bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modern Methods of Asbestos Waste Management as Innovative Solutions for Recycling and Sustainable Cement Production
Authors: Durczak Karol , Pyzalski Michał , Brylewski Tomasz , Juszczyk Michał , Leśniak Agnieszka , Libura Marek , Ustinovičius Leonas , Vaišnoras Mantas
Published: October 2024

Managing asbestos waste presents a significant challenge due to the widespread industrial use of this material, and the serious health and environmental risks it poses. Despite its unique properties, such as resistance to high temperatures and substantial mechanical strength, asbestos is a material with well-documented toxicity and carcinogenicity. Ensuring the safe removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) is crucial for protecting public health, the environment, and for reducing CO2 emissions resulting from inefficient waste disposal methods. Traditional landfill disposal methods have proven inadequate, while modern approaches—including thermal, chemical, biotechnological, and mechanochemical methods—offer potential benefits but also come with limitations. In particular, thermal techniques that allow for asbestos degradation can significantly reduce environmental impact, while also providing the opportunity to repurpose disposal products into materials useful for cement production. Cement, a key component of concrete, can serve as a sustainable alternative, minimizing CO2 emissions and reducing the need for primary raw materials. This work provides insights into research on asbestos waste management, offering a deeper understanding of key initiatives related to asbestos removal. It presents a comprehensive review of best practices, innovative technologies, and safe asbestos management strategies, with particular emphasis on their impact on sustainable development and CO2 emission reduction. Additionally, it discusses public health hazards related to exposure to asbestos fibers, and worker protection during the asbestos disposal process. As highlighted in the review, one promising method is the currently available thermal degradation of asbestos. This method offers real opportunities for repurposing asbestos disposal products for cement production; thereby reducing CO2 emissions, minimizing waste, and supporting sustainable construction.
The Interlink between Stakeholder Influence and Sustainable Practices: A Case Study of Thai Agriculture Enterprise
Authors: Onbhuddha Ruethai , Ma Bingying , Chindavijak Chavatip , Ogata Seiichi
Published: October 2024

Nowadays, agriculture businesses have been significantly impacted by rapid global changes, compelling the agro-industry to adopt sustainable development practices to remain resilient. Moreover, the application of stakeholder theory has become essential in business management to achieve inclusive growth and fulfill sustainable business. Understanding the interlink between stakeholder pressure and the motivation to transform an enterprise’s practices into sustainable development is imperative. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the direct pressure of stakeholder groups on sustainable practices in agriculture enterprises in Thailand through a questionnaire survey. This paper focused on the influence of primary and secondary stakeholders and evaluated the weighting of sustainability practices. The survey was conducted on employees who work in enterprises that apply Thailand’s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP). The research adopted the regression and information entropy methods for result analysis. The results showed that employees, shareholders, and competitors are significant stakeholder groups that drive sustainable capital covering economics, nature, society, and human capital. Last, stakeholder management is an outstanding practice in a SEP thinking enterprise. Concurrently, human capital is the highest priority to fulfill this alternative pathway to be successful in enterprise sustainability.
Sun and Sand Ecotourism Management for Sustainable Development in Sisal, Yucatán, Mexico
Authors: Meza-Osorio Yari Tatiana , Mendoza-González Gabriela , Martínez M. Luisa
Published: October 2024

The promotion of tourism without planning or management can lead the degradation of ecosystems and conflictive social dynamics. This study was conducted in a coastal location where tourism has recently intensified and aimed to reconstruct the preliminary history of tourism and analyze which social groups were involved in tourism and conservation for conducting an ecotourism management. A qualitative content analysis was conducted based on the perceptions of developers, authorities, and tourists in the locality. The results identify social groups involved in the use of ecosystems within the context of local tourism, their interactions, interests, and actions. An analysis of actions contrary to the conservation of these ecosystems that cause land use conflicts and hinder the development of endogenous local tourism was conducted. Social movements and collective actions reveal common interests and values among the inhabitants of Sisal that reveal the potential for transformation into a sustainable tourism project for endogenous local development.
Cell-Free Massive MIMO Power Consumption with Serial Front-Hauls
Authors: Prado-Alvarez Danaisy , Inca Saúl , Martín-Sacristán David , Monserrat Jose F.
Published: October 2024

Massive MIMO deployments have been traditionally based on dedicated links in the front-haul, i.e., between the central processing units and the Access Points (APs). Recently, cell-free massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) systems based on serial front-haul links have been discussed to simplify the deployments, among other reasons. However, the power consumption models currently used for cell-free massive MIMO deployments typically assume dedicated front-haul links. This paper highlights the inaccuracy of these models when applied to serial front-hauls and proposes simple adaptations to achieve more realistic results. The results obtained for an exemplary scenario show that the front-haul power would represent 61.73% of the total consumed power with the original models. In contrast, with the proposed adaptations, it could be as low as 1.59% of the total consumed power for some serial front-haul configurations. Additionally, the impact of considering APs with lower power consumption is studied, in which case, the percentages above would become 93.15% and 11.96%, respectively. Hence the importance of having power models that fit the front-haul topology.
Presence of N, N′-Substituted p-Phenylenediamine-Derived Quinones in Human Urine
Authors: Huang Juxiu , Jin Hangbiao , Zhu Yingying , Guo Ruyue , Zhou Lisha , Wu Xiaoyu
Published: October 2024

