bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El control judicial de las sanciones impuestas por la Comisión en materia de competencia
Authors:  Moreno Molina Angel M.
Published: November 2024

Esta contribución explora el control (por motivos de forma) ejercido por los tribunales de la Unión Europea sobre las multas aflictivas que la Comisión puede adoptar contra los operadores económicos, en el marco de sus potestades y competencias para corregir los acuerdos y comportamientos de las empresas que se consideren contrarios a los arts. 101 y 102 del TFUE. Tras la interpretación de la estructura de fuentes y la identificación de los principios de actuación y de los derechos de las empresas en el marco de dichos procedimientos, la contribución da noticia analítica de algunos fallos recientes dictados por el Tribunal de Luxemburgo en este campo.
Whom to turn to? The association between childhood living arrangement and the parent-child relationship
Authors: Palmtag Eva Lisa Katarina
Published: November 2024

Objective: First, the study examines if children’s perception of their parent-child relationship is associated with parental separation and second, it investigates if children’s perception of their relationship with parents is associated with their living arrangements post-separation.
Background: Previous findings indicate that children living in shared residence generally fare better across several life domains compared to children living in sole parental households. There is, however, limited knowledge of how children perceive their relationships with both their separated parents during childhood.
Method: The data includes two cross-sectional waves (2000 and 2010) of the child survey (Child-LNU) that accompanies the Swedish Level-of-Living Survey (LNU). The analytical sample consisted of 2,064 children (10-18 years), and the subsample of separated families comprised 455 children.
Results: Children in separated families were less likely to turn to both parents when worried (emotional support) compared to children living with two custodial parents in the same household. Additionally, they were less likely to report that they get along very well with both parents. Children in shared residence arrangements did not differ significantly from children in households with two custodial parents, with the exception of older children (age 14-18), who also reported less often that they get on very well with both parents. In contrast, children in sole parental residence fared worse regarding both emotional support from, and relationship quality with, both parents.
Conclusion: Shared residence enables children to maintain a relationship with both parents after separation, regarding both emotional support and relationship quality. This result is on par with the parental relationships of children in households with two custodial parents. Importantly, this study does not claim to provide causal interpretation due to the use of cross-sectional data.
ЕФЕКТИВНІСТЬ АЛГОРИТМІВ МАШИННОГО НАВЧАННЯ ДЛЯ КЛАСИФІКАЦІЇ ЗМІН СТРУКТУРИ ЛЕГЕНЬ У ПОСТКОВІДНИХ ТА ГОСТРИХ СТАДІЯХ COVID-19
Authors: Лутченко Вікторія , Бабенко Віталій , Настенко Євген , Линник Микола
Published: November 2024

Комп'ютерна томографія (КТ) є важливим інструментом для діагностики змін структури легень завдяки своїй високій точності та чутливості у визначенні патологічних змін на тканинах. Деталізація тканин легень є основною причиною ефективності даного методу у виявленні як гострих стадій захворювання COVID-19, так і ускладнень, що виникли на тлі постковідного періоду (починається через три місяці після гострої стадії). Однак, важливу роль відіграють медичні фахівці, які працюють зі знімками КТ. Застосування комп’ютерних алгоритмів машинного навчання може сприяти покращенню медичної практики, від чого виграють як фахівці, отримуючи підтримку у прийнятті діагностичних рішень, так і пацієнти, отримуючи своєчасне та ефективне лікування. В даному дослідженні використовувалась база зрізів КТ легень, що була надана фахівцями ДУ «Національний інститут фтизіатрії та пульмонології імені Ф.Г. Яновського НАМН України» у рамках співпраці з КПІ ім. Ігоря Сікорського. Усього база містила 10 031 зріз КТ легень, які були взяті у 36 знеособлених пацієнтів. З них, 5 213 (52%) зрізів містили ознаки гострої фази COVID-19, а 4 818 (48%) – ознаки постковіду. Перед процесом моделювання було прийнято рішення розподілити пацієнтів в тренувальну (80.6%) і тестову (19.4%) вибірки. Завдяки такому розподіленню співвідношення між зрізами КТ у двох вибірках складало 3:1. Для вилучення інформативних ознак з наданих зрізів застосовувались методи текстурного аналізу, такі як: GLCM, GLRLM, GLDS та LBP. Використовуючи отримані ознаки, була проведена класифікація стану легень наступними алгоритмами машинного навчання: Random Forest, Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), XGBoost, LightGBM, а також випадковий ліс дерев оптимальної складності (ВЛДОС). За допомогою мір точності, чутливості та специфічності було визначено, що виявляти зміни структури легень, як у постковідних пацієнтів, так і у пацієнтів з гострою стадією COVID-19, здатні моделі XGBoost LightGBM та ВЛДОС з показниками точності на тестовій вибірці 85%, 86% та 89% відповідно. Подібні результати дозволяють надавати необхідну для медичних фахівців підтримку у прийнятті діагностичних рішень, що сприяє кращому виявленню змін структури легень. В майбутніх дослідженнях планується розробка програмного забезпечення з можливостями пояснювального інтелекту, а також подальша інтеграція застосунку в чинну медичну інфраструктуру.
Regulating Cloud Services as a Tool of International Competition: Defining the Domain
Authors: Grigoryevsky V.
Published: November 2024

