bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Immunity by Genetic Delivery of Enveloped Virus-like Particles Displaying SARS-CoV-2 Spikes
Authors: Yang Yongping , Kong Wing-Pui , Liu Cuiping , Ruckwardt Tracy J. , Tsybovsky Yaroslav , Wang Lingshu , Wang Shuishu , Biner Daniel W. , Chen Man , Liu Tracy , Merriam Jonah , Olia Adam S. , Ou Li , Qiu Qi , Shi Wei , Stephens Tyler , Yang Eun Sung , Zhang Baoshan , Zhang Yi , Zhou Qiong , Rawi Reda , Koup Richard A. , Mascola John R. , Kwong Peter D.
Published: August 2023

New vaccine delivery technologies, such as mRNA, have played a critical role in the rapid and efficient control of SARS-CoV-2, helping to end the COVID-19 pandemic. Enveloped virus-like particles (eVLPs) are often more immunogenic than protein subunit immunogens and could be an effective vaccine platform. Here, we investigated whether the genetic delivery of eVLPs could achieve strong immune responses in mice as previously reported with the immunization of in vitro purified eVLPs. We utilized Newcastle disease virus-like particles (NDVLPs) to display SARS-CoV-2 prefusion-stabilized spikes from the WA-1 or Beta variant (S-2P or S-2Pᵦ, respectively) and evaluated neutralizing murine immune responses achieved by a single-gene-transcript DNA construct for the WA-1 or Beta variant (which we named S-2P-NDVLP-1T and S-2Pᵦ-NDVLP-1T, respectively), by multiple-gene-transcript DNA constructs for the Beta variant (S-2Pᵦ-NDVLP-3T), and by a protein subunit–DNA construct for the WA-1 or Beta variant (S-2P-TM or S-2Pᵦ-TM, respectively). The genetic delivery of S-2P-NDVLP-1T or S-2Pᵦ-NDVLP-1T yielded modest neutralizing responses after a single immunization and high neutralizing responses after a second immunization, comparable to previously reported results in mice immunized with in vitro purified S-2P-NDVLPs. Notably, genetic delivery of S-2Pᵦ-NDVLP-3T yielded significantly higher neutralizing responses in mice after a second immunization than S-2Pᵦ-NDVLP-1T or S-2Pᵦ-TM. Genetic delivery also elicited high spike-specific T-cell responses. Collectively, these results indicate that genetic delivery can provide an effective means to immunize eVLPs and that a multiple-gene transcript eVLP platform may be especially efficacious and inform the design of improved vaccines.
Effect of Influenza Vaccination on Rate of Influenza Virus Infection in Chinese Military Personnel, 2015–2016: A Cluster Randomized Trial
Authors: Li Yapin , Yu Jianxing , Li Qingfeng , Yu Dan , Song Wenjing , Liu Qi , Gao Dongqi , Chen Qiulan , Zhang Haiyang , Huo Liqun , Wang Jian , Wang Jiayi , Yang Huisuo , Zeng Gang
Published: August 2023

Influenza is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The protective effect of a trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV) is undetermined in military personnel. We conducted an open-label, cluster randomized trial on active-duty servicemen of Beijing, Tianjin, and Shijiazhuang, who were randomly assigned to receive either a single dose of TIV or no treatment, according to cluster randomized sampling. The subjects were then followed for a maximum of six months to assess the incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza. A total of 5445 subjects in 114 clusters received one dose of TIV before the 2015/2016 influenza season. Laboratory-confirmed influenza was identified in 18 in the vaccine group compared with 87 in the control group (6031 subjects in 114 clusters), resulting in a vaccine effectiveness (VE) of 76.4% (95%CI: 60.7 to 85.8) against laboratory-confirmed influenza. Influenza-like illness was diagnosed in 132 in the vaccine group compared with 420 in the control group, resulting in a VE of 64.1% (95%CI: 56.2 to 70.6). The estimated VE against influenza B viruses was 80.5% (95%CI: 65.6 to 88.9) and 8.6% (95%CI: −241 to 75.5) against influenza A viruses. In conclusion, the trivalent influenza vaccine is moderately effective, highly immunogenic, and generally safe to use in healthy male military servicemen.
Study on the Analysis of Pile Foundation Deformation and Control Methods during the Excavation of Deep and Thick Sludge Pits
Authors: Wang Dengqun , Ye Shuaihua , Xin Liangliang
Published: August 2023

