bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Racecadotril in a Patient Affected by a Therapy-Refractory VIPoma and Carcinoid Syndrome
Authors: Boesenkoetter Jannes , Ellrichmann Ina , Konukiewitz Björn , Ellrichmann Mark , Schulte Dominik M
Published: September 2024

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) encompass a heterogeneous spectrum of tumors originating from the diffuse neuroendocrine cell system. Approximately 30% of NEN exhibit functional activity with clinical syndromes through hormone-mediated effects. Synchronous and metachronous functioning syndromes, resulting from the simultaneous release of distinct hormones, are exceptionally rare. Of note, hormonal excess syndromes can have a greater effect on patients’ morbidity and mortality than the tumor mass itself. We present the case of a 49-year-old male patient affected by an oligo-metastatic ileal NEN, concurrently demonstrating vasointestinal peptide (VIP) and serotonin excretion, complicated by pulmonary tuberculosis. After the first cycle of Lutetium-177-DOTATATE peptide-radio-receptor therapy, the patient developed a severe watery diarrhea, hypokalemia, and achlorhydria (WDHA) syndrome, despite receiving high-dose somatostatin analogues, everolimus, and telotristat ethyl, without any surgical options. The WDHA syndrome necessitated intensive-care-unit (ICU) admission with continual intravenous administration of electrolytes and fluids. With limited alternatives, an off-label intervention using the enkephalinase inhibitor racecadotril was initiated. After 5 days of treatment, the WDHA syndrome exhibited sufficient control, facilitating the patient's discharge from the ICU. This case report underscores racecadotril as an individualized, off-label treatment strategy for patients with severe VIPoma and serotonin-driven WDHA syndrome, where conventional therapeutic avenues have been exhausted.
“I guess I have to just put my dick on the table”: Rough Trade, Tenure, and Black Sexualities as Self-defense
Authors: Willoughby-Herard Tiffany
Published: September 2024

Willoughby-Herard crafts original bawdy fables and fashions crude proverbs to analyze Black LGBTQ+ experiences in academia as a ground for theory that navigates the promise and peril of telling. The essay takes seriously Evelynn Hammonds’s advice that Black sexual and gender others recall their journeys as a mode of defense, analysis, meaning making. Using vulgar tales to throw shade, while wrestling within and beyond the limits of trauma porn and spectacle, makes for a hard-won cultural legacy and remittance that points to possibilities for survival and being. Recalling bitter experiences in academia exposes social relations anchored by collective violence. Following Alicia Levy-Seedat, vulgarity, deployed by working-class speakers of Jamaican Patwah (patois), cuts through patronizing conditions. Willoughby-Herard’s notion of “writerly extravagance” enables telling while feeding on the rough laughter and crass pleasure of readers and hearers to create something like survival, or at least having the last laugh.
Manipulating cell fate through reprogramming: approaches and applications
Authors: Yagi Masaki , Horng Joy E. , Hochedlinger Konrad
Published: September 2024

Cellular plasticity progressively declines with development and differentiation, yet these processes can be experimentally reversed by reprogramming somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using defined transcription factors. Advances in reprogramming technology over the past 15 years have enabled researchers to study diseases with patient-specific iPSCs, gain fundamental insights into how cell identity is maintained, recapitulate early stages of embryogenesis using various embryo models, and reverse aspects of aging in cultured cells and animals. Here, we review and compare currently available reprogramming approaches, including transcription factor-based methods and small molecule-based approaches, to derive pluripotent cells characteristic of early embryos. Additionally, we discuss our current understanding of mechanisms that resist reprogramming and their role in cell identity maintenance. Finally, we review recent efforts to rejuvenate cells and tissues with reprogramming factors, as well as the application of iPSCs in deriving novel embryo models to study pre-implantation development.
Αντιλήψεις των καθηγητών φυσικής αγωγής και των σχολικών συμβούλων για τη διδασκαλία του ελληνικού παραδοσιακού χορού στην υποχρεωτική εκπαίδευση
Authors: Φλουρής Στυλιανός
Published: September 2024