The development of ‘new political spaces’, particularly within the information domain, is emerging as a significant trend. With the rapid expansion of the global ICT sector, cloud services have become one of the pivotal industries. This paper explores the core aspects of the cloud services sector, delineates its key components and highlights its principal feature: the ability to facilitate long-term cross-border operations through remote program execution and network access. Cloud services constitute a burgeoning global market dominated by the U.S. and China, fostering both economic and non-economic competition, along with associated threats and opportunities. In this competitive environment, various actors, especially states and large corporations, assert their political interests. The study reviews diverse scholarly approaches to cloud services within political science from 2010 to 2022. The author proposes two scientific hypotheses: the first posits that the growth of the global cloud services market, combined with their technical characteristics, contributes to the transformation of this technology into a powerful instrument of international influence and competition; the second hypothesis asserts that governmental regulation of cloud services can serve as an effective method for countries seeking to enhance their international influence and impact on other participants in international relations. The paper examines governmental regulatory goals, types and methods within legal, cultural, political and economic subsystems. Furthermore, the study outlines the existing international regulatory framework for cloud services and proposes an alternative model. This proposed model supports the coexistence of multiple regulatory regimes, enhances coordination among system participants and mitigates the likelihood of destructive actions targeting individual participants.
Characteristics of Indonesia’s Energy Transition Policy: The Role of Foreign Business in Decarbonization
Authors: Grigoryan H.
Published: November 2024

The article delves into Indonesia’s energy transition policy, specifically examining the involvement of foreign companies through collaborative projects. Indonesia grapples with the dual challenges of ensuring energy security and attaining carbon neutrality, aligning with its climate commitments from COP 26 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The article demonstrates how Indonesia, despite its aspirations for carbon neutrality and associated political ambitions, encounters a significant hurdle due to limited domestic resources for realizing its goals. The formation of partnerships with foreign entities, with each of them pursuing their own political and economic objectives, is a possible way to circumvent it. Indonesia’s insufficient readiness for a comprehensive industrial transformation, necessary for implementing a cohesive decarbonization policy with available renewable resources, creates distinct opportunities for foreign entities to enhance their influence and contribute to Indonesia’s long-term green economy planning. In this context, the involvement of foreign entities could be pivotal in determining the success of the energy transition, the realization of decarbonization targets and the assurance of energy security for Indonesia. Drawing on practical examples from France and Germany, the author views this collaboration between Indonesia and foreign entities as a natural and essential part in technological and economic development. Within the ongoing phase of the nation’s long-term strategy, the engagement of diverse foreign entities aligns with Indonesia’s objectives and establishes the necessary groundwork for the energy transition and the attainment of previously outlined decarbonization goals. The article employs a comprehensive approach, utilizing various official documents and roadmaps related to Indonesia’s energy policy, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, and several documents from international development institutions to explore the issue thoroughly.
On the Salient Regularities of Strings of Assembly Theory
Authors: Bieniawski Wawrzyniec , Masierak Piotr , Tomski Andrzej , Łukaszyk Szymon
Published: November 2024

Using assembly theory of strings of any natural radix $b$ we find some of their salient regularities. In particular, we show that the upper bound of the assembly index depends quantitatively on the radix $b$ and the longest length $N$ of a string that has the assembly index of $N-k$ is given by $N_{(N-1)}=b^2+b+1$ and by $N_{(N-k)}=b^2+b+2k$ for $2 \le k \le 9$. We also provide particular forms of such strings. Knowing the latter bound, we conjecture that the maximum assembly index of a string of length $N_{(N-2)} \le N \le N_{\text{max}}$ is given by $a_{\text{max}}^{(N,b)} = \lfloor N/2 \rfloor + b(b+1)/2$, where $N_{\text{max}} = 4b^4$ if $b$ is even and $N_{\text{max}} = 4(b^4+1)$ otherwise. For $k=1$ such odd length strings are nearly balanced and there are four such different strings if $b=2$ and seventy-two if $b=3$. We also show that each $k$ copies of an $n$-plet contained in a string decrease its assembly index at least by $k(n-1) - a$, where $a$ is the assembly index of this $n$-plet. Finally, we show that the assembly depth of a minimum assembly index string is equal to the assembly index of this string, the assembly depth of a maximum assembly index string satisfies $d_{a_{\text{max}}}^{(N,b)} \ge \left\lceil \log_2(N) \right\rceil$. Since these results are, in general, also valid for $b=1$, assembly theory subsumes information theory.
Top and Side Leakage Effects on Thermoregulation and Moisture Retention with Facemask Wearing
Authors: Barari Kian , Si Xiuhua , Hajian Rozhin , Xi Jinxiang
Published: November 2024

