bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uptake of hepatitis B vaccination and associated factors among health sciences students, Mogadishu, Somalia
Authors: Hassan Yahye Sheikh Abdulle , Hassan Shafie Abdulkadir , Ahmed Nur Rashiid
Published: September 2023

Background

Hepatitis B is a potentially fatal liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is a serious issue for global health. It considerably raises the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer-related death and can result in chronic infection. The risk of infection is high among health sciences students due to the risk of occupational contact with fluids of infected patients and the risk of needle stick injury. The most effective way of preventing HBV infection is the vaccination of students prior to their posting to healthcare settings. There is no data available about HBV vaccination uptake among Health Sciences students in Somalia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine HBV vaccination uptake and associated factors toward HBV among health science students in Somalia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was undertaken among health sciences students from August to October 2022. Data were gathered using Kobo Toolbox using a standardized questionnaire with questions on characteristics, knowledge attitude, and HBV prevention practices. A total of 569 students were involved in the study. Stata version 15 was utilized for the analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, as well as descriptive statistics, were performed. In order to assess the existence and significance of the relationship between the outcome and risk factors, an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used. Statistical significance was considered as a p-value ≤0.05.

Results

Of the 569 study participants, 33.4% (95%CI: 29.6–37.4) received a full dose of the HBV vaccine in this study. Participants had good HBV prevention knowledge, attitudes, and practices at 69.6, 37.96, and 50.6%, respectively. The lack of access and the high cost of the vaccine were the reasons for not taking the vaccine. Second-year [AOR: 0.22 (0.12–0.43)]. Positive attitude [AOR: 0.54 (0.31–0.93)], and good practice [AOR: 6.99 (3.62–13.5)].

Discussion

The study indicated that 33.4% of health sciences students had received the required HBV vaccination doses, academic year, attitude, and practice were significantly associated with full-dose vaccination status. The unavailability of the vaccine and the high cost of vaccination were the most common reasons for not taking the vaccine. It is recommended that students receive vaccinations before beginning clinical rotations, and give instruction on infection prevention strategies and general precautions, particularly regarding HBV infection.
Resource interaction in smallholder farms is linked to farm sustainability: evidence from Indian Sundarbans
Authors: Goswami Rupak , Brodt Sonja , Patra Sangita , Dasgupta Purnabha , Mukherjee Biswanath , Nandi Somen
Published: September 2023

Efficient resource utilization in small-scale farms is crucial to achieving farm sustainability through endogenous mechanisms. However, the precise mechanisms to integrate farm resources to achieve farm sustainability are not very clear yet. By capturing the interaction among farm resources as a network phenomenon, we aimed to identify the discrete resource interactions (RIs) associated with higher farm sustainability in different farm types of Indian Sundarbans. First, we assessed the sustainability of 140 integrated farms using a synthesized assessment framework. Then, we considered four network motifs, namely linkage (a one-way link between two resources), reciprocal linkage (a two-way link between two resources), triad (three resources having closed interconnectedness), and the presence of a farm resource at the core of a network. Using RI network data of 140 farms and employing a graph theoretic approach we identified discrete network motifs (i.e., resource interaction) associated with highly sustainable farms in different farm types. We found a predominance of rice, vegetables and pond-based integration and identified 32 linkages, 11 reciprocal linkages, 21 triads, and three resources at the network core that occurred and co-occurred on highly sustainable farms, and thus critical to achieving farm sustainability. Further, multivariate analyses established that the properties of RI networks could explain farm sustainability significantly. We anticipate that sustainability in small-scale farms can be achieved by strategically designing new RIs on the farm. However, there may be limitations to such achievement depending on the nature of RI and the type of farm.
Results of an Inpatient Preventive Health Care Program to Improve Quality of Life, Psychosocial Health, and Work Ability in Austria
Authors: Thauerer Bettina , Püspök Johannes , Kullich Werner , Felder David , Steinecker-Frohnwieser Bibiane , Skoumal Martin
Published: September 2023

Objective: The Austrian Federal Pension Insurance (PVA) developed a preventive inpatient health program, “Gesundheitsvorsorge-Aktiv (GVA),” for patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Individualized modular interventions and therapeutical measures (movement optimization, movement motivation, and mental health) are designed to improve occupational participation by influencing lifestyle factors and health-related quality of life. The study aimed to evaluate the new prevention-oriented and more personalized inpatient health program GVA.

Methods: Patients underwent a standard inpatient health program, with emphasis on exercise management, exercise motivation, or psychological aspects. Submodule-dependent outcomes were assessed in patients (n = 330) at the start, end of treatment, and 6 months thereafter. Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5L), psychosocial aspects of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-D), and Work Ability Index (WAI) were queried.