Ο Ελληνικός Παραδοσιακός Χορός (Ε.Π.Χ.) διατρέχεται από μια πολυεπίπεδη και πολυδιάστατη φύση –κίνηση, μουσική, τραγούδι- καταστάσεις που τον καθιστούν ένα «πολυσύνθετο πολιτισμικό μόρφωμα», λόγος που δυνητικά δυσχεραίνει τη διδακτική του προσέγγιση. Δεδομένου, μάλιστα, ότι οι διάφορες μελέτες, έχουν αποκαλύψει ότι υπάρχει ένα έλλειμμα ως προς την αποτελεσματική διδακτική προσέγγιση του Ε.Π.Χ. –πχ μηολιστικές αντιλήψεις για τον Ε.Π.Χ., μονομερείς προσεγγίσεις κατά τη διδασκαλία του κλπ- είναι επιτακτική ανάγκη να διερευνηθούν οι προϋποθέσεις που επηρεάζουν τις αντιλήψεις των εκπαιδευτικών να διεξάγουν τη διδασκαλία του στην υποχρεωτική εκπαίδευση. Η ανάγκη αυτή γίνεται επιτακτικότερη υπό το πρίσμα των σύγχρονων ευρωπαϊκών εξελίξεων που αφορούν στις ικανότητες και τα «νέα» επαγγελματικά προσόντα των εκπαιδευτικών, καθώς και των μεταρρυθμίσεων που πραγματοποιήθηκαν στα προγράμματα σπουδών (Δ.Ε.Π.Π.Σ. και Α.Π.Σ.) και τα σχολικά εγχειρίδια (Σ.Ε.) της χώρας μας, οι οποίες έχουν επηρεάσει και το γνωστικό αντικείμενο της Φυσικής Αγωγής και ειδικότερα τον Ε.Π.Χ.. Επομένως, ο βασικός σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι να αποτυπώσει/να καταγράψει τις αντιλήψεις των Σχολικών Συμβούλων και των Κ.Φ.Α. για τη διδασκαλίατου Ε.Π.Χ. και να αναδείξει τις κατάλληλες προϋποθέσεις για την αποτελεσματική διδασκαλία του στην εκπαίδευση σύμφωνα με τα πιστεύω των ανωτέρω. Τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας έδειξαν ότι οι Σ.Σ. διακατέχονται από σύγχρονες αντιλήψεις για τον Ε.Π.Χ., θεωρούν τις μεταρρυθμίσεις για τα Δ.Ε.Π.Π.Σ. και Α.Π.Σ. θετικές και ενθαρρύνουν τους Κ.Φ.Α. να τις εντάξουν στις πρακτικές τους. Αντίθετα, ένα μεγάλο μέρος των Κ.Φ.Α. δεν είναι επαρκώς ενημερωμένοι για τις εν λόγω μεταρρυθμίσεις και οι αντιλήψεις τους είναι αμφιλεγόμενες και μονομερείς ως προς τηδιδασκαλία του Ε.Π.Χ., αδυνατώντας να εφαρμόσουν τις επαγγελματικές τους δεξιότητεςγια την ολιστική διδακτική προσέγγιση του Ε.Π.Χ. Προς την κατεύθυνση αυτή διατυπώσαμε προτάσεις ώστε να διασφαλιστούν αρτιότερες συνθήκες διεξαγωγής των μελλοντικών ερευνών που αφορούν στην ολιστική διδακτική προσέγγιση του Ε.Π.Χ., ώστε να αναδειχθεί στο έπακρον η παιδευτική του αξία και να αποτυπωθεί μια πιο ολοκληρωμένη εικόνα του στο πολιτισμικό γίγνεσθαι της χώρας μας.
Smartphone use and social media addiction in undergraduate students
Authors: Parasin Nichapa , Watthanasuwakul Monthinee , Udomkichpagon Palagon , Amnuaylojaroen Teerachai
Published: September 2024

Background Children’s use of social media has increased significantly over the past decade. As a result, they are susceptible to smartphone addiction. In particular, parents' and children's well-being and behaviors are negatively affected by smartphone addiction. Such addiction likely affects both physical performance and lifestyle. Adolescents utilize their smartphones while performing other tasks. The secondary task might divert attention away from the primary task. Reaction time is the combination of brain processing and muscular movement. Texting or communicating on a smartphone while performing another task may affect reaction time. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore the influence of smartphone use on reaction time in undergraduate students who were addicted to smartphones. Methods The Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV) was used to assign 64 undergraduate students to the smartphone addiction group (n = 32) and the control group (n = 32). The reaction time (RT) of an organism is used to determine how rapidly it responds to stimuli. All participants were examined on the RT test under three conditions: no smartphone use (control), texting, and chatting on a smartphone. Participants were questioned by smartphone through text message or chat with the support of a researcher during the texting and conversation conditions. While responding to the questions, the participant was administered an RT test. Results The results showed that smartphone addiction tends to have a reduced influence on reaction time when compared to the control group. Also, texting or conversing on a smartphone while doing other work had a substantial impact on reaction time in the undergraduates. Conclusions Combining smartphone use with other activities tends to reduce undergraduate students' reaction time.
State-of-the-art optimization methods for short-term mine planning
Authors: Kambala Malundamene Moise , Habib Nasib Al , Soulaimani Saâd , Abdessamad Khalil , Askari-Nasab Hooman
Published: September 2024

Maintaining short-term planning aligned with the ultimate long-term plan is challenging. This requires many details to be modelled on a daily or weekly basis to reach this target. Short-term planning is more challenging than medium- and long-term planning because it deals with uncertainties, which increases the gap between medium- and long-term plans. Short-term mine planning teams are expected to identify and manage potential risks to mitigate them, and eventually achieve the long-term objective of maximizing the Net Present Value (NPV). Very few studies have identified the problems that exist in short-term mine planning and provided technical solutions to overcome them for open-pit mines. One of the complexities associated with short-term planning is the creation of polygons or mining cuts by clustering before optimizing and scheduling the plan to reduce the computational expense of mine planning models. The primary objective of this study is to review the latest papers describing short-term mine planning challenges and technical solutions proposed to optimize mine planning for open-pit mines.
Mediating role of Social Support and Self-efficiency on Academic stress and Student’s Psychological well-being among Public and Private Universities in Mogadishu -Somalia.
Authors: Dahir Mohamed Ali , Jeilani Abdulkadir
Published: September 2024