This study aims to apply performance-based safety-assessment methods to the monitoring and numerical simulation of excavation engineering projects in order to comprehensively enhance engineering risk management and decision support. In this paper, a deep excavation project in Hefei with thick silty clay layers was studied. The analysis included the surface settlement, the deformation of support structures, the vertical and horizontal displacements of pile tops, axial forces in steel braces, settlement, and the horizontal displacement of a gravity retaining wall on the south side of the excavation using field-monitoring data. A refined three-dimensional finite element model was established to further analyze the distribution of uplift displacement at the bottom of the excavation, horizontal displacement, and bending moments of piles based on simulation results. The research findings indicate that phased excavation can reduce the spatial extent of disturbance to the surrounding soil caused by excavation. Additionally, the closer the location to the excavation and the thicker the underlying silty clay layer, the faster the rate of settlement change and the greater the surface settlement. The spatial structure formed by steel braces and pile foundations effectively reduced the horizontal displacement of the engineering piles. The study’s use of field monitoring and finite element simulation provided valuable insights into the deformation of support structures and the response of the surrounding soil to excavation, confirming the rationality and applicability of the support structure in this paper. The proposed method can serve as a reference for similar complex stratum excavation design and construction. The performance-based safety assessment is introduced, and the monitoring data, numerical simulation results, and performance targets are comprehensively analyzed to provide a reliable scientific basis for engineering decision making.
Exploring the Sensitivity Range of Underlying Surface Factors for Waterlogging Control
Authors: Liu Yang , Qi Xiaotian , Wei Yingxia , Wang Mingna
Published: August 2023

To mitigate the incidence of waterlogging to livelihoods and property security, a combination of management measures has been necessary to achieve optimal benefits, reducing the risk caused by waterlogging to the development of the urban ecology. Thus, this study aims to analyze the sensitivity and sensitivity range of management measures under different rainfall conditions, focusing on establishing a foundation for their combined implementation. Based on different rainfall scenarios, the modified Morris method is employed to assess the sensitivity of key factors and subsequently determine their respective sensitivity ranges. The findings reveal that the sensitivity rankings for total overflow volume and maximum pipe flow are as follows: pipe volume per hectare (PV-H), proportion of impervious area (P-Imperv), and slope. Additionally, analyzing the variation pattern of sensitivity with factors highlight the high sensitivity ranges. As for total overflow volume, a very high sensitivity is observed when the P-Imperv ranges from 36.8% to 82.7% (Niujiaolong community) and from 82.7% to 94.5% (Zhuyuan community). Similarly, when PV-H is less than 148 (Niujiaolong community) and 89.6 (Zhuyuan community), the sensitivity of PV-H to total overflow volume is very high. Nevertheless, the slope had a lower influence on the sensitivity in the study areas. These findings provide a complete analysis of the management measures sensitivity, which can be valuable for creating optimal urban waterlogging management systems.
An Intelligent Method for Fault Location Estimation in HVDC Cable Systems Connected to Offshore Wind Farms
Authors: Ashrafi Niaki Seyed Hassan , Sahebkar Farkhani Jalal , Chen Zhe , Bak-Jensen Birgitte , Hu Shuju
Published: August 2023

Large and remote offshore wind farms (OWFs) usually use voltage source converter (VSC) systems to transmit electrical power to the main network. Submarine high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cables are commonly used as transmission links. As they are liable to insulation breakdown, fault location in the HVDC cables is a major issue in these systems. Exact fault location can significantly reduce the high cost of submarine HVDC cable repair in multi-terminal networks. In this paper, a novel method is presented to find the exact location of the DC faults. The fault location is calculated using extraction of new features from voltage signals of cables’ sheaths and a trained artificial neural network (ANN). The results obtained from a simulation of a three-terminal HVDC system in power systems computer-aided design (PSCAD) environment show that the maximum percentage error of the proposed method is less than 1%.
Anxiety disorders in neurology practice
Authors:   FSBEI HE Volgograd State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Kolomytsev V. V. , Goryunova L. V. ,   FSBEI HE Volgograd State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Skvortsov V. V. ,   FSBEI HE Volgograd State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: August 2023

