bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of External Environment Design for Libraries in Hot and Dry Regions during Summer
Authors: Xie Hongkai , Li Jie , Cai Yongbin
Published: January 2024

To address the poor thermal comfort of library exteriors in hot and dry regions during the summer, this study takes the libraries of universities in Xinjiang as its research object. It corrects the range of the perceived environmental temperature (PET) index for evaluating comfort in Xinjiang by combining subjective and objective methods. It explores the impact and adjustment mechanism of physical parameters on PET through field measurements and simulations. Finally, it determines the optimal external environmental design based on PET. The research results show that the neutral temperature of PET in Xinjiang during the summer is 27.44 °C, and the optimal comfort temperature range is 25.52–29.36 °C. The correlation between meteorological and physical parameters and PET is as follows: Tg > G > Ta > RH > SVF > reflectance > Va. The optimal PET design includes a combination of a water body in the upwind direction on the south side, an asphalt underlay, grass, and large-leaved wax vegetation. In the optimal scheme, PET decreased by 6.73 °C, or 12.59%, compared with Case 0 at 18:00. This study provides a reference for the design of external environmental conditions in hot and dry regions during the summer.
Predictors of Motivation and Barriers to ICT-Enabling Education for Sustainability
Authors: Othman Widad , Makrakis Vassilios , Kostoulas-Makrakis Nelly , Hamidon Zahari , Keat Oo Cheng , Abdullah Mohd Lokman , Shafie Norazzila , Mat Hamidah
Published: January 2024

There is an increasing interest and effort in reorienting university curricula to address sustainability and preparing teachers to get involved in embedding sustainability and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in teaching and curricula enabled by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Evidence shows that this interest and effort is often prevented by various barriers at three levels: teacher- level barriers, school-level barriers, and system-level barriers. In this study, the attempt was geared towards identifying the constituencies of these three levels of barriers and examining the extent to which they predict teachers’ motivation to embed sustainability and SDGs in various school subject areas, including arts-based education. A survey of 1253 teachers in Malaysia revealed that the teacher- and system-level barriers explain 83% of the motivation variance. By identifying, addressing, and investigating these barriers, higher education institutions—and especially teacher education—could be better informed in reorienting university curricula to embed ICT-enabled Education for Sustainability (ICTeEfS). These results were also used in planning and implementing in-service teacher training interventions in the context of a European Commission Erasmus+-funded project.
Time–Energy Uncertainty Relation in Nonrelativistic Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Georgiev Danko D.
Published: January 2024

The time–energy uncertainty relation in nonrelativistic quantum mechanics has been intensely debated with regard to its formal derivation, validity, and physical meaning. Here, we analyze two formal relations proposed by Mandelstam and Tamm and by Margolus and Levitin and evaluate their validity using a minimal quantum toy model composed of a single qubit inside an external magnetic field. We show that the ℓ1 norm of energy coherence C is invariant with respect to the unitary evolution of the quantum state. Thus, the ℓ1 norm of energy coherence C of an initial quantum state is useful for the classification of the ability of quantum observables to change in time or the ability of the quantum state to evolve into an orthogonal state. In the single-qubit toy model, for quantum states with the submaximal ℓ1 norm of energy coherence, C<1, the Mandelstam–Tamm and Margolus–Levitin relations generate instances of infinite “time uncertainty” that is devoid of physical meaning. Only for quantum states with the maximal ℓ1 norm of energy coherence, C=1, the Mandelstam–Tamm and Margolus–Levitin relations avoid infinite “time uncertainty”, but they both reduce to a strict equality that expresses the Einstein–Planck relation between energy and frequency. The presented results elucidate the fact that the time in the Schrödinger equation is a scalar variable that commutes with the quantum Hamiltonian and is not subject to statistical variance.
RETRACTED: Modern Subtype Classification and Outlier Detection Using the Attention Embedder to Transform Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Nobel S. , Swapno S , Hossain Md. , Safran Mejdl , Alfarhood Sultan , Kabir Md. , Mridha M.
Published: January 2024

Ovarian cancer, a deadly female reproductive system disease, is a significant challenge in medical research due to its notorious lethality. Addressing ovarian cancer in the current medical landscape has become more complex than ever. This research explores the complex field of Ovarian Cancer Subtype Classification and the crucial task of Outlier Detection, driven by a progressive automated system, as the need to fight this unforgiving illness becomes critical. This study primarily uses a unique dataset painstakingly selected from 20 esteemed medical institutes. The dataset includes a wide range of images, such as tissue microarray (TMA) images at 40× magnification and whole-slide images (WSI) at 20× magnification. The research is fully committed to identifying abnormalities within this complex environment, going beyond the classification of subtypes of ovarian cancer. We proposed a new Attention Embedder, a state-of-the-art model with effective results in ovarian cancer subtype classification and outlier detection. Using images magnified WSI, the model demonstrated an astonishing 96.42% training accuracy and 95.10% validation accuracy. Similarly, with images magnified via a TMA, the model performed well, obtaining a validation accuracy of 94.90% and a training accuracy of 93.45%. Our fine-tuned hyperparameter testing resulted in exceptional performance on independent images. At 20× magnification, we achieved an accuracy of 93.56%. Even at 40× magnification, our testing accuracy remained high, at 91.37%. This study highlights how machine learning can revolutionize the medical field’s ability to classify ovarian cancer subtypes and identify outliers, giving doctors a valuable tool to lessen the severe effects of the disease. Adopting this novel method is likely to improve the practice of medicine and give people living with ovarian cancer worldwide hope.
Investigating the Impact of Humic Acid on Copper Accumulation in Sinonovacula constricta Using a Toxicokinetic–Toxicodynamic Model
Authors: Cai Mingyi , Ma Tian , Que Huayong , Shi Bo , Liu Xiande , Ke Yizhou
Published: January 2024