Mask-wearing-induced discomfort often leads to unconscious loosening of the mask to relieve the discomfort, thereby compromising its protective efficacy. This study investigated how leakage flows affect mask-associated thermoregulation and vapor trapping to inform better mask designs. An integrated ambience-mask-face-airway model with various mask-wearing misfits was developed. The transient warming/cooling effects, thermal buoyancy force, tissue heat generation, vapor phase change, and fluid/heat/mass transfer through a porous medium were considered in this model, which was validated using Schlieren imaging, a thermal camera, and velocity/temperature measurements. Leakages from the top and side of the mask were analyzed in comparison to a no-leak scenario under cyclic respiration conditions. Results showed a significant inverse relationship between mask leakage and facial skin temperature/humidity. An equivalent impact from buoyancy forces and exhalation flow inertia was observed both experimentally and numerically, indicating a delicate balance between natural convection and forced convection that is sensitive to leakage flows and critical in thermo-humidity regulation. For a given gap, the leakage fraction was not constant within one breathing cycle, but constantly increased during exhalation. Persistently higher temperatures were found in the nose region throughout the breathing cycle in a sealed mask and were mitigated during inhalation when gaps were present. Vapor condensation occurred within the mask medium during exhalation in all mask-wearing cases. The thermal and vapor temporal variation profiles were sensitive to the location of the gap, highlighting the feasibility of leveraging temperature and relative humidity to test mask fit and quantify leakage fraction.
Micromechanics and Experimental Analysis of Randomly Oriented Flax Fiber Reinforced With Recycled EPS Waste Composites
Authors: Seid Abdu Mohammed , Rao DK Nageswara
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the theoretical modeling and experimental analysis of composites made from randomly oriented flax fibers reinforced with recycled expanded polystyrene (EPS) waste. The effect of flax fiber volume fractions (20%, 30%, and 40%) on the composites' tensile strength and tensile modulus were examined. Several theoretical models namely the rule of mixtures (ROM) series, modified Bader and Bowyer, Hirsch, Cox-Krenchel, and Einstein-Guth model were compared against the experimental results of the formulated composites. The theoretical predictions of tensile strength from the Hirsch and modified Bader and Bowyer models showed close alignment with experimental results. Cox-Krenchel and Hirsch's models better predict the tensile modulus of a composite at 30% fiber loading. Additionally, this research accentuates the potential of utilizing natural fibers in combination with recycled EPS materials to produce eco-friendly composites with better performance for construction applications, such as house panels and automobile interior components.
Multi-Function Coastal Radar for Tsunami Detection And Ocean Tide and Wave Monitoring
Authors: Adiprabowo Tjahjo , Wahyu Yuyu , Wiranto Goib , Armi Nasrullah , Awaludin Asif , Nugroho Ginaldi Ari , Daud Pamungkas , Adi Puput Dani Prasetyo , Pramudita Aloysius Adya , Maulana Yudi Yuliyus , Oktafiani Folin , Praludi Teguh , Wicaksana Berlian Surya , Yanti Riyani Jana , Suryanto Suryanto , Rahmatullah Rizky , Taryana Yana , Prasetya Suisbiyanto , Lin Ding-Bing
Published: November 2024

This study focuses on Tsunami detection using SIMRAD Radar. A tsunami is a condition in which sea waves overflow the land and cause severe damage, which can claim human lives, as well as important infrastructure such as schools, buildings, and housing on the coast. As a sovereign country and has resilience in various fields including security and ocean exploration, Indonesia must apply appropriate technology, in this case, a smart radar that can detect high sea waves from tens of km away even 100 km if radar capacity is maximized. And able to provide fast information for disaster emergency response teams to swiftly notify the surrounding community about the arrival of a tsunami, even predict before this tsunami hits the coast. In this research, a comprehensive measurement of the radar system is carried out. The radar used and developed is SIMRAD Radar Helo 6 and can be integrated with data from other hardware such as SBE 26Plus, to obtain comprehensive data about the marine environment. In the measurement process, several combinations of measurements are needed starting from how to get digital data, process digital data, and turn it into a real-time image in the form of a Graphical User Interface SIMRAD Radar Hello 6. In the search, SIMRAD Radar is placed on the coast, while SBE26Plus is placed in the ocean with a certain depth in the coastal area for seawater pressure and sea level measurement. This radar system can be converted from the SBE26Plus data results from the Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), and also SIMRAD real-time monitoring at the coastal position in a higher area to avoid obstacles.
Hyper-FDB-INFO Algorithm for Optimal Placement and Sizing of FACTS Devices in Wind Power Integrated Optimal Power Flow Problem
Authors: Altun Bekir Emre , Kaymaz Enes , Dursun Mustafa , Guvenc Ugur
Published: November 2024

Classical Optimal Power Flow (OPF) is one of the complex and challenging problem in power system that includes non-convex, nonlinear and large-scale structure. With the use of incorporation of uncertain and intermittent wind energy sources in the OPF problem, the complexity of the problem escalates. In a power system, Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices can mitigate most of the problems associated with power quality and overload in the network. However, determining the placement and sizing of facts devices is an additional problem to minimize the total cost of production of the power system. As a result, in order to solve OPF problem which includes all of these conditions, an artificial intelligence based optimization algorithm needs to have an unusual exploration ability as well as exploitation–exploration balance. Weighted mean of vectors (INFO) is a new heuristic optimizer, which can help finding a more effective solutions in engineering design optimization problems. In this study, firstly, INFO algorithm was improved by using the Fitness–Distance Balance (FDB) method with its abilities. Then, the algorithm developed with a hyper-heuristic method to create the beginning optimal population by using Linear Population Reduction Success-History based Adaptive Differential Evolution (LSHADE). Finally, the developed algorithm has been applied for solving optimal placement and sizing of facts devices for optimal power flow problem incorporating wind energy source. The obtained results showed that the proposed algorithm is more effective solver for the problems cases while compared to the literature.
Evaluating Reproducibility in Psychology: A Machine Learning-Based Large-Scale Study on Predicting Replication Success
Authors: Taylor William
Published: November 2024

The introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has fundamentally transformed digital advertising, advancing pre- cision, efficiency, and scalability far beyond the capabilities of traditional advertising methods. This paper presents a detailed analysis of AI’s integration into the advertising sector, focusing on critical technologies, including multi-touch attribution (MTA), reinforcement learning (RL), recommendation systems (RS), and large language models (LLMs). We examine the evolution of AI in digital marketing, explore current trends, and assess emerging technologies such as federated learning and transfer learning, emphasizing their role in real-time ad personalization, campaign optimization, and enhanced user engagement. Through an exploration of AI-driven strategies used by major corporations such as Google, IBM, and Coca-Cola, this paper underscores AI’s transformative impact on advertising and anticipates future trends that may further revolutionize the field. Additionally, we address key challenges of deploying AI at scale, including issues of interpretability, ethical considerations, and data privacy, offering potential solutions.
The Relationship Between Safety Climate and Safety Performance in Large-Scale Building Construction Industries in Ethiopia
Authors: Abegaz Teferi , Deressa Wakgari , Moen Bente Elisabeth
Published: November 2024

This study examines the relationship between safety climate and safety performance in large-scale construction sites in Ethiopia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,203workers from 22 large-scale construction sites. The Nordic Safety Climate Questionnaire was administered using interviews. A model was hypothesized to determine the interrelations between safety climate and performance; examined and validated using confirmatory factor analysis. The results show that the mean score of the seven safety climate dimensions was low: 2.70, ranging from 2.33 to 3.08. Similarly, the mean score of the safety performance construct was 2.95 for safety participation and 3.58 for safety compliance. The model predicts a strong positive correlation between safety climate and the safety performance constructs with 29.2% of the variance in safety involvement and 28.6% of the variance in safety compliance. The suggested association between self-reported injuries and safety climate was not confirmed. Nonetheless, a Pearson correlation analysis demonstrates a statistically significant negative correlation with safety climate. In conclusion, a low score for all the safety climate dimensions shows safety in the construction sector needs improvement. Safety climate positively influences employees’ safety behavior (safety compliance and safety participation) and minimizes occupational injuries.
Enhancing Post-Training Muscle Recovery and Strength in Paralympic Powerlifting Athletes with Cold-Water Immersion
Authors: Aidar Felipe J. , Santos Wélia Yasmin Horacio dos , Machado Saulo da Cunha , Nunes-Silva Albená , Vieira Érica Leandro Marciano , Valenzuela Pérez Diego Ignácio , Aedo-Muñoz Esteban , Brito Ciro José , Nikolaidis Pantelis T.
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: The recovery method would be important and decisive in the training system. This study aimed to assess the effects of various post-training recovery methods on muscle damage and strength indicators in Paralympic powerlifting athletes; (2) Methods: For this, a crossover study was conducted involving eleven male athletes (25.4±3.3 years, 70.3±12.1 kg). Muscle damage was assessed using blood biochemical markers (cytokines: Th1/Th2 - IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-) and isometric force indicators, including Maximum Isometric Force (MIF), Time to MIF, and Rate of Force Development. These assessments were performed before, immediately after, and at 24 and 48 hours after the recovery protocol: a) Passive Recovery (RP) or b) Cold-Water immersion (CWI). The main results indicated that maximum isometric strength (MIF) significantly improved after 48 hours of CWI application (p<0.05; for all comparison); (3) Results: The analysis of biochemical markers did not yield significant differences between the recovery methods at different time points (p>0.05). There was a significant increase in IL-6 2 hours after (p=0.045) for the CWI condition; (4) Conclusions: CWI significantly improved post-resistance training muscle damage and strength in Paralympic powerlifting athletes.
The Influence of Ultraviolet B and C Light Supplementation to the RGB Spectrum on the Antioxidant Capacity and Photosyn-thesis in Basil Microgreens
Authors: Skowron Ernest , Trojak Magdalena , Pacak Ilona , Węzigowska Paulina , Szymkiewicz Julia
Published: November 2024

Indoor controlled-environment plant production allows precise control over factors such as lighting, photoperiod, temperature, nutrient and water supply to enhance crop yield and quality. However, maintaining stable conditions that exclude environmental stressors can weaken plants' defence mechanisms, including the accumulation of protective phytochemicals, which are important components of the human diet. Our previous research demonstrated that even short-term supplementation with ultraviolet (UV) light to the growth spectrum can effectively stimulate the synthesis of secondary metabolites (SM) and boost the overall antioxidant capacity in lettuce. To assess whether this approach is also effective for other species, the present study investigates the efficacy of short-term, pre-harvest supplementation of red-green-blue (RGB, LED) light with ultraviolet B (UV-B, 311 nm) or ultraviolet C (UV-C, 254 nm) light in enhancing phytochemical synthesis in two basil cultivars. Additionally, considering the potential biological risks associated with high-energy UV radiation, we monitored the condition of the photosynthetic apparatus (PA) throughout the treatment. Our study demonstrated that UV-B radiation, administered at a cumulative dose of 15.622 kJ m–2, had no detrimental effect on the photosynthetic apparatus (PA), while it significantly enhanced the overall antioxidant capacity of green-leaf basil by increasing the levels of polyphenolic secondary metabolites, including total flavonoids, anthocyanins, as well as the ascorbic acid. However, in dark-pigmented basil, UV-B exposure resulted in a reduction of secondary metabolite levels. In contrast, UV-C radiation, applied at a lower cumulative dose of 6.008 kJ m–2, stimulated the accumulation of phenolic compounds in the green-leaf cultivar but notably impaired the photosynthetic apparatus, restricted plant growth and decreased score on consumers’ sensory tests. These findings are critical for advancing UV light supplementation to produce functionally enhanced plants.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Type I Collagen-based Medical Device in the Infiltrative Treatment of Greater Trochanter Pain Syndrome (GTPS): a pilot study
Authors: Randelli Filippo , Fioruzzi Alberto , Mazzoleni Manuel Giovanni , Radaelli Alessandra , Rahali Leila , Verga Lucia , Menon Alessandra
Published: November 2024