Anxiety disorders are often encountered in the practice of a neurologist. These disorders are in various relationships with a neurological disease, based on which three groups of pathologies can be distinguished: anxiety disorders, manifested by somatic neurological symptoms arising from dysfunction the autonomic nervous system; anxiety disorders associated with major neurological diseases, such as epilepsy, migraine, and stroke; anxiety disorders resulting from side effects of therapy for the underlying somatic disease, including neurological one. In the first case, a neurologist must differentiate an anxiety disorder from a true nervous pathology, which is necessary in order to prescribe the correct therapy. In the second case, it is the responsibility of a neurologist to differentiate the symptoms of an anxiety disorder that occurs against the background of an underlying neurological disease from a progressive disease of the nervous system and prescribe specific therapy for a comorbid anxiety disorder. In the third case, a neurologist should take a detailed patient’s history to identify the relationship between the onset/intensification of manifestations and therapy. To assess the level of anxiety and its dynamics, it is necessary to use psychometric scales and symptomatic questionnaires. Therapy of anxiety disorders includes two areas: psychotherapy and psychopharmacotherapy; in order to achieve the maximum effect in severe cases of anxiety disorders, it is possible to combine these components. The preferred method of psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy. Psychopharmacotherapy is represented by two lines. The first-line includes drugs from the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, while the second-line therapy involves increasing the dose of the drug or changing to serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.
Comparison of treatment of hypokalemia with oral administration of potassium chloride vial or oral tablets
Authors: Sabetnia Leila , Hematian Farzaneh , Jafari Hosein , Ganji Reza , Nezhadisalami Ahmad
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Treatment of mild to moderate hypokalemia is a high potassium-containing diet and oral pharmaceutical potassium products. However, several medical centers in Iran use injectable dosage forms orally, which is not a confirmed method by reliable guidelines. Objectives: This study investigated the advantages and side effects of oral tablets versus injection vials of potassium chloride orally. Patients and Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was performed from March 2022 to June 2022. Thirty patients received tablets ("potassium chloride tablet" group), and thirty patients received injection vials ("potassium chloride vials orally" group) of potassium chloride orally. The variables, including age, gender, clinical side effects, and serum level of potassium, were regularly recorded. Results: The mean duration of serum potassium normalization was 42.00 hours for the "potassium chloride tablet" group and 84.57 hours for the "potassium chloride vials orally" group. The mean total potassium intake was 127.20 mEq/L in the "potassium chloride tablet" group and 280.03 mEq/L for the "potassium chloride vials orally" group. No significant difference was observed in gastrointestinal complications, including esophagitis, bloating, stomach ache, and nausea. None of the patients have required endoscopy due to esophagitis. Conclusion: Our result suggested that prescribing oral potassium chloride tablets has superior benefits over injection vials. However, more detailed research is needed to reveal the other aspects of this problem. Study Registration: This study was retrospectively registered in Research Registry UIN (UIN: reviewregistry1668).
Determination of the effect of Nigella sativa on blood pressure; a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Fakhri Moloud , Yousofpour Mohammad , Moosazadeh Mahmood , Fatahian Alireza , Azadbakht Mohammad , Ramezanpour Melina
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Hypertension is considered a significant and highly prevalent public health problem. Due to the wide application of the medicinal herb Nigella sativa in managing this condition, the present study aims to evaluate the effect of N. sativa consumption on reducing blood pressure (BP) levels using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. Materials and Methods: Multiple online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, Web of Science, and the Google Scholar search engine, were searched using standard keywords to identify relevant articles up to May 9, 2022. Data were analyzed using STATA 14 software, and the significance level was taken as P<0.05 for all tests. Results: From the total of 12 reviewed studies with a sample size of 854, the consumption of N. sativa powder (SMD: -0.46; 95% CI: -0.63, -0.30) and N. sativa oil (SMD: -2.04; 95% CI: -2.75, -1.34) lowered the systolic BP (SBP) levels. The consumption of N. sativa powder (SMD: -0.45; 95% CI: -0.63, -0.28) and N. sativa oil (SMD: -2.31; 95% CI: -3.05, -1.57) altered the diastolic BP (DBP) level. Then, the standard effect sizes of N. sativa consumption on triglyceride (SMD: -0.14; 95% CI: -0.29, 0), LDL-C (SMD: -0.35; 95% CI: -0.54, -0.17), HDL-C (SMD: 0.01; 95% CI: -0.14, 0.16) and FBS (SMD: -0.36; 95% CI: -0.58, -0.15) levels were measured. Conclusion: Nigella sativa consumption showed a higher impact on reducing SBP than DBP levels. In addition, the consumption of N. sativa oil was more effective in lowering BP levels than N. sativa powder. Hence, further research is suggested to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of N. sativa oil and powder. Registration: This study has been compiled based on the PRISMA checklist, and its protocol was registered on the PROSPERO website (ID: CRD42022336951).
Propylthiouracil-induced ANCA-positive vasculitis in Graves’ disease
Authors: ALem Leila
Published: August 2023

Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical education: Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is an infrequent autoimmune disease that involves small vessels. Vasculitis triggers include infections, drugs, and chemicals. Propylthiouracil (PTU) is the most reported drug implicated in the induction of ANCA-associated vasculitis. The involvement of hematological systems, skin, gastrointestinal systems, kidneys, musculoskeletal systems, lungs, and neurological systems are seen in PTU-induced vasculitis. The exact pathogenesis of ANCA induction and PTU-induced vasculitis is not fully understood. Diagnosing PTU-induced ANCA-positive vasculitis involves a combination of clinical, laboratory, imaging, and histopathological findings.
Colovesical fistula in a 11-year-old girl with ambiguous genitalia and recurrent urinary tract infection; a brief report
Authors: Pourpashang Paniz , Hosseini Tabatabaei Seyed Mohammad Taghi , Zahmatkesh Arefeh , Vatanpour Mina
Published: August 2023

