bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Memory of Hops: Rural Bioculture as a Collective Means of Reimagining the Future
Authors: Alfaro-Saiz Estrella , Cámara-Leret Susana , González-González Miguel , Fernández-Álvarez Óscar , Rodríguez-Fernández Sergio , López-López Darío , Paniagua-García Ana I. , Acedo Carmen , Díez-Antolínez Rebeca
Published: March 2024

This article, set within an art–science collaborative framework, exposes a multidisciplinary research platform aimed at identifying new relationships with hops (Humulus lupulus), its harvest, and local memory. It presents an ecological and ethnobotanical study of the plant, from its natural habitat to its past/present cultivation, its traditional uses, and possible applications in pharmacy and cosmetics. It offers a qualitative study with an ethnographic approach to participant observation, using techniques such as in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and life stories. Finally, it brings forth a process of material experimentation from the arts, based on rethinking waste systems to create new biomaterials with manifold future applications. The results from this hybrid methodology show the multiple possibilities that the plant offers beyond its cultivation for the brewing industry. Likewise, it shows how spaces, relationships, and dialogues have been generated with wide repercussions on a local and planetary scale, related to the sustainability of the rural world and territorial cohesion, all of which are intrinsic to emergent agrarian practices. The conclusions show a complex scenario that demands a hybrid response to understand the paradoxes to which the plant is subjected and the uncertain future of agrarian culture.
Enigma of Pyramidal Neurons: Chirality-Centric View on Biological Evolution. Congruence to Molecular, Cellular, Physiological, Cognitive, and Psychological Functions
Authors: Dyakin Victor Vasilyevich , Dyakina-Fagnano Nika Viktorovna
Published: March 2024

The mechanism of brain information processing unfolds within spatial and temporal domains inherently linked to the concept of space–time symmetry. Biological evolution, beginning with the prevalent molecular chirality, results in the handedness of human cognitive and psychological functions (the phenomena known as biochirality). The key element in the chain of chirality transfer from the downstream to upstream processes is the pyramidal neuron (PyrN) morphology–function paradigm (archetype). The most apparent landmark of PyrNs is the geometry of the cell soma. However, “why/how PyrN’s soma gains the shape of quasi-tetrahedral symmetry” has never been explicitly articulated. Resolving the above inquiry is only possible based on the broad-view assumption that encoding 3D space requires specific 3D geometry of the neuronal detector and corresponding network. Accordingly, our hypothesis states that if the primary function of PyrNs, at the organism level, is sensory space symmetry perception, then the pyramidal shape of soma is the best evolutionary-selected geometry to support sensory-motor coupling. The biological system’s non-equilibrium (NE) state is fundamentally linked to an asymmetric, non-racemic, steady state of molecular constituents. The chiral theory of pyramidal soma shape conceptually agrees that living systems have evolved as non-equilibrium systems that exchange energy with the environment. The molecular mechanism involved in developing PyrN’s soma is studied in detail. However, the crucial missing element—the reference to the fundamental link between molecular chirality and the function of spatial navigation—is the main obstacle to resolving the question in demand: why did PyrNs’ soma gain the shape of quasi-tetrahedral symmetry?
Effective Evolutionary Principles for System-of-Systems: Insights from Agent-Based Modeling in Vehicular Networks
Authors: Liu Junjie , Liu Junxian , Zhang Mengmeng
Published: March 2024

System-of-systems (SoS) evolution is a complex and unpredictable process. Although various principles to facilitate collaborative SoS evolution have been proposed, there is a lack of experimental data validating their effectiveness. To address these issues, we present an Agent-Based Model (ABM) for SoS evolution in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), serving as a quantitative analysis tool for SoS research. By integrating multiple complex and rational behaviors of individuals, we aim to simulate real-world scenarios as accurately as possible. To simulate the SoS evolution process, our model employs multiple agents with autonomous interactions and incorporates external environmental variables. Furthermore, we propose three evaluation metrics: evolutionary time, degree of variation, and evolutionary cost, to assess the performance of SoS evolution. Our study demonstrates that enhanced information transparency significantly improves the evolutionary performance of distributed SoS. Conversely, the adoption of uniform standards only brings limited performance enhancement to distributed SoSs. Although our proposed model has limitations, it stands out from other approaches that utilize Agent-Based Modeling to analyze SoS theories. Our model focuses on realistic problem contexts and simulates realistic interaction behaviors. This study enhances the comprehension of SoS evolution processes and provides valuable insights for the formulation of effective evolutionary strategies.
Reinforcement-Learning-Based Virtual Inertia Controller for Frequency Support in Islanded Microgrids
Authors: Afifi Mohamed A. , Marei Mostafa I. , Mohamad Ahmed M. I.
Published: March 2024

