bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ATP-Dependent Mismatch Recognition in DNA Replication Mismatch Repair
Authors: Zhang Nianqin , Zhang Yongjun
Published: August 2023

Mismatch repair is a critical step in DNA replication that occurs after base selection and proofreading, significantly increasing fidelity. However, the mechanism of mismatch recognition has not been established for any repair enzyme. Speculations in this area mainly focus on exploiting thermodynamic equilibrium and free energy. Nevertheless, non-equilibrium processes may play a more significant role in enhancing mismatch recognition accuracy by utilizing adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This study aimed to investigate this possibility. Considering our limited knowledge of actual mismatch repair enzymes, we proposed a hypothetical enzyme that operates as a quantum system with three discrete energy levels. When the enzyme is raised to its highest energy level, a quantum transition occurs, leading to one of two low-energy levels representing potential recognition outcomes: a correct match or a mismatch. The probabilities of the two outcomes are exponentially different, determined by the energy gap between the two low energy levels. By flipping the energy gap, discrimination between mismatches and correct matches can be achieved. Within a framework that combines quantum mechanics with thermodynamics, we established a relationship between energy cost and the recognition error.
Various Techniques for the Synthesis of 2-Nitrophenylamino-1,4-naphthoquinone Derivatives
Authors: Leyva Elisa , Loredo-Carrillo Silvia E. , Aguilar Johana
Published: August 2023

Nitrated products are important since they are intermediates in the synthesis of other compounds, such as explosives, perfumes, dyes and plastics, among others, and they have an easy capacity to convert into other functional groups. The synthesis of compounds with biological activity that have a nitro group in their structure is relevant to improving and/or enhancing their effect. In this work, different methodologies for the nitration of naphthoquinone derivative compounds are presented. The nitration of 3-R-2-(phenylamino)-1,4-naphthoquinone derivatives was carried out with nitric acid and sulfuric acid; milder reaction conditions were also established by diluting the acids or performing the reaction with weaker acids. Other methodologies were tested using nitrate salts for mononitrate product synthesis. We used a solvent-free reaction with oxalic acid using 3-R-2-(phenylamino)-1,4-naphthoquinones (R=H, Br or Cl), noting that the electronegativity of the chlorine group is decisive for achieving nitration with good yields. Finally, a Michael addition was performed with some nitrated anilines. To obtain denitrated compounds in the ortho and para positions, the reaction with strong acids is feasible; however, for the formation of mononitrated products, the Michael-type addition is more convenient.
Resource Allocation of UAV-Assisted IoT Node Secure Communication System
Authors: Ma Biyun , Xu Diyuan , Ren Xinyu , Wang Yide , Liu Jiaojiao
Published: August 2023

To balance the information security and energy harvest for massive internet-of-things (IoT) devices, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)–assisted secure communication model is proposed in this paper. We extend the secure transmission model with physical layer security (PLS) to simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) technology and optimize the UAV trajectory, transmission power, and power splitting ratio (PSR). The nonconvex object function is decomposed into three subproblems. Then a robust iterative suboptimal algorithm based on the block coordinate descent (BCD) method is proposed to solve the subproblems. Numerical simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed method. These results clearly illustrate that our resource allocation schemes surpass baseline schemes in terms of both transmit power and ratio of harvesting energy, while maintaining an approximately instantaneous secrecy rate.
Our Hero and That Kind of Woman: Imaginaries of Sexuality, Masculinity and Femininity in the Discussion of the Rape Allegation against Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal
Authors: Garraio Júlia
Published: August 2023

Kathlyn Mayorga’s rape allegation against Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo was mostly met in his home country with disbelief, prompting a strong wave of support for the national icon. Mayorga was often perceived as a ‘gold digger’. This article explores how traditional gender norms, sex scripts and rape myths underpinned the resignification of the rape allegation into a case of extortion, naturalizing sexual abuse regarding ‘immoral women’. It examines how the intersection of local patriarchal traditions with the neoliberal order produced a morality which normalized the commodification of women’s and men’s bodies as a path to social mobility. It looks at the commodification of Ronaldo’s body, his key to success as a ‘super-body’ whose exceptional sports performance granted him respectability, an exceptional social status and access to women’s sexualized bodies. Then, it examines the construction of Mayorga’s body as a sexualized body with less moral and/or commercial value, operating in an area perceived as indecent (sex as a ‘gold digger’ or sexual transactions as a prostitute) and whose inflicted harm could be compensated through money.
Local Governments Facing Turbulence: Robust Governance and Institutional Capacities
Authors: Salvador Miquel , Sancho David
Published: August 2023