In aquatic ecosystems, the interaction between heavy metals and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) plays a pivotal role in modifying the bioavailability of these metals. This study, employing a toxicokinetic–toxicodynamic model, delves into the interactive effects of humic acid (HA), a significant component of DOC, on the bioaccumulation and toxicity of copper (Cu) in the estuarine economic bivalve Sinonovacula constricta. Utilizing the stable isotope 65Cu as a tracer, we evaluated Cu uptake in S. constricta under varied DOC concentrations in a controlled laboratory setting. Our findings reveal that at DOC concentrations below 3.05 mg L−1, the bioavailability of Cu is reduced due to shifts in the speciation distribution of Cu, resulting in decreased bioaccumulation within S. constricta. Conversely, at DOC levels exceeding 3.05 mg L−1, the formation of colloidal Cu–HA complexes allows its entry into the bivalves’ digestive system. Moreover, toxicity assays demonstrate an increase in S. constricta survival rates with higher DOC concentrations, suggesting a protective effect of DOC against Cu toxicity. The integration of accumulation and toxicity data infers that Cu–HA complexes, when ingested via the digestive tract, exhibit lower toxicity compared to Cu directly assimilated from the water phase. These findings emphasize the need to consider environmental DOC levels in assessing Cu pollution risks and provide insights for managing heavy metal toxicity in estuarine aquaculture.
Multiclass Determination of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in Meconium: First Evidence of Perfluoroalkyl Substances in This Biological Compartment
Authors: Domínguez-Liste Aritz , de Haro-Romero Teresa , Quesada-Jiménez Raquel , Pérez-Cantero Ainhoa , Peinado Francisco Manuel , Ballesteros Óscar , Vela-Soria Fernando
Published: January 2024

Major concerns have been raised about human exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during pregnancy. Effective methodologies for the assessment of this exposure are needed to support the implementation of preventive measures and the prediction of negative health effects. Meconium has proven a valuable non-invasive matrix for evaluating cumulative exposure to xenobiotics during the last two trimesters of pregnancy. The study objective was to develop a novel method to determine the presence in meconium of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), bisphenols, parabens, and benzophenones, EDCs that are widely used in the manufacture of numerous consumer goods and personal care products, including cosmetics. Ten PFASs, two bisphenols, four parabens, and four benzophenones were measured in meconium samples prepared by using a combination of Captiva Enhanced Matrix Removal (EMR) lipid cartridges with salt-assisted liquid–liquid extraction (SALLE) and dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) before the application of liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Experimental parameters were optimized by applying different chemometric techniques. Limits of detection ranged from 0.05 to 0.1 ng g−1, and between-day variabilities (relative standard deviations) ranged from 6.5% to 14.5%. The method was validated by matrix-matched standard calibration followed by a recovery assay with spiked samples, obtaining percentage recoveries of 89.9% to 114.8%. The method was then employed to measure compounds not previously studied in this matrix in 20 meconium samples. The proposed analytical procedure yields information on cumulative in utero exposure to selected EDCs.
Navigating Evolving Challenges in Blood Safety
Authors: Pourkarim Mahmoud Reza
Published: January 2024

Blood safety remains a paramount public health concern, and health authorities maintain a high level of vigilance to prevent transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) [...]
Vaccinations in Selected Immune-Related Diseases Treated with Biological Drugs and JAK Inhibitors—Literature Review and Statement of Experts from Polish Dermatological Society
Authors: Narbutt Joanna , Żuber Zbigniew , Lesiak Aleksandra , Bień Natalia , Szepietowski Jacek C.
Published: January 2024