As the world grapples with the energy crisis, integrating renewable energy sources into the power grid has become increasingly crucial. Microgrids have emerged as a vital solution to this challenge. However, the reliance on renewable energy sources in microgrids often leads to low inertia. Renewable energy sources interfaced with the network through interlinking converters lack the inertia of conventional synchronous generators, and hence, need to provide frequency support through virtual inertia techniques. This paper presents a new control algorithm that utilizes the reinforcement learning agents Twin Delayed Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (TD3) and Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) to support the frequency in low-inertia microgrids. The RL agents are trained using the system-linearized model and then extended to the nonlinear model to reduce the computational burden. The proposed system consists of an AC–DC microgrid comprising a renewable energy source on the DC microgrid, along with constant and resistive loads. On the AC microgrid side, a synchronous generator is utilized to represent the low inertia of the grid, which is accompanied by dynamic and static loads. The model of the system is developed and verified using Matlab/Simulink and the reinforcement learning toolbox. The system performance with the proposed AI-based methods is compared to conventional low-pass and high-pass filter (LPF and HPF) controllers.
A Proof-of-Concept for a Hypolipidemic Brown Trout Model
Authors: Lourenço Tiago , Rocha Eduardo , Gonçalves José Fernando , Rocha Maria João , Madureira Tânia Vieira
Published: March 2024

The impacts of hypolipidemic pharmaceuticals on fish lipid metabolism remain unexplored. However, data points to similar effects and mechanisms of action between fish and humans. Therefore, fish may be a strong model for screening hypolipidemic drug candidates and water pollution by lipid-modulating agents. This study aimed to test a new hypolipidemic model assay with juvenile brown trout using atorvastatin (ATV)—a hypolipidemic chemical. We selected 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2), known to cause hyperlipidemia in fish, to ensure model functionality. Fish received intramuscular injections of 4 μL/g for two weeks under the following experimental conditions: control—C (0.7% NaCl), solvent control—SC (0.7% NaCl, 0.9% ethanol, 0.1% dimethyl sulfoxide), ATV (0.3 μg/g), EE2 (2 μg/g), and a mixture of both compounds—MIX (0.3 μg/g ATV and 2 μg/g EE2). Endpoints included blood lipid biochemistry, hepatic lipid droplet quantification, and liver mRNA expression of lipid-related target genes (related to lipogenesis, lipid transport, and β-oxidation pathways). ATV lowered blood total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) levels, whilst triglycerides and very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) were highest under EE2. Hepatic lipid droplet deposition significantly increased in the ATV, EE2, and MIX groups. ATV and MIX caused a significant downregulation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (pparγ) and acetyl Co-A oxidase 3 (acox3). EE2 upregulated acyl-CoA long-chain synthetase 1 (acsl1) and downregulated both fatty acid binding protein 1 (fabp1) and acetyl Co-A oxidase 1-3I (acox1-3I). ATV caused hypolipidemic effects in juvenile brown trout and could even counteract EE2-stimulated hyperlipidemia, reinforcing the potential of fish hypo- and hyperlipidemic models.
The Relevance of Dynamical Friction for the MW/LMC/SMC Triple System
Authors: Oehm Wolfgang , Kroupa Pavel
Published: March 2024

Simulations of structure formation in the standard cold dark matter cosmological model quantify the dark matter halos of galaxies. Taking into account dynamical friction between dark matter halos, we investigate the past orbital dynamical evolution of the Magellanic Clouds in the presence of the Galaxy. Our calculations are based on a three-body model of rigid Navarro–Frenk–White profiles for dark matter halos but were verified in a previous publication by comparison to high-resolution N-body simulations of live self-consistent systems. Under the requirement that the LMC and SMC had an encounter within 20 kpc between 1 and 4 Gyr ago in order to allow the development of the Magellanic Stream, using the latest astrometric data, the dynamical evolution of the MW/LMC/SMC system is calculated backwards in time. With the employment of the genetic algorithm and a Markov-Chain Monte-Carlo method, the present state of this system is unlikely, with a probability of <10−9 (6σ complement), because the solutions found do not fit into the error bars for the observed plane-of-sky velocity components of the Magellanic Clouds. This implies that orbital solutions that assume dark matter halos, according to cosmological structure formation theory, to exist around the Magellanic Clouds and the Milky Way are not possible with a confidence of more than 6 sigma.
Recent Molecular Characterization of Porcine Rotaviruses Detected in China and Their Phylogenetic Relationships with Human Rotaviruses
Authors: Qiao Mengli , Li Meizhen , Li Yang , Wang Zewei , Hu Zhiqiang , Qing Jie , Huang Jiapei , Jiang Junping , Jiang Yaqin , Zhang Jinyong , Gao Chunliu , Yang Chen , Li Xiaowen , Zhou Bin
Published: March 2024

Porcine rotavirus A (PoRVA) is an enteric pathogen capable of causing severe diarrhea in suckling piglets. Investigating the prevalence and molecular characteristics of PoRVA in the world, including China, is of significance for disease prevention. In 2022, a total of 25,768 samples were collected from 230 farms across China, undergoing porcine RVA positivity testing. The results showed that 86.52% of the pig farms tested positive for porcine RVA, with an overall positive rate of 51.15%. Through the genetic evolution analysis of VP7, VP4 and VP6 genes, it was revealed that G9 is the predominant genotype within the VP7 segment, constituting 56.55%. VP4 genotypes were identified as P[13] (42.22%), P[23] (25.56%) and P[7] (22.22%). VP6 exhibited only two genotypes, namely I5 (88.81%) and I1 (11.19%). The prevailing genotype combination for RVA was determined as G9P[23]I5. Additionally, some RVA strains demonstrated significant homology between VP7, VP4 and VP6 genes and human RV strains, indicating the potential for human RV infection in pigs. Based on complete genome sequencing analysis, a special PoRVA strain, CHN/SD/LYXH2/2022/G4P[6]I1, had high homology with human RV strains, revealing genetic reassortment between human and porcine RV strains in vivo. Our data indicate the high prevalence, major genotypes, and cross-species transmission of porcine RVA in China. Therefore, the continuous monitoring of porcine RVA prevalence is essential, providing valuable insights for virus prevention and control, and supporting the development of candidate vaccines against porcine RVA.
Pilot Study on Evaluating the Impact of Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap), Influenza, and COVID-19 Vaccinations on Antibody Responses in Pregnant Women
Authors: Chen Wei-Chun , Hu Shu-Yu , Cheng Chao-Min , Shen Ching-Fen , Chuang Hui-Yu , Ker Chin-Ru , Sun Der-Ji , Shen Ching-Ju
Published: March 2024