Human exposure to various N,N′-substituted p-phenylenediamine-derived quinones (PPDQs) has been of increasing concern. Recent studies have examined N-phenyl-N′-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-p-phenylenediamine-derived quinone (6PPDQ) in human urine to evaluate human exposure. However, other PPDQs in human urine have not been thoroughly investigated. This study analyzed six PPDQs in urine collected from 149 healthy individuals in Taizhou, China. All target PPDQs were detected, with 6PPDQ (mean 2.4 ng/mL, <limit of detection (LOD)–19 ng/mL) and 2-(cyclohexylamino)-5-(phenylamino)cyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione (CPPDQ; 2.1 ng/mL, <LOD–24 ng/mL) being the most prevalent. Human urinary concentrations of 2,5-bis((5-methylhexan-2-yl)amino)cyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione (77PDQ; mean 1.5 vs. 0.87 ng/mL; p = 0.013) and 2,5-bis(o-tolylamino)cyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione (mean 1.1 vs. 0.62 ng/mL; p = 0.027) were significantly higher in females compared to males. For CPPDQ (p < 0.01) and 6PPDQ (p < 0.01), a decrease was observed in urinary concentrations as participants aged. The daily excretion (DE) of PPDQs through urine was estimated for Chinese adults. The highest average DE was recorded for 6PPDQ at 81 ng/kg-bw/day, with a range from <0.5 to 475 ng/kg-bw/day. Following this, CPPDQ had a mean DE of 68 ng/kg-bw/day (range <0.5–516 ng/kg-bw/day), and 77PDQ had a mean DE of 30 ng/kg-bw/day (<0.5–481 ng/kg-bw/day). This study is the first to explore the presence of various PPDQs in human urinary samples, which is essential for assessing the potential health risks associated with these substances.
Community Engagement and Collaboration between Researchers and Community Stakeholders for Schistosomiasis and Malaria Projects in Ingwavuma, uMkhanyakude District, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Mthembu Zinhle , Chimbari Moses John
Published: October 2024

Community engagement is a multiphase process that is crucial for successful community-based health interventions. This study investigates the collaborative phase of community engagement, specifically within a co-developed framework implemented in uMkhanyakude District, South Africa. A qualitative case study approach was employed to explore the experiences of key community stakeholders during the collaborative phase of project implementation. Data collection involved key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observation. The findings demonstrate the potential for effective collaboration among village headmen, community advisory board members, and community research assistants to address local health challenges. Community research assistants played a particularly valuable role in facilitating participatory research and hands-on engagement with researchers. However, several barriers hindered the collaborative process, including demanding work conditions, communication issues regarding compensation, inappropriate behavior from the research team, and culturally insensitive interactions. While community-based participatory research offers a promising collaborative approach for addressing health issues, a careful consideration of local socio-cultural dynamics is essential to avoid misunderstandings and overcome potential barriers. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring that collaborative partnerships effectively empower communities and achieve sustainable improvements in health outcomes.
Frequency, Clinical Characteristics, and Management of Snakebite Patients Admitted at the Envenomation Treatment Center of the Applied Biology Research Institute of Guinea
Authors: Diallo Mohamed Ciré , Kourouma Karifa , Boumbaly Saidou , Kamano Armand Saloun , Sow Abdoulaye , Grovogui Fassou Mathias , Traore Sahar , Delamou Alexandre
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to describe the frequency, clinical signs, management, and outcomes of snakebite patients admitted to the envenomation treatment center of the Institut de Recherche en Biologie Appliquée de Guinée (IRBAG). This was a retrospective review combining aggregated annual statistics (2011–2015) and routine data (from January to October 2021) from the IRBAG treatment center. There were 1345 (57.2%) snakebite victims out of a total of 2352 consultations at the center during the study period. Males (67.7%), persons aged ≥45 years (29%) and ≤14 years (27.7%), farmers/housewives (44.5%), workers (23.9%), and those residing in the Kindia Prefecture (53.5%) were the most commonly affected. The majority of victims (84.5%) were admitted three hours after snakebite, with bites mainly occurring in rural areas (86.5%) and during the rainy season (83.2%). Pain (100%), edema (76.8%), and bleeding (65.2%) were the most common clinical presentations. Almost all victims received antivenom serum (98%), antibiotics (87.7%), and analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs (88.4%). Six out of the one hundred and fifty-five patients died. Snakebites are a frequent public health problem in rural Guinea. The majority of victims seek medical attention too late. There is an urgent need to include snakebite in the country’s list of priority NTDs in order to promote access to antivenom serum.
Determinants of Low Coverage of the Free Surgical Care Programme for Trachomatous Trichiasis in Rural Guinea in 2022
Authors: Lamah Lamine , Kolié Delphin , Zoumanigui Akoi , Diallo Nouhou Konkouré , Camara Mamadou , Manet Hawa , Millimouno Tamba Mina , Camara Bienvenu Salim , Tounkara Aissata , Delamou Alexandre
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to describe the experiences of healthcare personnel and patients in the organization of free surgical campaigns and care for trachomatous trichiasis in the health district of Siguiri in Guinea, including challenges experienced in providing surgical care. This was an explanatory qualitative study conducted in 2022 in the health district of Siguiri. A total of 20 participants were interviewed including patients (n = 7; 35%), community health workers (n = 4; 20%), health services managers, and healthcare providers (n = 8; 40%). Two main data collection technics were used: documentary review and in-depth individual interviews. All interviews were transcribed and manually coded using an Excel extraction spreadsheet. Data were analysed using inductive and deductive approaches. The results showed several organizational, structural, and community challenges that underlined the low surgical coverage of trachomatous trichiasis in the health district of Siguiri. Organizational challenges included the low involvement of local actors in planning activities, the limited timeframe of the campaigns, and the lack of logistics for activities supervision and patients’ transportation to surgery sites. Structural challenges included the inadequacy of health centres to provide surgical services, poor health infrastructures, and sanitation conditions in some areas. Individual challenges included remoteness of surgical sites and costs associated with services provision including medicines. Community challenges included fear of surgery and the coincidence of the campaigns with agricultural and mining activities. The results of the study call on the national neglected tropical disease program and its partners to adopt and promote micro-planning of trachomatous trichiasis surgical activities, with the effective participation of local stakeholders in endemic health districts. They should also envision integrating the management of surgical treatment including costs associated with care (transportation, food, rehabilitation support for patients who have undergone surgery) and complications of surgical procedures for an expansion of the trachomatous trichiasis free surgical care coverage in endemic health districts in Guinea.
The Mother’s Day Solar Storm of 11 May 2024 and Its Effect on Earth’s Radiation Belts
Authors: Pierrard Viviane , Winant Alexandre , Botek Edith , Péters de Bonhome Maximilien
Published: October 2024