The growing use of biological drugs in immune-mediated chronic diseases has undoubtedly revolutionized their treatment. Yet, the topic of vaccinations in this group of patients still raises many concerns and implies many therapeutic problems that require discussion and standardization of management. The aim of this literature review is to present current knowledge regarding safety and efficacy of vaccinations in dermatological and rheumatological patients treated with biological drugs and JAK inhibitors. Additionally, this article provides recommendation from experts of the Polish Dermatological Society about proper use of vaccinations during therapy with biologics. Generally, all live attenuated vaccines are contraindicated during immunosuppressive/immunomodulatory therapy. If there is need, they should be administered long enough prior to the therapy or after cessation. Yet, inactivated vaccines mostly can be safely used, but the problem in this case is the effectiveness of the vaccination. Most studies report that the immune response in patients on biologics after administration of different inactivated vaccines is similar to or even better than in the control group. Thus, the importance of vaccination among patients on biologics must be emphasized to reduce omissions and the fear of possible side effects or insufficient post-vaccination response.
Determinants of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Acceptance among Caregivers in Nigeria: A Fogg Behavior Model-Based Approach
Authors: Agha Sohail , Bernard Drew , Francis Sarah , Fareed Aslam , Nsofor Ifeanyi
Published: January 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake among adolescent girls is critical to reducing the burden of HPV-related cancers in Nigeria. This study assesses the factors influencing caregivers’ acceptance of HPV vaccination for their charges, using the Fogg Behavior Model (FBM) as a theoretical framework. We analyzed cross-sectional data from 1429 caregivers of girls aged 9–17 in six Nigerian states, using a survey instrument based on the FBM. Participants were recruited via Facebook and Instagram advertisements and interviewed through Facebook Messenger in August and September 2023. The study received ethical clearance from Nigeria’s National Health Research Ethics Committee. We applied bivariate and multivariate analyses to assess the relationships between the caregiver’s perception of how likely their adolescent girl was to get vaccinated in the next 12 months and motivation, ability, social factors (such as discussions with family and friends), injunctive norms, previous COVID-19 vaccination, and respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics. Adjusted odds ratios derived from logistic regression analyses revealed that caregivers’ motivation and ability, as well as social factors, were significantly associated with their perception that the adolescent girl in their care would get vaccinated within the next 12 months. Our findings suggest that behavioral interventions tailored to enhance motivation, ability, and social support among caregivers could significantly increase HPV vaccine uptake among adolescent girls in Nigeria.
The Risk of Herpes Zoster Events in Patients with Spondyloarthritis and the Effect of BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Gazitt Tal , Hayat Noa , Stein Nili , Haddad Amir , Feldhamer Ilan , Cohen Arnon Dov , Saliba Walid , Zisman Devy
Published: January 2024

The data on the risk of herpes zoster (HZ) in spondyloarthropathy (SpA) patients are sparse, especially regarding its association with the novel mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and immunosuppressants. We aimed to evaluate whether SpA diagnosis and/or immunosuppressant use affect HZ risk and the influence of mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. We assessed the association between SpA (psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS)) diagnoses and HZ in a large population database with patients matched by age and sex to controls. We also assessed the association between the COVID-19 vaccine and new-onset HZ using two nested case–control studies, identifying all new HZ cases diagnosed from 1 January–31 December 2021 within the SpA and general population cohorts, matched randomly by sex, age and HZ index date to controls without HZ. Exposure to mRNA COVID-19 vaccination was ascertained in the 6 weeks prior to the index date both in cases and controls. In our results, the incidence rate of HZ was higher in PsA patients vs. the general population, at 1.03 vs. 0.64 per 100 person-years, respectively (adjusted HR = 1.55; 95%CI, 1.19–2.02). Within the SpA group, Jak-I treatment was associated with a higher risk of developing new-onset HZ (adjusted OR = 3.79; 1.15–12.5). Multivariable conditional logistic regression models we used showed no association between COVID-19 vaccination and new-onset HZ among the SpA patients (OR = 1.46; 0.68–3.14).
Bronchial Tree System Analysis of Live Beluga Whale (Delphinapterus leucas) Using Bronchoscopy
Authors: Kamio Takashi , Odani Yukako , Ohtomo Wataru , Ogushi Akira , Akune Yuichiro , Kurita Masanori , Okada Ayaka , Inoshima Yasuo
Published: January 2024

Cetaceans, including beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), have high morbidity and mortality rates due to bacterial or fungal lower respiratory infections. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) collection by bronchoscopy is beneficial for detecting pathogenic microorganisms in the lower respiratory tract. Efficient and safe bronchoscopy requires characterizing the bronchial tree systems of beluga whales, as no reports exist on bronchial length and bifurcation. In this study, bronchoscopy was performed on five captive beluga whales (9–44 years old) to detect bronchial length and bifurcation. The lengths from the blowhole to the scope impassable points due to the minimized bronchi diameters of the left principal bronchus (LPB), right principal bronchus (RPB), and tracheal bronchus (TB) were 110–155, 110–150, and 80–110 cm, respectively, and were correlated with the body length. Bronchoscopy identified more than 10, 10, and 6 bifurcated bronchi from the LPB, RPB, and TB, respectively. This is the first report to clarify the differences in bronchial tree systems between beluga whales and other cetaceans, as well as the differences for each individual beluga whale. These results could be useful for obtaining BALF via bronchoscopy to detect pathogenic microorganisms causing infections in the lower respiratory tract of beluga whales.
Recovery of a Population of Slimy Sculpin (Uranidea cognata) after an Autumn Fish Kill in the Headwaters of a Minnesota Trout Stream
Authors: Mundahl Neal D.
Published: January 2024