This study assessed IgG levels to influenza/pertussis and neutralizing antibody (Nab) responses of COVID-19 vaccines in blood of pregnant women following immunization with pertussis (Tdap), influenza, and COVID-19 vaccines. We prospectively collected 71 participants categorized by the following vaccine combinations: 3TI, 4TI, 3T, and 4T groups (three and four doses of COVID-19 vaccines plus Tdap/influenza or Tdap vaccines alone). Our findings have indicated that the 3TI group exhibited elevated IgG levels for influenza B compared to the 3T group (12.90 vs. 7.75 U, p = 0.001); this pattern was not observed for influenza A. Pertussis IgG levels remained uniform across all groups. The 4TI group demonstrated a greater Nab inhibition rate from COVID-19 vaccines compared to both the 3TI and 3T groups (61.34% vs. 22.5% and 15.16%, respectively, p = 0.001). We observed no correlation between Nab inhibition rate and IgG levels for Tdap/influenza, with the exception of a moderate correlation with influenza B in the 3TI group. The efficacy of Tdap vaccine in pregnant women remained consistent, regardless of the administration of COVID-19 or influenza vaccines. Interestingly, without the influenza vaccine, both three and four doses of the COVID-19 vaccine still offered protection against influenza A, but not B. Hence, co-administering COVID-19, influenza, and Tdap vaccines during prenatal care maintains immunogenicity and is highly advised to safeguard pregnant women fully.
A Comparative Analysis of Orexins in the Physio-Pathological Processes of the Male Genital Tract: New Challenges? A Review
Authors: Costagliola Anna , Montano Luigi , Langella Emilia , Lombardi Renato , Squillacioti Caterina , Mirabella Nicola , Liguori Giovanna
Published: March 2024

Orexins A (OXA) and B (OXB) and their specific receptors, receptor 1 (OX1R) and 2 (OX2R) for orexins, are hypothalamic peptides involved in orchestrating several functions in the central nervous system and peripheral organs, including sleep, excitement, nutrition, reward, circadian rhythm, anxiety, cognition, and reproduction. The aim of this narrative review is, in particular, to speculate the role of orexins in the male genital tract of animal species and human beings. The experimental evidence collected in recent years assumed that in the testes of the animal species here described, orexins are directly involved in steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis regulation. In the epididymis, these peptides are locally synthesized, thus suggesting their role governing the fertilizing capability of the immature male gamete. In addition to playing a physiological role, orexins are involved in numerous inflammatory and/or neoplastic pathologies too. The expression of the orexinergic system in prostate cancer suggests that they might play a potential therapeutic function. Overall, the future directions of this literature review allow us to hypothesize a role of the orexinergic complex not only as a marker for the diagnosis of certain tumors affecting the male genital tract but also for the treatment of hypo/infertility condition.
Correction: Manawi et al. Evaluation of the Radon Levels in the Groundwater Wells of Qatar: Radiological Risk Assessment. Water 2023, 15, 4026
Authors: Manawi Yehia , Ahmad Ayesha , Subeh Mosab , Hushari Mohammad , Bukhari Sayed , Al-Sulaiti Huda
Published: March 2024

In the original publication [...]
Research on the Characteristics of Flow Velocity of a Piped Car when Starting in a Straight Pipe Section under Different Loads
Authors: Lu Yifan , Sun Xihuan , Li Yongye , Wang Cheng , Tao Siyuan
Published: March 2024