Results: The results consistently showed positive short and long-term effects. The subjective assessments of current work ability improved while the impairment of work performance was reduced. Positive changes in the psychosocial sphere were observed, alongside improvements in the health-related quality of life. Patients in the exercise optimization module performed better in all respects.

Conclusion: In summary, GVA represents a valuable preventive health measure that leads to a holistic increase in well-being and can also ensure the maintenance of the ability to work.
An Overview of the Application of Machine Vision in Recognition and Localization of Fruit and Vegetable Harvesting Robots
Authors: Hou Guangyu , Chen Haihua , Jiang Mingkun , Niu Runxin
Published: September 2023

Intelligent agriculture imposes higher requirements on the recognition and localization of fruit and vegetable picking robots. Due to its unique visual information and relatively low hardware cost, machine vision is widely applied in the recognition and localization of fruit and vegetable picking robots. This article provides an overview of the application of machine vision in the recognition and localization of fruit and vegetable picking robots. Firstly, the advantages, disadvantages, and the roles of different visual sensors and machine vision algorithms in the recognition and localization of fruit and vegetable picking robots are introduced, including monocular cameras, stereo cameras, structured light cameras, multispectral cameras, image segmentation algorithms, object detection algorithms, and 3D reconstruction algorithms. Then, the current status and challenges faced by machine vision in the recognition and localization of fruit and vegetable picking robots are summarized. These challenges include the stability of fast recognition under complex background interference, stability of recognition under different lighting environments for the same crop, the reliance of recognition and localization on prior information in the presence of fruit overlap and occlusions caused by leaves and branches, and the uncertainty of picking caused by complex working environments. In current research on algorithms dealing with complex background interference and various occlusion disturbances, good results have been achieved. Different lighting environments have a significant impact on the recognition and positioning of fruits and vegetables, with a minimum accuracy of 59.2%. Finally, this article outlines future research directions to address these challenges.
Pseudouridine Synthase RsuA Confers a Survival Advantage to Bacteria under Streptomycin Stress
Authors: Abedeera Sudeshi M. , Jayalath Kumudie S. , Xie Jiale , Rauff Rushdhi M. , Abeysirigunawardena Sanjaya C.
Published: September 2023

Bacterial ribosome small subunit rRNA (16S rRNA) contains 11 nucleotide modifications scattered throughout all its domains. The 16S rRNA pseudouridylation enzyme, RsuA, which modifies U516, is a survival protein essential for bacterial survival under stress conditions. A comparison of the growth curves of wildtype and RsuA knock-out E. coli strains illustrates that RsuA renders a survival advantage to bacteria under streptomycin stress. The RsuA-dependent growth advantage for bacteria was found to be dependent on its pseudouridylation activity. In addition, the role of RsuA as a trans-acting factor during ribosome biogenesis may also play a role in bacterial growth under streptomycin stress. Furthermore, circular dichroism spectroscopy measurements and RNase footprinting studies have demonstrated that pseudouridine at position 516 influences helix 18 structure, folding, and streptomycin binding. This study exemplifies the importance of bacterial rRNA modification enzymes during environmental stress.
A New Type of Bipartite Random Graph as a Transform of Seismogram and Its Potential for Organizing Seismic Databases
Authors: Babić Ranko , Babić Lidija
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes a method to reduce seismogram variability as a determining factor in its interpretation, processing, and clustering. By introducing the concept of single fluctuations (SFs), the seismogram can be parsed into a sequence of random impulses with subsequent ordering. This rearrangement of SFs, if they are assigned by positive integers, represents the formal mapping of a regular string of integers into a random one, which can be represented with a bipartite random graph (bigraph). Due to its specific randomness, such a bigraph is considered a new type of random balanced bigraph. The R-envelope and RQ-envelope, its equidistant version, are defined by tracing the peak envelope over ordered SFs. The equivalence and complementariness of the RQ and bigraph are considered and discussed, forming a combined characteristic of the seismogram. The R/RQ provided a considerable reduction in seismogram variability, which was confirmed by creating and analyzing an ensemble of RQ from several seismograms. In the RQ domain, distance is defined as a possible basis for metrics and clustering, but the ensemble variability was quite narrow and not as suitable for this purpose. Otherwise, the ensemble shows high redundancy hidden in the seismogram population. As for the bigraph, the mesh of its edges is structuralized in bundles, forming a skeleton, which reflects the internal structural content of the seismogram. The distance over the domain of bigraphs is proposed to show the possibility of clustering. This means that only a combined RQ and bigraph provides a suitable frame for seismogram representation with reduced variability and, thus, the potential for more effectively organizing seismic databases and a deeper interpretation of seismograms; therefore, RQs and bigraphs can be considered as a transform of a seismogram. Many aspects of these concepts are thoroughly discussed. The similarity between concepts of SF and wavelets is briefly considered. This very complex theme is new and promises broad further research. All issues considered in the paper are abundantly illustrated.
Dynamic Analysis of Non-Uniform Functionally Graded Beams on Inhomogeneous Foundations Subjected to Moving Distributed Loads
Authors: Huang Yixin , Liu Haizhou , Zhao Yang
Published: September 2023