Toxic runoff from heavy rains on 26 September 2019 caused a complete fish kill on the 2 km long headwater reach of Garvin Brook, Winona County, Minnesota, USA. This project examined the recovery of the slimy sculpin (Uranidea cognata) population within the lower 900 m of the kill zone, comparing relative abundance estimates and size structures between the kill zone and a downstream, unimpacted reference section. Electrofishing surveys were conducted at 24 sites (12 within both kill and reference zones) at 6, 11, 18, 28, and 42 months post-kill to assess relative abundance (catch-per-effort (CPE), fish/min) and population age structures (based on total length). At six months post-kill, sculpin were present throughout the kill zone. However, adult CPE declined significantly with upstream distance, which was suggestive of the ongoing immigration of adult sculpin from downstream. Age structures were similar in kill and reference zones with all size/age groups present in both zones after six months, while CPE was twice as high in the reference (6.3 fish/min) versus the kill zone (3.0 fish/min). After 11 months, CPE did not differ between zones (14 fish/min) and remained that way for the remainder of the study. However, age structures differed dramatically between zones at both 11 and 18 months post-kill; adult sculpin were significantly more abundant in the reference zone, whereas juvenile fish dominated the kill zone. By 28 months post-kill, both sculpin abundance and age structure within the kill zone had fully recovered from the kill. Sculpin recovery was accomplished mostly through enhanced reproduction within the kill zone following initial post-kill movements of both adult and juvenile fish into the kill zone from downstream. Low predation on juvenile sculpin due to a reduced abundance of trout and adult sculpin post-kill likely allowed more rapid recovery of the sculpin population within the kill zone.
Assessing Recession Constant Sensitivity and Its Interaction with Data Adjustment Parameters in Continuous Hydrological Modeling in Data-Scarce Basins: A Case Study Using the Xinanjiang Model
Authors: Zin Thandar Tun , Lu Minjiao , Ogura Takahiro
Published: January 2024

Data scarcity plays the crucial role in hydrological modeling, causing the uncertainties in hydrological model calibration and parameterization. Therefore, while considering the sensitivity of the parameter optimization, it is essential to determine which parameters have the most significant implications on model performance, especially when there is limited hydro-climatological information. Previous studies have underscored the significance of data adjustment parameter sensitivity and its consequential influence on both Xinanjiang (XAJ) model performance and the determination of the acceptable minimum data length, particularly in data-scarce regions. Nevertheless, it is essential to consider the recession constant sensitivity as it has been identified as the most sensitive parameter on an annual scale while keeping the data adjustment parameters constant during a period of data scarcity. Hence, the objective of this study is to extend the previous research by examining the relationship between recession constant sensitivity and data adjustment parameters in shorter datasets leading to more reliable parameter estimation for data-scarce basins. Five U.S. river basins were analyzed using the 28-year dataset and shorter subsets to highlight the impacts of recession constant sensitivities with different data lengths. This study explores the impact of recession constant sensitivities over the hydrological parameter estimation using two approaches (cg): (i) assessing the relationship between the recession constant (cg) and the data adjustment parameter (Cep), for the 28-year dataset, and (ii) investigating the significant impacts of the sensitivity of cg over Cep in shorter datasets, which can affect the estimation of the acceptable minimum data length in the data-scarce basins. The polynomial regression analysis was applied to compare and evaluate the model results, varying over the recession constant with different data lengths. The findings indicated that the influence of the recession constant over the data adjustment parameters in the 28-year dataset is limited in the annual scale. However, there is a significant impact of recession constant sensitivity over the model performance while calibrating the model with subsets, particularly in the worst-case scenario. This study underscores the importance of the recession constant sensitivity for reliable continuous hydrological model predictions, especially in data-scarce areas.
Groundwater Age and Origin and Its Relation with Anthropogenic and Climatic Factors
Authors: Iqbal Usman , Nabi Ghulam , Iqbal Mudassar , Masood Muhammad , Arshed Abu Bakar , Saifullah Muhammad , Shahid Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Groundwater plays a major role in addressing the worldwide problem of water scarcity and food security. With a growing population and increasing urbanization, there is a rising demand for groundwater to meet agricultural and domestic water needs. A variety of advanced approaches are necessary to sustain groundwater management. This study investigated the age and origin of groundwater, as well as its relationship with anthropogenic and climatic factors. Stable isotopes were used, namely oxygen-18 (18O) and deuterium (2H) for the estimation of groundwater origin and radioactive isotopes of Tritium (3H) for the estimation of its age. The investigation of stable isotopes revealed that the aquifer is predominantly influenced by river water, with a minor contribution from rainwater. Furthermore, the analysis of radioactive isotopes revealed that the groundwater age ranges from 5 to 50 years old in most areas. Older groundwater is predominantly found in urban areas, while younger groundwater is present in agricultural and woodland regions. However, the presence of “old” water in the upper groundwater layers in urban areas is attributed to over-abstraction and limited natural recharge. The primary climatic factor that governs the age and origin of groundwater is rainfall upstream of the study area, which directly contributes to the river flows. The rainfall is high in the east but, due to urbanization, recharge is decreased. Consequently, old and river recharge groundwater is found in this area. These observations underscore the unsustainable and alarming use of groundwater in urban areas.
Analysis of Influencing Factors of Heavy Metals and Non-Point Source Pollution in Typical Areas of Tethys Himalayan Tectonic Domain
Authors: An Jialu , Zha Xinjie , Wang Hongcai , Deng Liyuan , Yang Yizhuo , Wang Yi , Di Jin , Zhao Wenya
Published: January 2024