Crisis environments, which are becoming systemic, pose significant challenges to local governments. The present study sought to present an academic contribution by introducing an analytical framework designed to scrutinize the institutional capabilities of local governance bodies in effectively responding to the emergent structural nature of crises within contemporary contexts. The study centered its attention on the concept of robust governance and accentuated a collection of factors that facilitate proficient public administration: contingency planning capacity, analytical capacity, organizational management capacity, and collaborative capacity. The paper presented a broad analysis of academic literature on the subject and it defined an analytical model for assessing local government capacities to deal with crises. One of the achievements of this work was the identification of key indicators that elucidate the institutional capabilities of local government bodies in addressing crisis environments. Through the examination of these indicators, the suggested analytical framework offers a comprehensive methodology for evaluating the readiness of municipal authorities in dealing with crisis situations. Furthermore, it enables comparative analysis of local government systems in analogous contexts, facilitating the identification of exemplary strategies for enhancing crisis management. The analytical model needs to be validated in further empirical studies.
Analysis of Molecular Structure Changes in Humic Acids from Manure-Amended Soils over 17 Years Using Elemental Analysis and Solid-State 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Mohammed Ibrahim , Kodaolu Busayo , Zhang Tiequan , Wang Yutao , Audette Yuki , Longstaffe James
Published: August 2023

Soil organic matter (SOM) plays an important role in regulating plant nutrient availability. Here, the effects of the long-term application of different forms of processed swine manure on the SOM structure are explored through the analysis of humic acid (HA) using elemental analysis and 13C solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The HAs from soils amended with liquid swine manure (LSM) and swine manure compost (SMC) are found to be more humified compared to the soils treated with solid swine manure (SSM) and the control (CK). The H/C and O/C molar ratios suggest that carboxyl-rich aliphatic structures are the most important class of biomolecules contributing to the LSM- and SMC-HA structures, while lignin-like structures are the most important biomolecules contributing to the CK- and SSM-HAs. SSM promoted the formation of aliphatic polar structures, which are more susceptible to aerobic biodegradation, whereas the CK facilitated the inclusion of condensed aromatic structures into the HA. Apart from the LSM-HA, the proportion of carboxylic acid functional groups reduced with manure application, while the proportion of phenolic acid functional groups increased. LSM-HA has the highest potential to enhance plant nutrient availability.
Wet Chemical and Plasma Etching of Photosensitive Glass
Authors: Brokmann Ulrike , Weigel Christoph , Altendorf Luisa-Marie , Strehle Steffen , Rädlein Edda
Published: August 2023

Photosensitive glasses for radiation-induced 3D microstructuring, due to their optical transparency and thermal, mechanical, and chemical resistance, enable the use of new strategies for numerous microscale applications, ranging from optics to biomedical systems. In this context, we investigated the plasma etching of photosensitive glasses after their exposure and compared it to the established wet chemical etching method, which offers new degrees of freedom in microstructuring control and microsystem fabrication. A CF4/H2 etching gas mixture with a constant volumetric flow of 30 sccm and a variable H2 concentration from 0% to 40% was utilized for plasma-based etching, while for wet chemical etching, diluted hydrofluoric acid (1% ≤ cHF ≤ 20%) was used. Therefore, both etching processes are based on a chemical etching attack involving fluorine ions. A key result is the observed reversion of the etch selectivity between the initial glassy and partially crystallized parts that evolve after UV exposure and thermal treatment. The crystallized parts were found to be 27 times more soluble than the unexposed glass parts during wet chemical etching. During the plasma etching process, the glassy components dissolve approximately 2.5 times faster than the partially crystalline components. Unlike wet chemical etching, the surfaces of plasma etched photostructured samples showed cone- and truncated-cone-shaped topographies, which supposedly resulted from self-masking effects during plasma etching, as well as a distinct physical contribution from the plasma etching process. The influences of various water species on the etching behaviors of the homogeneous glass and partially crystallized material are discussed based on FTIR-ATR and in relation to the respective etch rates and SNMS measurements.
Locating Transportation Logistics Centers and Their Dynamic Synergy for Equilibrium Economic Behavior
Authors: Guo Qiaoyun , Shahraki Abdol Aziz
Published: August 2023

Locating transportation logistics centers (TLCs) is significant in organizing and easing the shipment of commodities. By choosing the right place and building a brand TLC, various producers and trade companies will benefit from its services. This paper applies the Euclidean theorem and graph theory to select an optimal place. Because the price of transportation services is an important challenge, this article shows ways to reduce it for the companies that are customers of the TLC. This study hypothesizes that a TLC network standardizes and improves services and reduces prices and after the building of Iranshahr’s TLC, our aim is to synergize and connect it with a network of TLCs. Case studies were carried out on the building of a network of TLCs with four nodes in Coburg, Ashgabat, Iranshahr, and Chabahar. The novelty of this research is in the method used, which studies TLCs in two statuses—separately and with a network. The research includes, simultaneously, TLCs in both developed and developing economies with various socioeconomic formations. The paper analyses, methodologically, the economic behavior of the TLCs in the two situations using a mathematical model. The model uses two Lagrange target functions to prove that the network decreases prices while improving presented services. We found that multimodal cargo transportation by one TLC within a network of TLCs decreases the costs of transportation services and that the TLC network improved economies of scale through knowledge, technology, and experience synergy. The outcomes and model of this study will assist transportation planners and engineers in building and managing a TLC and including it in a network.
Carbon Emission Evaluation of Roadway Construction at Contaminated Sites Based on Life Cycle Assessment Method
Authors: Zheng Luorui , Li Yingzhen , Qian Cheng , Du Yanjun
Published: August 2023