Inhomogeneous materials, variable foundations, non-uniform cross-sections, and non-uniformly distributed loads are common in engineering structures and typically complicate their mechanical analysis considerably. This paper presents an accurate and efficient numerical method for the dynamic analysis of non-uniform functionally graded beams resting on inhomogeneous viscoelastic foundations subjected to non-uniformly distributed moving load and investigates the effects of non-uniformities and inhomogeneities on material, foundation, and load. Based on the Timoshenko beam theory and a Chebyshev spectral method, a consistent discrete dynamic model is derived, which can deal with all axially varying properties. A series of numerical experiments are carried out to validate the convergence and accuracy of the proposed method. The results are compared with those obtained through finite element analysis or in the literature, and excellent agreement is observed. Then, the dynamic response of an axially functionally graded beam resting on an inhomogeneous viscoelastic foundation and subjected to a non-uniformly distributed moving load is investigated. The results show that the material gradient and the inhomogeneous foundation can alter the vibration amplitudes and critical speeds of the beam significantly. Compared with more realistic non-uniformly distributed moving load models, idealized concentrated and uniformly distributed moving load models produce apparent computation errors in vibration amplitudes.
An Automated Guided Vehicle Path Planning Algorithm Based on Improved A* and Dynamic Window Approach Fusion
Authors: Guo Tao , Sun Yunquan , Liu Yong , Liu Li , Lu Jing
Published: September 2023

Aimed at the problems of low search efficiency of the A* algorithm in global path planning, not considering the size of AGV and too many turns, and the DWA algorithm easily falling into local optimization, an AGV path planning algorithm based on improved A* and DWA fusion is proposed. To begin, the obstacle rate coefficient is added to the A* algorithm’s evaluation function to build an adaptive cost function; the search efficiency and path safety are increased by improving the search mode; by extracting key nodes, a global path containing only the starting point, key nodes, and endpoints is obtained. The DWA algorithm’s evaluation function is then optimized and the starting azimuth is optimized based on information from the first key node. The experimental results show that in a static environment, compared with the traditional A* algorithm and the improved A* algorithm, the path length is reduced by 1.3% and 5.6%, respectively, and the turning times are reduced by 62.5% and 70%, respectively; compared with the improved ant colony algorithm in the literature, the turning angle is reduced by 29%. In the dynamic environment, the running time of this fusion algorithm is reduced by 12.6% compared with the other hybrid algorithms.
Experimental Investigation on Performances of Battered Piles Resisting Embankment-Induced Lateral Soil Movement
Authors: Zhou Dequan , Zhu Qin , Wang Chuangye
Published: September 2023

The performance of passive battered piles resisting the embankment-induced lateral soil movements may differ from that of the active battered pile and axially loaded existing vertical piles adjacent to embankment constructions. This study was part of a preliminary feasibility investigation for a reinforcement plan of an actual embankment project, aiming to experimentally investigate the performance of passive battered piles under embankment-induced lateral soil movement. To this end, a sequence of reduced-scale model tests of battered piles near the surcharges was first designed in sandy soil with a similarity ratio of 1:30. The effects of pile inclinations (β = −20°, −10°, 0°, +10°, and +20°), surcharge magnitudes, and constraint conditions at the pile tip (free-tip and fixed-tip) on the responses of passive battered piles were explored. Finally, the response characteristics of battered piles resisting the embankment-induced lateral soil movement were analyzed to clarify the working mechanism of these battered piles.
Low-Light Image Enhancement Algorithm Based on Deep Learning and Retinex Theory
Authors: Lei Chenyu , Tian Qichuan
Published: September 2023

To address the challenges of low-light images, such as low brightness, poor contrast, and high noise, a network model based on deep learning and Retinex theory is proposed. The model consists of three modules: image decomposition, illumination enhancement, and color restoration. In the image decomposition module, dilated convolutions and residual connections are employed to mitigate the issue of detail loss during the decomposition process. The illumination enhancement module utilizes a set of mapping curves to enhance the illumination map. The color restoration module employs a weighted fusion of a 3D lookup table (3DLUT) to mitigate color distortion in the images. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm effectively improves the brightness and contrast of low-light images while addressing the issues of detail loss and color distortion. Compared to other algorithms, it achieves better subjective and objective evaluations.
Influence of Warm Mix Asphalt Additives on the Physical Characteristics of Crumb Rubber Asphalt Binders
Authors: Bilema Munder , Wah Yuen Choon , Alharthai Mohammad , Hazim Al-Saffar Zaid , Oleiwi Aletba Salam Ridha , Md Yusoff Nur Izzi
Published: September 2023