Background Academic stress is a significant factor affecting students’ psychological well-being, particularly in higher education. Understanding the mediating roles of social support and self-efficacy can provide insights into how these factors influence students’ psychological well-being in public and private universities. Methods The study examined the mediating roles of social support and self-efficacy in the relationship between academic stress and psychological well-being among university students in Mogadishu, Somalia. Utilizing a stratified sampling technique, data were collected from 663 students across public (52.6%) and private (47.4%) universities through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using path analysis to assess direct and indirect effects. Structural equation modeling technique was used for data analysis. Results The analysis revealed a significant direct effect of academic stress on psychological well-being (β = 0.133, p = 0.000). Academic stress was not significantly related to social support (β = 0.128, p = 0.066) and self-efficacy (β = 0.075, p = 0.099). However, both social support (β = 0.059, p = 0.000) and self-efficacy (β = 0.838, p = 0.000) were significantly related to psychological well-being. The mediating analysis showed that social support partially mediated the relationship between academic stress and psychological well-being (Indirect effect = 0.070, CI [-0.036, 0.197], p = 0.000), while self-efficacy did not mediate this relationship (Indirect effect = 0.063, CI [0.054, 0.218], p = 0.097). Conclusions The findings suggest a significant positive impact of academic stress on psychological well-being, while social support partially mediates this relationship, highlighting its buffering role. Conversely, self-efficacy, although positively contributing to psychological well-being, does not mediate the effect of academic stress. These results underscore the importance of robust social support systems and targeted interventions to enhance students’ coping mechanisms and overall psychological well-being. Study limitations and implication are discussed.
Factors Associated with Homosexual Adolescents in South Korea
Authors: Kim Jong Gun
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate factors related to homosexual adolescents in South Korea. Methods: Using statistics from the 12th (2016) Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey, hierarchical logistic regression analysis was conducted. The study sample comprised 65,528 middle and high school students aged 12 to 18 years. Results: The significant predictors of homosexual intercourse were gender, attempted suicide, bullying at school experience, ever drinking, ever smoking, habitual or purposeful drug use, cohabitation with family, weekly allowance, and mother’s education levels. Conclusions: The results suggest that gender-related interventions should be considered in school health education programs and that sexual health interventions for high-risk groups may be needed, given the factors predicting homosexual intercourse.
Analysis of Educational Needs of Home Care Nurses: Utilizing Borich’s Needs Assessment and the Locus for Focus Model
Authors: Kim Dasom , Kim Hyeongsu , Ko Young
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study analyzed educational needs of home care nurses to improve the quality of home care service and identify priority educational subjects. Methods: This study analyzed the training priorities of 54 home care nurses working at community service centers or public health centers in Seoul, Korea, using the Borich Needs Assessment and the Locus of Focus model. The home care nurses’ tasks were categorized into 21 tasks and 85 task elements. Results: Six priority educational subjects were identified: 1) health assessment and monitoring, 2) nursing records and information management, 3) health education and counseling techniques, 4) home care supplies management, 5) recipient identification and communication skills, and 6) care recipient classification and management. Activities related to one-on-one health management, such as health screening, measurements, and disease management counseling, were found to be high priorities. In contrast, small group program planning and operation were rated as a low priority. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of incorporating identified educational needs into training curricula for home care nurses. Regular assessment and integration of these needs into educational programs are crucial for enhancing nursing competence and service quality.
Still Heating: Unfolding a Typology of Climate Obstruction
Authors: Forchtner Bernhard , Hultman Martin , Jylhä Kirstie M.
Published: September 2024

Earth is on a catastrophic trajectory towards severe ecological destruction, and yet, there is little sign of halting the rise of global greenhouse gas emissions or stopping the extraction of fossil fuels. Against this background, in this article we re-engage with a recently proposed typology supposed to cover three modes through which effective climate action has been obstructed. These are, first, primary obstruction, that is, the spread of disinformation and/or denying the very existence of anthropogenic climate change. Second,secondary obstruction concerns more or less deliberate obstruction via opposition to climate action and policies via, for example, reference to “the threat of deindustrialisation”. Finally, tertiary obstruction denotes modes of living which, while not necessarily obstructing effective climate change intentionally, concerns “living in denial”. Drawing on recent research and examples, we revisit this typology.
Determination of gelatin from marshmallows using a combination of fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopic and chemometrics for halal authentication
Authors: Fatmawati Sofia , Hariyanti Hariyanti , Permanasari Etin Diah , Chandra Ady , Firmanto Johan Dwi , Sari Retno Lia , Pamungkas Septiana Tri
Published: September 2024

Marshmallow is a foam that contains aerated sugar, which is stabilized with gelatin or egg albumin. In this research, a Fourier Transform Infra-Red (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy combined with the Chemometrics methods is developed to distinguish the presence of porcine gelatin in marshmallows, which can then be used to identify halal products. This method provides fast and rapid testing of halal products. Marshmallows were made with varying concentrations of bovine and porcine gelatine as the reference. Commercial marshmallows were collected in the online marketplace by purposive sampling. Isolated gelatin was analyzed using the ATR-FTIR spectrophotometer, and data analysis was continued using PCA (Principal Component Analysis). The results showed that bovine gelatin absorbed at a wavenumber of 1638 cm-1, while porcine gelatin produced a sharp absorption at 1697 and 1654 cm-1. The results of PCA analysis show that 100% of bovine gelatin marshmallows (S100) have areas different from marshmallows containing a mixture of porcine gelatin. The PCA results of four samples (A1, A2, A3, and A4) show they are in the same area as 100% bovine gelatin marshmallows (S100). This shows that it is suspected that the four marshmallow samples tested did not contain porcine gelatin. The multivariate regression curve showed that the pattern of linear absorbance changes along with porcine gelatin concentrations with the highest coefficient equation is from wavenumber 1093.97 cm-1.
 
