contrast irregular migration from Turkey to the EU. Despite the intention to curb migration flows, combat smuggling and improve border security, the implementation of the EU-Turkey deal has raised questions about its effectiveness and humanitarian impact. Drawing on existing literature and empirical data, this study examines the causal impact of the EU-Turkey statement on migration patterns and fatalities in the Mediterranean. Using a matrix completion estimator for panel data, we assess the diversion effect of the agreement by quantifying the number of migrants diverted to alternative routes and estimating the lives lost at sea as a result. Our results show a significant diversion effect from the Eastern Mediterranean to the Central route, which undermines the core objective of the agreement to reduce border crossings. We estimate an increase of 1976 ± 102 migrants on the central route due to the agreement from April to December 2016. We also find a correlation between the diversion effect and the risk of death on the main migration routes, resulting in a net increase of 44 ± 3 lives lost at sea. We highlight the unintended consequences of bilateral migration agreements and emphasize the need for a broader perspective when designing future policies.
WITHDRAWN: Cancer epidemiology in Pakistan
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Usman , Badar Farhana , Mahmood Shahid
Published: August 2024

1 August, 2024. Research Square has withdrawn this preprint after receiving information that the submission was made without the consent of the named first author (and possibly other named authors) and does not represent their work.
A Deterministic Modeling Approach in Identifying the Optimal Screening for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Management
Authors: Ogunmola Adeniyi Oyewole , Jolayemi Emmanuel Tejuola
Published: August 2024

The enormous success made in the development of drugs for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection to suppress the viral load of the disease, avert death and suffering due to the disease, no HIV individual is supposed to experience morbidity or death due to the disease. However, most affected people only avail themselves for HIV test at symptomatic stage which leads to morbidity and mortality due to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). In the absence of HIV vaccine for the prevention against HIV infection, HIV screening test would be the next close to vaccination. This aim of this study was to developed a model that determine the optimal HIV screening sequence as intervention for HIV in a population. The concept of screening was brought into system of non-linear differential equations to obtain the deterministic model. The screening sequence and the varying population proportions were used in determining the optimal screening. The findings were that; when the systematic HIV screening of the population was done in six years, mortality and morbidity occurrences were reduced, and subsequent systematic screening reduced morbidity and mortality more in the population; and screening thirty percent of the population every year saved the lives of ninety percent HIV individuals and forestalled ninety percent of them from experiencing morbidity. It was noted also that screening fifty percent of the population three times within six years produced the same effect.
Visualising the Voices of Nursing: A Co-Designed Video's Impact on Understanding Nurses' COVID- 19 Experiences
Authors: Blair Carolyn , Rafferty Anne-Marie , Murphy Paul , Brown Michael , Bowes Karen , Thompson Ruth , Reid Joanne
Published: August 2024

Background –
Nurses were at the forefront of managing the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Royal College of Nursing in Northern Ireland commissioned a longitudinal qualitative survey using the Cognitive Edge SenseMaker® tool to capture nurses' experiences of delivering care from April 2020 to March 2021.
Aim -
To explore the impact of a co-designed video based on the findings of SenseMaker® the lived experience of nurses in Northern Ireland during the 2020/2021 global pandemic.
Method -
Quotes were systematically selected from the SenseMaker® report of nurses’ (n = 676) experiences during COVID-19. Two co-design workshops were conducted (1) Content development and script writing and (2) Feedback and revisions. The video was filmed and edited in the School of Drama, Queen’s University Belfast. The live launch event took place in the Royal College of Nursing conference venue on 8th February 2024. Data to gauge the impact of the video was gathered via audience participation, MS Teams Version 1.7. chat participation, Mentimeter poll and MS forms survey. The link for the video and survey was accessible to the public via the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queens University Belfast website after the launch event. The findings were analysed using systematic text condensation using NVivo version 1.6. The study was approved by the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences research committee at Queen’s University Belfast following peer review (REC Reference: MHLS 23_100).
Results −
28 participants completed the survey; 30 participants attended the live event. Overall, the video-based monologues effectively conveyed the emotional impact and lived experiences of nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Four themes emerged - personal reflection and emotional impact, connection and solidarity amidst disappointment, moral injury and resentment, lessons learned and the need for change.
Conclusion -
Wider dissemination of the co-created video-based narratives, with focus on advocacy to policy makers is needed to prioritise the emotional well-being of nurses and other professionals. There is potential in using video-based monologies to facilitate positive change and better support for professionals, including nursing students in future crises. Further research is needed to assess the broader impact of such healthcare-related research methodologies.
Determination of Ergot Alkaloids: Comparison of extraction efficiencies in several cereal production chains by UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Rollo Eleonora , Catellani Dante , Dall’Asta Chiara , Dreolin Nicola , Suman Michele
Published: August 2024