This investigation is centered around the application of warm mix asphalt (WMA) technologies to address workability concerns linked to rubberized asphalt binders. The primary aim of incorporating crumb rubber (CR) and WMA additives is to establish a robust paving method that fosters energy conservation, efficient waste management, noise reduction, and improved overall performance. The current study aims to comprehensively characterize and differentiate the physical attributes of rubberized asphalt binders by employing three distinct WMA additives: Sasobit, Cecabase RT and Rediset WMX. These additives are introduced into eight unique asphalt binders. Laboratory assessments are carried out to evaluate the workability and physical properties of these binders. The evaluation encompasses penetration, softening point, penetration index, penetration viscosity number, storage stability, ductility, viscosity, and stiffness modulus analyses. The findings indicate that the rubberized asphalt binder enhanced with Sasobit demonstrates the highest levels of both hardness and softening point in comparison to asphalt binders supplemented with alternative WMA additives. The evaluation of storage stability underscores the satisfactory stability across all modified asphalt binders. Both the unmodified and modified binders meet the requirements stipulated by the ductility test; the rubberized asphalt binder modified with Rediset falls short. The rubberized asphalt binder improved with Sasobit displays the most notable enhancement in workability. Furthermore, the blend of crumb rubber and Sasobit binder reveals the highest stiffness modulus values under conditions of intermediate and high temperatures with 1.88 and 0.46 MPa, respectively. In summation, the rubberized asphalt binder incorporating crumb rubber with Sasobit showcases superior improvements in both stiffness and workability compared to counterparts modified with Cecabase RT and Rediset WMX.
Monitoring the Quality and Perception of Service in Colombian Public Service Companies with Twitter and Descriptive Temporal Analysis
Authors: Conti Dante , Gomez Carlos Eduardo , Jaramillo Juan Guillermo , Ospina Victoria Eugenia
Published: September 2023

The main goal of this research is to analyze the perception of service in public sector companies in the city of Bogota via Twitter and text mining to identify areas, problems, and topics aiming for quality service improvement. To achieve this objective, a structured method for data modeling is implemented based on the KDD methodology. Tweets from January to June 2022 related to the companies in the sector are processed, and a temporal analysis of the evolution of sentiment is performed based on the dictionaries Bing, AFINN, and NRC. Subsequently, the LDA algorithm (Latent Dirichlet Allocation algorithm) is used to visually identify the topics with the greatest negative impact reported by the users in each of the 6 months by adding the temporal dimension. The results revealed that, for Aqueduct (water supply service), the topic with the highest dissatisfaction is related to the “Water Tank Request” processes; for Enel (energy services) “Service Outages”; and for Vanti (gas services), “Case solution and request information”. Temporal patterns of tweets, sentiments, and topics are also highlighted for the three companies.
Towards Feasible Capsule Network for Vision Tasks
Authors: Vu Dang Thanh , An Le Bao Thai , Kim Jin Young , Yu Gwang Hyun
Published: September 2023

Capsule networks exhibit the potential to enhance computer vision tasks through their utilization of equivariance for capturing spatial relationships. However, the broader adoption of these networks has been impeded by the computational complexity of their routing mechanism and shallow backbone model. To address these challenges, this paper introduces an innovative hybrid architecture that seamlessly integrates a pretrained backbone model with a task-specific capsule head (CapsHead). Our methodology is extensively evaluated across a range of classification and segmentation tasks, encompassing diverse datasets. The empirical findings robustly underscore the efficacy and practical feasibility of our proposed approach in real-world vision applications. Notably, our approach yields substantial 3.45% and 6.24% enhancement in linear evaluation on the CIFAR10 dataset and segmentation on the VOC2012 dataset, respectively, compared to baselines that do not incorporate the capsule head. This research offers a noteworthy contribution by not only advancing the application of capsule networks, but also mitigating their computational complexities. The results substantiate the feasibility of our hybrid architecture, thereby paving the way for a wider integration of capsule networks into various computer vision tasks.
Evaluating the Economic Feasibility of Verjus Production in Texas Vineyards and Wineries
Authors: Marbach Cassie , Hall Charlie , Botezatu Andreea
Published: September 2023

This study assessed the economic viability of producing verjus (“green juice”) from cluster-thinned grapes. Utilizing the Delphi Method and insights from an expert panel, a comprehensive partial budget model was constructed for vineyards and wineries, focusing on the financial impact of verjus production. Existing vineyards with cluster thinning practices benefited from verjus production. However, vineyards considering cluster thinning solely for verjus may face lower profit margins without a substantial increase in grape harvest prices. Winery operations were also examined, comparing costs of using verjus as an acidifying agent for wine and producing it as a bottled product. Verjus was relatively more expensive than tartaric acid for acidification, but added volume could offset the cost, making it desirable. Additionally, as a standalone product, verjus showed promising profitability, presenting an opportunity for wineries to explore this niche market and expand product offerings. In conclusion, existing vineyards could benefit from verjus production, while wineries could consider using verjus as an acidifying agent or explore its use as an individual product. Careful consideration of costs and market demand is crucial for informed decisions regarding verjus production.
Effects of Scallop Visceral Mass and Mantle as Dietary Supplements on the Growth, Immune Response and Intestinal Microflora of Juvenile Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus
Authors: Yu Yu , Wang Mengshu , Ren Yichao , Wang Xin , Ge Xiangyun , Li Kecheng
Published: September 2023