Due to their potential toxicity and non-degradability, heavy metals pose water and soil quality and safety challenges, impacting crop growth and the ecological environment. The contamination of heavy metals (HMs) and non-point source pollution from agriculture and pastoral presents significant ecological and environmental challenges, necessitating prioritized prevention and mitigation. In this study, 44 water samples and 55 soil samples from Gangba County, a typical agricultural and pastoral area in the Tethys Himalaya tectonic domain, served as research objects. We employed various methods, including the inverse distance weighting, ecological risk assessment model, redundancy analysis, and geographical detector modeling, to investigate the spatial distribution and pollution attributes of arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Our analysis considered the impact of soil physicochemical properties on heavy metals (HMs), elucidating factors influencing their spatial distribution. Results indicated that 65.46% of soil As in the study area exceeded the screening value, while the concentrations of the eight selected elements in water remained below the standard limit. Simultaneously, the study area exhibited low overall ecological risk and minimal HM pollution. Furthermore, As and Pb were primarily linked to human activities and the environment, while Cd, Cr, and Ni were predominantly associated with natural processes. Additionally, factors, such as per capita net income, mean annual temperature, mean annual precipitation, geomorphic type, organic matter, geology type, and soil texture (sand, silt, and clay) constituted primary controlling factors influencing the spatial distribution of HMs in soil. Therefore, for effective prevention and control of HMs and non-point source pollution in agriculture and pastoral, arsenic should be the primary monitoring target, with careful consideration given to the application rates of fertilizers containing N, P, and K to facilitate sustainable development of the ecological environment.
Effects of Extreme-Ambient Temperatures in Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus): Metabolic, Hemato-Biochemical Responses, Enzymatic Activity and Gill Histomorphology
Authors: Mazumder Sabuj Kanti , Debi Sutapa , Das Simon Kumar , Salam Mohammad Abdus , Alam Md. Shahanoor , Rahman Mohammad Lutfar , Mamun Md. Abdullah Al , Ibrahim Khalil Sarker Mohammed , Pandit Debasish
Published: January 2024

A global interest in Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) cultivation has arisen because of a combination of declining wild stock and a steady increase in demand and market value. The purpose of the current investigation was to evaluate the impact of extreme water temperature changes on growth, hemato-biochemical responses, pepsin enzyme activity and gill histomorphology of B. gonionotus. Four distinct temperatures (22, 26, 30 and 34 °C) were applied in the laboratory (22, 26, 30 and 34 °C) in triplicate glass aquariums (150 L each). At 30 and 22 °C, respectively, the highest and the lowest length and weight gain, specific, daily and relative growth rates were noted. At 30 °C the lowest FCR was recorded (1.42 ± 0.04). The values related to hematology and biochemistry were found to be within normal ranges; nevertheless, there was a notable variation in the parameters when the temperature changed. Hematological results revealed that RBC, HB, PLT, HCT and PMV levels were significantly higher in groups 30 °C with respect to others. It was evident that cold and heat shock stress was present due to the decline in hematocrit levels and rise in WBC values. Regarding the biochemical responses, the level of triglycerides, cholesterol, AP, Ca+, HDL, and HDL/LDL ratio increased significantly higher at 30 °C. Glucose, total protein, albumin, Na+, K+, Cl−1, AST, bilirubin, uric acid, and LDL levels were significantly higher at 22 °C compared to other temperatures. There was a higher pepsin activity between 26 and 30 °C while the digestive somatic index (IDS) was disproportionate. Histological examination demonstrated the well-shaped gill tissues at 26 and 30 °C compared to distinctive pathology in other temperature treatments. As an end note, the results of the experiment indicated that B. gonionotus should be cultured at 26–30 °C to maximize the overall productivity and the health condition of this economically important fish species.
Adsorption and Kinetics Modelling for Chromium (Cr6+) Uptake from Contaminated Water by Quaternized Date Palm Waste
Authors: Alrowais Raid , Bashir Muhammad Tariq , Khan Aftab Ahmad , Bashir Manahil , Abbas Inam , Abdel Daiem Mahmoud M.
Published: January 2024