It is of great significance to explore the flow velocity characteristics of piped cars when they are started under different loads. In this paper, the flow velocity characteristics of the water flow around a piped car when it is started in the straight pipe section are studied through physical experiments. The masses of the piped cars are 1.5 kg, 1.9 kg, and 2.3 kg, respectively. The results show that, with the increase in the load of the pipeline car, the axial flow velocity in the front section increases, the absolute values of radial flow velocity and circumferential flow velocity increase, and the gradient of flow velocity increases. The positive radial flow velocity and negative circumferential flow velocity regions increase, and the distribution of positive and negative radial flow velocities and circumferential flow velocities is obvious. The gradients of axial, radial, and circumferential flow velocities in the annular section all increase, and the contour spacing becomes smaller and more densely distributed. The absolute values of the radial and circumferential flow velocities increase. The regional demarcation of axial flow velocity in the rear section is more obvious, and the average value of axial flow velocity in the high-flow-velocity area behind the vehicle increases. Additionally, the gradient of flow velocity increases. The absolute values of radial velocity and circumferential velocity increase, the gradient of velocity increases, and the velocity distribution is obviously regional. This study supplements and improves the theoretical study of a piped car when it is started and has certain reference value for the research and application of the hydraulic transport technology of the barrel-loading pipeline.
Dynamic Changes in Terrestrial Water Balance Using Remote Sensing on the Loess Plateau
Authors: Lu Defang , Zheng Yuejun , Cao Xianghui , Guan Jiaojiao , Li Wenpeng , Khan Kifayatullah
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, the water cycle process in the Loess Plateau has undergone drastic changes under the influence of anthropogenic disturbance and climate variability. The Loess Plateau has been greatly affected by human activities and climate change, and the dynamics of water balance and its key influencing factors remain unknown in this region. To deepen our understanding of water resource status in the Loess Plateau, we analyzed the dynamic changes in the hydrological cycle components and terrestrial water balance via remote sensing during the 2001–2020 period. Moreover, we also discussed the dominant factors affecting the terrestrial water balance. The results indicate that precipitation and ET exhibited increasing trends, with upward rates of 2.56 mm/yr and 5.27 mm/yr, respectively. Spatially, the annual average precipitation and ET showed increasing trends from the north to south. Precipitation in 62.05% of the entire region presented a significant upward trend, with a change rate of 0~2 mm/yr, and the annual change rate of ET in a range of 0~30 mm/year accounted for 89.12%. The runoff exhibited a fluctuating and significantly upward trend during the 2000–2022 period, with a change rate of 3.92 × 108 m3/yr, and was relatively large in the middle reach of the Yellow River. The annual average water consumption in the upper reach of the YRB presented a significant decreasing trend, with a downward rate of −0.06 × 108 m3/yr from 2001 to 2020, and yet it displayed a significant increasing trend in the middle and lower reaches of the YRB with the upward rate of 0.07~0.11 × 108 m3/yr. Based on the principle of water balance, the recharge amount was calculated at less than the discharge amount during the 2001–2020 period, and the difference between recharge and discharge is gradually expanding, with a change rate of −3.72 × 108 m3/yr. The spatial distributions of TWSC revealed that the eastern region was in an imbalanced state, while the western region was in a relatively balanced state. Terrestrial water balance changes were mainly affected by climate factors and human disturbance, and land use/cover change was the dominant factor. The results will be of great significance for optimizing water resource management and formulating various water-saving strategies in the Loess Plateau.
Slope Deformation Mechanisms and Stability Assessment under Varied Conditions in an Iron Mine Waste Dump
Authors: Yang Zhongao , Ding Xiaohua , Liu Xin , Wahab Abdoul , Ao Zhongchen , Tian Ya , Bang Van Son , Long Zhaoxi , Li Guodong , Ma Penglin
Published: March 2024

The instability of geological slopes in mining environments poses a significant challenge to the safety and efficiency of operations. Waste Dump#2 at the Ziluoyi Iron Mine in China is a notable case study that highlights the challenges associated with sizable base slopes and large step heights. To address hidden hazards in the mine and the above issues, an inclusive investigation is carried out to examine the physical and mechanical properties of the soil–rock slope through indoor testing and analyze the deformation mechanisms of the slope using numerical simulations, taking various factors into account. The study reveals that the stability of Waste Dump#2 is deeply affected by weight, groundwater conditions, earthquake loading, and rainfall. To this end, the cohesion and internal friction parameters of the soil–rock slope are first determined through direct shear tests, which show a cohesion of 6.215 kPa at the top of the slope and an internal friction angle of 34.12°. By adopting GEO-SLOPE, 3D Mine, and AutoCAD software, stability calculations of the slope are performed, which give stability coefficients of 1.547 under normal conditions, 1.276 in rainfall, and 1.352 in seismic conditions. These results meet safety standards and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the mine.
Immobilization of Horseradish Peroxidase and Myoglobin Using Sodium Alginate for Treating Organic Pollutants
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Ghanizadeh Hossein , Khan Shoaib , Wu Xiaodan , Li Haowei , Sadiq Samreen , Liu Jiayin , Liu Huimin , Yue Qunfeng
Published: March 2024

Removing organic pollutants from wastewater is crucial to prevent environmental contamination and protect human health. Immobilized enzymes are increasingly being explored for wastewater treatment due to their specific catalytic activities, reusability, and stability under various environmental conditions. Peroxidases, such as horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and myoglobin (Mb), are promising candidates for immobilized enzymes utilized in wastewater treatment due to their ability to facilitate the oxidation process of a wide range of organic molecules. However, the properties of the carrier and support materials greatly influence the stability and activity of immobilized HRP and Mb. In this research, we developed immobilized HRP and Mb using support material composed of sodium alginate and CaCl2 as carriers and glutaraldehyde as a crosslinking agent. Following this, the efficacy of immobilized HRP and Mb in removing aniline, phenol, and p-nitrophenol was assessed. Both immobilized enzymes removed all three organic pollutants from an aqueous solution, but Mb was more effective than HRP. After being immobilized, both enzymes became more resilient to changes in temperature and pH. Both immobilized enzymes retained their ability to eliminate organic pollutants through eight treatment cycles. Our study uncovered novel immobilized enzyme microspheres and demonstrated their successful application in wastewater treatment, paving the way for future research.
Study on clinical characteristics and some risk factors for preeclampsia
Authors: Nguyen Dac Duy Nghiem , Tran Minh Thang , Nguyen Thi Kim Anh , Vo Van Duc , Truong Thi Linh Giang , Nguyen Tran Thao Nguyen , Le Phan Tuong Quynh , Ha Thi Minh Thi , Nguyen Vu Quoc Huy
Published: March 2024

Background: Preeclampsia is a complex disease caused by pregnancy, with many complications for both mother and fetus, but there is no specific treatment. The purpose of the study is to describe clinical characteristics and survey some risk factors for preeclampsia.