To date, there are more than 80 ergot alkaloids identified, their distribution depends on different factors (e.g. geographic regions, host plants etc.) and, dependent on the frequency and concentration ingested and the frequency of ingestion, they can cause acute and chronic toxic effect on human health. These toxins commonly infect cereal crops such as triticale and rye, and also wheat, barley and oats. In this regard, considering the growing consumption of plant-based foods compared to food of animal origin, the European Food Safety Authority, has highlighted the need to develop risk assessment strategies. For this reason, the emphasis has been placed on the optimization of extraction efficiency, to quantify the main ergot alkaloids and their epimers, that are now available on the market (ergosine, ergocristine, ergocriptine, ergocornine, ergosinine, ergocristinine, ergocriptinine and ergocorninine). The effectiveness of three different extraction conditions (acidic, alkaline and neutral) followed by a rapid clean-up using dispersive solid-phase extraction with C18 sorbent was evaluated by ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), resulting in a short chromatographic run (16 min). The method was developed and validated in five different cereal production chains (rye, oat, wheat, wheat gluten and baby food). The efficiency and efficacy of extraction methods were evaluated and compared as well as obtained recoveries. The verified linear range was 0.5–500 µg kg− 1 for all the tested compounds, according to the legal limits. The limits of quantification were dependent on the analyte but almost independent from the matrices. Recovery values for the 8 ergot alkaloids spiked at levels of 2, 20 and 100 µg kg− 1 were calculated for each matrix extracted with its best extraction protocol and were completely satisfactory. The applicability and the trueness of the method were examined by analysing a set of 54 samples, including also other cereals like spelt, tritordeum and triticale, and evaluating some reference materials.
First investigation on the behavioural contexts of underwater sound production in juvenile green turtles, Chelonia mydas
Authors: Maucourt Léo , Charrier Isabelle , Huetz Chloé , Aubert Nathalie , Bourgeois Ouvéa , Jeantet Lorène , Lecerf Nicolas , Lefebvre Fabien , Lelong Pierre , Lepori Muriel , Martin Jordan , Régis Sidney , Chevallier Damien
Published: August 2024

Although sea turtles have long been considered deaf and silent, recent studies have confirmed their ability to hear and produce sounds. A study revealed that juvenile green sea turtles Chelonia mydas, can produce ten distinct types of sounds, with some of them potentially involved in social communication. To investigate the potential biological function of these sounds, we used video recordings associated with acoustic recordings of 23 free-ranging juvenile green turtles and we examined the co-occurrences of sounds with behaviours or external events. Our study revealed that most of the sounds were produced when the sea turtles were resting or swimming. However, four sound types were produced in more specific contexts. Long sequences of rumbles were recorded after sunset and mainly during resting. All these rumbles appear to have been produced by several individuals recorded simultaneously, suggesting that rumbles may be used for social interactions. The frequency modulated sound was highly associated with scratching behaviour and thus may express a positive emotion. Finally, the long squeak was produced by individuals in the presence of human beings, and the grunt was occasionally heard when green turtles were vigilant or approaching a conspecific. These two sounds may be the first evidence of an alarm or warning signal for intra-specific communication in green turtles. Our results mark a significant milestone in advancing the understanding of sound production in the behavioural ecology of sea turtles. Further investigations are now required to test the hypotheses suggested by our findings, which could significantly contribute to their conservation.
The Anisotropic Self-Assembly Effect of Silica Hairy Nanoparticles: toward Sustainable Rubber Nanocomposites for Tyre Application
Authors: Credico Barbara Di , Tripaldi Laura , Tadiello Luciano , Conzatti Lucia , Giannini Luca , D’Arienzo Massimiliano , Causa Andrea , Mostoni Silvia , Stagnaro Paola , Scotti Roberto
Published: August 2024