Greenhouse gas emissions induced by climate change have garnered global attention. Minimizing climate change can be achieved through the reduction of carbon emissions in transportation infrastructure construction and in the production of construction materials. This study aims to calculate carbon emissions in three hypothetical construction scenarios based on the life cycle assessment (LCA) method when a roadway passes across polluted soil at contaminated sites. Three methods are employed to remediate contaminated soil: off-site cement kiln co-processing, on-site ex-situ thermal desorption, and on-site ex-situ solidification/stabilization. Carbon emissions are calculated using the LCA method for each scenario. The baseline carbon emission is estimated for the scenario in which contaminated soil is remediated using the off-site cement kiln co-processing method, and the roadway subgrade is constructed using transported clean soil. In the other two scenarios, contaminated soils are remediated using the on-site ex-situ thermal desorption and solidification/stabilization methods, respectively, and then they are reused as roadway subgrade materials. The LCA analyses demonstrate that the total carbon emission reductions range from 1168.48 to 2379.62 tons per basic unit, corresponding to decreased of 19.31% to 39.33%, respectively, compared to baseline. The reuse of solid waste to replace sand and ordinary Portland cement (OPC) as raw materials in roadway construction reduces carbon emissions by 498.98 tons. Finally, a comparison of carbon emissions between the three scenarios indicates that reducing carbon emissions in the remediation of contaminated soil and reusing solid waste as construction materials are two important methods for achieving overall carbon emission reductions in roadway construction projects.
Oxidative Damage during the Operation of Si(211)-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Hurtado Carlos , Ciampi Simone
Published: August 2023

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) based on sliding metal–semiconductor junctions are an emerging technology that can efficiently convert mechanical into electrical energy. These miniature autonomous power sources can output large direct current (DC) densities, but often suffer from limited durability; hence, their practical scope remains uncertain. Herein, through a combination of conductive atomic force microscopy (C-AFM) and photocurrent decay (PCM) experiments, we explored the underlying cause of surface wear during the operation of DC-TENGs. Using monolayer-functionalized Si(211) surfaces as the model system, we demonstrate the extent to which surface damage develops during TENG operation. We reveal that the introduction of surface defects (oxide growth) during TENG operation is not caused by the passage of the rather large current densities (average output of ~2 × 106 A/m2); it is instead mainly caused by the large pressure (~GPa) required for the sliding Schottky diode to output a measurable zero-bias current. We also discovered that the drop in output during operation occurs with a delay in the friction/pressure event, which partially explains why such deterioration of DC-TENG performance is often underestimated or not reported.
Siamese Network Tracker Based on Multi-Scale Feature Fusion
Authors: Zhao Jiaxu , Niu Dapeng
Published: August 2023

The main task in visual object tracking is to track a moving object in an image sequence. In this process, the object’s trajectory and behavior can be described by calculating the object’s position, velocity, acceleration, and other parameters or by memorizing the position of the object in each frame of the corresponding video. Therefore, visual object tracking can complete many more advanced tasks, has great performance in relation to real scenes, and is widely used in automated driving, traffic monitoring, human–computer interaction, and so on. Siamese-network-based trackers have been receiving a great deal of attention from the tracking community, but they have many drawbacks. This paper analyzes the shortcomings of the Siamese network tracker in detail, uses the method of feature multi-scale fusion to improve the Siamese network tracker, and proposes a new target-tracking framework to address its shortcomings. In this paper, a feature map with low-resolution but strong semantic information and a feature map with high-resolution and rich spatial information are integrated to improve the model’s ability to depict an object, and the problem of scale change is solved by fusing features at different scales. Furthermore, we utilize the 3D Max Filtering module to suppress repeated predictions of features at different scales. Finally, our experiments conducted on the four tracking benchmarks OTB2015, VOT2016, VOT2018, and GOT10K show that the proposed algorithm effectively improves the tracking accuracy and robustness of the system.
Systematic Assessment of Hebius beddomei (Günther, 1864) (Serpentes: Colubridae: Natricinae) with Description of a New Genus and a New Allied Species from the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Patel Harshil , Thackeray Tejas , Campbell Patrick D. , Mirza Zeeshan A.
Published: August 2023