Scallop visceral mass and mantle are aquatic byproducts and waste, but they have high contents of protein. In this study, scallop visceral mass and mantle were used as supplements in the diet of juvenile sea cucumber (A. japonicus) and their effects on the growth, fatty acid and amino acid compositions, the non-specific immune responses and the intestinal microflora of A. japonicus were investigated through a 40 d feeding experiment. The results showed that dietary supplementation of scallop visceral mass significantly accelerated the specific growth rate (SGR) of juvenile A. japonicus by 3 times within 20 days, and also raised the contents of ω-3 fatty acids including EPA and DHA and the ω-3/ω-6 ratio of the sea cucumber tissue, which is favorable to the health and commercial value of the sea cucumber. Furthermore, it was found that the supplementation of scallop visceral mass and mantle stimulated the expression of immune-related genes and enhanced the immune defense in A. japonicus. Scallop visceral mass and mantle supplementation also increased the microbial diversity and the abundance of beneficial microbes including Bifidobacteriaceae, Streptomycetaceae, Clostridiaceae and Rhizobiales in the gut of A. japonicus. This study reveals the beneficial effects of dietary supplementation of scallop visceral mass and mantle on the growth of juvenile A. japonicus, which might be a promising way to reutilize this scallop waste and raise its economic value.
Mechanism of Anti-Salmonella Rabbit Immunoglobulin Adsorption on Polymer Particles
Authors: Żeliszewska Paulina , Wasilewska Monika , Szych Jolanta , Adamczyk Zbigniew
Published: September 2023

The adsorption of anti-Salmonella rabbit immunoglobulin (IgaR) on negatively charged polymer particles leading to the formation of immunolatex was studied using various techniques comprising atomic force microscopy (AFM) and laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV). Initially, the basic physicochemical properties of IgaR molecules and the particles, inter alia their electrophoretic mobilities, the zeta potentials and hydrodynamic diameters, were determined under different ionic strengths and pHs. Applying AFM, single immunoglobulin molecules adsorbed on mica were also imaged, which allowed to determine their size. The adsorption of the IgaR molecules on the particles leading to changes in their electrophoretic mobility was monitored in situ using the LDV method. The obtained results were interpreted applying a general electrokinetic model which yielded quantitative information about the molecule coverage on the particles. The obtained immunolatex was thoroughly characterized with respect to its acid–base properties and its stability upon storage. Notably, the developed procedure demonstrated better efficiency compared to commercially applied methods, characterized by a higher immunoglobulin consumption.
The Association between Vitamin D, Interleukin-4, and Interleukin-10 Levels and CD23+ Expression with Bronchial Asthma in Stunted Children
Authors: Sapartini Gartika , Wong Gary W. K. , Indrati Agnes Rengga , Kartasasmita Cissy B. , Setiabudiawan Budi
Published: September 2023

Children with stunted growth have an increased risk of wheezing, and studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D and interleukin (IL)-10, along with increased IL-4 levels and CD23+ expression, are present in stunted and asthmatic children. To date, it is not known whether these factors are related to the incidence of asthma in stunted children. This case-control study investigated the association between vitamin D, IL-4, and IL-10 levels and CD23+ expression with bronchial asthma in stunted children. The study included 99 children aged 24–59 months, i.e., 37 stunted-sthmatic children (cases), 38 stunted children without asthma, and 24 non-stunted children with asthma. All children were tested for their 25(OH)D levels using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA), IL-4 and IL-10 levels were measured through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing, and CD23+ expression was measured through flow cytometry bead testing. The data were analyzed using chi-squared, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests. The results showed that stunted asthmatic children had a higher incidence of atopic family members than those without asthma. Additionally, stunted asthmatic children had a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (48.6%) than the control group (44.7% and 20.8%). Furthermore, stunted asthmatic children had significantly lower levels of 25(OH)D [20.55 (16.18–25.55), p = 0.042] and higher levels of IL-4 [1.41 (0.95–2.40), p = 0.038], although there were no significant differences in IL-10 levels and CD23+ expression. The study concluded that low vitamin D and high IL-4 levels are associated with bronchial asthma in stunted children, while IL-10 and CD23+ do not show a significant association.
Social Networking Site Use and Emotional Eating Behaviors among Chinese Adolescents: The Effects of Negative Social Comparisons and Perspective-Taking
Authors: Sun Shan , Chen Siying , Wang Zian , Xiong Yan , Xie Shixuan
Published: September 2023