The month of May 2024 was characterized by solar energetic particles events directed towards the Earth, especially the big event causing a strong terrestrial geomagnetic storm during the night from 10 to 11 May 2024, with auroras observed everywhere in Europe. This was the strongest storm for the last 20 years with a Disturbed Storm Time index Dst < −400 nT. In the present work, we show with observations of GOES, PROBA-V/EPT and MetOP/MEPED that this exceptional event was associated with the injection of energetic protons in the proton radiation belt, with important consequences for the South part of the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA). In addition, the geomagnetic storm caused by the solar eruption has had tremendous impacts on the electron radiation belts. Indeed, we show that for 0.3 to 1 MeV electrons, the storm led to a long lasting four belts configuration which was not observed before with EPT launched in 2013, until a smaller geomagnetic storm took place at the end of June 2024. Moreover, for the first time since its launch, observations of the EPT show that ultra-relativistic electrons with E>2 MeV have been injected into the inner belt down to McIlwain parameter L = 2.4, violating the impenetrable barrier previously estimated to be located at L = 2.8.
Savage Gardens: Balancing Maintenance, Aesthetics, and Ecosystem Services in the Biodiversity Crisis Era
Authors: Russo Alessio
Published: October 2024

The escalating biodiversity crisis, coupled with the increasing frequency of droughts and anticipated water shortages due to climate change, necessitates a shift towards biodiversity-led landscape architecture, including domestic gardens. Traditionally viewed as high-maintenance spaces emphasising tidiness, domestic gardens can significantly impact urban green infrastructure and species richness. This paper explores the concept of ‘savage gardens’—untamed and natural spaces representing a fourth nature approach, incorporating wild gardens and neglected areas. Despite potential challenges in public appreciation, it is argued that savage gardens offer substantial benefits, such as reduced maintenance, increased biodiversity, and enhanced resilience to climate change. By reframing the perception of ‘savage’ from biophobic to a reconnection with nature, savage gardens are proposed as a viable solution for balancing aesthetics, maintenance, ecosystem services, and biodiversity in domestic landscapes, promoting a more sustainable future in the face of the biodiversity emergency.
Socio-Economical Analysis of a Green Reverse Logistics Network under Uncertainty: A Case Study of Hospital Constructions
Authors: Alibakhshi Alireza , Saffarian Amirreza , Hassannayebi Erfan
Published: October 2024