Materials and methods: The case-control study included 205 pregnant women with preeclampsia and 205 pregnant women without preeclampsia.

Results: In the preeclampsia group, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and BMI were 154.9 ± 15.5 mmHg, 96.0 ± 9.7 mmHg and 23.7 ± 3.5 kg/m2, respectively; edema (58.5%), history of preeclampsia (14.1%), early-onset preeclampsia (28.8%) and severe preeclampsia (42.4%). Early onset increased the risk of severe preeclampsia with OR = 3.98 (95% CI: 2.10 - 7.55). 10.8% had complications, in the mother including HELLP syndrome, eclampsia, coagulation disorders and in the fetus including fetal distress, intrauterine growth retardation and premature birth. Maternal age ≥ 35 years old, history of miscarriage, BMI were associated with preeclampsia, with OR 3.36 (95% CI: 2.06 - 5.46); 1.67 (95% CI: 1.04 - 2.67); 6.66 (95% CI: 4.19 - 10.59), respectively.

Conclusion: Severe preeclampsia accounted for a high rate, was associated with early onset, and complications were recorded in both mother and fetus. Maternal age, history of miscarriage and overweight were factors that increase the risk of preeclampsia.

Key words: Preeclampsia, eclampsia, blood pressure, HELLP, risk factors.
Research on the efficiency of treatment of knee osteoarthritis by eclectro-acupunture and san-bi-tang remedy combined with herbal steam
Authors: Mai Ngoc Duoc , Doan Van Minh
Published: March 2024

Background: Knee Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease, the second leading cause of disability for the elderly after cardiovascular disease. Treatment with traditional medicine is highly effective, has safety in the long run and has few side effects. Beside, herbal steaming is a simple, easy-to-implement treatment method that works quickly and can be widely applied in the community.

Objectves: To evaluate treatment effects of electro-acupuncture and San-bi-tang remedy combined with herbal steam in patients of primary knee osteoarthritis.

Subjects and Methods: Clinical trial with comparison before and after treatment, from August 2019 to May 2020, on 58 patients diagnosed with primary knee OA according to the standards of the American Society of Rheumatology (ACR), X -ray phase I, II according to Kellgren & Lawrence, Wind Cold Damp clinical forms or Wind Cold Damp together with Liver and kidney damage clinical forms according to traditional medicine. Patients were assessed clinically, subclinical, and VAS scale, Lequesne index, WOMAC index, heel-buttock index, Rank of Motion (ROM) at baseline and after 9 days (D9), 18 days (D18).

Results: Mean VAS score decreased to 1.60 ± 1.32 points (compared with 6.26 ± 1.00 points at D0; 3.98 ± 1.36 points at D9), the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Lequesne index decreased significantly at the time D18, D9 compared with the time D0, at the time of D18 Lequesne average point was 5.01 ± 2.10 (p < 0.05). WOMAC index: After 18 days of treatment, there was no patient with severe or moderate dysfunction. Patients distributed at non-dysfunctional levels 53.45% and mild dysfunction 46.55% (p < 0.05). The range of movement of the knee joint after treatment increased significantly, the average range of movement of the joint at the time of D18 was 129.410 ± 6.470 (p < 0.05). The heel-buttock index decreased significantly: before treatment, the average heel-buttock index was 18.24 ± 6.07 (cm), and after treatment was 8.95 ± 5.33 (cm). There was an improvement in the color, tongue shape, thinness of tongue moss, nocturia symptoms, back pain after treatment (p < 0.05). Overall results: 53.45% good; 44.83% fair; 1.72% average and no poor level (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The electro-acupuncture and San-bi-tang remedy combined with herbal steam in patients of primary knee osteoarthritis is a safe treatment, effectively reducing pain and improving motor function significantly.

Key words: Knee Osteoarthritis, electro-acupuncture, San-bi-tang remedy, herbal steam.
Study on the characteristics of asymptomatic incident vertebral fractures and related factors in Vietnamese people over 50 years old
Authors: Nguyen Thai Hoa , Phu Tri Nghia , Thai Thi Hong Nhung , Nguyen Thuy Quyen , Nguyen The Bao , Ho Pham Thuc Lan , Vo Tam
Published: March 2024

Background: Vertebral fractures are the most common complication of osteoporosis, but more than two-thirds are asymptomatic. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the following objectives: (1) To describe some characteristics of incident asymptomatic vertebral fractures in adults aged 50 years and older in Vietnam; (2) To evaluate some factors related to incident asymptomatic vertebral fractures in adults aged 50 years and older in Vietnam.