The pervasive challenge of heavy metal pollution in water necessitates urgent interventions to mitigate chromium contamination. It poses significant threats to human health, aquatic ecosystems, and the environment. This research delves into the potential of date palm waste as a precursor of adsorbent for extraction of chromium from contaminated water, underscoring its potential in heavy metal remediation. Date palm waste, traditionally regarded as agricultural waste, underwent modification employing N-(3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride resulting in quaternized date palm waste (QDPW) as a prospective adsorbent for chromium extraction. The characterization techniques, including FTIR, SEM/EDX, BET, XRD, TGA/DTA, and element analysis, were employed to examine the structural and surface properties of both DPW and QDPW fibers. Optimal chromium uptake was achieved at a solution pH 6.5 over two hours, with a peak removal efficiency of 88% and an adsorption capacity of 22.26 mg/g. The equilibrium isotherms studies are consistent with Langmuir, Redlich-Peterson, and Sips isotherms, presenting a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.989, 0.981, and 0.983, respectively. Moreover, the pseudo-second-order model was mostly aligned with the kinetics data with R2 value of 0.999. These findings showed that the quaternized date palm waste can be considered a good option to recycle the date palm waste and reduce the environmental threats in aqueous solution.
Controlling Phosphorus Transport in Poyang Lake Basin under the Constraints of Climate Change and Crop Yield Increase
Authors: Gao Liwei , Huang Xin , Chen Ziwei , Zhuge Xingchen , Tong Yindong , Lu Xueqiang , Lin Yan
Published: January 2024

Phosphorus, as a key nutrient, plays an essential role in both algal growth in surface waters and crop development on land. Its presence in inorganic fertilizers is crucial for maximizing crop yields. However, an excessive accumulation of phosphorus in soils can lead to its loss and exacerbate eutrophication in water bodies. This study highlights the complex interplay among phosphorus management, agricultural productivity, and environmental health, particularly in the context of climate change’s influence on sediment transport and water pollution. We focus on the Poyang Lake Basin (PLB) and use a sophisticated process-based phosphorus model to forecast phosphorus load trends from 2020 to 2049. Our predictions indicate a significant increase in the total phosphorus load of the PLB due to the impact of climate change. To address these challenges, we explore a novel strategy combining organic and inorganic phosphorus fertilizers. This approach aims to improve crop yields while reducing non-point source phosphorus pollution through adjusted anthropogenic inputs. Our findings reveal that a synergistic application of these fertilizers, coupled with a controlled use of inorganic phosphate, can reduce its usage by more than 2.5% annually. This method not only contributes to a 2.2% average annual increase in livestock and poultry production but also promotes a 0.6% yearly growth in grain output. Consequently, it effectively diminishes non-point source phosphorus pollution, offering a sustainable solution to the dual challenge of enhancing agricultural productivity and protecting environmental health.
Unveiling the Potential of Apricot Residues: From Nutraceuticals to Bioenergy
Authors: Makrygiannis Ioannis , Athanasiadis Vassilis , Chatzimitakos Theodoros , Mantiniotou Martha , Bozinou Eleni , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: January 2024

Stone fruits, such as the apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), are frequently consumed. As such, a substantial volume of apricot waste is generated at each stage of the food supply chain, including harvesting, processing, packaging, warehousing, transportation, retailing, and eventual consumption. This generates tons of waste annually on a global scale. The significant amounts of phenolics present in these wastes are primarily responsible for their antioxidant capacity and the subsequent health advantages they provide. As such, apricot pulp by-products could be a valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds, such as tocopherols, polyphenolic compounds, proteins, dietary fibers, etc. Moreover, apricot kernels are also recognized for their abundance of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols and tocopherols, which find utility in diverse sectors including cosmetology and the food industry. Both conventional and green methods are employed, and generally, green methods lead to higher extraction efficiency. The antimicrobial properties of apricot kernel essential oil have been widely recognized, leading to its extensive historical usage in the treatment of diverse ailments. In addition, apricot kernel oil possesses the capacity to serve as a viable resource for renewable fuels and chemicals. This review examines the potential of apricot waste as a source of bioactive compounds, as well as its utilization in diverse applications, with an emphasis on its contribution to health improvement.
Observance of the rights and obligations of the parties to labor relations as one of the guarantees of ensuring the national security of Russia
Authors:   Department of Civil Law and Procedure, CHOUVO ", Skachkova G.S. ,   Law Institute",   (St. Petersburg), St. Petersburg, Russia
Published: January 2024

This article examines the national development goals of Russia, which is aimed at achieving the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation adopted in 2021. It is shown that with the variety of forms of implementation of the principle of freedom of work, it is the employment contract that most fully demonstrates the possibility of achieving the national goal of «decent, effective work and successful entrepreneurship». This is possible only if the rights and obligations of the parties to labor relations are respected, which in modern Russia is becoming one of the guarantees of ensuring its national security.And such guarantees in Russia for working citizens can only be fully provided by work under an employment contract.
The features of legal regulation of working hours
Authors:   Department of Labor, Environmental Law and Civil Procedure of Altai State University, Barnaul, Prasolova I. , Vasilenko J. ,   Law Institute Altai State University, Barnaul
Published: January 2024

The institute of working time is an integral part of the system of labor law of the Russian state. The presence of standards providing for maximum working hours, as well as guarantees for its establishment and use, represent a certain indicator showing the level of development of society. Today’s changes in the global economy are leading to an increasing spread of atypical forms of employment. As a result, labor law is undergoing significant changes, giving rise to new features of the legal regulation of labor relations. For example, the key feature of the working hours of remote workers is the possibility of its independent distribution by the employee. In the article, the authors analyze some problems arising in the field of legal regulation of the working hours of remote workers, law enforcement practice, and also offer ways to improve labor legislation in this area.
On the issue of improving the mechanism of material incentives for workers in order to improve the quality of work life (using the example of bonuses for workers)
Authors:   Department of Labor Law, Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution named after V.F.Yakovlev, Yekaterinburg, Kuchina Ju.A.
Published: January 2024