This study addresses the critical issue of managing construction and demolition waste in urban environments. Effective waste management is not only essential for minimizing costs but also for enhancing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. In this context, the research introduces a green reverse logistics model designed for C&D waste management, integrating both sustainability considerations and current regulatory frameworks, such as LEED. A key innovation of this model is the incorporation of electric vehicles for waste collection, compared to traditional diesel vehicles, as part of the logistical process, as carbon emission is a significant concern. By evaluating the limitations and opportunities associated with electric vehicles, alongside robust optimization to manage uncertainties in waste collection, the model seeks to balance environmental, social, and economic objectives. It further incorporates decision-making tools like fuzzy logic to optimize multi-objective outcomes across various waste facilities, including separation labs, incineration centers, recycling centers, and landfills. A case study conducted in Tehran validates the model, highlighting the socio-economic and environmental benefits of using electric vehicles in waste collection. Sensitivity analysis indicates that hybrid and socially focused policies perform best under high-impact scenarios, although results can differ with varying data sets. Despite the complexity of managing reverse logistics networks, this research provides valuable insights for supply chain planners. It suggests potential future directions, such as the application of metaheuristic algorithms and improved stochastic planning methods.
A Head-to-Head Comparative Study of the Replication-Competent Vaccinia Virus and AAV1-Based Malaria Vaccine versus RTS,S/AS01 in Murine Models
Authors: Zainal Kartika Hardianti , Hasyim Ammar Abdurrahman , Yamamoto Yutaro , Mizuno Tetsushi , Sato Yuna , Rasyid Sani Hadiyan , Niikura Mamoru , Abe Yu-ichi , Iyori Mitsuhiro , Mizukami Hiroaki , Shida Hisatoshi , Yoshida Shigeto
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: We developed a multistage Plasmodium falciparum vaccine using a heterologous prime-boost immunization strategy. This involved priming with a highly attenuated, replication-competent vaccinia virus strain LC16m8Δ (m8Δ) and boosting with adeno-associated virus type 1 (AAV1). This approach demonstrated 100% efficacy in both protection and transmission-blocking in a murine model. In this study, we compared our LC16m8∆/AAV1 vaccine, which harbors a gene encoding Pfs25-PfCSP fusion protein, to RTS,S/AS01 (RTS,S) in terms of immune responses, protective efficacy, and transmission-blocking activity (TBA) in murine models. Methods: Mice were immunized following prime-boost vaccine regimens m8∆/AAV1 or RTS,S and challenged with transgenic Plasmodium berghei parasites. Immune responses were assessed via ELISA, and TB efficacy was evaluated using direct feeding assays. Results: m8∆/AAV1 provided complete protection (100%) in BALB/c mice and moderate (40%) protection in C57BL/6 mice, similar to RTS,S. Unlike RTS,S’s narrow focus (repeat region), m8∆/AAV1 triggered antibodies for all PfCSP regions (N-terminus, repeat, and C-terminus) with balanced Th1/Th2 ratios. Regarding transmission blockade, serum from m8∆/AAV1-vaccinated BALB/c mice achieved substantial transmission-reducing activity (TRA = 83.02%) and TB activity (TBA = 38.98%)—attributes not observed with RTS,S. Furthermore, m8∆/AAV1 demonstrated durable TB efficacy (94.31% TRA and 63.79% TBA) 100 days post-immunization. Conclusions: These results highlight m8∆/AAV1′s dual action in preventing sporozoite invasion and onward transmission, a significant advantage over RTS,S. Consequently, m8∆/AAV1 represents an alternative and a promising vaccine candidate that can enhance malaria control and elimination strategies.
Anti-HBs Seroprevalence in Blood Donors from Tyrol, Austria
Authors: Seekircher Lisa , Mühlbacher Annelies , Tschiderer Lena , Wachter Gregor A. , Astl Manfred , Schennach Harald , Siller Anita , Willeit Peter
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) are a marker of immunity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. There is uncertainty about the anti-HBs seroprevalence in the general population of Austria. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis in blood donors from the Federal State of Tyrol in Austria (August–September 2023) to estimate anti-HBs seroprevalence and median antibody levels. Results: We enrolled 3935 blood donors (median age 47.6 years [25th–75th percentile: 33.3–56.6]; 40.7% female), who were hepatitis B surface antigen negative and had no detectable HBV-DNA. Overall seroprevalence was 51.4% (95% CI: 49.8–52.9%). Anti-HBs seropositivity decreased with higher age (p < 0.001), with 70.3% (66.1–74.3%) being seropositive among participants < 25 years of age and 30.2% (24.2–36.9%) in those aged ≥ 65 years. More females than males were seropositive (54.3% [51.8–56.7%] vs. 49.4% [47.4–51.4%]; p = 0.003). Seroprevalence was significantly higher in urban than in rural areas in participants aged 40 to <55 (p = 0.045) and ≥55 years (p = 0.001). Among 2022 seropositive participants, the overall median anti-HBs antibody level was 539.3 IU/L (25th–75th percentile: 116.3–5417.0). Furthermore, 5% of the participants had an anti-HBs antibody level between 10 and <20 IU/L, 18% between 20 and <100 IU/L, and 77% ≥100 IU/L. Conclusions: Anti-HBs seroprevalence in blood donors from Tyrol, Austria, was 51.4% between August and September 2023 and differed across age, sex, and residence area. Catch-up vaccination programs, especially targeting the elderly living in rural areas, are needed to close HBV immunity gaps.
Modelling the Relative Vaccine Efficacy of ARCT-154, a Self-Amplifying mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine, versus BNT162b2 Using Immunogenicity Data
Authors: Nguyen Van Hung , Crépey Pascal , Pivette Jean Marie , Settembre Ethan , Rajaram Sankarasubramanian , Youhanna John , Ferraro Aimee , Chang Cheng , van Boxmeer Josephine , Mould-Quevedo Joaquin F.
Published: October 2024