Hebius beddomei (Günther, 1864) is an endemic natricine colubrid snake species from the biodiverse Western Ghats, India. A recent molecular phylogeny provided evidence for the paraphyly of the genus Hebius, with Hebius beddomei recovered as sister to a clade containing Fowlea and Atretium. Freshly collected specimens and existing museum material allowed us to elucidate the generic status of the species and identify two distinct populations, one of which is described as a new species. A new genus, Sahyadriophis gen. nov., is proposed to accommodate Sahyadriophis beddomei gen. et. comb. nov., and Sahyadriophis uttaraghati gen. et. sp. nov. is described as a new species from the northern part of the range. The discovery of a new Oligocene divergent lineage, Sahyadriophis gen. nov., highlights the role of the Western Ghats as a source of relic lineages.
Numerical Evaluation of the Benefits Provided by the Ground Thermal Inertia to Urban Greenhouses
Authors: Maranghi Florian , Raymond Jasmin
Published: August 2023

Communities operating urban greenhouses need affordable solutions to reduce their heating consumption. The objective of this study was to compare the ability of different simple ground-based solutions to reduce the heating energy consumption of relatively small urban greenhouses operated all year round in a cold climate. An urban greenhouse located in Montreal (Canada) and its thermal interactions with the ground were modeled with the TRNSYS 18 software. The following greenhouse scenarios were simulated: partially insulating the walls, partially burying the greenhouse below the ground level, reducing the inside setpoint temperature, and using an air–soil heat exchanger (ASHE) or a ground-coupled heat pump (GCHP). The heat exchangers for the last two cases were assumed to be located underneath the greenhouse to minimize footprint. The results showed that reducing the setpoint temperature by 10 °C and burying the greenhouse 2 m below the surface has the most impact on fuel consumption (−33% to −53%), while geothermal systems with a limited footprint (ASHE and GCHP) can reduce the fuel consumption by 21–35% and 18–27%, respectively, depending on the soil thermal conductivity and ground heat injection during summer. The scenarios do not provide the same benefits and have different implications on solar radiation availability, growth temperature, electrical consumption, and operation that must be considered when selecting a proper solution.
The Use of Dog Collars Offers Significant Benefits to Rabies Vaccination Campaigns: The Case of Zanzibar, Tanzania
Authors: Omar Khadija N. , Coetzer Andre , Hamdu Maulid , Malan Ayla J. , Moh’d Ali Z. , Suleiman Talib S. , Nel Louis H.
Published: August 2023

Tools and resources that could increase dog vaccination coverage have become increasingly critical towards progressing the goal to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies by 2030. In this regard, dog collars that are fitted during vaccination campaigns could potentially enhance owner participation. The use of dog collars will, however, increase the cost per dog vaccinated and the impact and benefit of this practice should be elucidated. This study evaluated the impact of dog collars by testing the perception and related behavioural influences in communities in Zanzibar. In this cross-sectional investigation—conducted approximately two months after the implementation of a mass dog vaccination (MDV) where dog collars were provided to vaccinated dogs—data were collected from 600 respondents in 56 municipal wards in Zanzibar. Descriptive analyses and logistic regressions were undertaken to determine the impact the collars had on respondents with regards to (i) engaging with the community dogs, (ii) health seeking behaviour after exposure, and (iii) overall participation during dog vaccination campaigns. From the data, it was evident that the collars had a positive impact on the community’s perception of dogs, with 57% of the respondents feeling safer around a dog with a collar, while 66% of the respondents felt less safe around a dog without a collar. Furthermore, the collars had a positive impact on participation during dog vaccination campaigns. Of the 142 respondents who owned dogs, 64% reported that the collars made them more likely to take their dogs for vaccination, and 95% felt that the collar was an important sign of the dog’s vaccination status. This study demonstrated that dog collars could not only improve participation during dog vaccination campaigns, but that they could also play a significant role in the community’s perception of rabies vaccination campaigns and vaccinated dogs in general.
Special Issue “Chikungunya Virus and Emerging Alphaviruses”
Authors: Pereira Mylena R. , Franca Rafael F. O.
Published: August 2023

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), an alphavirus transmitted by mosquitoes, has experienced a recent re-emergence in various regions of the world, leading to large-scale outbreaks [...]
Prospective Attitudes towards Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccination: Validation of a Survey Instrument among Young Females in Jordan Pending Vaccine Authorization
Authors: Kherfan Tleen , Sallam Malik
Published: August 2023