Improving job satisfaction and the quality of work life are the results of the employer’s effective personnel policy, the implementation of which depends on fair material incentives for employees. The author analyzes the problems of bonuses for employees in terms of indexation of wages, as well as non-payment of bonuses or reduction of their size due to a disciplinary offense committed by an employee, concluding that there is a need to consolidate the general principles of bonuses in the Labor Code
Social insurance as a link between labor and social security
Authors:   Department of Labor Law Ural State Law University named after V.F. Yakovlev, Yekaterinburg, Istomina E.A. , Fedorova M.Yu. ,   Department of Labor Law Ural State Law University named after V.F. Yakovlev, Yekaterinburg
Published: January 2024

The article is devoted to the analysis of compulsory social insurance from the standpoint of the relationship between the employee’s work activity and the social benefits that are established for him in the event of the occurrence of social risks. The conclusion is substantiated that decent work determines decent social security and largely ensures the quality of working life.
Jurisprudence: payment of overtime work, work in weekend and holidays
Authors:   Pepelyaev Group company, Moscow, Zhizherina Yu.
Published: January 2024

The review presented court decisions on disputes over overtime pay, weekend work and public holidays.
Immunohistochemical profile of gingiva biopsy samples from the edentulous alveolar ridge in the jaw
Authors: Kulikov A. S. , Zhad’ko S. I. , Romanenko I. G. , Neprelyuk O. A. , Makalish T. P. , Kriventsov M. A.
Published: January 2024

Relevance. Despite the high success rate of dental implantation in restoring anatomical occlusion and achieving desired aesthetic effects, complications, often mediated by peri-implantitis, remain an area requiring further study. This study aimed to morphologically assess gingiva biopsy samples from the edentulous alveolar ridge of the jaw, using immunohistochemical markers for immunophenotyping different subpopulations of inflammatory cells, inter alia.Material and methods. Gingiva biopsy specimens from 25 patients underwent descriptive histological and immunohistochemical analyses, employing markers such as CD3, CD20, TBX21, GATA3, Foxp3, CD68, CD80, CD163, CD1a, and CD83. The study includes clinical-anamnestic data analysis, descriptive histological and immunohistochemical observations, and a quantitative analysis of the abundance of various immunopositive cell subpopulations.Results. The data indicated that approximately one third of the gum tissues exhibited signs of a chronic inflammatory response, predominantly characterized by the primary T-cell subpopulation of T-helper 1 cells, a minimal presence of regulatory T-cells, and an almost complete absence of T-helper 2 cells. Additionally, an inflammatory cell mix was observed, comprising a significant proportion of B-cells, monocyte-macrophage cells (mainly M2 macrophage subpopulation), and mature CD83+ dendritic cells. These changes reflect a pro-inflammatory local immune response, crucial to consider in future implantation planning.Conclusion. The analysis of this pilot clinical case series enhances our understanding of the gingiva condition in the edentulous alveolar ridge before dental implantation and opens avenues for further research in this field.
RELATIONSHIP OF STATOR AND ROTOR PARAMETERS IN ELECTRIC MA-CHINES OF MECHATRONIC SYSTEMS WITH CONCENTRATED STATOR WIND-INGS AND EXCITATION ON THE ROTOR
Authors: Korchagin O.
Published: January 2024

The issues of choosing design relationships when designing electrical machines with single-tooth windings are considered.

Based on the property of symmetry of the m-phase system of an electric machine, relationships are derived that connect the number of pairs of rotor poles and stator teeth in single-tooth machines, taking into account the number of phases and the number of teeth in a phase group.

The relations derived in the work, in comparison with the previously known ones, allow us to consider a larger number of working options, among which there may be more rational ones, in addition, the proposed relations are easier to use for the developer, since they determine the nomenclature of phases and the direction of winding in both the case of even and and an odd number of phases.

Structural dependencies allow the developer to design a wide range of devices, such as engines, generators and synchronous tachometers with excitation from the rotor side, including from permanent magnets, which can be used in the development of electric machines built into the design of mechatronic modules. In this way, a base of options is created for further in-depth design using finite element modeling and other design tools.