Background: Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a frequent clinical condition characterized by acute or chronic pain in the lateral region of the hip. This condition is primarily due to degenerative gluteus minimus and medius muscle tendinopathy. In a previous ex vivo study, proliferation and migration of human tenocytes and synthesis, maturation, and secretion of Collagen I (COL-I) were improved when human gluteal tenocytes were exposed to a swine-derived type I collagen available on the market (MD-Tissue—GUNA S.p.a. Milan, Italy). The study's purpose is to evaluate the effects of injecting an MD-tissue medical device on GTPS pain, hip function, and strength. Methods: The study group was treated with ultrasound-guided injections of swine-derived collagen once a week for three consecutive weeks. Primary endpoint was pain reduction of at least 3 points on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain at ten weeks. Secondary endpoints were: NRS average reduction at rest and palpation, modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), abductor strength, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) improvement at six months. Results: Fifty-two patients were screened, 47 enrolled, 43 completed the study, and 42 were available for the final follow-up. The primary endpoint was reached in more than 60% of the patients. The secondary endpoint, increased in all the timelines with statistical significance. Neither early nor late adverse effects were found. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided peritrochanteric injections of MD-Tissue are a safe and effective treatment for the majority of the Patients affected by Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome.
Predictive Modelling for Inactivation of Escherichia coli Biofilm with Combined Treatment of Thermosonication and Organic Acid on Polystyrene Surface
Authors: Unal Turhan Emel , Koca Esabil Emrah
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine antibiofilm effect of combined sonication treatment with organic acid on polystyrene surface and to develop a predictive model for Escherichia coli biofilm inactivation. Polystyrene plates containing E. coli biofilm were exposed to sonication with different inactivation solutions (PBS, lactic acid and acetic acid) at different temperatures (20, 40 and 50oC) and times (2 and 5 minutes). The effects of temperature, time and inactivation solution on E. coli biofilm removal were found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). With the use of organic acids, increasing treatment time and temperature, viable cell counts and optical density of E. coli biofilms significantly decreased by 0.43-6.21 log CFU/mL and by 0.13-0.72 (OD600), respectively (p<0.05). The highest E. coli biofilm inactivation was achieved by the combination treatment of organic acid and thermosonication at 50oC for 5 minutes. A significantly positive correlation was found between test methods based on viable cell count and optical density measurement. According to multiple linear regression analysis, R2 values of prediction models for biofilm inactivation in terms of viable cell count and OD were 0.84 and 0.80, respectively. Predictive model developed by using viable cell count data were suggested for food industry and processors due to more accuracy.
Transforming Agricultural and Sulfur Wastes into Fertilizer: Assessing Short-Term Effects on Microbial Biodiversity via a Metagenomic Approach
Authors: Maffia Angela , Scotti Riccardo , Wood Thomas , Muscolo Adele , Lepore Alessandra , Acocella Elisabetta , Celano Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Fungi and soil bacteria are vital for organic matter decomposition and biogeochemical cycles, but excessive synthetic fertilizer use contributes to soil degradation and loss of biodiversity. Despite this, about 97% of soil microorganisms are unculturable, making them difficult to study. Metagenomics offers a solution, enabling the direct extraction of DNA from soil to uncover microbial diversity and functions. This study utilized metagenomics to analyze the rhizosphere of 2-year-old Tonda di Giffoni hazelnut saplings treated with synthetic NPK, composted olive pomace, and an innovative fertilizer derived from sulfur-based agro-industrial waste stabilized with bentonite clay. Using 16S rDNA for bacteria and ITS2 for fungi, Illumina sequencing provided insights into microbial responses to different fertilizer treatments. Results highlighted a significant increase in the abundance of beneficial microorganisms such as Thiobacillus, Pseudoxanthomonas, and Thermomyces, especially when organic material was included. Additionally, microbial biodiversity improved with organic inputs, as shown by increased species richness (Chao1) and diversity (Bray-Curtis). These findings emphasize the importance of organic fertilization in enhancing soil microbial health, offering a sustainable approach to improving soil quality and hazelnut productivity.
Photochemical Degradation Of Various (Environmental) Pollutants By Europium(III)
Authors: Blind Felix , Fränzle Stefan
Published: November 2024