Background: Self-amplifying mRNA vaccines have the potential to increase the magnitude and duration of protection against COVID-19 by boosting neutralizing antibody titers and cellular responses. Methods: In this study, we used the immunogenicity data from a phase 3 randomized trial comparing the immunogenicity of ARCT-154, a self-amplifying mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, with BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine to estimate the relative vaccine efficacy (rVE) of the two vaccines over time in younger (<60 years) and older (≥60 years) adults. Results: By day 181 post-vaccination, the rVE against symptomatic and severe Wuhan-Hu-1 disease was 9.2–11.0% and 1.2–1.5%, respectively, across age groups whereas the rVE against symptomatic and severe Omicron BA.4/5 disease was 26.8–48.0% and 5.2–9.3%, respectively, across age groups. Sensitivity analysis showed that varying the threshold titer for 50% protection against severe disease up to 10% of convalescent sera revealed incremental benefits of ARCT-154 over BNT162b2, with an rVE of up to 28.0% against Omicron BA.4/5 in adults aged ≥60 year. Conclusions: Overall, the results of this study indicate that ARCT-154 elicits broader and more durable immunogenicity against SARS-CoV-2, translating to enhanced disease protection, particularly for older adults against Omicron BA.4/5.
Effect of Three Commercially Available Extenders Containing Phospholipids of Different Sources on Skopelos Buck Liquid-Stored Sperm Quality
Authors: Saratsi Aikaterini , Samartzi Foteini , Tsiokos Dimitrios , Theodosiadou Ekaterini K. , Panagiotidis Ioannis , Ligda Christina , Rekkas Constantinos A.
Published: October 2024

The effect of four extenders on buck semen quality parameters was examined during a 48 h liquid storage. Semen was collected from six Skopelos bucks and diluted in the following extenders, containing: soy lecithin (SL, OviXcell®), plant phospholipids (PP, AndroMed®), egg yolk lecithin (EY, Steridyl®), or no phospholipids (basic extender). Samples were stored at 5 °C for 48 h and assessed at 0, 24 and 48 h for viability (eosin-nigrosin), acrosome integrity (SpermBlue®), membrane functional integrity (HOST), mitochondrial function (Rhodamine 123/SYBR-14/PI) and motility parameters (CASA). No significant reduction in total or progressive spermatozoa motility and mitochondrial function was observed at 24 h, whereas they all dropped significantly at 48 h, in all extenders. Spermatozoa viability, cell membrane functionality and acrosome integrity dropped progressively (0 h > 24 h > 48 h) in all groups. No significant difference among extenders was observed concerning spermatozoa mitochondrial function. Overall, spermatozoa viability, cell membrane functionality and acrosome integrity were higher in the three commercial extenders, compared to the basic extender. SL and EY extenders (OviXcell® and Steridyl®, respectively) preserved viability more effectively than the PP extender (AndroMed®). Total motility was higher in the PP extender, compared to the SL extender. Spermatozoa acrosome integrity tended to be higher in the EY extender compared to all the other extenders. Further investigation of the protective potential of different types of cryoprotectants on liquid buck semen storage is important.
Occurrence, Bioaccumulation, and Potential Risks of Steroid Hormones in Freshwater Aquaculture Ponds in South China
Authors: Liu Shuang-Shuang , Li Ya-Fang , Ning Jia-Jia , Xu Lei , Wang Liang-Gen , Huang De-Lian , Wang Xue-Hui , Tang Que-Hui , Du Fei-Yan
Published: October 2024

Steroid hormones, recognized as emerging environmental contaminants, have garnered increasing attention in recent years. The present work studied the distribution characteristics in the environment, bioaccumulation in aquatic products, and the associated environmental and health risks of typical steroid hormones from commercial freshwater aquaculture farms operating under different aquaculture modes (monoculture and polyculture). Totals of 9 and 14 steroid hormones were detected in water and sediment samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.66 ± 0.17 ng/L to 40.5 ± 5.08 ng/L and from 0.36 ± 0.08 ng/g to 123 ± 19.9 ng/g, respectively. Hazard index (HI) calculations indicated that all sampling locations were identified as medium or high risk for both water and sediment matrices. Nineteen steroids were detected in at least one type of tissue, with the concentrations in the bile, plasma, muscle, liver, and gill ranging from <LOQ to 52.6 ± 4.82 ng/L, from <LOQ to 41.9 ± 4.80 ng/L, from 0.36 ± 0.07 ng/g to 321 ± 19.1 ng/g, from <LOQ to 1140 ± 107 ng/g, and from 0.36 ± 0.03 ng/g to 1450 ± 239 ng/g, respectively. Furthermore, four synthetic steroid hormones exhibited significant bioaccumulation across various tissues, such as MLA in bile and 5α-DHP in muscle, liver, and gill (BAF > 5000 L/kg). Notably, despite low estimated daily intakes (EDIs) (0.43–6.43 ng/day/person to 18.7 ng/day/person) and hazard quotients (HQs) (below 4.188 × 10−7), the high bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) underscore the necessity for stringent regulatory measures by local governments. Additionally, a comparison of EDI results across different aquaculture modes and fish species revealed that steroid hormone-related health risks to humans are influenced by both the fish species and the aquaculture mode. This study indicated that the consumption of poly-cultured fish (e.g., bighead carp) may pose a greater steroid-related health risk, compared to the consumption of mono-cultured fish.
Landscape Pattern Evolution and Driving Forces in the Downstream River of a Reservoir: A Case Study of the Lower Beijiang River in China
Authors: Zhu Zhengtao , Xiao Yizhou , Wang Huilin , Huang Dong , Liu Huamei , Chen Xinchi , Ding Can
Published: October 2024