Materials and Methods: 455 adults aged 50 years and older volunteered to participate in the study. Cohort study of the Vietnam Osteoporosis Study (VOS) project.

Results and Conclusions: In 29/455 cases of incident asymptomatic vertebral fractures followed after 2 years, the most common characteristics included: wedge fracture type (73.3%), grade 2 fracture (56.7%), and the most common locations are T12 and L1 (over 50%). Factors associated with incident vertebral fractures are advanced age and smoking.

Key words: vertebral fracture, osteoporosis, bone mineral density (BMD), risk factors.
The overview of cervical cancer screening registry from international experience and Vietnam situation
Authors: Le Dinh Duong , Nguyen Hoang Thuy Linh , Dang Thi Anh Thu , Tran Binh Thang , Nguyen Vu Quoc Huy , Le Minh Tam , Nguyen Thi Dang Thu , Tran Thi Mai Lien
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The study was conducted to comprehensively assess the status cervical cancer screening registry based on the experience of several countries and the domestic context, to propose related recommendations for Vietnam.

Method: The study collected and evaluated the models and induced lessons in implementing and managing cervical cancer recording systems, from four countries/territory namely: Australia, Taiwan-China, Korea, and Thailand. Additionally, a literature review on policies documents and programs related to cervical cancer screening that have been implemented in Vietnam was also conducted.

Results and Conclusion: All four selected countries/territory have prioritized to develop their cervical screening data management system with different models, all systems aimed at personalized management and used the data to evaluate the effectiveness of the screening program. Currently, there is no system to record and manage data on cervical screening in Vietnam. However, the country has many strengths and opportunities for the implementation of this program at the national level. The recommendations focus on the preparation and establishment of an integrated system for cervical cancer screening registry data, is suggested as a component of the information system of maternal and child health/ reproductive health, into the existing medical data management system, according to the short-term and long-term roadmap.

Key words: screening registry, cervical cancer, desk/policy review, Vietnam.
Enhancing efficiency of melaleuca essential oil using deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Vu Duc Canh , Hoang Thuy Nguyen , Nguyen Thi Hoai , Le Trong Nhan , Tran Thi Thuy Linh
Published: March 2024

Background: Melaleuca essential oil has many good effects, bringing economic efficiency; however, low extraction efficiency is a problem that needs to be overcome. This study aims to enhance the efficiency of extracting Melaleuca essential oil by employing deep eutectic solvents (DESs).
Materials and methods: Branches and leaves of Melaleuca cajuputi Powell were pretreated by DESs. Carry out the distillation of essential oils by steam distillation. Determination of the chemical composition of essential oils by chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).
Results: The combination of choline chloride and oxalic acid to create DESs solvent system helps the extraction efficiency of Melaleuca essential oil increase by 160%. In addition, the total content of 1,8-cineol and isocineol in the essential oil extracted with DESs solvent was 34.019%, higher than that of the essential oil extracted with distilled water at 30.749%.
Conclusions: The positive results show the potential of using DESs solvents to improve the yield and quality of Melaleuca essential oil
Key words: Melaleuca essential oil, choline chloride, oxalic acid, deep eutectic solvents.
Türkiye Ölçeğinde Karayolu Yol- Bakım Maliyetleri ve Gelecek Tahmini
Authors: Göksal Fatma Pınar
Published: March 2024

Karayolu ulaşımında dikkat edilmesi gereken en önemli unsur ekonomi olgusudur. Ülkemizde de halihazırda yapımı hızla artmakta olan artan esnek üst yol kaplamaları, taşıt sayısı artışları vb. gerekçelerdeki artışlar sebebi ile ekonomik verilerin önemini göz önüne sermektedir. Bugüne kadar karayolu üstyapısı bozulma örnekleri üzerine detaylı incelemeler yapılmıştır. Bu çalışmada farklı olarak amaç, maliyet araştırmalarında gelecek tahmin modelleri oluşturmaktır. Çalışmada bölgesel düzeyde yol bakım onarım için harcanan rakamlar yıllara göre incelenmiştir. Verilerin analizinde SPSS programından yararlanılmıştır. Karayolları genel müdürlüğünden alınan yol bakım onarım verilerinin 2023-2025 tahminlerinde Winters yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Çalışma sonuçlarına göre 2025 yılı için artan trafik hacminden dolayı yol bakım maliyetinin ciddi oranda artacağı gözlemlenmiş ve bunu azaltabilmek için yapılabilecek önlemler ve politikalar sunulmuştur.
Effect of Solar Collector Geometry on Drying Time and Nutritional Properties of Levant Quality Hazelnuts
Authors: Akgün Mithat , Aygün Cemalettin , Akgün Mehmet , Turan Emre
Published: March 2024