It is widely acknowledged that the majority of acute environmental issues can be attributed directly to human activity. Since the inception of human settlements, the production of waste has been a common occurrence. In addition to the production of natural waste products, the advent of the Industrial Revolution has resulted in a significant increase in the generation of artificial waste. It is therefore imperative, from an environmental standpoint, to implement effective measures to reduce these pollutants. One method of reducing the impact of organic environmental pollutants is to photochemically convert them with europium, particularly trivalent europium. As demonstrated in this proof of concept using a range of model pollutants, it is possible to break down environmentally relevant pollutants, including nitriles, carbamates and halogenated compounds, with trivalent europium salts into environmentally friendly organic compounds.
PERANCANGAN SISTEM INFORMASI ANALIS BREAK EVEN POINT DAN STOK PADA BUDIDAYA AYAM POTONG BERBASIS WEB
Authors: Afif Khoiril , Yudi Kristyawan  , Slamet Kacung
Published: November 2024

Although broiler chicken farming offers many benefits, there are also risks of losses, especially when production costs are not accurately recorded, leading to inaccurate per-unit pricing that can harm farmers. To assist farmers in accurately determining the Break Even Point (BEP) price for each chicken, a web-based cost and stock management information system for broiler farming has been developed. To provide a clear and sequential software lifecycle approach, this system was built using the waterfall method, which includes the stages of requirements analysis, design specifications, coding, testing, and maintenance. Each stage produces measurable outcomes before proceeding to the next. The development results indicate that the system successfully records the total production costs, including detailed costs for feed, medicine, operational expenses, and chicken stock. By using the formula BEP = total production cost/number of live chickens, the system achieves accurate pricing for broiler chickens. Based on these findings, future research is suggested to improve the user interface for greater appeal, optimize system accessibility on mobile devices, and integrate this system with other systems.
PENERAPAN SISTEM PENDUKUNG KEPUTUSAN DALAM MENENTUKAN PRIORITAS LOKASI PEMASARAN PADA PT. ASKRINDO CABANG MEDAN MENGGUNAKAN METODE AHP DAN PROMETHEE
Authors: Zulfani Fathania , Suryamen Haris , Wahyuni Ullya Mega
Published: November 2024

PT. (Persero) Asuransi Kredit Indonesia merupakan salah satu Badan Usaha Milik Negara (BUMN) yang  bergerak dalam asuransi atau penjaminan. Keberadaan PT Askrindo yang merupakan salah satu Badan Usaha Milik Negara (BUMN) senantiasa mengiringi keberhasilan pembangunan ekonomi Bangsa dan Negara Republik Indonesia. Pemasaran sangat berpengaruh besar bagi perusahaan termasuk PT Askrindo, namun dalam menentukan prioritas lokasi pemasaran yang strategis dibutuhkan banyak perhitungan terhadap faktor-faktor penentu agar terhindar dari kerugian materi maupun non-materi. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah membangun Sistem Pendukung Keputusan (SPK) dengan kombinasi metode Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) dan metode PROMETHEE yang dapat menjadi pertimbangan dalam pemilihan prioritas lokasi pemasaran berdasarkan kriteria yang telah ditetapkan. Penggunaan metode AHP dan PROMETHEE dalam memperhitungkan prioritas lokasi pemasaran dengan beberapa alternatif lokasi, dapat membantu kegiatan pengambilan keputusan sehingga meningkatkan efektivitas perusahaan untuk menghasilkan suatu keputusan yang tepat. Dengan adanya sistem pendukung keputusan, dapat menjadi solusi untuk membantu PT Askrindo Cabang Medan dalam pengambilan keputusan pemilihan prioritas lokasi pemasaran terbaik.
ANALISA LAHAN DAN REKOMENDASI JENIS TANAMAN PADA PERTANIAN CERDAS BERBASIS IOT
Authors: Busran Busran , Syahrani Anna , Putra Eko Kurniawanto , Yulianti Eva , Djauhari Muhammad Vajri
Published: November 2024

Pertanian berbasis teknologi merupakan pendekatan modern yang memanfaatkan Internet of Things (IoT) untuk mendukung proses produksi secara efisien. Di Kampung Durian Tarung, Pasar Ambacang, Kuranji, Padang, Sumatera Barat, kelompok petani hortikultura menghadapi tantangan dalam menentukan jenis tanaman yang sesuai dengan kualitas tanah di lahan mereka. Penelitian ini mengembangkan sistem berbasis IoT untuk analisis lahan yang dapat merekomendasikan jenis tanaman optimal sesuai kondisi tanah. Teknologi IoT diimplementasikan untuk mengumpulkan data tanah, seperti pH, kelembaban, dan suhu tanah, melalui sensor-sensor nirkabel. Data tersebut dianalisis dengan metode fuzzy, yang memungkinkan pengambilan keputusan berdasarkan sejumlah parameter kualitas tanah untuk memberikan rekomendasi yang lebih tepat dan real-time. Hasil uji coba menunjukkan bahwa sistem mampu mengukur kondisi tanah secara akurat dan memberikan rekomendasi tanaman yang sesuai berdasarkan data kualitas tanah yang diperoleh. Penggunaan metode fuzzy terbukti efektif dalam menyaring data dari sensor dan menyesuaikan rekomendasi tanaman berdasarkan nilai ambang pada pH, kelembaban, dan suhu tanah. Penelitian ini berkontribusi pada bidang pertanian cerdas dengan menghadirkan solusi berbasis IoT yang spesifik untuk kebutuhan petani hortikultura lokal. Menggabungkan teknologi sensor nirkabel dan metode fuzzy memungkinkan analisis yang lebih adaptif dan relevan dengan kondisi tanah di lahan pertanian. Keberhasilan penelitian ini memberikan arah bagi pengembangan sistem serupa yang dapat diterapkan di wilayah lain, serta menggarisbawahi peran teknologi IoT dalam mendukung keberlanjutan pertanian melalui pemanfaatan data secara optimal.
Analysis of The Impact of Temperature and Discharge Current on The Efficiency of LiFePO4 Batteries in Solar Charging Stations
Authors: Winarno Istiyo , Agung Ach. Fathullah Pria , Dewantara Belly Yan
Published: November 2024