VACTERL (V-Vertebral, A-Anorectal, C-Cardiac, TE-Tracheoesophageal, R-Renal, L-Limb) is an acronym for multiple organ dysfunction, which often occurs together. These prospects may affect patients with other abnormalities, such as urogenital abnormalities. Here we present a case of VACTERL syndrome with ambiguous genitalia who was referred and hospitalized due to recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and urosepsis. A colovesical fistula was discovered in the following examinations, which could explain this complication.
The effect of cinacalcet on hypercalcemia in kidney transplant patients with hyperparathyroidism: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fooladi Hanie , Vashahi Torfi Fatemeh , Khodaparast Ali , Abbasian Sara , Alivand Noorbakhsh , Khaledi Mohamad , Alivand Soleyman , Gharebakhshi Farshad , Shakerian Moein
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Following renal transplantation, patients with end-stage renal disease develop parathyroid dysfunction and electrolyte abnormalities, including calcium and phosphate levels. However, cinacalcet is one of the most used medications for hypercalcemia. Therefore, the present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of cinacalcet administration on hypercalcemia in patients with renal transplantation. Materials and Methods: The online databases of Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed were searched until April 2023 using validated keywords. Moreover, PRISMA was used for qualitatively evaluating the studies since the study protocol was registered on the PROSPERO website. In addition, data analysis was conducted using Stata version 14, and the significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The present meta-analysis included 26 studies (24 cohort studies and two randomized clinical trials) investigating 602 patients with renal transplantation and hyperparathyroidism. According to our findings, cinacalcet reduced the serum calcium (MD: -2.24, 95% CI: -2.82, -1.67), parathormone (SMD: -0.85, 95% CI: -1.15, -0.54), and alkaline phosphatase levels (SMD: -0.45, 95% CI: -0.91, -0.01). Moreover, 30-60 mg of cinacalcet per day effectively treated hypercalcemia (SMD: -2.77, 95% CI: -3.57, -1.98), while other doses were not significantly effective. Furthermore, the effect of cinacalcet was investigated in patients using the medication for less than six months (SMD: -2.55, 95% CI: -4.25, -0.86), 12-18 months (SMD: -2.60, 95% CI: -3.53, -1.67), and more than 24 months (SMD: -1.71, 95% CI: -2.54, -0.88). Finally, the effect of cinacalcet was the highest in the patients who were 60-64 years old compared to other age groups (SMD: -3.59, 95% CI: -5.14, -2.04). Conclusion: Cinacalcet could improve hypercalcemia and hyperparathyroidism in patients with renal transplantation. Moreover, the effect of cinacalcet had a direct and positive relationship with the patient’s age. Registration: This study has been compiled based on the PRISMA checklist, and its protocol was registered on the PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023428620) and Research Registry (UIN: reviewregistry1667) website.
GESTÃO DE PESSOAS NO MERCADO DE TRABALHO NA PANDEMIA
Authors: BARROS SILVEIRA GERALDELI NATALIA , VICENTE CORREIA MARQUES BRENDA , COSTELHA CARDOSO NATALYA
Published: August 2023

The main reason to approach the human behavior and the challenges at the people management's during the pandemic times, and something entirely new to the managers in this generation. We've never seen such stoppage inside the organizations, and in the world, in general. People managements at the organizations comes from the different transformations and continuous changes faced by the companies during the existence of decades. Changes originated by evolution in the process of work, high technology, increased competitiveness, and even more demanding clients. These transformations made the companies to adjust themselves to generate in a better way for their principal active factor of competitive: people. Employees or contributors, as they're known must be managed to seek improvement in results. At the pandemics period, caused by COVID-19, it became even more evident the factor of the HR be the area with the most demands to conduct, considering the continuous transformations brought to the moment. This challenging job requires effort, assertive decisions, promoting the cooperation and humanizing management besides a communication channel to the employees, requires flexibility and inspiration, mostly for the managers.
EDUCAÇÃO ANTIRRACISTA PARA O ENSINO DE ARTES: ESTUDO DE CASO EM UMA INSTITUIÇÃO DE EDUCAÇÃO PROFISSIONAL E TECNOLÓGICA
Authors: DA SILVA CUNHA KÁTIA , ANDRE SILVA JUNIOR CARLOS , LUCAS BELIZÁRIO DE OLIVEIRA TALITA , CAIXETA LISBOA FERNANDO , QUEIROZ GONTIJO KARLA
Published: August 2023

This article presents a successful practice proposed for arts teaching. The objective was to work on the valorization of black identity in a perspective of anti-racist formation. As a methodology, workshops for free embroidery practice were created using ideograms from Adinkra Symbols. The results were obtained considering the embroidered production made on the creation and presentation images workshops on art and photography exhibitions, as well as, analysis made through free interviews with the participants. We concluded that the activity exceeded expectations in the sense of expected learning; considering the acquisition of notions about a technique, the socialization of experience and acquisition of knowledge about the Adinkra culture. The whole practice proved effective as anti-racist education tool and in attention to the use of law 10639.
Sistem dan Prosedur Akuntansi Pembelian Persediaan Bahan Baku Sparepart di PT. Bengkalis Dockindo Perkasa
Authors: Purnomo Gusti Eko , Mubarak Husni
Published: August 2023