With the aim to identify possible strategies to reduce the environmental impact of tyre, we propose the use of advanced rubber materials based on silica hairy nanoparticles (HNPs), which consist of a core of silica surrounded by end-grafted rubber chains. The rational has been to impart unique surface reactivity to the silica NPs, usually used as reinforcing fillers, for coupling with the non-crosslinked host elastomer as well as the subsequent ability to employ coupling agents other than the conventional sulfur-bridged bis-alkoxy silanes. SiO2 HNPs, having polybutadiene (PB) chains as polymeric brushes, were prepared with different degrees of PB grafting density and embedded in elastomer to produce rubber nanocomposites (NCs), following the standard tyre formulation but without using silane coupling agents. A deep investigation on the relation between the mechanical properties of the NCs materials and HNPs self-assembling behavior was performed, showing a high degree of structural order and a significant percolative HNPs network. In fact, silica HNPs can build anisotropic energy-dissipation structures which act as additional cross-linking junctions reducing the chain relaxation and consequently enhancing the chain deformation. The presence of self-assembled fillers domains induces a reduction in the mobility of the filler and consequently in the energy consumption due to the deformation of the microstructure of the rubber composite, with its breakage and subsequent recovery, not completely reversible. For this, the present study supports the use of HNPs as reinforcing filler for producing more sustainable rubber materials.
Expression analysis of PPARα in skeletal muscle of mice at different developmental stages
Authors: Qi Jiahui , Zheng Minxing , Xing Hao , Wang Xuanjing , Wu Haiyang , Lu Jiayin , Luo Xiaomao , Yu Xiuju , Wang Haidong , Yan Yi
Published: August 2024

Background
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) belonging to the nuclear receptor family function as transcription factors. PPARα, an initial subtype of PPARs, is predominantly involved in lipid oxidation. The existing research on PPARα mostly focuses on its regulation on metabolism and inflammation in skeletal muscle. However, whether PPARα participates in skeletal muscle development remains largely unknown. Therefore, this study aims to explore the effect of PPARα on mouse skeletal muscle development by investigating the expression of PPARα in skeletal muscle of mice at different ages.
Results
The results of Western blot assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and immunofluorescence assay indicated the differences in the expression levels of PPARα in gastrocnemius muscle among different ages of mice. Specifically, young mice exhibited the highest expression of PPARα in their gastrocnemius muscle, whereas aged mice displayed its lowest expression. Furthermore, the immunofluorescence results showed that PPARα was expressed in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
Conclusions
Overall, PPARα was expressed in skeletal muscle of mice at different developmental stages, but the expression levels varied. Our findings lay a foundation for the further functional study of PPARα in skeletal muscle development.
The running state identification of induction motor with infrared thermal imaging based on ATBHE-CNN
Authors: Liu Tao , Ma Jiaqing , Chen Changsheng , He Zhiqin , Wu Qinmu , Liu Hongjv , Li Yongjie
Published: August 2024

In order to improve the accuracy of induction motor state detection, aiming at the problems of low resolution, poor contrast, and insufficient detail in infrared thermal image recognition, an Adaptive Texture Bi-histogram Equalization (ATBHE) is proposed. ATBHE's image enhancement method improves images' visual effects and highlights detailed information. Firstly, the histogram is preprocessed by the moving average filtering method, and suitable minimum points are found as segmentation points to ensure correct pixel distribution. Then, an adaptive threshold platform is constructed according to the mean value of the sub-histogram, and the clipping threshold is constructed according to the Canny edge detection operator of the image and the related texture characteristics of GLCM. Finally, the sub-histograms are combined into enhanced images after histogram equalization to solve the problem of over-enhancement and under-enhancement. Through experiments and objective evaluation such as SSIM, PSNR, information entropy, and average gradient, the enhanced image quality and visual effect of the proposed method are better. At the same time, the infrared thermal imaging induction motor image enhanced by this method is applied to the recognition of convolutional neural networks, and the induction motor state detection can be realized well.
Non-carious Cervical Lesions, an Approach of the Associated Factors in a Teaching Service Clinic.
Authors: Gutierrez Bruno , Goyes Harold , Perez Johana , Arango Maria
Published: August 2024