In May 2023, the U.S. FDA advisors endorsed Pfizer’s pregnancy-administered vaccine (branded ABRYSVO) to protect infants from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Vaccination can reduce the burden of RSV-related respiratory disease, with previous studies showing its substantial medical and financial burden in Jordan. However, pregnant women may exhibit hesitancy to get vaccinated due to concerns about potential risks to themselves or their fetuses. This study aimed to assess the acceptance of the RSV vaccine among young females and identify the determinants influencing their decision using a newly constructed instrument. A survey instrument was developed and validated, comprising 26 items to measure RSV vaccine acceptance. A cross-sectional study design was employed, with data collection from a sample of females aged 18 to 45 residing in Jordan during 5–6 July 2023, using a convenient approach via an online distributed questionnaire. The final study sample comprised 315 respondents, with 67.6% who have heard of RSV before the study. If the vaccine was safe, effective, and provided freely, 70.2% showed willingness to get the RSV vaccine, 15.2% resisted, and 14.6% were hesitant. Principal component analysis identified six internally consistent sub-scales with the following suggested themes: Advice, Burden, Conspiracy, Dangers, Efficiency, and Fear, comprising 21 items collectively as assigned as the “ABCDEF” scale for RSV vaccine acceptance. RSV vaccine acceptance in this study was associated with the advice and fear constructs. The validated survey instrument successfully captured important determinants of RSV vaccine acceptance among young females. RSV vaccine promotion efforts should focus on the following: enhancing vaccine education, improving trust in healthcare institutions and providers, reducing burdens through resolving cost issues and focusing on the role of social support, addressing safety concerns, and tailoring communication strategies to effectively promote the benefits of the vaccine. These insights can inform public health policies and interventions aiming to promote RSV vaccination and mitigate the burden of RSV-related diseases among infants. Follow-up studies are recommended with pregnant women as the target group to assess their attitude towards RSV vaccination and to confirm the validity of the conceived ABCDEF survey instrument.
Sources of COVID-19 Vaccine Promotion for Pregnant and Lactating Women in Bangladesh
Authors: Fesshaye Berhaun , Wade Sydney A. , Lee Clarice , Singh Prachi , Zavala Eleonor , Ali Hasmot , Rahman Hafizur , Siddiqua Towfida Jahan , Atker Shirina , Karron Ruth A. , Limaye Rupali J.
Published: August 2023

COVID-19 vaccines are an effective public health intervention to reduce COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality. Given that pregnant and lactating women have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 complications, it is paramount to understand the factors that inform vaccine decision-making among this population. In this study, we sought to identify facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and vaccine promotion in pregnant and lactating women in Bangladesh. We conducted 40 in-depth interviews with 12 pregnant women, 12 lactating women, and 16 health workers from one urban and four rural communities in Bangladesh. We used a grounded theory approach to identify emerging themes. Our results suggest that health workers and religious leaders played key roles in promoting COVID-19 vaccines in this population. Further, we found that the culture of trust in public health authorities and the existing vaccine infrastructure facilitated vaccine promotion. However, changes in vaccine eligibility and myths and rumors acted as both facilitators and barriers to vaccine promotion within our study. It is crucial that maternal immunization vaccine promotion efforts push pregnant and lactating women toward vaccine acceptance to protect the health of mothers and their babies. Additionally, as new maternal vaccines are developed and licensed, understanding how to best promote vaccines within this group is paramount.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Balas Michael , Mathew David J.
Published: August 2023

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) has emerged as a novel approach in the glaucoma treatment spectrum, offering a range of diverse procedures and devices aimed at reducing intraocular pressure (IOP). MIGS can be broadly classified into several categories: those that enhance trabecular outflow (Trabectome, iStent, Hydrus Microstent, Kahook Dual Blade, high frequency deep sclerotomy, and gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy), those that augment suprachoroidal outflow (CyPass Microstent and iStent Supra), those that target Schlemm’s canal (TRAB360 and the OMNI Surgical System, Streamline, and Ab Interno Canaloplasty), and conjunctival bleb-forming procedures (EX-PRESS Glaucoma Filtration Device, Xen Gel Stent and PreserFlo MicroShunt). MIGS is considered to have a shorter surgical time and fewer severe complications when compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries such as trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage device implantation (Ahmed, Baerveldt, and Molteno valves). This literature review comprehensively examines the distinct MIGS devices and procedures, their underlying mechanisms, and clinical outcomes, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the efficacy and complications of each approach individually. As the field of MIGS continues to evolve, it is crucial to prioritize high-quality, long-term studies to better understand the safety and effectiveness of these innovative interventions in glaucoma management.
Assessing the Impacts of Electric Vehicle Penetration in Curaçao’s Power Network
Authors: Robles-Lozano Geolain , Saldarriaga-Zuluaga Sergio , Zuluaga-Ríos Carlos , López-Lezama Jesús , Muñoz-Galeano Nicolás
Published: August 2023

Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained considerable attention in the last decade due to a paradigm shift in the transport sector driven by a higher awareness of environmental issues. While the importance of EVs cannot be overstated in the context of the global climate crisis, it does raise the question of whether certain countries or states are ready for their implementation. It is, therefore, necessary to analyze the impact of EVs in the power grids of these countries and states, considering factors such as line congestion and the eventual degradation of voltage profiles, to determine their hosting capacity and assess eventual expansion options. This paper proposes a representative prototype of Curaçao’s electrical system, which is used for assessing the impacts of EVs, allowing us to determine its hosting capacity. Curaçao is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea that uses fuel generators, wind energy, and solar energy to generate electricity. The idea behind this paper is to analyze the effects caused by an increase in EVs on Curaçao’s power grid and propose preventive measures to deal with such problems. Eight EV charging stations were considered, one DC super fast-charging station, three normal DC fast-charging stations, and four AC fast-charging stations. In 2022, there were an estimated 82,360 vehicles on the island. Using this information, this paper analyzes how many vehicles can be simultaneously connected to the grid before it no longer operates under acceptable values. The results showed that 3.5% of the total vehicles can be hosted by the grid. Nonetheless, this can be increased up to 4.5% with the reinforcement of a transmission line.
Riverbank Erosion and Rural Food Security in Bangladesh
Authors: Billah Md Masum , Majumdar Abahan , Rahman Syed Mohammad Aminur , Alam Mohammad Shah , Hossain Md Jamal , Talukder Joynulalom , Islam Md Mohidul , Khanam Tahmida
Published: August 2023

The erosion of riverbanks has a negative impact on many nations across the world, costing them land, buildings, food, fish, and other living things, which forces people to relocate. Both the frequency and severity of riverbank erosion are alarming in Bangladesh. In Zajira Upazila, a baseline investigation was carried out to evaluate the effects of river erosion on the local availability of food. The results show how erosion threatens the majority of residents in the research territory. Additionally, as a consequence of the depletion of farmland brought on by the disaster and its effects, crop production is steadily dropping. Occasionally, people lose whole properties, leaving them with few employment options and little spending power. As a result, they are always in danger of experiencing a shortage of food. The suffering people use various coping strategies to deal with these challenging circumstances, such as shifting to cheaper or less appealing eating options. Despite the fact that local governing bodies have put in place various programs to help them, including food assistance and social protection programs, these are inadequate because of the government’s constrained organizational assets and competence The study’s findings will aid scientists and decision-makers in Bangladesh and abroad in better comprehending the requirements of vulnerable riverine populations and in designing programs that would increase those societies’ food safety Therefore, these results imply that developing and implementing efficient rural development strategies could increase the food security of those residing in Bangladeshi regions threatened by riverbank erosion.
A Conceptual Model for Retaining County Extension Program Professionals
Authors: Safrit Dale , Owen Mitchell
Published: August 2023

Retaining county program professionals in their positions continues to challenge Cooperative Extension systems. Turnover among program professionals results in unmet citizen needs, disrupted educational programs, low morale among remaining Extension professionals, and wasted financial and material resources. Using a qualitative methodology and content analysis, the authors developed the R.E.T.A.I.N.S. conceptual model for retaining county Extension program professionals, and suggest practical implications of the model: Recruit authentically; Expand on new employees' experiences and abilities; Train, train, train; Advocate for both the employee and the position; Inspire, invest in, and empower employees; Nurture connectivity among employees; and Show appreciation through effective recognition.
Explore Your World: Professional Development in an International Context
Authors: Harder Amy , Lamm Alexa , Vergot Pete
Published: August 2023

International travel is a proven method of developing cross-cultural competencies. The study reported here sought to uncover Extension agents' interests and preferences for international travel and barriers preventing participation. A census of county faculty in Florida was conducted using an online survey. The majority of agents expressed interest in international travel, particularly hands-on, group experiences with other Extension professionals. Barriers such as financial cost, time commitment, and work obligations were perceived to negatively influence an agent's ability to travel internationally. Extension agents can take advantage of opportunities at home and abroad to increase their cross-cultural competencies.
Using Extension Fieldwork to Incorporate Experiential Learning into University Coursework
Authors: Curtis Kynda , Mahon Jennifer
Published: August 2023

This article presents a strategy for incorporating experiential learning into university coursework through the use of Extension fieldwork projects. In this case, undergraduate agribusiness management students construct business plans for primary agricultural industries and proposed new industries, such as food processing. Results of the study suggest that fieldwork projects enhance student learning and provide a valuable "real world" application of their classroom coursework. Undergraduate fieldwork projects should have a clear set of steps/goals, and instructors may need to help students identify an industry and appropriate industry contacts, as well as specify region of interest and number of contact hours required.
A Needs Assessment of Aquaculture Extension Agents, Specialists, and Program Administrators in Extension Programming
Authors: Schwarz Michael , Gibson Jerry
Published: August 2023

The study reported here identified continuing education and training needs of aquaculture Extension agents, specialists, and program administrators in 10 competency areas relating to the need for continuing education or training. Fourteen resources on the AquaNIC Web site were also evaluated, as was the efficacy of the AQUA-EXT listserv. Data were collected with an online survey via http://www.survey.vt.edu/. While a majority of Extension professionals and program administrators did not require significant training to accomplish their work, most agreed on the importance of continuing education in program evaluation, information technologies, and human development. This need varied by identified population demographics.
Stewardship as a Means to Create Organizational Reform: A View into Minnesota 4-H Youth Development
Authors: Skuza Jennifer , Freeman Dorothy , Bremseth Tamara , Shirley Shirley
Published: August 2023