This study aims to find out about the accounting information systems and procedures for purchasing spare parts raw materials that are applied to PT. Bengkalis Dockindo Perkasa whether it is in accordance with standard operating procedures. This study uses a qualitative descriptive analysis method because the data concerning accounting and other data support this research. Based on the results of the research, the company has a minimum stock to repair ships and manufacture other products, but there are some raw materials that are not available in the warehouse due to requests from consumers, so the company must purchase raw materials in an indented manner through the selected supplier. The existence of an accounting information system that regulates the inventory purchasing process should be able to take into account when and how many companies will purchase spare parts raw material inventory. Due to uncertain orders from the field, it is difficult to estimate the company's raw material purchases.Keywords: Accounting information system, purchase of raw material inventory.
The Impact of Discontinuity of the Country's Leadership in Each General Election on Country Progress and Development: A Multifaceted Analysis
Authors: Sihotang Mujuranto , Gilpin Bliese Vloeberghs , Kolshus Siemer , Jaffe Platts Glover , Heifetz Inglehart
Published: August 2023

This research delves into the intricate relationship between interrupted presidential leadership and a country's progress and development. By examining a diverse range of factors including the nature of interruption, institutional strength, political polarization, public sentiment, and leadership continuity, this study presents a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted impacts that interrupted leadership can generate. Through a synthesis of existing literature, comparative case studies, and in-depth analyses, this research reveals that the outcomes of interrupted leadership are far from uniform. Positive impacts can arise from well-managed transitions, transparent succession plans, and alignment with national interests. Conversely, abrupt changes, weak institutions, and political divisions can magnify negative consequences. The research underscores the vital role of effective governance, transparent transitions, and policy continuity planning in mitigating adverse impacts. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for tailored strategies in diverse contexts to harness the potential benefits and mitigate the challenges posed by interrupted presidential leadership. The implications of this research extend to policymakers, scholars, and citizens alike, guiding informed decisions, enriching academic discussions, and fostering active engagement in the governance processes that shape a nation's trajectory.
Assessing the Socio-Economic Impact of Infrastructure Development on Local Communities: A Mixed-Methods Approach
Authors: Shrestha Oyelana , Forsyth Oyelana , Sihotang Mujuranto , Sihotang Marsono Marsel , Walsham Shin
Published: August 2023

This study analyzes the impact of infrastructure development on the socio-economic aspects of local communities using a mixed approach that combines quantitative and qualitative analysis. The aim of the research was to explore the relationship between infrastructure development and its effect on the welfare of the local population. The main findings show that the impact of infrastructure development has various and complex dimensions. The results of the analysis show that the impact is multidimensional, covering economic aspects such as growth and new job opportunities, as well as social aspects such as changes in lifestyle and social interaction. This research also highlights that the impact of infrastructure can vary significantly between different regions, depending on the type of infrastructure built and local characteristics. In this context, accessibility is found to be a factor that strongly influences socio-economic impacts. Infrastructure that increases accessibility can contribute to economic growth and increase people's welfare. In addition, community participation in the planning and implementation stages of infrastructure projects has also proven to have an important role in influencing the impact felt
Analysis of Electability, Capacity, Campaign Resources on the Chances of Elected Public Officials in the General Election Democracy Party
Authors: Robertson Adams Cohen , Minnis Crenson , Hogg Hopkins , Son Jacob , Clemen Klandermans
Published: August 2023

This research delves into the multifaceted landscape of electoral success by examining the intertwined influences of electability, capacity, and campaign resources on the performance of public officials from the Democracy party. By adopting a multidimensional approach, this study seeks to contribute to the understanding of how these factors interact and shape candidates' outcomes in general elections. Through a combination of quantitative analysis and qualitative insights, this research uncovers intriguing patterns in the electoral arena. Likability emerges as a powerful driver of voter choices, showcasing a robust positive correlation between candidates' likability scores and their electoral success. This underscores the significance of personal connection and emotional resonance in swaying voter decisions. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the study finds no significant correlation between candidate capacity attributes and electoral outcomes. While capacity remains valued, its impact appears contingent on its alignment with other factors such as likability and strategic resource allocation. This challenges traditional notions of experience as the primary determiner of electoral victory. The research further reveals a moderate positive correlation between effective campaign resource allocation and electoral success. Candidates who judiciously allocate resources, particularly in media coverage and social media engagement, tend to achieve better outcomes. This highlights the strategic importance of resource optimization in influencing voter perceptions and preferences. These findings provide a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between electability, capacity, and campaign resources in the context of the Democracy party's electoral campaigns. The implications extend to strategic decision-making for the party, as well as contributing to the broader discourse on electoral dynamics and democratic representation. Looking ahead, this research suggests avenues for further exploration, inviting future studies to consider cross-cultural comparisons, technology's role, and the evolving nature of voter behavior in shaping electoral outcomes
Potential Threat Assessment and Degree of Exposure in the event of an Explosion by Sudden Expansion of Boiling Liquid Vapor in the LPG Ground Storage Terminal in Monteverde, coastal Ecuador
Authors: Morales Delgado Adriana Gabriela , Chunga Morán Kervin Arturo , Toulkeridis Theofilos
Published: August 2023