Keywords: ATR-FTIR, Bovine gelatin, Chemometric, Marshmallow, Porcine gelatin
Prediction of biomarker peak of infrared spectra between pork fat and chicken meat fat using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy technique and clotter plot method
Authors: Saputra Irwan , Kartika Irma Ratna
Published: September 2024

The increasingly widespread contamination of chicken meat by pork requires a method to identify the presence of these contaminants quickly and cheaply. Apart from analyzing the spectrum of various pure animal fats, this research also aims to vary the concentration of pork fat and chicken fat to know the FTIR peak spectrum, which will change with changes in concentration. The presence of spectral peaks that change can be identified due to changes in pork fat concentration, which also shows a typical peak spectrum position in pork fat. Variations in the concentration of pork fat contaminants in chicken fat consist of the ratio of the mixture of pork fat (PF) and chicken fat (CF), namely 90:10 (PC1), 80:20 (PC2), 70:30 (PC3), 60:40 (PC4), 50:50 (PC5), 40:60 (PC6), 30:70 (PC7), 20:80 (PC8), and 10:90 (PC9). A scatter plot, a graph usually used to see the relationship pattern between 2 variables, is employed in this research to visualize the changes in spectral peaks with varying concentrations of pork fat in chicken fat. The data scale must be an interval and ratio scale to use a scatter plot. Biomarker wavelengths were identified from the spectra of four animal fats and palm oil at positions 2948.9 and 3007 cm−1, separated by four animal fats and palm oil at a certain distance, thus indicating that these wavelengths could be used to identify non-halal samples.
 
Keywords: Chicken, Clotter plot, Fat, Infrared, Meat, Pork, Spectra
Influence of Clinical Nursing Competency and Nursing Working Environment of Psychiatric Nurses on Person-Centered Care
Authors: Kim Pan Heui
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine effects of clinical competency and working environment of psychiatric nurses on person-centered care.Methods: This study was conducted in five hospitals located in Daegu city and Gyeongsang-do of South Korea. Participants were 153 psychiatric nurses who had experienced psychiatric nursing practice for at least 12 months. Data were collected from November 15, 2023 to December 31, 2023 using a structured questionnaire. Collected data were analyzed through multiple regression analysis using the SPSS 21.0 program.Results: Participants had a person-centered care score of 3.93 out of 5, a clinical competence score of 3.58 out of 5, and a working condition score of 3.08 out of 4. Regression analysis showed that clinical competence (β=.47, p<.001) and working conditions (β=.38, p<.001) were factors affecting person-centered care, with an explanatory power for person-centered care of 49.8% (F=36.42, p<.001).Conclusion: To enhance person-centered nursing competency of psychiatric nurses, it is essential to enhancing their working conditions and improving their clinical competence.
Factors Influencing Anxiety in MZ Generation Workers: Occupational Stress, Social Problem Solving, Work as Meaning, and Work-Life Balance
Authors: Shin Hyewon , Kim SukSun
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to examine factors influencing the anxiety levels of MZ generation workers, including occupational stress, social problem solving, work as meaning, and work-life balance.Methods: This study used secondary data from 503 MZ generation workers which was originally collected in a mental health study of workers applying machine learning techniques. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation analysis, and stepwise multiple regression analysis with SPSS 26.Results: Results indicated that the job demand and job insecurity subscales of occupational stress, negative problem orientation, avoidance style, and impulsive & careless style of social problem solving scale were identified as significant factors that increased anxiety. In contrast, the job control subscale of occupational stress, work-life balance, the greater good motivation subscale of work as meaning, and positive problem orientation of social problem solving scale were identified as important factors that reduced anxiety. These factors collectively explained approximately 49% of the variance in anxiety among MZ generation workers.Conclusion: The findings suggest that it is essential to manage occupational stress with an optimistic perspective, develop social problem solving skills with a sense of meaning at work and maintain a great work-life balance to reduce anxiety among MZ generation workers.
Green Space Cooling Effect and Relation to Mitigate Surface Urban Heat Island Effect of Metropolitans Cities of India
Authors: Gupta Rupesh Kumar
Published: September 2024

Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to study vegetation's spatial distribution. However, MODIS thermal bands were employed to analyse Land Surface Temperature (LST) and city thermal properties. The findings show that 15.97% of Lucknow's total area is classified as a High potential SUHI zone, compared to 29.41%, classified as a Low potential SUHI zone. Jaipur has two possible SUHI zones: a high potential zone (12.69%) and a low potential zone (30.45%). In contrast, Ahmedabad exhibits an 18.37 per cent High potential SUHI Zone and a 27.62 per cent low potential SUHI Zone. Delhi exhibits a 14.98 per cent High potential SUHI Zone but is significantly higher at 39.97 per cent Low potential SUHI Zone. Analysis of LST distribution reveals correlations with vegetation cover, with areas abundant in greenery experiencing lower temperatures. This study emphasizes how crucial green infrastructure is to urban planning to improve thermal comfort in fast-urbanizing areas and reduce the negative consequences of urban heat islands.
Climate Extremes Related with Temperature Change Point Detection in Pambar Kottakaraiyar Basin
Authors: P Supriya
Published: September 2024