The demand for electrical energy is increasing, along with technological advancements and population growth. Many countries still rely on petroleum, coal, and aerosol gasoline, exacerbating global warming. Electric vehicles offer a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, although their primary challenge is the availability of charging infrastructure. Solar-powered electric motor charging stations can help reduce electricity demand and global warming. An efficient charging system is needed to analyse the impact of temperature and discharge current on the energy produced to achieve this. Several load tests and temperature measurements over 5 days were conducted to cluster temperatures occurring throughout a full day. The tests using data acquisition showed energy losses caused by the effect of temperature on the charging station's storage battery. Energy efficiency graphs for each test case indicated a varied decrease in energy efficiency, with higher efficiency at lower temperatures and smaller energy losses compared to other temperatures. The load amount also affects the magnitude of energy losses. At a 500W load, the average energy loss was 46Wh, while at a 1000W load, the average energy loss was 52Wh per hour of testing the storage battery discharge. In summary, temperature and load amount can affect energy efficiency and the resulting losses.
Challenges in identifying papilledema amid myopic peripapillary atrophy and optic disc atrophy in a patient with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and high myopia: a case report
Authors: Han I Joon , Choi Ji Youn , Park Kyung-Ah
Published: November 2024

Background
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disease entity characterized by elevated intracranial pressure, which usually accompanied by papilledema. However, diagnosing papilledema can be challenging in patients with preexisting ocular conditions, such as high myopia.
Case presentation
A 39-year-old woman with a long-standing history of high myopia presented with visual field constriction. Her visual acuity was decreased in both eyes, and she also reported morning headaches, pulsatile tinnitus, and intermittent periocular pain. Although she was diagnosed with IIH based on a cerebrospinal fluid study, there was no evident papilledema, which may have been masked by myopic changes in optic nerve and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer. After treatment for IIH with acetazolamide, her visual field and visual acuity markedly improved, and her symptoms were relieved.
Conclusions
In highly myopic patients, myopic changes in optic nerve head may obscure papilledema, complicating the diagnosis of IIH. This unusual case highlights the need for detailed history taking and a comprehensive clinical evaluation in patients with high myopia. Clinicians should suspect IIH in the presence of symptoms such as pulsatile tinnitus, morning headache, and visual field constriction, even in the absence of evident papilledema.
Exploring the Molecular Interactions Between Nephrolithiasis and Carotid Atherosclerosis: Asporin as a Potential Biomarker
Authors: Hua Yibo , Zhou Zijian , Miao Suyu , Wang Zijie , Wang Shangqian , Xi Lei , Song Rijin , Meng Xianghu
Published: November 2024

Background
Increasing evidence has suggested nephrolithiasis has a close linkage with carotid atherosclerosis (CAS). Randall’s plaque (RP) is considered the precursor lesion of nephrolithiasis. This study aimed to examine the crosstalk genes and potential molecular mechanisms between RP and CAS.
Methods
We downloaded microarray data for calcium oxalate (CaOx) RP and CAS from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) repository. To pinpoint common genes associated with RP and CAS, researchers employed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) alongside differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis. Enrichment analyses using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways and Gene Ontology (GO) were conducted on the common genes. A central gene was discovered, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was created to assess its diagnostic effectiveness. The hub gene was also analyzed using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Additionally, the xCell algorithm evaluated immune cell infiltration levels, and the relationship between each immune cell type and the central gene was analyzed. Subsequently, the hub gene's expression in human RP and CAS tissues was assessed using quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. Finally, we established a CaOx nephrolithiasis rat model by administering 1% ethylene glycol. The expression patterns of ASPN in rat kidney tissues were confirmed using IHC and qRT-PCR.
Results
WGCNA was used to select highly correlated modules and resulted in 225 intersection genes in GSE73680 and GSE100927. On the other hand, 23 overlapping DEGs were identified in GSE117518 and GSE43292. Asporin (ASPN) emerged as the central gene linking RP and CAS by intersecting the highly correlated module genes from WGCNA with the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The findings on immune infiltration indicated a notable correlation between ASPN and various immune cells in both RP and CAS. IHC and qRT-PCR verified that ASPN expression was lower in human RP and CAS plaque tissues than in normal tissues. Furthermore, the expression pattern of ASPN in CaOx nephrolithiasis model rats was consistent with the results in human tissues.
Conclusion
We identified ASPN as an important crosstalk gene in RP and CAS. Further study of the immune response and osteoblast differentiation may reveal the shared pathogenesis between RP and CAS.
Terrain correction algorithms for urban microgravity surveys: Applications in revealing buried faults in urban noise working conditions
Authors: Zhang Wei , Hao Ming , Chen Yongling , Li Hua , Yang Jian , Wang Qiao , Wang Xiangpeng , Yuan Jianlong
Published: November 2024