Minnesota 4-H Youth Development (MN 4-H) used stewardship as a means to create organizational reform to address the public use of the 4-H name and emblem in terms of risk management, real estate and equipment, and finances. A task force implemented a participatory process with colleagues and stakeholders to build and implement the reform effort. In result, MN 4-H strengthened its public value by identifying and creating policies and practices to better steward its resources. The operating principles identified in this article will guide future stewardship agendas in Minnesota and may be replicated by other states interested in similar improvements.
Community Mobilization Model Applied to Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Authors: Miller Jacque , Bruce Ann , Fazioli Kimberly , Fruhauf Christine
Published: August 2023

This article discusses the application of a community mobilization model through a case study of one community's response to address the needs of grandparents raising grandchildren. The community mobilization model presented is one that is replicable in addressing diverse community identified issues. Discussed is the building of the partnerships, the development and implementation of action plans, and evaluating for effectiveness. Information gained through the evaluation process of this case study demonstrates the success of the model in affecting individuals and community through positive outcomes.
The Wiki as a Time-Saving Mentoring Tool
Authors: Kinsey Joanne , Carleo Jenny , O’Neill Barbara , Polanin Nicholas
Published: August 2023

An important step in the acculturation of new Extension professionals is a mentoring process that includes the input of experienced Extension colleagues. The wiki is a technology tool that can be useful by providing an online venue for Mentor Team communication and a place to share articles, curricula, and other critical tenure documents. This article describes the role of a wiki in the mentoring process and identifies four steps to establish a wiki that can enhance Mentor Team communication.
Життєтворчість Михайла Вериківського: композиторська індивідуальність, ідейно-естетичні та стильові особливості
Authors: Дем’янчук Олександр
Published: August 2023

У статті висвітлено особливості ідейно-естетичних та стильових пошуків композиторської творчості М. Вериківського в контексті загальних тенденцій національної музичної культури першої половини XX століття. Розкрито місце і значення хорового мистецтва у творчості М. Вериківського. В основу статті покладено мистецтвознавчий та компаративний аналіз творчої особистості та багатовекторності композиторської діяльності, хорової творчості й музично-стильових пошуків М. Вериківського.Наукова новизна статті полягає у визначенні змісту й форми композиторської творчості та хорової діяльності М. Вериківського у кременецький період. Приділено увагу стильовим рисам хорової творчості композитора (демократичність, народність, епічність, філософічність). Розглянуто особливості новаторства видатного композитора в контексті народження нових хорових жанрів (хорові монологи, хорові роздуми, хорові гуморески).В результаті репрезентовано зміст музично-естетичних поглядів видатного українського композитора М. Вериківського. Досліджено взаємодію традицій і новаторства у жанрових різновидах хорової творчості автора (селянський пісенний фольклор і концертна хорова практика, жанрові танцювальні хори і драматичні хорові сцени).
Postauricular Cutaneous Mastoid Fistula Surgically Closed by a Temporalis Muscle Rotational Flap: A Case Report
Authors: Askari Mehdi
Published: August 2023

Background: Postauricular cutaneous mastoid fistula (PCMF) is quite rare. Possible triggers include a radical mastoidectomy, chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM), or the spontaneous exteriorization of a mastoid cholesteatoma through the postauricular skin surface. Case Report: This study reported a 62-year-old woman who presented with a right-sided discharging postauricular lesion for two years and a history of ear discharge over the past 20 years. Physical examination revealed a 10×8 mm fistula with a pearly white tissue at the opening and mucoid discharge. Otoscopy represented an attic cholesteatoma as the potential underlying cause, and computed tomography demonstrated a soft-tissue density in the middle ear extending into the mastoid cavity and towards the cutaneous postauricular area. The PCMF was surgically closed using a temporalis muscle rotational flap with no recurrence at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: Overall, surgical closure with a temporalis muscle rotational flap appears to be an effective technique for treating PCMF.
Comparing the Efficacy of Ozone Therapy and Medical Treatment on Serum Levels of TNF-α and HS-CRP and Improvement of Neurological Symptoms in the Rehabilitation Phase of Patients With Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Kouchaki Ebrahim , Kheiran Mahdi , Hosseinipour Hadi , Ahmadi Rashti Seyed Mohammad Sadegh , Salimi Asl Ali , Sheybani-Arani MohammadHosein , Akbari Hossein , Nikoueinejad Hassan
Published: August 2023