Emotional eating has emerged as a significant disordered eating and public health concern among adolescents. Despite the widespread prevalence of social networking site (SNS) use among this population, research investigating the influence of SNS use on adolescent eating behaviors remains limited. This study is to examine the impact of SNS use on emotional eating among Chinese adolescents, with a specific focus on exploring the mediating role of negative social comparisons and the moderating effect of perspective-taking. Data were obtained through an online survey involving 778 middle school students in China. The findings indicate that SNS use exerts a positive influence on adolescents’ engagement in emotional eating, with this association being mediated by the presence of negative social comparisons. Perspective-taking demonstrated a protective role in the context of adolescents’ utilization of social media platforms. For individuals characterized by high levels of perspective-taking, the effects of SNS use on negative social comparisons are mitigated, subsequently reducing its impact on emotional eating.
The Impacts of COVID-19 on Real Estate Market Dynamics: A Systematic Literature Review of Emerging Trends
Authors: Di Liddo Felicia , Anelli Debora , Morano Pierluigi , Tajani Francesco
Published: September 2023

The real estate market constitutes one of the major sectors that was influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is therefore useful to understand the ways in which COVID-19 has changed the dynamics of the real estate market, establishing new trends in different market segments. The health crisis has upset the consolidated “human normality” by spreading new behaviors and involving almost all sectors. Among economic fields, the identification of temporary and permanent impacts on the real estate market is fundamental to assess the consequences worldwide and to evaluate countries’ resilience ability. The aim of the research is to provide a systematic literature review on the existent academic insights in order to identify the aspects that have been mainly addressed regarding the real estate market’s impacts from COVID-19 and to grasp how the real estate market dynamics have changed. Thus, through five structured steps—from the formulation of research questions formulation to an analysis and discussion of the selected papers for drafting overall conclusions—102 research papers published in the period between the second half of 2020 and the first half of 2023 collected from Scopus and Google Scholar were reviewed and examined. The findings reveal that (i) the housing market has been the most analyzed, (ii) the period between 2021 and 2022 has been the most scientifically prolific, (iii) the US real estate market has been the most studied, (iv) American authors have been the most active on the subject, (v) and the “article” type of research paper has been the most published. These results provide the basis for future research developments on COVID-19 and real estate market dynamics, supporting the implementation of recovery plan strategies and decision-making processes of the market operators for improving the sector.
Built Equality and Sustainable Urban Cultural Space: A Case Study of Quanzhou, China
Authors: Yan Wen-Jie , Liu Shu-Tang
Published: September 2023

Geographic information and the mapping analysis of scientific knowledge have proven to be effective for the management and monitoring of built heritage. To understand built heritage and the urban cultural space, this study incorporates the following integrated data: public surveys, researchers’ knowledge graphs, and urban map information. Firstly, the urban map of Quanzhou is used to analyze the spatial distribution of cultural heritage points. Secondly, Citespace literature co-citation analysis technology is used to establish a preliminary evaluation index of urban culture governance. Thirdly, a questionnaire survey was conducted on the creative economy and urban culture space, and a theoretical model of the urban culture ecosystem was established using Amos software, which includes six dimensions of “cultural inclusiveness, cultural sustainability, cultural integrity, cultural creativity, and cultural vitality”. Finally, a comparative analysis is conducted on the number of visitors to different types of cultural public spaces in Quanzhou City. The results show that exemplary local knowledge and deep historical memory are core elements for building an ideal cultural ecosystem and are necessary to promote cities toward a sustainable future.
State-of-the-Art: Integrating Fastener Technology and Design Guidelines for Enhanced Performance of Cold-Formed Steel Sections
Authors: Hussein Ardalan B. , Papp Ferenc
Published: September 2023

Cold-formed steel (CFS) elements have gained significant attention in the field of structural engineering due to their numerous advantages, including high strength-to-weight ratio, cost-effectiveness, and ease of assembly and prefabrication. This review paper presents a comprehensive state-of-the-art analysis of the design and analysis of CFS structures, with a specific focus on columns and beams. The primary objectives and aims of this review paper are to provide a detailed assessment of the factors influencing the behavior and performance of CFS elements, including partial composite action, fastener spacing, bolt arrangement, web aperture, stiffeners, and connection spacing, to propose and present various formulas and methodologies that accurately estimate critical buckling loads, strength, and moment resistance for CFS members, and to emphasize the significance of proper screw and bolt placement in preventing premature failure and enhancing the overall load-carrying capacity of CFS structures. Additionally, the impact of temperature on the mechanical properties and performance of CFS members is discussed. The review paper proposes different formulas and methodologies to accurately estimate critical buckling loads, strength, and moment resistance for CFS members. Moreover, the paper highlights the importance of proper screw and bolt placement to prevent early failure and improve the overall load-carrying capacity of CFS structures. The discussion also emphasizes the need for revisions in existing standards and codes to provide more practical guidelines for designers and engineers. Overall, this state-of-the-art review paper provides valuable insights and recommendations for researchers and practitioners involved in the design and analysis of CFS elements.
Influence of Column Base Connections on the Cyclic Loading Performance of Double-Jointed Engineered Bamboo Columns
Authors: Li Deyue , Han Shanyu , Wang Mingqian , Chen Fuming , Leng Yubing , Wang Ge
Published: September 2023