The proposed approach is compared with known and previously used relationships. Using the example of an electric machine with one pair of poles, it is shown that by expanding the options under consideration, more rational implementation options can be obtained.
Compósito têxtil produzido através de resíduos têxteis, celulose vegetal e microbiana
Authors: Silva Maria Dayonara de Almeida , Macêdo Jacqueline da Silva , Lima Clécio José de Lacerda , Da Silva Sidney Manoel , Martins Síntique Sanny de Macêdo , Da Silva Júnior Cláudio José Galdino , Sarubbo Leonie Asfora , Costa Andréa Fernanda de Santana
Published: January 2024

A reciclagem é uma alternativa eficiente de ganho ambiental e ecológico visando minimizar os impactos ambientais. Fibrilas têxteis geradas durante a secagem das peças em máquinas nas lavanderias de beneficiamento têxtil e papel/papelão utilizados como embalagens são materiais celulósicos que apresentam potencial para reaproveitamento e reciclagem. A celulose produzida por microrganismos também está sendo produzida visando agregar características a compósitos da área têxtil e reduzir o valor final do produto. Produzir e caracterizar macroscopicamente compósitos têxteis utilizando fibrilas têxteis, papel reciclado e celulose bacteriana foi o objetivo desta pesquisa. Para a produção dos compósitos os materiais foram homogeneizados, a massa obtida foi distribuída em telas de nylon e prensada, em seguida as telas seguiram para secagem em um Vaporizador e Rama. Além da avaliação sensorial cada compósito passou por teste de flexibilidade, ângulo de contato e índice de absorção. Os compósitos produzidos apresentam-se como um material com características visuais de papel. O material tem potencial para uso na indústria de papel e embalagens, revestimentos e na produção de acessórios.
Heavy metal ion uptake using biodegradable polymeric film
Authors: Bhardwaj Nikita , Ashraf Mohd Tashfeen , Maitra Jaya
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the potential of gelatin films as a biodegradable material for food preservation and heavy metal ion removal. Gelatin, a biodegradable protein derived from animal collagen, was dissolved in distilled water to form a solution and casted to form films. The films were evaluated for their swelling behavior, solubility in food, moisture content, thickness, and biodegradability. The results showed that gelatin films were completely soluble in water within 3 hours, with a water solubility of 29 ± 1.6%. The films showed UV-visible light absorbance ranging from 280 to 480 nm with maximum absorbance at 420 nm. The films were also found to have a high potential for heavy metal ion removal, specifically for copper (II) and zinc (II) ions. The films were able to effectively remove these ions from aqueous solutions under acidic conditions, with removal efficiencies of 99.3% and 97.3%, respectively. The findings suggest that gelatin films could be a promising material for sustainable food packaging and for removing heavy metals from wastewater.
Educação no trânsito: a atuação proativa da polícia militar na construção de uma sociedade consciente e segura
Authors: Bail Omar , Lazarotto Adriano Cristiano
Published: January 2024

O artigo destaca a relevância da integração da Polícia Militar na educação de trânsito, visando formar cidadãos conscientes desde a infância. Enfatiza a gravidade dos acidentes globais, com foco nas estatísticas alarmantes no Brasil e destaca o fator humano como principal causa, o que requer políticas inovadoras. A formação de condutores é ressaltada como crucial na prevenção de acidentes, propondo práticas educacionais abrangentes. A responsabilidade do policial militar como agente transformador é destacada, promovendo uma abordagem holística na formação para contribuir para uma sociedade mais coesa e segura. O projeto "BPTran nas Escolas" é apresentado como uma iniciativa concreta para abordar a educação no trânsito desde a infância, utilizando abordagens lúdicas e palestras interativas. A sugestão de expansão do projeto para outras unidades da Polícia Militar do Paraná se baseia no impacto positivo e transformador, destacando a necessidade de adaptação às características locais. Concluindo, o artigo destaca que a integração da Polícia Militar na educação de trânsito representa mais que uma estratégia operacional, sendo um compromisso com a construção de uma sociedade mais segura e consciente, incentivando a promoção da segurança viária.
Atuação fisioterapêutica no desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor de crianças nascidas com mielomeningocele
Authors: De Sousa Larissa Coelho , Soares Carla Nogueira , De Sousa Lucas Altino , Miranda Mayara Cristina , Ferreira Jessica Lorraine Leotti , De Araujo Kemelly Soares , Da Silva Tays Nogueira , Eduardo Thaís Carneiro de França
Published: January 2024

Neste estudo, a mielomeningocele (MMC), uma malformação congênita neurológica, foi investigada em relação à eficácia da fisioterapia no desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor de crianças com MMC e às complicações associadas. Realizou-se uma revisão bibliográfica qualitativa que abrangeu a literatura de 2018 a 2023, utilizando descritores do DeCS. Foi discutida a relevância das categorias anatômicas e funcionais na MMC em relação aos níveis de lesão e funcionalidade. Compreendeu-se que complicações comuns, como hidrocefalia e a malformação de Chiari, podem afetar significativamente o prognóstico. Foi enfatizada a importância da intervenção precoce e o papel crucial da fisioterapia no cuidado integral para promover um desenvolvimento mais saudável e funcional. Abordaram-se diversas condutas fisioterapêuticas, incluindo o uso de órteses, treinamento de marcha e fisioterapia motora. Concluiu-se que a mielomeningocele é uma condição complexa que requer uma abordagem multidisciplinar abrangente, e que a fisioterapia desempenha um papel crucial na promoção de um desenvolvimento mais saudável e funcional das crianças com MMC, permitindo-as que alcancem níveis mais elevados de independência e qualidade de vida.