This study examines the impact of drying Levant quality hazelnut samples, including husk and shell, using hot air heated by solar panels at a constant speed of 6 m/s. The study also investigates the impact of collector irradiation absorption surface geometries on hazelnut drying time. A solar collector with four types of air duct geometry was used to dry hazelnuts. The radiation-absorbing surface of the air duct was manufactured flat, and three different trapezoidal geometries (30, 45 and 60 angles) were used. The mass losses of hazelnuts were measured and determined at regular intervals. In addition, the total phenolic content, the DPPH radical scavenging activity, the FRAP, the free fatty acid content, the peroxide value and the moisture content were measured. For the purpose of comparison, some of the products have been dried by means of unheated air at ambient temperature. The pre-drying process (withering process) to separate the hazelnuts from husk, only took 1.5 days (14 h excluding night). In these systems, the shelled fresh hazelnuts, separated from the husk, fell below the equilibrium moisture content of 6% in 2 days (except for 18 h at night). It was found that the most suitable collector geometry for all the parameters studied in the drying of hazelnuts with solar collectors was 45 degrees, and that other geometries could be used in terms of food properties.
Pengaruh Person Job-Fit dan Job Burnout terhadap Kepuasan Kerja Gen Z (Studi Pada Pengikut Akun Twitter Worksfess)
Authors: Yulianto Wahyu
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui bagaimana pengaruh antaravariabel Person Job Fit dan variabel Job Burnout terhadap Kepuasan Kerja Gen Z.Dalam penelitian ini, variabel Person Job Fit dan variabel Job Burnout sebagaivariabel bebas dan kepuasan kerja sebagai variabel terikat. Pengumpulan dataprimer dengan menggunakan teknik simple random sampling sebagai sampel,dengan jumlah 80 responden gen z sebagai pengikut akun Twitter Worksfess yangpernah melakukan resign. Metode analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitianini adalah regresi linear berganda dengan bantuan pengolahan data menggunakansoftware SPSS. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian yang telah dilakukan menunjukkanbahwa secara simultan variabel bebas memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikanterhadap variabel terikat (kepuasan kerja). Dan nilai r square menunjukkan angka68.1% yang artinya bahwa keseluruhan variabel bebas berpengaruh secara simultansebesar 68.1%Kata Kunci : Person Job Fit, Job Burnout, dan Kepuasan Kerja.
Pengaruh Kompetensi dan Kredibilitas Chatbot AI Terhadap Kepercayaan Penggunaan Chatbot AI Pada Pengguna Lazada Di Kota Medan
Authors: Mutyara M Reza Aldiansyah , Hasman Haryaji Catur Putera , Alfifto Alfifto , Darmansyah Mutya Rahmi
Published: March 2024

This research aims: (1) To determine the influence of AI Chatbot on purchase intentions of Lazada users in the city of Medan; (2) To determine the effect of trust on purchase intentions among Lazada users in the city of Medan. (3) To determine the effect of AI Chatbot on purchase intention with trust as a mediating variable among Lazada users in the city of Medan. This research method uses quantitative methods. The research sample was 5 sub-districts represented by 170 respondents. Research results: (1) Chatbot AI has a positive and significant effect on Trust among Lazada users in the city of Medan; (2) Trust has a positive and significant effect on Purchase Intention of Lazada users in the city of Medan. (3) AI chatbot has a positive and significant effect on Purchase Intention of Lazada users in the city of Medan.

 

Keywords: Influence, Competence, Credibility, Chatboi AI.
Evaluation of Queue System Management Implementation at XYZ Supermarket in Lampung
Authors: Basory Hartomy Akbar
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Queuing system management (QSM) can help improve operational efficiency, reduce customer waiting time, a node from human resource management (HRM) based on the effectiveness of HR performance, and optimize employees as HR in improving customer service. This research was conducted with the aim of knowing the mplementing queuing results of system management in one of the Supermarkets in Lampung Province and knowing the optimal number of cashier lines in the QSM. Research conducted on the research object, namely XYZ Supermarket, is recorded every one-hour interval. This research was conducted for 14 days, working hours from 09.00-21.00 Western Indonesian Time zone. The population in this study is all consumers whose population is unlimited. The sample used is consumers who enter the XYZ Supermarket QSM. The study purpose was to optimize the QSM with Ws less than 3 minutes and Ls less than 4 people in accordance with the SOP. This research method uses the multi-channel single-phase model with system time and systems number. The analysis results in this study can be concluded that the performance of the queuing system implemented with the number of cashiers (M) of 2 cashiers at 09.00-09.59, 12.00-12.59, and 19.00-19.59. It makes optimal QSM with Ws less than 3 minutes, and Ls less than 4 people.
Analisis Pengaruh Penggunaan Social Media Marketing Melalui Instagram Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian, Studi Kasus Pada Program Studi Manajemen S1 Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Yasa Anggana Garut
Authors: Syafarudin Dadang
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine and analyze the influence of social media marketing on decision making. Social media as an independent variable has influenced consumer behavior in buying a product, including in the world of education which is an intangible product. Social media marketing for prospective new students currently has a close relationship with the purchasing decision to choose the college they will go to. The method that the writer will use is to use a quantitative method, namely a research method based on a hunch of positivism, used to examine certain populations or samples, data collection uses research instruments, data analysis is quantitative/statistical in nature, with the aim of testing the hypotheses that have been set.
POSSIBLE UTILIZATION OF GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOLS FOR CREATING DIGITAL EDUCATIONAL ESCAPE ROOMS
Authors: Stojšić Ivan
Published: March 2024