The cyclic loading performance of bamboo double-jointed components of different column base connection types was investigated through reversed cyclic loading tests and finite element analysis. Test results indicated that the types of column base connections played an important role in the failure modes of the engineered bamboo double-jointed columns: for an encased steel plate column base connection, the main failure mode was tensile fracture failure of the bamboo scrimber section at the bottom of the cladding plate; for a slotted-in steel plate column base connection, the main failure mode was splitting failure of the bamboo scrimber cross-grain at the bolt connection line at the bottom of the sheathing plate. The initial stiffness of the encased steel plate column base connection specimen was 41.8% higher than that of the slotted-in steel plate column base connection specimen, with the two specimens having similar average bearing capacities. The ductility ratio of the two specimens was below 3.0 due to the brittle failure nature of the engineered bamboo connections. The finite element model accurately predicted the ultimate bearing capacity of the double-jointed bamboo column members. The modeling error was within 12%, which was sufficient to satisfy the accuracy requirements for engineering purposes.
Correction: Shao et al. Outdoor Cold Stress and Cold Risk for Children during Winter: A Study in China’s Severe Cold Regions. Buildings 2022, 12, 936
Authors: Shao Long , He Xiaoyun , Tang Yuexing , Wu Shenglong
Published: September 2023

It is very unfortunate that there were mistakes in the original publication [...]
Selective Alkylation of Benzene with Methanol to Toluene and Xylene over H-ZSM-5 Zeolites: Impact of Framework Al Spatial Distribution
Authors: Ren Shu , Yang Fan , Tian Chao , Yue Yinghong , Zou Wei , Hua Weiming , Gao Zi
Published: September 2023

The alkylation of benzene with methanol can effectively generate high-value-added toluene and xylene out of surplus benzene, which is now achieved primarily using solid acids like H-ZSM-5 zeolites as catalysts. In this work, two H-ZSM-5 samples with distinct framework aluminum (AlF) distributions, but otherwise quite similar textural and acidic properties, have been prepared by employing tetrapropylammonium hydroxide (TPAOH) and n-butylamine (NBA) as organic structure-directing agents (OSDAs). Systematical investigations demonstrate that AlF is preferentially located at the intersections in MFI topology when TPAOH is adopted. In contrast, less AlF is positioned therein as NBA is utilized. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the transition-state complexes cannot be formed in the straight and sinusoidal channels due to their much smaller sizes than the dynamic diameters of transition states, whereas there are adequate spaces for the formation of transition states at the intersections. Benefitting from abundant AlF at the intersections, which provides more acid sites therein, H-ZSM-5 synthesized from TPAOH is more active relative to the counterpart obtained from NBA. At a WHSV of 4 h−1 and 400 °C, the former catalyst gives a 52.8% conversion, while the latter one affords a 45.9% conversion. Both catalysts display close total selectivity towards toluene and xylene (ca. 84%). This study provides an efficient way to regulate the distribution of acid sites, thereby enhancing the catalytic performance of H-ZSM-5 zeolite in the titled reaction.
Interleukin-21 Influences Glioblastoma Course: Biological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Repici Alberto , Ardizzone Alessio , Filippone Alessia , Colarossi Cristina , Mare Marzia , Raciti Gabriele , Mannino Deborah , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Paterniti Irene , Esposito Emanuela
Published: September 2023

Brain tumors represent a heterogeneous group of neoplasms involving the brain or nearby tissues, affecting populations of all ages with a high incidence worldwide. Among the primary brain tumors, the most aggressive and also the most common is glioblastoma (GB), a type of glioma that falls into the category of IV-grade astrocytoma. GB often leads to death within a few months after diagnosis, even if the patient is treated with available therapies; for this reason, it is important to continue to discover new therapeutic approaches to allow for a better survival rate of these patients. Immunotherapy, today, seems to be one of the most innovative types of treatment, based on the ability of the immune system to counteract various pathologies, including cancer. In this context, interleukin 21 (IL-21), a type I cytokine produced by natural killer (NK) cells and CD4+ T lymphocytes, appears to be a valid target for new therapies since this cytokine is involved in the activation of innate and adaptive immunity. To match this purpose, our review deeply evaluated how IL-21 could influence the progression of GB, analyzing its main biological processes and mechanisms while evaluating the potential use of the latest available therapies.
COVID-19 Pandemic Planning and Management: The Case of New Zealand General Practice Medical Centres
Authors: Mashal Nargis , Morrish Sussie C.
Published: September 2023