Global climate change has changed the trend of climate variables. Also there is change in intensity, frequency and cyclic pattern of climate extremes such as flood, drought, heatwaves and tropical cyclones in the southern part of India. The high temperatures and further increase pose serious socio-economic and environmental impacts. There is an urgent necessity to know about the regional level climate extremes and their adaptation strategies especially for the drought prone and rain fed basins. This paper discusses about the temperature trend and change point over a long term historical time period of 30 years (1992-2021). Based on the Man-Kendall method and Sen’s test, the temperature over the basin is showing a significant rising trend with positive slopes in almost all the months, seasons and annual statistics. The change points of mean temperature are observed in 2008 for both Kundrakudi and Pudukottai climate stations. The minimum temperature change point was identified in 1998 and 2009 years for the Kundrakudi climate station. The results of this paper will be helpful in capacity building of specialised team on extremes risk, vulnerability and sector specific indices for temperature for the water resources and agricultural sectors under changing climate.
Locating Concepts, Practices and Policies of Environmental Concern in Reports
Authors: Yadav Geetanjali , Dubey J. P.
Published: September 2024

Environment plays a crucial role in our lives. The Anthropocene era is marked with the emergence of chronic environmental issues. These issues are spread worldwide. India is also dealing with several environmental issues. Developing ‘Environmental Concern’ (Individual, social, and at institutional level) is considered as one of the potential solutions to reduce the impact of environmental issues. The paper attempts to look at the conceptualization of the construct of ‘Environmental Concern’ limiting focus within the Environmental Policy Reports, and Environmental Performance Assessment Reports. The qualitative analysis pertains to the longitudinal period from 2015 to 2021. The findings identified seven key substantial areas of Environmental concern that can be considered in the conceptualization of the construct ‘Environmental Concern’ concerning India’s environmental context. Along with these substantive areas of concern, some critical areas, i.e., forests and biomes, poor air quality, public health concerns, and lead poisoning, also need to be taken into immediate consideration for action. With these areas of consideration in the conceptualization of the construct ‘Environmental Concern’ future efforts to solve environmental problems can be formulated.
Ontological Analysis to understand the Interplay between Ecosystem Services, Human Well-being, and Climate Change
Authors: R Kavana , Nagaraja B C
Published: September 2024

This study employs an ontological analysis to critically examine the integration of ecosystem services and human well-being within the context of climate change. The principal objective is to identify research gaps within the existing literature and to propose potential avenues for future research. Our findings reveal significant deficiencies in policy, legal, and procedural frameworks, with a predominant focus on local-level case studies and objective measures of well-being. Notably, cultural and supporting services remain underexplored. These gaps highlight the need for comprehensive research incorporating diverse stakeholder perspectives, adaptive capabilities, and robust policy frameworks to enhance resilience against climate change. The study underscores the urgent need for broader and more inclusive investigations to effectively inform policy-making and sustainable management practices.
Vegetation Structure, Composition and Plant Community types in Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Kumar Naveen , Tiwari Sonali , Jatav Priyanka , Meena Archana
Published: September 2024

The research was carried out in the Aravalli Forests of Nahargarh (NWLS) and Jamwa Ramgarh Wildlife Sanctuaries (JRWLS) of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. The vegetation structure, composition, biodiversity and plant community types were assessed across the five forest stands viz Nahargarh biological park (S1), Nahargarh Sanctuary (S2) in NWLS and Ramgarh (S3), Raisar (S4), and Digota (S5) of JRWLS, respectively. A total of 164 qaudrats of 20*20 m2 were laid to assess the vegetation data including frequency, basal area, density, importance value index (IVI), biodiversity indices (Shannon-weiner, Simpson, Pielou and Margalef’s) and plant community types. The tree basal area ranged between 18.56 -34.36 m2/ha while stand density was 923-1433 tree/ha. Our study indicated the dominance of family Fabaceae with 20 species and 11 genera with Anogeissus pendula showing the maximum frequency, density, mean basal area and IVI. Further, the agglomerative hierarchal clustering showed five types of plant communities with Anogeissus-Adhatoda as the most widely spread community in these forests. Among the two sanctuaries, species diversity was higher for JRWLS (2.83) than NWLS (2.80). The current study provides important baseline data for forthcoming research on monitoring and preserving these forest’s biological diversity. The significance of present study will provide insight into the structure and variety of tree species in tropical dry deciduous forests.
Assessment of Uranium Pollution in Ground Water and Human Health in Balod District, Chhattisgarh
Authors: Sahu Sheshkumari , Ghosh Manoj Kumar
Published: September 2024