The industrial complexes that handle dangerous products with flammable characteristics have been the cause of great misfortunes when sudden explosions are generated, either due to mechanical failures or human negligence. The Monteverde Gas Complex (MGC), located in the province of Santa Elena in Ecuador, represents a potential risk by housing close to 105,000 m3 of precursor gases such as Propane (PPN), Butane (BTN), and LPG finished product. Therefore, an analysis of the potential threat to which the population is exposed in case of the explosion of one of the tanks with the different products they contain has been carried out, considering the closest communes to the MGC, which are Monteverde and Jambelí. Tools such as the Probit method proposed by TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research), and the ALOHA software of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency, USA) were used, whose combinations allowed estimating the radius of influence, which were divided into zones according to the degree of impact on the community. The results demonstrated that the community of Monteverde, despite being more than 1 km away from the CGM, is within the red zone or high influence radius that corresponds to 2000 meters for propane and butane tanks. Whitin this area, a person could have fatal third-degree burns. The calculations have been performed under ideal conditions, so it is recommended to review the attenuations generated by natural elevations of the terrain or the direction of the wind in further studies
Editorial
Authors: Gonzalez María Ester
Published: August 2023

En un mundo donde la información fluye constantemente y las disciplinas científicas se entrelazan cada vez más, la visibilidad y el alcance de las publicaciones científicas se convierten en pilares esenciales para fomentar el avance del conocimiento. En este contexto, con gran entusiasmo y satisfacción, presento esta nota editorial, destacando un hito trascendental en la historia de Revista Cartográfica: la inclusión en la prestigiosa base de datos Scopus.
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Course-level Evaluation of an 8-week Calendar Implementation at a Two-Year College
Authors: Brenner Viktor
Published: August 2023

A midwestern 2-year college undertook a course-level analysis of student success in courses (N=197) two years after transitioning to an 8-week calendar. Statistical comparison between course success in 16-week delivery in 2019/2020 were compared with 8-week delivery in 2021, 2022 and where available Fall 2023. Overall success in courses changing from 16- to 8-weeks improved significantly for all students regardless of gender, race/ethnicity (Asian, Black, Hispanic, White) or age (+/- 25). Gaps in achievement between groups either completely disappeared (age, gender) or notably declined (Black and Hispanic vs White). Individual courses were classified according to those where student success significantly improved under the 8-week calendar (15.2%), potentially but not significantly improved (9.1%), experienced no change (66.5%), potentially declined (4.6%) or significantly declined (4.6%). Implications for evaluation procedures as well as findings of relevance to colleges considering implementing an 8-week calendar are discussed.
OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE METHOD FOR ELECTRIC TRACTOR BASED ON IMPROVED DYNAMIC WINDOW APPROACH WITH PRIORITY OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION
Authors: TIANYI Huang , BADEA Florentina , MAOHUA Xiao , SHANHU Zhao , BADEA Sorin-Ionut , BADEA Cristian-Radu
Published: August 2023

In order to solve the real-time obstacle avoidance problem in electric tractor operation, an improved dynamic window approach (DWA) based on optimal energy consumption is proposed for electric tractor obstacle avoidance. Firstly, energy consumption model of tractor is established based on the transmission system of electric tractor, then energy consumption evaluation sub-function is introduced to improve the evaluation
function of original DWA algorithm, and finally, the trajectory is evaluated and the optimal solution of the trajectory is determined by using new evaluation function. Based on the kinematics model of YL254ET electric tractor in Yancheng Yueda, a model predictive controller is designed. The obstacle avoidance planning and tracking control of electric tractor are simulated jointly on Simulink and CarSim simulation platform. Finally, the obstacle avoidance planning test is carried out. The simulation and experimental results show that after the algorithm improvement, the energy consumption of electric tractors is reduced, the generated path is smoother, and the lateral error is smaller.
IMPROVED DESIGN AND EXPERIMENT OF ANTI-CLAY ADHESION FOR NOTILLAGE MAIZE PLANTER SEEDING MONOMER
Authors: FU Min , LI Rongfeng , HAO Yilin , MENG Fanhua , ZHOU Jiacheng , WANG Chengmeng
Published: August 2023

When the seeding monomer of no-tillage maize planter operates in sticky and wet soil, soil bonding and blocking of soil-touching parts will occur to different degrees, leading to functional failure and affecting the quality of seeding operation. Aiming to improve the anti-adhesion property with minimum cost, a seeding monomer is modified to operate in sticky and wet soil with the support of TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving). There are two major scheme adjustments, including self-cleaning seedbed collating device and split gauge wheel. The Su-field model of seedbed collating device is constructed, and the design scheme of smaller wavy coulter and dirt scraper is proposed on the basis of the standard-solution tool and water-film theory. And the parameters of the wave are determined on account of force analysis of soil particles and bionic earthworm. Based on the systemic-functional analysis of the seeding depth-limiting device and the force analysis of gauge wheel during operation, a split type of depth-gauge wheel with large lug hole is designed. As a result, the field trial demonstrates that the improved monomer could meet the operation requirements of clay soil with the water content of 15%-25%. Compared with the original model, the residual clay content is decreased (seedbed collating device 57.5%, gauge wheel seeding depth-limiting device 10%). This study can provide reference for the anti-adhesion design of soil-contacting parts of agricultural machinery.
DIFFERENTIAL AND INTEGRAL SLIDING MODE ADAPTIVE CONTROL ALGORITHM FOR DRAFT AND POSITION INTEGRATED CONTROL OF ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC HITCH IN AGRICULTURAL TRACTOR
Authors: LIU Changqing , GU Jinheng , DU Xin , LIU Chengwen , DU Yuefeng , MAO Enrong
Published: August 2023