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide; therefore, finding efficient alternative treatments to control the disease and improve patients’ neurological symptoms is of paramount importance. The current study aimed to investigate the efficacy of adding ozone therapy to classic treatment in improving neurological symptoms and serum levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) as well as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HS-CRP) in the rehabilitation phase of patients with ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: This interventional study was performed on 72 patients with stroke. Using Random Allocation Software, the participants were divided into two groups: control (medical treatment and physiotherapy, n=36) and intervention (ozone therapy plus medical treatment and physiotherapy, n=36). Ozone therapy was performed by major autohemotherapy using the standard protocol. Disease severity was determined by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) at the beginning and end of the study. TNF-α and HS-CRP serum levels were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This research project was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20200202046342N1). Results: The results of the study showed a significant decrease in the NIHSS score and HS-CRP as well as TNF-ɑ serum levels in the patients receiving both classic and ozone treatments compared to those receiving only classic treatment (P<0.001). Conclusion: According to the study results, ozone therapy combined with medical treatment improved neurological symptoms in the rehabilitation phase of patients with ischemic stroke.
Evaluation of laboratory diagnostic markers in diabetic patients with COVID-19
Authors: Maredi Hasan , Kamyari Naser , Ban Maryam , Kanani Khadijeh , Mobarak Sara , Radmanesh Esmat
Published: August 2023

Background: Diabetes mellitus is the most common chronic metabolic disorder that increases both susceptibility and mortality rates in patients with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We conducted a study on diabetic patients with COVID-19 to investigate the relationship between laboratory indicators and peripheral oxygen saturation (SPO2 ). Methods: In this analytical-cross-sectional study, the required information of diabetic patients with COVID-19 admitted to Taleghani educational hospital in Abadan from March 20, 2020 to March 19, 2021 was obtained by referring to the hospital information system of Abadan University of Medical Sciences and patient files. Results: Two hundred patients were studied, of which 88 (44%) were men and 112 (56%) were women. The mean age of the studied patients was 60.57±14.84. Among all the investigated markers, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum glutamate oxalate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and respiratory rate (RR) were higher than the normal range, while SPO2 was lower than the normal range. Based on the linear regression analysis results, a significant relationship was observed between the decrease in SPO2 of patients with disease outcome, duration of hospitalization in the intensive care unit (P<0.001), RR (P<0.001), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (P=0.02), CRP+3 (P=0.002), platelet (PTT) (P=0.03), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P=0.002), and LDH (P=0.003). Conclusion: The results showed that some laboratory diagnostic markers were higher than the normal range, while SPO2 was lower than the normal range. Moreover, a significant relationship was found between SPO2 index and disease outcome, duration of hospitalization in intensive care unit (ICU), and some diagnostic markers of the liver, inflammation, and coagulation.
Mini-review on the Management of Lifestyle Disorders: Attempting to Keep Indians Healthy for a Bright Future
Authors: Mathur Khusi , Sharma Somya , Hussain Md Sadique
Published: August 2023

Lifestyle has historically been linked to the progression of different chronic diseases. The amount of convenience accessible for our use has expanded in the current period of modern technology, communication, and technological devices. Nevertheless, it has also resulted in an upsurge in issues related to emotional and mental wellness. Asthma, coronary heart disease (CHD), diabetes, lung cancer, and other disorders are all classified as lifestyle diseases. This theory contends that illnesses are brought on by an individual’s actions. The transition from an indigenous to a contemporary way of life, with high-fat and high-calorie meals paired with increasing emotional strain, has exacerbated the issue at hand. Obesity, asthma, diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, chronic liver disorders, CHD, metabolic syndrome, depression, and cancer are all on the rise due to alterations to dietary habits and an increasingly unhealthy way of life. According to joint research by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Economic Forum (WEF), India lost around $236.6 billion in 2015 as a result of a sedentary way of life and consumption of unhealthy foods. Unhealthy eating, decreased physical activity, increased cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, insufficient sleep, and anxiety due to increasing job pressure are all examples of poor lifestyle choices.
Outcomes of Spiritual Health in Children: A Qualitative Content Analysis
Authors: Safara Maryam , Moosavi Soolmaz , Gholamnejad Hanieh
Published: August 2023

Background: The socio-cultural status of any society depends on the health of children. Enjoying spiritual health, as one of the important dimensions of health, plays an essential role in ensuring the comprehensive health of the child. This qualitative study was done to explore the consequences of spiritual health in Iranian children. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. Participants included 17 children and 9 researchers and specialists in the field of children’s mental health. Data analysis was carried out using the qualitative content analysis approach developed by Graneheim and Lundman. Results: During the analysis of the text of the interviews, three themes of "psychological consequences" with three categories (mental vitality, mental growth, and cognitive growth), "socio-moral consequences" with two categories (ethical growth and social growth), and "religious-spiritual consequences" with two categories (religious behavior, religious transcendence) were obtained. Conclusion: The spiritual health in children helps them grow in all aspects, which indicates the capacity of spiritual health in children. It seems that focusing on moral-spiritual development in order to ensure the spiritual health of the child helps to prevent moral-behavioral disorders and provides the ground for excellence and meaningful growth. Therefore, considering the importance of having spiritual health in children, it is necessary for those in charge of education to implement and evaluate written and practical programs based on the consequences of spiritual health and in accordance with the family system, community, and school.