Human activities, such as reservoir construction and riverbed sand extraction, significantly influence the hydrological and sedimentary dynamics of natural rivers, thereby directly or indirectly affecting river landscape pattern distribution. This study primarily focused on the lower Beijiang River (LBR) in China, an area characterized by intensive human activity. River landscape patterns were studied using historical topographical data and time-series Landsat remote sensing images. Natural and anthropogenic factors were considered to explore the driving forces behind the evolution of landscape patterns. The results indicated that the topography of the LBR underwent significant downcutting from 1998 to 2020. The average elevation of the study area decreased by 3.6 m, and the minimum thalweg elevation decreased by 6.7 m. Over the past 30 years, the local vegetation showed a relatively stable spatial distribution, whereas the area of sand remained relatively stable before 2012, followed by a sudden decline, and tended to stabilize in the last decade. The water area exhibited a gradually increasing trend. The transition maps indicated that the spatial changes in sand were the most significant, with only 39.6% of the sand remaining unchanged from 1998 to 2009 and 32.3% from 2009 to 2020. The corresponding landscape patterns showed that the fragmentation degree of sand increased, with the mean patch size decreasing by 69.2%. The aggregation of water intensified, as its aggregation index increased from 93.31% to 95.41%, while the aggregation of vegetation remained relatively minor, ranging from 89.52% to 90.12%. The annual average temperature, annual average maximum temperature, and annual rainfall days had the strongest correlations with the vegetation landscape pattern indices. Additionally, human activities may have been the primary driver of the landscape pattern evolution of water and sand. The findings of this study have positive implications for the maintenance of the diversity and stability of river ecosystems.
Dual Method for Comprehensive Evaluation of Sustainable Water Resources’ Utilization Capacity in Huangshui River in Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Fan Lijuan , Li Ronglan , Gao Ju , Zhao Fen , Li Chunhui
Published: October 2024

The evaluation of sustainable water resources’ utilization capacity in the Huangshui Basin is essential for effective management and development in the water-scarce regions of northwest China. This research provides valuable insights into the basin’s potential capacity for sustainable water resource use by developing a comprehensive evaluation index that addresses the following three critical aspects: climate factors, water resource systems, and socio-economic conditions. The evaluation is conducted using a dual method, as follows: the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model and the ELECTRE III evaluation method. The results indicate that the Huangshui Basin’s water resources, as a whole, exhibit a medium sustainable utilization capacity. Climatic factors and socio-economic characteristics are the main factors affecting the sustainable utilization of water resources in the Huangshui Basin. Remarkably, both methods yield consistent results, indicating that the overall sustainable utilization capacity of the Huangshui Basin’s water resources is medium. Climatic factors and socio-economic characteristics are identified as the primary aspects influencing the sustainable utilization of water resources in the basin. Based on these findings, recommendations such as enhancing the introduction of external water resources, improving water resources’ management, and implementing comprehensive remediation efforts can help to elevate the level of sustainable water use. This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of the basin’s water resources’ dynamics, but also serves as an important reference for informed decision making regarding sustainable utilization in the Huangshui Basin.
The Identification and Quantification of Hidden Hazards in Small Scale Reservoir Engineering Based on Deep Learning: Intelligent Perception for Safety of Small Reservoir Projects in Jiangxi Province
Authors: Zhou Zhiwei , Fang Shibiao , Fang Weihua , Xu Yaozong , Zhu Bin , Li Lei , Ji Haixiang , Tu Wenrong
Published: October 2024

This study aims to enhance the detection and assessment of safety hazards in small-scale reservoir engineering using advanced image processing and deep learning techniques. Given the critical importance of small reservoirs in flood management, water supply, and ecological balance, the effective monitoring of their structural integrity is crucial. This paper developed a fully convolutional semantic segmentation method for hidden danger images of small reservoirs using an encoding–decoding structure, utilizing a deep learning framework of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to process and analyze high-resolution images captured by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The method incorporated data augmentation and adaptive learning techniques to improve model accuracy under diverse environmental conditions. Finally, the quantification data of hidden dangers (length, width, area, etc.) were obtained by converting the image pixels to the actual size. Results demonstrate significant improvements in detecting structural deficiencies, such as cracks and seepage areas, with increased precision and recall rates compared to conventional methods, and the HHSN-25 network (Hidden Hazard Segmentation Network with 25 layers) proposed in this paper outperforms other methods. The main evaluation indicator, mIoU of HHSN-25, is higher than other methods, reaching 87.00%, and the Unet is 85.50%, and the Unet++ is 85.55%. The proposed model achieves reliable real-time performance, allowing for early warning and effective management of potential risks. This study contributes to the development of more efficient monitoring systems for small-scale reservoirs, enhancing their safety and operational sustainability.
Physics-Informed Neural Network-Based Nonlinear Model Predictive Control for Automated Guided Vehicle Trajectory Tracking
Authors: Li Yinping , Liu Li
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes a nonlinear Model Predictive Control (MPC) method based on Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs), aimed at enhancing the trajectory tracking performance of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) in complex dynamic environments. Traditional physical models often face the challenges of computational inefficiency and insufficient control precision when dealing with complex dynamic systems. However, by integrating physical laws directly into the training process of neural networks, PINNs can effectively learn and capture the kinematic characteristics of vehicles, replacing traditional nonlinear ordinary differential equation models and thus significantly enhancing computational efficiency and control performance. During the model-training phase, this study further incorporates the Theory of Functional Connections (TFC) and adaptive loss balancing strategies to efficiently solve ODE problems without relying on numerical integration and optimize the control strategy. This combined approach not only reduces computational complexity, but also improves the robustness and precision of the control strategy in varying environments. Numerical simulations demonstrate that this method offers significant advantages in AGV trajectory-tracking tasks, manifested in higher computational efficiency and precise control performance. The proposal of the PINN-MPC method provides new theoretical support and innovative methods for real-time complex system control, with important research and application potential, and is expected to play a key role in future intelligent control systems.
Impact of the Preservation of Residual Kidney Function on Hemodialysis Survival
Authors: Belcher John , Coyle David , Lindley Elizabeth J. , Keane David , Caskey Fergus J. , Dasgupta Indranil , Davenport Andrew , Farrington Ken , Mitra Sandip , Ormandy Paula , Wilkie Martin , Macdonald Jamie , Solis-Trapala Ivonne , Sim Julius , Davies Simon J.
Published: October 2024