A laser fluorimetric technique was used to measure the amount of uranium present in samples of groundwater from the Balod district, Chhattisgarh, central India. For this purpose, we collected twenty-nine water samples from different villages in the Balod district, Chhattisgarh from September 2022 to June 2023. Here, the concentration of uranium in the sample of water ranges from 0.10 to 66.7(µg/l). A maximum number of samples had uranium contamination levels below the acceptable limit (30 µg/l), except for Siwani village (66.7µg/l), as approved by the WHO. The USEPA recommendations were used to determine the chemical risk ( Non-carcinogenic) and excess lifetime carcinogenic risk (ECR) caused by groundwater consumption. The allowed excess lifetime cancer risk ( ELCR) value of 1.0´10-4was found to be exceeded in a few water samples by the risk of cancer resulting from drinking water. The LADD value of 18 % and HQ value of 24% of the water sample exceed the permissible limit indicating a high risk of chemical poisoning. In this analysis, we found that the area's uranium's chemical toxicity may be the cause of non-carcinogenic health problems, but eventually, there is no Carcinogenic (radiological) risk to people.
Estimation of Runoff at Shetrunji River Basin using SWAT Hydrological Modelling
Authors: Chovatiya Zarna J. , Rajapara Gargi , M. Shaikh Mohdzuned.
Published: September 2024

The researchers and scientists have realized that this is the high time to act in accordance to the impact of change of climate. Because of climate change problem, various effects occur, one of them is hydrological extremes. This leads to the emergence of hot-spots and vulnerable areas causing difficult adaptation. The current analysis intends to estimate the influence of change in climate on the hydrological parameter on one of the most important tributaries of Saurashtra region of Gujarat, Western India. Out of number of methods available to perform this task, simulation (hydrological modelling) which is the most widely used techniques available at this time, has been adopted. Here in this research the SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) model which happens to be a semi-distributed model and integrates the GIS information with the attribute database of the River has been utilized. The watershed delineation has been done using AWD (Automatic Watershed Delineation) which is available as a plugin in ArcSWAT. It has classified the catchment into 28 subbasins. From Esri Sentinel-2 landuse map has been used and the soil map is extracted from FAO Raster world soil map. Moreover, we can classify the sub basins into 173 HRUs (Hydrological Response Unit) by the model. The weather files from 1982 to 2019 has been used from the global weather source as a seed to the model. The successful run of the model gives elucidate fluctuating runoff volumes over time, spanning from a lowest of 2.56 mm to a extreme of 503.78mm. Notably, the annual average runoff stands at 190.82 mm, representing approximately 28.34% of the cumulative rainfall experienced within the river basin. The estimation of runoff is helpful in allocating water for agriculture, household demands, and industrial requirements.
Exploring E-waste Practices and Awareness: Educational Institutions of Haryana as a Case Scenario
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Verma Deepak Kumar
Published: September 2024

This study delves into electronic waste (e-waste) practices and awareness within educational institutions in Haryana, with a focus on students. The surge in electrical and electronic-equipment’s globally has led-to a substantial increasing discarded devices, contributing to environmental and health concerns. The research explores the life cycle of electronic-waste, the causes of the global e-waste problem, and the concept of circular economy (CE). It highlights the role of consumers, particularly students, in evaluating the fate of e-waste and emphasizes the significance of awareness in proper disposal. The study's objectives include assessing the penetration of information and communication technology (ICT) for academic purposes and understanding the willingness of students and faculty toward e-waste recycling. The methodology involves surveys in various academic institutions in Haryana, analyzing demographic profiles, electronic device usage, and environmental consciousness. Results indicate a high level of awareness of e-waste among respondents but a limited understanding of e-waste materials and policies. Despite environmental concerns, knowledge gaps persist, especially regarding valuable and toxic materials in electronic devices. The study concludes with recommendations for establishing e-waste management centers, enhancing environmental awareness, enforcing regulations, and engaging stakeholders to address the e-waste challenge effectively.
Efficiency of Canna indica, Phragmites australis and Eichhornia crassipes in Remediation of Leachate Through a Vertical Flow Constructed Wetland
Authors: Angmo Sonam , Kharayat Yogita , Shah Shachi
Published: September 2024

Leachate treatment and disposal from landfills is one of major environment concern. Leachate contains various pollutants which may cause various environmental and health problem to terrestrial and aquatic living bodies. In the Present study, Landfill leachate was collected from Okhla landfill, New Delhi and treatment of leachate was done by using laboratory scale vertical flow treatment grown with Canna indica, Phragmites australis and Eichhornia crassipes, respectively. The experimental plots were obtained by set up of four different flow rates by balancing the inflow manipulations to obtain detention times of 1,7,14 for 21 days. The reduction of COD, BOD, NH4-N, TSS and heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Co, Cr, As, Pb, Ni, Fe, Zn and V) were investigated for 21 days. Average removal efficiency (%) for VCW (W1) planted with Canna indica showed 77.7%, 78.7%, 63.6%, and 76.7% for COD, BOD, NH4-N and TSS, respectively. Heavy metal removal (%) efficiencies of W1 planted with Canna indica was 60%, 82.5%, 100%, 29.37%, 27.9%, 62.67%, 13.33%, 44.5%, 75.2% and 78.85% for As, Cr, Cd, Cu, Co, Fe, Mn, Pb, Zn and V, in given order. VCW(W2) planted with Eicchornia crassipes species has shown reduction efficiency (%) of COD (68.5%), BOD (52%), NH4-N (45.4%), TSS (92.75%), respectively and in case of heavy metal 89.9% Cr, 100% Cd, 53.49% Cu, 62.7% Co, 85.2% Fe, 67.9% Ni, 76.2% Pb, 83.08% Zn, 65% As and 61.15% V, respectively. VCW (W3) planted with Phragmites australis exhibited removal efficiency (%) of COD (68.5%), BOD (52%), NH4-N (45.4%) and TSS (92.7%), respectively. Phragmites australis was able to remove As (100%), Cd (100%), Cr (89.9%), Cu (53.49%), Co (62.7%), Fe (85.82%), Ni (67.9%), Pb (76.2%), V (61.15%) and Zn (83.08%), respectively. All the three species were able to remove Cd (100 %). However, Canna indica (W1) has highest removal efficiencies (%) of COD (77.7%), BOD (78.7%) and NH4-N (63.6 %), respectively. Eicchornia crassipes has highest reduction efficiency (%) of TSS (92.75%), Cr (89.9%), Cd (100%), Cu (53.49%), Co (62.7%), Fe (85.2%), Ni (67.9%), Pb (76.2%) and Zn (83.08%), respectively. Phragmites australis was found good for removal of As (100 %) and Cd (100%). The result highlighted that these plant species can be used as single in lab scale Constructed wetland for the treatment Organic pollutants and heavy metals from landfill leachate.
A new protein source for pet food: cultivated meat
Authors: Stefanutti Davide
Published: September 2024