The dense clusters of buildings in cities considerably affect the accuracy of urban microgravity measurements. This study introduced a set of new high-precision algorithms for calculating vicinity, median- and far-zone terrain correction to solve precision problems of gravity surveys on the magnitude of the microgravity scale in cities. The vicinity and median-zone algorithms first divided complex artificial buildings and natural terrain into a set of multiple triangles and then calculated corresponding analytical solutions for each triangle. Finally, we obtained high-accuracy terrain correction values by accumulating; errors only occurred from the fitting degree between triangulation and real terrain features, but the subdivision of the triangular mesh was finer, and the calculation precision was higher. Far-zone algorithms use open global high-resolution digital elevation model (DEM) data to calculate gravity terrain corrections, and the DEM grid nodes used here were up to 30 m. To increase the effective detection accuracy of urban microgravity explorations using these new methods and to further compare their practical application in urban geological surveys, the exploration effects of microgravity, micro-tremor, transient electromagnetic, and reflection seismic methods were compared and analyzed using the buried Sumatou fault in the main urban area of Tianfu new district in Chengdu as an example, The results revealed that the microgravity method has good adaptability to field conditions and is not affected by urban noise such as power line electromagnetic and traffic vibration fields. Therefore, areal microgravity measurements can be used to investigate buried urban faults.
Novel mRNA biomarker-based liquid biopsy for the detection of resectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Lee Jong-chan , Kang Sung Won , Sim Eun-Jin , Bae Jin-Sik , Koo Seong-mo , Byoun Mun-sub , Kwon Serin , Hong Seoi , Kim Yunji , Youn Yuna , Jung Kwangrok , Kim Jaihwan , Jeong Hyoung Hwa , Kim Jihie , Hwang Jin-Hyeok
Published: November 2024

Background
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal malignancies and most often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Identification of markers for the early diagnosis of PDAC is crucial. In this study, we aimed to identify novel mRNA biomarkers for diagnosing PDAC, focusing on early-stage tumorigenesis and associated immunological changes.
Methods
Blood samples and clinical information from 1,963 individuals were obtained from a single tertiary hospital between 2015 and 2021. Candidate mRNA biomarkers were identified through literature review, and their expression levels in buffy coat samples were measured using reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Machine learning-based feature selection confirmed the final biomarker panel, which was tested using an independent dataset for diagnostic performance.
Results
In total, 1,504 individuals (417 patients with PDAC and 1,087 non-diseased controls) were eligible for the study. Among the 55 candidate biomarkers identified, 15 mRNAs (CCL5, CCR5, CLEC7A, CXCL8, CXCR2, CXCR4, FOXP3, IFNA1, IFNL1, PTGES, PTGES2, PTGS2, SLC27A2, TNF, and VEGFA) were selected based on their diagnostic performance in distinguishing PDAC from control groups. The final model, HELP-15 (Human Early Liquid biopsy for PDAC), identified all PDAC stages (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.956) in the test set. For resectable pancreatic cancer (RPC), the AUC was 0.968, compared to 0.910 for carbohydrate antigen 19 − 9 (CA19-9). The combination of the panel and CA19-9 levels had an AUC of 0.985 in patients with RPC. For all PDAC stages in patients with normal CA19-9 levels, the AUC of the panel was 0.967, whereas CA19-9 alone or in combination with the panel had AUCs of 0.658 and 0.885, respectively.
Conclusion
Compared to CA19-9, the mRNA biomarker panel, HELP-15, significantly improved diagnostic performance in patients with RPC, particularly in those with normal CA19-9 levels.
Bridging the Digital Divide: Affordability and Adoptability of Health Tech in Pakistan’s Evolving Healthcare Landscape
Authors: Fayez Muhammad , Begum Ruqayya , Khan Laiba , Ahmad Manzoor , Ahmed Wasiq , Sana Fatima
Published: November 2024

Background:
Digital health technology (DHT) offers great promise for revolutionizing healthcare delivery in limited-resource settings such as Pakistan due to existing challenges, including low infrastructure, scarcity of resources, and digital partitioning. The purpose of this study was to explore the affordability and adoption status of health technology among diabetic patients in Pakistan.
Methods:
A descriptive approach was employed, and primary data were collected via questionnaires from 600 diabetes patients from different areas of Pakistan. The use of a random sampling technique enabled collection from different geographical areas, leading to the recruitment of a broad range among the diabetic population. The descriptive analysis was performed via SPSS 23, and Excel 16 was used to categorize the data into different patterns/trends concerning DHT awareness, usage, and affordability.
Results:
The results reveal that 65% of the population is aware of DHT, and this high awareness has translated into practical usage at a rate of approximately 58%, illustrating additional barriers to adoption beyond simple knowledge, namely, costs and perceived utility. Additionally, 60% indicated that they could not afford DHT, and only 36.1% reported that they had health insurance. The study also noted variability in DHT use, with blood glucose meters and insulin pens being the most common devices used. There is a significant willingness to adopt DHT (97%), although this comes with a range of challenges.
Conclusion:
This study underscores the need to address the digital divide in Pakistan by improving affordability, access, and support for DHT. Bridging these gaps could enhance healthcare access and quality, particularly for managing chronic conditions such as diabetes. Effective public policies and initiatives are crucial to promoting DHT adoption and ensuring equitable healthcare delivery across the country.