Considering the reported prevalence and risk factors of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs), the present study aims to evaluate the prevalence and the factors associated with NCCLs in a Colombian higher-level institution.
Materials and Methods: An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was done, the sample consisted of 105 patients, over 40 years of age, of both sexes. A survey was carried out with sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with NCCL, followed by a clinical examination to record NCCLs, type of lesions and occlusal factors such as: malocclusions, coincidence of midlines and dental crowding. The statistical analysis included continuous variables, accompanied by measures of central tendency and categorical variables with absolute and relative frequencies in percentage, a multimethod regression analysis was done.
Results: NCCLs were diagnosed in 53.3% of the total respondents, with abfraction being the most prevalent type of lesion found in 39.1% of the participants. NCCL were significantly associated with tooth brushing habits, frequency of consumption of carbonated beverages and citrus fruits, and parafunctional habits. Statistical significance was found in the diagnosis of tooth sensitivity, malocclusion, bruxism, xerostomia, use of removable prosthesis, open bite, crossbite, midline coincidence and crowding. In the Multiple regression analysis, the Aggressive technique of brushing whit an OR of 9.9 (P<0.05) and tooth sensitivity OR 3.4 (P<0.05) were related whit NCCLs
Conclusions: This study showed a relatively high frequency of NCCL in subjects in the age range of 40 to 80 years.
Investigation on the Interaction Law between Laser and Powder and Multi-Field Coupling Mechanism during Laser Cladding under Different Elevation Angles
Authors: Sun Han , Li Chang , Han Xing , Wang Xuan , Wang Cong
Published: August 2024

During laser cladding under different elevation angles, there is an interaction between the waist beam and the laser energy. The interaction law is complicated, involving many physical and chemical processes such as laser energy absorption, powder melting, evaporation and solidification. It is a bottleneck problem in the industry to quantitatively reveal the interaction law between laser and powder during cladding, which is significant to improve the cladding quality. In this paper, a continuous-discrete phase gas/solid coupling model of laser and powder interaction during laser cladding under different elevation angles was established. In the modeling, the random distribution of 316L powder with different particle sizes was realized through Rosin-Rammler-Sperling curve fitting, and a custom UDF cone heat source program was written to calculate and reveal the temperature, concentration and flow velocity of powder with random particle size distribution during cladding under different elevation angles. The effects of different elevation angles of laser head on powder convergence and laser powder interaction were quantified. On this basis, the multi-field coupling numerical model of laser cladding process under different elevation angles was established, and its transient evolution was revealed. The calculation shows that the powder temperature, concentration, flow velocity and cladding layer height of 15° elevation angle are more in line with the process requirements, and the convergence of powder reaching the substrate is better. Finally, the temperature of the cladding process was collected by infrared thermal imaging camera, and the cladding profile was compared and analyzed to verify the effectiveness of the model.
Diagnostic yield of Induced sputum and Bronchoalveolar Lavage in Suspected Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Musso Maria , Gualano Gina , Mencarini Paola , Mastrobattista Annelisa , Licata Maria Angela , Pareo Carlo , Cerva Carlotta , Mosti Silvia , Bari Virginia Di , Libertone Raffaella , Nisii Carla , Cannas Angela , Navarra Assunta , Goletti Delia , Palmieri Fabrizio
Published: August 2024

Aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic yield of induced sputum (IS) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and negative sputum smears. We enrolled 215 patients who underwent both IS and BAL after two negative spontaneous sputum samples. PTB was confirmed by culture or molecular test in 26 patients (12.1%). IS detected 10 cases (38.5%) of all PTB, while BAL detected 22 cases (84.6%) of all PTB. IS had a sensitivity of 38.46% and a specificity of 100%, while BAL had a sensitivity of 84.62% and a specificity of 100%. BAL had a higher diagnostic yield than IS and was useful for ruling out alternative diagnoses. According to our experience FBS execution is mandatory in case of strong TB suspicion and sputum smear negative patients, especially in a low TB prevalence country. Moreover, it consents testing microorganism sensitivity and assessing possible alternative diagnosis with similar clinical presentation. The choice of the best diagnostic method may depend on the clinical context and the availability of resources.
Anti-Hypertensive Effect of Ethanol Extracts of Persea Americana (Avocado Pear) Leaf and Seed on Wistar Rats
Authors: Akrofi Shadrach Asare
Published: August 2024

Background
The present study was designed to determine the antihypertensive activity of 70% and 100% ethanolic extracts of the leaves and seeds of Persea americana on salt-induced hypertensive male Wistar Rats.
Methods
During the experimental period, 2% sodium chloride solution was given to the rats as drinking water for three weeks to elevate the systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured every week. The rats were then treated with the 70% and 100% ethanolic extracts of Persea americana seed and leaf.
Results
A significant decrease in the blood pressure was recorded. It could be seen that 70% ethanol pear leaf extract had the highest yield and hence could have extracted more phytochemicals, due to its high polarity. This could have caused a high blood pressure reduction since it contains phytochemicals such as saponins, phenolic compounds and phytosterols.
Conclusions
The study thus, concludes the anti-hypertensive activity of Persea americana seed and leaf on salt induced hypertensive wistar rats in a dose of 400mg/kg b.wt.