Key Points

Residual kidney function during the first 2 years of hemodialysis treatment is associated with a long-term (>4 years) survival advantage.

Incorporating bioimpedance measurements to inform the setting of the postdialysis target weight does not affect patient survival.

Background

Preservation of residual kidney function (RKF) in dialysis patients has been associated with improved survival. RKF in the BISTRO trial was relatively well preserved, and in this study, we describe its association with survival during the trial and extended follow-up.

Methods

RKF, measured as the average urea and creatinine clearance (GFR) or 24-hour urine volume, was assessed at baseline; 1, 2, and 3 months; and every three months for up to 2 years in incident hemodialysis patients. Time to event survival data or competing events (transplantation, modality change) was obtained for 50 months after enrollment via data linkage with the UK Renal Registry. Cox proportional hazards regression survival models, including those incorporating change in GFR from baseline as a time-varying variable and joint regression models for longitudinal and survival data (longitudinal models for GFR or urine volume), were used to explore the relationship of RKF preservation with survival. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, comorbidity, and ethnicity.

Results

A total of 2919 measures of RKF were made in 387 patients from 32 UK dialysis units. Higher age and comorbidity score were associated with increased mortality in all models. Baseline GFR reduced the risk of death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.918; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.844 to 0.999) per ml/min per 1.73 m2. A greater fall in GFR and urine volume from baseline was associated with a nonsignificant increased risk of death, as visualized on spline plots. In the joint survival models, higher GFR (adjusted HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.80 to 0.97) or urine volume (adjusted HR, 0.75, 95% CI, 0.57 to 0.95/L) at any time point was associated with better survival.

Conclusions

Lower RKF during the first 2 years of hemodialysis is associated with an increased death risk for up to 50 months after dialysis initiation. This adds to a growing body of evidence that interventions to preserve RKF should be developed and tested in clinical trials.
La educación socioemocional y la atención de las necesidades sociales para el desarrollo de competencias matemáticas de los estudiantes de básica secundaria
Authors: Moreno Álvaro Enrique Mendoza
Published: October 2024

Este artículo explora la importancia crucial de la educación socioemocional en el desarrollo de competencias matemáticas en estudiantes de secundaria, subrayando cómo este enfoque integral puede transformar el proceso educativo. En un contexto marcado por avances tecnológicos rápidos y una creciente crisis social, se plantea la necesidad de formar a los estudiantes no solo en términos de habilidades cognitivas, sino también en competencias emocionales, que desempeñan un rol fundamental en la forma en que los estudiantes asimilan y aplican los conocimientos matemáticos. La educación emocional se presenta como un componente esencial que complementa el desarrollo cognitivo, ayudando a los estudiantes a gestionar emociones como la ansiedad y el estrés que suelen surgir en el estudio de las matemáticas. El artículo también revisa investigaciones que demuestran que el aprendizaje mejora cuando los estudiantes se sienten emocionalmente apoyados, lo que favorece una mayor disposición hacia el trabajo intelectual y la resolución de problemas matemáticos. Se propone integrar la educación emocional dentro del currículo de matemáticas para crear un ambiente de aprendizaje positivo. Esto no solo mejora el rendimiento académico, sino que también promueve el bienestar personal, la autoestima y el desarrollo de habilidades interpersonales clave. A través de esta integración, los estudiantes pueden enfrentar los retos del aprendizaje matemático de manera más resiliente y colaborativa, fomentando una actitud positiva hacia esta disciplina. El artículo concluye que la educación socioemocional es fundamental para lograr un aprendizaje matemático más eficaz y significativo, transformando el aula en un espacio donde el desarrollo emocional y cognitivo de los estudiantes pueda florecer de manera integrada.
Diseño de un modelo basado en las metodologías activas para el fortalecimiento de la enseñanza-aprendizaje de la estadística de los estudiantes de básica secundaria de cúcuta, norte de Santander
Authors: Gelves Lisbeth Yurani Palacios
Published: October 2024