Cultivated meat is an alternative protein source developed to address the sustainability, public health and animal welfare concerns of conventional meat production. Hundreds of startups and academic institutions worldwide are working to make cultivated meat a cost-effective protein source for humans. However, cultivated meat could also be used to feed dogs and cats, contributing to solving the meat supply issues that the growing pet food market has been facing in recent years. The advantages of using cultivated meat as a protein source for pets would include a reduction of the environmental impact of pets’ diets, decreased farm animal suffering and several benefits in the One Health framework, as cultivated meat-based pet food would significantly decrease the risk of spreading food safety pathogens, zoonotic diseases and resistant bacteria. The antibiotic-free manufacturing process and the aseptic conditions the cells require to grow in the bioreactors lead to these public health advantages. However, cultivated meat has never been produced at scale for human or pet consumption. Several technical challenges need to be overcome to make cultivated meat-based pet food prices accessible to consumers. As a novel ingredient, there is also no evidence of the effect of feeding cultivated meat to dogs and cats. In principle, cultivated meat can be both safe to be consumed long-term and nutritionally adequate – and with several possibilities for nutritional enhancement, potentially even superior to its conventional counterpart. However, the safety and nutritional soundness of cultivated meat-based products must be demonstrated by manufacturers to gain regulatory approval and favour consumer adoption. Veterinarians, veterinary nurses and technicians will play a critical role in the development of this new ingredient in many aspects, including product development, assessing safety and nutrition, conducting research and informing consumers. This review summarises the benefits and challenges of using cultivated meat as a pet food ingredient.
Optimising the Diagnosis of Adult Coeliac Disease: Current Evidence and Future Directions
Authors: Shiha Mohamed G , Hadjisavvas Nikolaos , Sanders David S , Penny Hugo A
Published: September 2024

Coeliac disease is a common autoimmune disorder that affects nearly 1% of the general population. Current diagnostic strategies involve active case finding, serological tests, and endoscopy with biopsies. However, many patients with coeliac disease remain undiagnosed due to a wide gap between clinical guidelines and real-world practice in the diagnosis of adult coeliac disease. This highlights the need for increased education, training, and targeted quality-improvement interventions to optimise the diagnosis of coeliac disease.
Analysis of Residual Tetraacetylethylenediamine Levels according to Rinsing Time of Denture Cleanser
Authors: Lee Kyoung-Jin , Lim Do-Seon , Woo Jeong-Yeon , Lee Su-Kyung , Lee Hye-Bin , Kho Young-Lim , Jung Im-Hee
Published: September 2024