The accuracy of tractor plowing is an important link to ensure the quality of agricultural crops. The integrated control of draft-position in plowing is an effective plowing precision control technology which can be used to improve the tractor's plowing efficiency. The hydraulic system of the tractor hitch has the characteristics of
large load and complex working environment. A differential and integral sliding mode adaptive controller (DISMAC) is designed for the tractor hitch hydraulic system with strong nonlinearity, uncertainty and time-varying parameters. Compared with the traditional PID controller, integral sliding mode adaptive controller(I-SMAC) and differential and integral sliding mode adaptive controller (DI-SMAC) in the electro-hydraulic hitch control system, the numerical simulation verifies the advantages of the differential and integral sliding mode adaptive controller. The real test platform of the agricultural tractor is built. The test results show that the DI-SMAC can realize the integrated control function of draft-position. In the position control mode, there is no static error, and the anti-interference ability is strong; Under the draft control mode, compared with the traditional PID controller, the range of traction error of differential and integral sliding mode controller is reduced by 32.9%, and the standard deviation is reduced by 38.6%; When the weight coefficient is changed, the traction force and tillage depth fluctuation are different with different weight coefficients. It is shown that the DI-SMAC is stable and effective, and the developed method is expected to provide technical support for the fine plowing operation of tractors.
Tiny Machine Learning Business Intelligence in the Semiconductor Industry: A Case Study
Authors: Casiroli Martina , Pau Danilo
Published: August 2023

This paper sets its primary objective to  understand the transformative potential of Tiny Machine  Learning (Tiny ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in  enhancing industrial efficiency. Using a research design that  juxtaposes the theoretical understanding of these technologies  with real-world applications, the methodology adopted  emphasizes three pivotal use cases, substantiated with tangible  examples. The main outcomes show the influential role of  STMicroelectronics, a leading semiconductor entity, in bridging  the gap between Tiny ML, AI, and industrial applications.  Results from in-depth examinations highlight the value of  Predictive Maintenance as evidenced by offshore wind farms,  the importance of Gesture Recognition in Human-Machine  Interaction with a focus on autonomous vehicles, and the  efficient integration of Tiny ML into IoT Sensor Networks,  notably seismic monitoring. In conclusion, this manuscript underscores the impending future where Tiny ML and AI  synergize, particularly hinting at breakthroughs in humanoid  robotics. Such advancements are anticipated to redefine the  contours of human-technology interaction impacting everyone  in everyday life. 
An Efficient and Easy-to-Implement Method for SLL Reduction in RIS-Aided Systems
Authors: Haskou Abdullah , Khaleghi Hamidreza
Published: August 2023

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) are being considered as a
potential technology for upcoming 6G cellular communication systems.
RISs offer the capability to steer a wireless signal in a desired
direction, thereby enhancing the overall performance of wireless systems
in terms of coverage and spectral efficiency. However, the conventional
methods of RIS beamforming result in significant inter-beam interference
primarily caused by relatively high Side Lobe Levels (SLLs). In antenna
beamforming, amplitude tapering has shown promising results in
Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MU-MIMO) systems. Amplitude
tapering allows for a notable reduction in inter-beam interference by
decreasing SLLs, albeit at the expense of a reduction in the Main Lobe
Level (MLL) and an increase in its width. In this paper we investigate
the feasibility of utilizing this technique for RIS beamforming. In
addition, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique through
link-level simulations of a RIS-aided multi-user downlink system.
Mapping Soil Organic Matter under Field Conditions
Authors: Asad Muhammad Hamza
Published: August 2023

Soil Organic Matter (SOM) is a key component for sustainable agriculture planning and soil management. Nutrient analysis, spectroscopy and digital soil imaging are commonly used to estimate SOM in a controlled lab setting. These methods are accurate, but the controlled lab setting is not scalable. For scalability, high-resolution satellite imagery is widely employed. However, special conditions of the Canadian Prairies, like harsh weather and crop residue cover, pose significant challenges in getting the spectral signatures of bare soil. To overcome these challenges, this paper presents a novel methodology that explores the prospects of using high-resolution ground images acquired under Uncontrolled Field Conditions (UFC) for SOM estimation. The developed methodology extracts bare soil from images using deep learning methods in the first step. As the image samples are acquired under UFC, variable ambient illumination influences soil colour. To counter this, in the second step, we propose unsupervised colour constancy to mitigate the effects of variable ambient lighting conditions. In the third step, colour space and texture features are extracted to estimate SOM. We compare our proposed method with the state-of-the-art methods of estimating SOM from digital images. We also performed an ablation study to compare the results of the different methods with and without the addition of the colour constancy block. With the developed methodology, our bare soil segmentation model achieves a mean intersection over union value of 0.8134. Similarly, with the colour constancy methods applied on bare soil segmented images, our proposed method improves the R2 score by more than 30% with respect to the state-of-the-art.
What lies behind the embalmed body of Rosalia Lombardo (1918-1920)?
Authors: Bianucci Raffaella , Galassi Francesco M. , Lanza Tiziana , Mattutino Grazia , Nerlich Andreas G.
Published: August 2023