The objective of this study was to explore the potential enhancement of response within GP medical centres in New Zealand when facing heightened healthcare demand during a pandemic. This investigation sheds light on effective crisis management and leadership. By elucidating the contributions of this research, we gain a deeper appreciation of its importance in advancing our understanding of pandemic management. This study has yielded fresh insights and knowledge, beneficial to both academic and real-world applications, particularly concerning the adoption and effects of leadership and management within the healthcare domain amidst crisis situations. Using a multiple case study design, we conducted 86 in-depth interviews with staff from 16 General Practice centres in New Zealand. The critical activities delivered during the first six months of the COVID pandemic to keep New Zealand communities safe during the initial COVID-19 outbreak were (a) leadership in health service planning, including workforce planning, new operational processes, and expansion in the use of Information Communication Technology systems by the GP medical centres; (b) environment disinfection using national guidelines, education and establishment of respiratory clinics and expanding testing sites in GP medical centres; and (c) education and outreach to the patients including the protection of Māori, Pasifika, and remote communities. The decision to adopt a localised response to the pandemic, centralise testing, and better understand local-level needs prompted GP medical centres to communicate and engage early and effectively with patients. This enabled centres to lead and manage the COVID-19 pandemic with greater efficiency in the first six months of the outbreak. The New Zealand government’s “team of 5 million” COVID-compliance campaign program provided clear and persistent communication by the Ministry of Health. This campaign assisted in a better national understanding and compliance with the regulation of the COVID-19 pandemic. The dedication of medical centre managers to forward planning using contingency and accrued funding and setting up Community-Based Assessment Centres and respiratory clinics, including walk-in and outreach services, proved to be highly effective. GP centres led the way in COVID-19 pandemic planning, response, and management.
Microwave Angiography by Ultra-Wideband Sounding: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Chamaani Somayyeh , Sachs Jürgen , Prokhorova Alexandra , Smeenk Carsten , Wegner Tim Erich , Helbig Marko
Published: September 2023

Angiography is a very informative method for physicians such as cardiologists, neurologists and neuroscientists. The current modalities experience some shortages, e.g., ultrasound is very operator dependent. The computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) angiography are very expensive and near infrared spectroscopy cannot capture the deep arteries. Microwave technology has the potential to address some of these issues while compromising between operator dependency, cost, speed, penetration depth and resolution. This paper studies the feasibility of microwave signals for monitoring of arteries. To this aim, a homogenous phantom mimicking body tissue is built. Four elastic tubes simulate arteries and a mechanical system creates pulsations in these arteries. A multiple input multiple output (MIMO) array of ultra-wideband (UWB) transmitters and receivers illuminates the phantom and captures the reflected signals over the desired observation time period. Since we are only interested in the imaging of dynamic parts, i.e., arteries, the static clutters can be suppressed easily by background subtraction method. To obtain a fast image of arteries, which are pulsating with the heartbeat rate, we calculate the Fourier transform of each channel of the MIMO system over the observation time and apply delay and sum (DAS) beamforming method on the heartbeat rate aligned spectral component. The results show that the lateral and longitudinal images and motion mode (M-mode) time series of different points of phantom have the potential to be used for diagnosis.
Teachers’ Perceptions and Experiences of Navigating Continuing Professional Development during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dempsey Tyrone , Mestry Raj
Published: September 2023

Using social constructivism as a theoretical framework, we examined the perceptions and experiences encountered by South African teachers of their professional development during the COVID-19 pandemic. Translating teacher experiences into explicit learning contexts for learners remains an ongoing pedagogical challenge. For teachers to be effective, they must be prepared for changes and adapt swiftly to changing conditions. The need for pedagogical mobility to adopt a perspective of introspective teaching practice that engages learners in meaningful learning environments was crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers were compelled to change their pedagogical approach; they were obliged to become digitally literate and apply advanced technology that would enable learners to access a wide range of activities and resources. Using a generic qualitative research design within an interpretivist paradigm, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six teachers and analysed using Tesch’s method of coding. We applied a generic qualitative methodology within an interpretivist paradigm to explore teachers’ perceptions and experiences. Six teachers, purposefully selected from various schools, participated in this research. Our findings revealed that lack of guidance and support from educational authorities and school management teams negatively infringed on teachers’ practice and professional development. However, teachers collaborated with peers and community members, engaged in knowledge-sharing, and adopted a trial-and-error approach to finding solutions. CPD programmes focusing on classroom management and pedagogical skills are highly recommended to foster the development of more proficient teachers.