Objective: Tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED), a denture cleanser was reported to have a risk of acute side effects at high concentrations. This study evaluated residual TAED from denture cleansers after rinsing for different durations. Methods: The rinsing times of denture cleansers were investigated. Specimens made with the denture base-resin were immersed in a denture cleanser and rinsed with running water. The experimental groups were divided based on the rinsing time; G1 was rinsed for 10 s, G2 for 20 s, G3 for 30 s, and G4 for 60 s. No rinsing was performed in the control group. After the elution of TAED from the samples, quantification was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Results: Seven denture cleansers were investigated; however, the specific rinsing time was not confirmed. Conversely, the control group had a significantly higher amount of TAED (315.4±104.7 ㎍/L), whereas the other groups with > 10 s rinsing time showed significantly decreased residual TAED. Conclusions: To prevent the potential risks of TAED, users should rinse their dentures thoroughly for ≥ 10 s after using a denture cleanser.
Environmental Risk Factors Associated with Behavioral Problems among Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Maternal Perceptions
Authors:   Rajanagarindra Institute of Child Development, Thailand, Sakarinkhul Chutinart , Srikosai Soontaree ,   Rajanagarindra Institute of Child Development, Thailand
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE This study aims to identify environmental risk factors associated with behavioral problems in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS A case-control study was conducted in children aged 4-15 years comprising 92 children diagnosed with ADHD and 92 controls without ADHD. Stratified sampling was used to select 184 participants residing in Chiang Mai and Lamphun provinces, Thailand. Data were collected from the mothers of the participants using a self-report questionnaire between May and August 2022. The questionnaire consisted of three parts: child characteristics (gender, age, underlying diseases, past illness history), mother’s characteristics (age, income, occupational status, history of cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking), and maternal perceptions about caring for the child and the child’s behavioral problems (exposure to chemicals/toxicants, frequent punishment, excessive use of digital media and games). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-squared test, odds ratio (OR) and logistic regression using SPSS version 21. RESULTS Most of participants were males (86.96%) while 13.04% were females. The results showed that the ADHD cases were significantly more likely than the controls to have underlying diseases such as G6PD, allergy, and asthma (p = 0.006). There was also a statistically significant correlation with smoking history in the mothers of ADHD cases (OR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.36-5.13 p = 0.004). In terms of maternal perceptions, the mothers of ADHD children were significantly more likely than the controls to have frequently punished the child (OR = 6.26; 95% CI: 3.24-12.07; p < 0.001), to have children who were exposed to chemicals (pesticides and fertilizer) or toxicants (passive smoking) (OR = 4.14; 95%CI: 1.76-9.73; p = 0.001), and to have allowed their child to use digital media and play video games excessively (OR = 2.82; 95% CI: 1.55-5.16; p = 0.001). After adjustment for other environmental risk factors, frequent child punishment (ORadj = 4.32; 95% CI: 2.13-8.78; p < 0.001) and exposure of the child to chemicals/toxicants (ORadj = 2.66; 95% CI: 1.00-7.02; p = 0.049) were found to be significantly related with ADHD. CONCLUSIONS Frequent child punishment was the most significant environmental risk factor related to behavioral problems among children with ADHD. This indicates the importance of healthcare providers developing strategies and/or interventions to enhance knowledge and awareness in mothers of ADHD which can improve treatment outcomes. KEYWORDS ADHD, risk factors, behavioral problems, maternal percep- tions
Coinherited Hemoglobin Lansing-Ramathibodi/Southeast Asian Deletional α0-thalassemia and Hemoglobin E Causing Falsely Low Oxygen Saturation on Pulse Oximetry
Authors:   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Chouymankong Kornkamol , Arkarattanakul Nattawan ,   Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Mankhemthong Kanittha ,   Department of Pediatrics, Nakornping Hospital, Thailand, Sirinam Nisarat ,   Department of Pediatrics, Nakornping Hospital, Thailand, Phusua Arunee ,   Thalassemia and Hematology Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Fanhchaksai Kanda ,   Thalassemia and Hematology Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Charoenkwan Pimlak ,   Thalassemia and Hematology Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE Hemoglobin (Hb) variants resulting from mutations in globin genes and leading to qualitative abnormalities of globin proteins can result in a spectrum of clinical presentations. Herein we describe a case of a 10-year-old boy with an Hb variant, Hb Lansing-Ramathibodi (HBA1:c.264C>G, codon 87 His>Gln), who was incidentally found to have low pulse oximetry oxygen saturation readings (low SpO2). Laboratory investigations revealed mild microcytic anemia. Arterial blood gas showed normal partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) and arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) values, indicating an oxygen saturation gap. Subsequent Hb analysis identified an abnormal peak, prompting further molecular studies which confirmed the coinheritance of Hb Lansing-Ramathibodi, Southeast Asian deletional α0-thalassemia and the Hb E trait. The patient’s mother, carrying the Hb Lansing-Ramathibodi and Hb E traits without Southeast Asian deletional α 0-thalassemia, was asymptomatic. This case underscores the importance of identifying and characterizing rare Hb variants presenting with an oxygen saturation gap for informed clinical management and genetic counseling. KEYWORDS alpha-thalassemia, coinheritance, hemoglobin Lansing- Ramathibodi, low SpO2, oxygen saturation
Low-complexity end-to-end deep learning framework for 100G-PON
Authors: Xu Yongxin , Guan Xiaokai , Jiang Wenqing , Wang Xudong , Hu Weisheng , Yi Lilin
Published: September 2024

End-to-end learning allows communication systems to achieve optimal performance compared with conventional blockwise structure design. By modeling the channel with neural networks and training the transmitter and receiver on this differentiable channel, the whole system can be jointly optimized. However, in existing schemes, channel modeling methods, such as the generative adversarial network and long short-term memory network, have complex architectures and cannot track channel changes, leading to less effective end-to-end learning. Meanwhile, the complexity of neural networks deployed at the transmitter and receiver is too high for practical applications. In this work, we propose an efficient and low-complexity end-to-end deep learning framework and experimentally validate it on a 100G passive optical network. It uses a noise adaptation network to model channel response and noise distribution and employs offline pretraining and online tracking training to improve the efficiency and accuracy of channel modeling. For the transmitter, it consists of a pattern-dependent look-up table (PDLUT) based on a neural network (NN-PDLUT) with a single convolutional layer. Further, the receiver is also an NN with a single convolutional layer; thus, the end-to-end signal processing is extremely simple. The experimental results show that end-to-end learning improves the receiver sensitivity by 0.85 and 1.59 dB compared with receiver-only equalization based on Volterra nonlinear equalization (VNLE) and joint equalization based on a PDLUT and a feed-forward equalizer, respectively. Moreover, the number of multiply–accumulate operations consumed by the transmitter and receiver in the end-to-end learning scheme is reduced by 75.7% compared with VNLE-based receiver-only equalization.