Mummy studies help scientists to reconstruct both the evolution and manifestation of past diseases as well as the lifestyles and the habits of the ancient populations. They also help to gain insights into their funerary rites, which are a reflection of the community spiritual beliefs. Last but not least, the study of embalmed corpses reveals the evolution of the mortuary practices. After the 1840’s, new embalming methods were developed; these coupled the use of chemical solution and arterial injection thus allowing the corpses to maintain their integrity (no external lacerations) together with a life-like appearance. An extremely interesting case of modern chemical embalming is that of Rosalia Lombardo (1918-1920), a two years old girl who died in Palermo. Her cadaver is housed in the Capuchin Catacombs of the Sicilian capital. Both her cause of death and the procedure used in her embalming are still enigmatic. Her embalming has been allegedly attributed to Alfredo Salafia, a renowned Palermitan embalmer. This paper addresses the most recent findings emerged from our re-analysis of Rosalia’s case; furthermore, the cosmetic treatment of Rosalia’s mummy is compared with those of Ernesto Salafia Maggio and Giovanni Paterniti, two individuals whose bodies were embalmed by Alfredo Salafia.
The role of the applied load in bone homeostasis and its implications in implant dentistry: a mini-review
Authors: Valente Francesco , Trubiani Oriana , Traini Tonino
Published: August 2023

The aim of this work is to carry out a review about the role of applied load on bone development and homeostasis and its implications in dental implantology. The history of theoretical bone physiology has been evaluated in detail. The modern theory of bone physiology is consistent with the integration among regional acceleratory phenomenon, Utah paradigm, and mechanostat hypothesis: bone modelling and remodelling respond to pleiotropic stimuli. To date, several histologic, in silico and in vitro studies in implant dentistry corroborate the theories about bone physiology. However, each evaluation method has pros and cons, providing analytical data that can only be used to esteem the in vivo behaviour of the bone-implant system. There is the need of further research with highly validated methods and improved measurement devices, to better integrate data form different research types. This would progressively lead to more structured comprehension of the in vivo performance of dental implants and their surrounding bone, and hopefully to a clear definition of the impact of loading on implant failure.
A prospective, blinded, randomized-controlled study on regressive bone modeling around dental implants with different machined coronal portion
Authors: Oliva Stefano , Scarano Antonio , Trubiani Oriana , Sinjari Bruna , Piattelli Maurizio
Published: August 2023

Scientific evidence showed variable degree of marginal bone loss around dental implants both during integration process and during function. Among the different factors that seem to influence this process, a crucial role is up to the crestal module of dental implant. In order to reduce marginal bone loss, different configurations of crestal module have been proposed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of half treatment dental implants with a coronal smooth portion of 3.5 mm compared to rough surfaced implants with a smooth coronal portion of 0.5mm, to reduce peri-implant marginal bone resorption. The degree of marginal bone loss was assessed through radiological measures. In addition, soft tissues healing was evaluated through plaque index and gingival index. The results demonstrated a significantly (p= 0.03) lower value of MBL (mean 0.7mm), than HT implants (mean 1.03mm) after 1year functional loading. In conclusion, use of FT implants could be determine better results in order to reduce MBL.
Presepsin assessment in maxillo-facial infections: a new early biomarker of sepsis?
Authors: Falconio Luigi , Trubiani Oriana , Gazzolo Diego , Valente Francesco , Traini Tonino
Published: August 2023

Odontogenic infections can cause serious inflammatory problems of the soft and hard tissues in the maxillofacial area up to, albeit in quite remote circumstances, involvement of the brain tissues. In recent years, therefore, a holistic diagnostic-therapeutic approach has been developed in the management of odontogenic infections by carrying out a careful systemic history of the patient who has an infectious condition in the oral cavity. The early detection of systemic sepsis conditions was facilitated using serum biomarkers such as PCR, Procalcitonin (PCT) and Presepsin (PSEP) in hospital emergency rooms. However, even if used in combination, their diagnostic accuracy is such as to suggest the importance of researching new, more specific, and sensitive biomarkers. A total of 9 articles was analyzed to investigate the use of the PSEP as biomarker in the maxillo-facial region infections and including only English-language articles and the electronic search of publications from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2021. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of presepsin in condition of sepsis derived from an odontogenic infection and to evaluate its use in the prognostic evaluation phase of surgical interventions performed in the maxillofacial area.