Escape rooms used for teaching purposes are usually called educational escape rooms. Educational escape rooms are cooperative games designed for teaching particular educational material based on a series of narrative-driven puzzles that group(s) of pupils/students must solve within a limited time to achieve the goal of the game and leave a room or environment (or alternatively break into the locked box or unravel a mystery). The shift to online teaching caused by the COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of educational escape rooms in a digital format. Digital educational escape rooms are escape game-like interactive activities (based on educational content) that are made with digital technologies. Most of the research studies and literature reviews suggest that digital educational escape rooms could have some positive impacts on students’ cognitive, behavioral, and affective learning outcomes. However, a significant amount of digital escape games created by teachers lack engaging story, challenging narrative-based puzzles (that are related to specific learning objectives), and cohesive graphics. Therefore, the practical usability and effectiveness of such games in real and virtual learning environments are questionable. In the field of educational game development, generative artificial intelligence can play a significant role in simplifying the process, improving quality, and saving time. This paper discusses how teachers could utilize generative artificial intelligence tools to ease and improve the creation process of digital educational escape rooms. In other words, this paper provides examples of how elements of digital escape games (such as narrative, game environment images, and puzzles) can be created with generative artificial intelligence tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Bing Image Creator, Stable Diffusion, AutoDraw, etc.).
THE LAW OF MEASURE IN THE USE OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND THE PROTECTION OF NATURE
Authors: Risteski Temelko
Published: March 2024

Man, according to biologists, is an animal that belongs to the order of mammals, and within its framework, to the hominids family. Within this family he includes the species homo sapiens. As a creation of nature, he is a part of it. As a part of it, he actually represents human nature. He is born, grows, develops, reproduces, ages and dies according to natural laws. “Man is the measure of all that exists and of all does not exist”, says Protagoras.“ To have measure in everything is the first condition for achieving happiness,” says Democritus. For Aristotle, “two extremes are dangerous in human action: what is excessive and what is lacking. Our very nature suits exactly what is in the middle, neither too much nor too little.” Man, as a part of nature and a measure of everything that exists in it and of what did not exist, using its resources to create it in order to exist and use it, is obliged to respect the law of measure, as a law of nature. Respecting that law, man must take care to use the natural resources to a limit that will not lead to an unwanted change in its quality, and thus to the disruption of the conditions for his life. Unfortunately, man does not act like that, but mercilessly exploits and destroys nature. The thesis that the nature of Planet Earth has lost its self-regulating mechanisms is not true. On the contrary, the self-regulatory mechanisms of nature are increasingly coming to the fore. Global warming followed by unprecedented dry periods in certain parts of the Planet, the hunger of millions of people caused by them, catastrophic floods, hurricane-ravaged winds, increased mortality due to polluted air, epidemics and pandemics whose spread is facilitated by dense living in cities are nothing else, but regulatory mechanisms of nature by which it reduces the human population and tends to exterminate it. Man, ie, humanity, is the one who has lost self-regulatory mechanisms. Endless industrialization driven by the whip of profit, intoxicated by consumer obsession, with uncontrolled exploitation of natural resources, mercilessly destroys the ecosystem of Planet Earth. Due to the absence or ineffectiveness of self-regulatory mechanisms, Planet Earth, as the global natural environment of man, is facing a severe ecological crisis. Characteristic of this crisis is not only the destruction of living conditions by destruction and pollution of the natural environment, but also by the destruction of the entire ecosystem of the Planet, the maintenance of which is a vital condition for human life and the survival of civilization. Nature is omnipotent and inexorable when it comes to breaking its laws. Man, as humanized nature, can never be her master, as he imagines, but her servant and slave. The French philosopher Paul Holbach writes about this in his work “System of Nature.” Humanity must find self-regulatory mechanisms and strengthen the existing ones to the maximum. Otherwise, as Thomas Eliot says, “it comes to an end, not in a brutal detonation, but gradually and with a peaceful exhalation.
COMPETENCIES OF SERBIAN YOUTH FOOTBALL COACHES
Authors: Milosavljević Voja , Rajković Željko , Perišić Dragan
Published: March 2024

Although there is an organized training system for coaches in the Football Association of Serbia (FAS), their careers are governed to a much greater extent by the merciless market, which forms a unique combination of the influence of the environment, age, previous competitive experience and level of success, as well as coaching experience. For the stated reason, the FAS Youth Commission, which takes care of the future of Serbian football, launched a survey on the professional profile of youth football coaches in Serbia. The analysis includes the work of 161 coaches of youth schools in the Super League, the First League and the Serbian League. Most coaches come from Western Serbia, followed by Belgrade, then Eastern Serbia, with Vojvodina at the back. The age structure of the coaches seems to meet the current needs of the Association. The coaching assotiation are also satisfying with a high percentage of licensed coaches. The coach’s previous playing experience is also satisfactory. A relatively small number of coaches have playing experience at the highest level. The question arises whether the structure of the average coaching tenure is sufficient for the results that are set as goals for the FAS? A small number of trainers worked with only one age group, while the largest number of trainers worked with 4 ages between 10 and 18 years old. Half of the coaches tried their hand at the senior competition. A seemingly simple analysis raises questions that mostly concern the unused resource for the advancement of the FAS, and which are precisely found in the strategic approach to the development of football personnel and the systematic management of the aforementioned variables, which, with the correct relationship, sequence and combination, can lead to more experienced and successful football experts in Serbia. Based on the results, FAS will launch a joint development program for youth.