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo principal proponer un modelo pedagógico basado en metodologías activas, orientado al fortalecimiento del proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de la estadística en los estudiantes de básica secundaria de Cúcuta, Norte de Santander. Esta propuesta se justifica a partir de la necesidad identificada en el desempeño académico de los estudiantes, reflejado en las pruebas estandarizadas como las Pruebas Saber, donde se observa un bajo rendimiento en el componente estadístico. Para abordar esta problemática, se propone la implementación de metodologías activas que favorezcan la participación activa de los estudiantes, promoviendo un aprendizaje más significativo y contextualizado. El estudio se enmarca en un enfoque cuantitativo bajo el paradigma positivista, utilizando como método de investigación el hipotético deductivo.
Evaluación de la Mediación tecnológica basada en la cultura Maker en la enseñanza de Ciencia y Tecnología a estudiantes de secundaria en las instituciones educativas públicas del Municipio de Pelaya, Cesar – Colombia
Authors: Quintero María Angélica , Hernández Helmer Muñoz
Published: October 2024

La presente investigación cualitativa, arraigada en el paradigma sociocrítico, se propone abordar la problemática existente en la enseñanza de Ciencia y Tecnología en las instituciones educativas públicas del Municipio de Pelaya, Cesar - Colombia. Adoptando un enfoque centrado en comprender a profundidad las experiencias y prácticas de docentes y estudiantes, se utilizarán técnicas de observación participante, entrevistas semiestructuradas y análisis documental para obtener información detallada. La problemática identificada se manifiesta en la falta de integración efectiva entre Ciencia y Tecnología en el proceso educativo, así como en la metodología tradicional de enseñanza que limita el desarrollo de habilidades científicas y tecnológicas en los estudiantes. Esta investigación propone una solución innovadora mediante la creación de una propuesta de mediación tecnológica basada en la Cultura Maker. La Cultura Maker, respaldada por la teoría educativa del construccionismo de Seymour Papert, se presenta como un enfoque pedagógico que fomenta el aprendizaje activo, la creatividad y el pensamiento crítico al involucrar a los estudiantes en la construcción de artefactos mediante el uso de la tecnología. Con el propósito general de diseñar un programa de mediación tecnológica basada en la Cultura Maker para enseñar Ciencia y Tecnología a estudiantes de secundaria, los objetivos específicos incluyen diagnosticar la práctica docente, identificar elementos para el programa de mediación, generar una aproximación teórica sobre su incidencia, diseñar el programa y, finalmente, implementarlo. La investigación aspira a no solo comprender la problemática, sino a proponer soluciones concretas que impacten positivamente en la enseñanza de Ciencia y Tecnología, promoviendo un cambio significativo y contextualizado en el Municipio de Pelaya, Cesar - Colombia.
Modelo de habilidades de gestión de la información apoyadas en el uso de herramientas tecnológicas en los estudiantes de media vocacional de las instituciones públicas de Ponedera-Atlántico
Authors: Martinez Amelia Margarita Serpa
Published: October 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo establecer estrategias que permitan fortalecer las habilidades en gestión de la información mediante el uso de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación en estudiantes de la media vocacional de las instituciones educativas públicas del municipio Ponedera-Atlántico; en donde se ha evidenciado la dificultad que presentan dichos estudiantes al momento de buscar y seleccionar la información, lo que conlleva a plantear la siguiente pregunta de investigación: ¿Cómo diseñar un modelo que potencialice las habilidades de gestión de la información apoyadas en el uso de herramientas tecnológicas en los estudiantes de media vocacional de las instituciones públicas de Ponedera-Atlántico?.
Esta tesis doctoral es tipo descriptivo, la cual se sustenta en la postura del paradigma positivista, siguiendo la ruta de investigación cuantitativa, basada en el método hipotético deductivo, para la cual se requiere de recolección de datos de tipo numérico, estandarizado y cuantificable, en donde se analizan los resultados, mediante análisis estadísticos, que permitan comprobar la hipótesis planteada, para posterior discusión y conclusión. Moreno (2019). 
La población de estudio corresponde a estudiantes de la media vocacional de las instituciones educativas públicas del municipio de Ponedera-Atlántico; tomándose como muestra no probabilística por conveniencia a los estudiantes de la media vocacional de las instituciones educativas públicas del municipio Ponedera-Atlántico. Para el estudio y análisis estadístico de esta investigación, los mecanismos de recolección de información ó instrumentos seleccionados a implementar son la observación y la encuesta.
Seven New Species of Besleria (Gesneriaceae) from the Mesoamerican Flora
Authors: Barrie Fred R. , Skog Laurence E.
Published: October 2024

Seven species of Besleria Plum. ex L. (Gesneriaceae) are described from the Mesoamerican flora to add to the 27 currently recognized from the region: three from types from Panama (Besleria amicitia L. E. Skog & Barrie, B. darienensis L. E. Skog & Barrie, and B. fruticosa L. E. Skog & Barrie), two from Costa Rica (B. gracilis L. E. Skog & Barrie and B. talamancana L. E. Skog & Barrie), and one each from Honduras (B. hondurensis L. E. Skog & Barrie) and Belize (B. nicolsonii L. E. Skog & Barrie), the latter also found in Guatemala and Honduras.