bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fixing planning in the VUCA world
Authors: Ptak Carol , Smith Chad
Published: December 2024

The essence of any business is flow. The flow of materials and/or services from suppliers — perhaps through multiple manufacturing plants and then through delivery channels to customers. The flow of information to all parties about what is planned and required, what is happening, what has happened and what should happen. The flow of cash returns from the market to the organisation and through to the suppliers. This paper makes a critical connection between the concept of flow and the material requirements planning (MRP) inputs, processing logic and assumptions and introduces a necessary change in processing logic to address the challenges companies experience today. The true purpose of planning — to promote and protect the flow of relevant information and materials — was the driving purpose behind the development of MRP. Throughout this planning and information system evolution, MRP’s basic requirements, assumptions and processing logic have remained unchanged. Despite newer and more powerful planning, and control applications powered by cloud-based infrastructure, the basic approaches to planning manufactured and purchased items have remained largely a constant since the 1960s. This paper proposes an innovative pragmatic proven methodology that enables a company to successfully sense and adapt to changes in the volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) world.
Measuring CO2 emissions from transportation in a UK retail returns supply chain
Authors: Gorst Jonathan , Ballantyne Erica , Dodd Nathan
Published: December 2024

Traditionally, there have been three aspects associated with retail returns management: 1) returns avoidance; 2) processing returned products; and 3) disposal of returned items from a retailer’s supply chain, at which point retailers generally consider the transaction has reached a conclusion for that individual product. An often overlooked fourth aspect, however, is around the environmental cost of retail returns, specifically the carbon footprint generated from moving returned products through second life retail distribution channels. This paper examines the case of returned general merchandise retail products — in particular, a UK reverse supply chain for homewares, furniture, white goods and other non-apparel items. It focuses on investigating the environmental cost by determining how much CO2 is created during the return transport processes until a product is retained by a customer and not returned again. Two disposition routes for unwanted retail stock items are examined in detail: first, the more desirable option of premium processing and resale of returned or unwanted items; and second, resale of items that are beyond economic repair through an auction house. The case study presented determines the CO2 emissions generated for each disposition route and highlights the inefficiencies that arise from the fragmented transportation of items sold via the auction house that lead to significantly increased carbon emissions.
Convex Normed Space
Authors: Alsaffar Saif , Kider Jehad
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the notion of convex absolute value is introduced as a generalization of absolute value and then used to introduce the notion of convex normed space as a generalization of normed space.
Canal de aprendizaje para fortalecer competencias digitales de los periodistas
Authors: Cerna Osorto Mario Roberto
Published: December 2024

Introducción. En las asignaturas de Investigación Periodística I y II, se realizó un estudio cuya muestra fue de 434 estudiantes, que procedían de cinco universidades de Honduras. El objetivo consistió en conocer los problemas más relevantes en el aprendizaje actual sobre las agresiones en entornos digitales y la desinformación. Metodología. Se creó (en Telegram) el Canal de Aprendizaje para Periodistas, donde se recopila y ofrece oportunidades de capacitaciones en las áreas del conocimiento antes mencionadas. En dicho Canal, se aplicó una Encuesta de Empatía, basada en la metodología de Design Thinking; asimismo, se realizó un grupo focal de doce estudiantes. Resultados. Más del 90% de los estudiantes afirmaron que estaban dispuestos a fortalecer sus competencias por medios y plataformas digitales; por su parte, el 60% manifestó que no sabía protegerse ante una agresión en entorno digital. El 13.8% sostuvo haber difundido desinformación; por el contrario, el 24.4% respondió que “tal vez” pudo haber realizado esta acción. Discusión. El Canal alcanzó 180 suscriptores, incluyendo estudiantes de periodismo de al menos tres universidades. Actualmente, ofrece diez talleres gratuitos. Es necesario que un periodista aprenda a protegerse de las agresiones digitales, ya que podría salvar la vida de un colega. Conclusión. El Canal se vislumbra como una herramienta de apoyo vital para estudiantes, docentes y periodistas, con impacto relevante a corto, mediano y largo plazo. Su oferta podría ampliarse a becas y subvenciones para proyectos periodísticos.
ANÁLISE DOS CASOS, ÓBITOS, VACINAÇÃO E OCUPAÇÃO DE UTIS CONTRA COVID-19 EM UBERLÂNDIA DURANTE A CAMPANHA DE VACINAÇÃO DE 2021
Authors: Nunes Lucas Riquieri , Rocha Mariana da Costa , Resende Mariana Dias de , Castro Alexandre Cesar Alves de , Carvalho Adriana Castro de
Published: December 2024

Introdução: A pandemia de COVID-19 impactou significativamente os sistemas de saúde ao redor do mundo, e Uberlândia, importante cidade de Minas Gerais, enfrentou desafios críticos na gestão da crise durante o ano de 2021. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a evolução dos casos confirmados, óbitos e ocupação de leitos de Unidade Terapia Intensiva (UTI) relacionados à COVID-19 no município, com ênfase nos efeitos da campanha de vacinação.
Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo longitudinal observacional, baseado em dados secundários de domínio público, obtidos nos boletins epidemiológicos semanais divulgados pela Prefeitura de Uberlândia. Os dados analisados incluíram casos confirmados, óbitos e ocupação de leitos de UTI por semana epidemiológica. Realizou-se análise de correlação de Pearson para avaliar a relação entre as variáveis, enquanto os dados de vacinação foram extraídos da plataforma VACINÔMETRO, do Ministério da Saúde.
Resultados: Foram registrados 129.375 casos e 3.178 óbitos em 2021, resultando em uma letalidade de 2,45%, próxima à média nacional de 2,77%. Observou-se uma correlação moderada positiva (r = 0,51) entre os casos e os óbitos semanais. A campanha de vacinação intensificou-se ao longo do ano, totalizando mais de 1,3 milhão de doses aplicadas, apesar de limitações logísticas que reduziram a imunização nos finais de semana. Notaram-se ainda inconsistências nos registros, como lacunas nos dados de casos e óbitos, ausência de informações completas sobre ocupação de UTIs e notificações atípicas, como -1 óbito devido à reclassificação.
Conclusão: O estudo evidencia o papel fundamental da vacinação na redução do impacto da COVID-19 e expõe fragilidades nos sistemas de gestão de dados, que comprometeram a qualidade da análise epidemiológica. O fortalecimento dos sistemas de informação em saúde e a superação de desafios logísticos são essenciais para melhorar as respostas a pandemias no futuro.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DA SUPLEMENTAÇÃO NUTRICIONAL PARA A PREVENÇÃO E RECUPERAÇÃO DE LESÕES EM ATLETAS: UMA REVISÃO BIBLIOGRÁFICA
Authors: Soares Luiz Fernando Mendonça , Reis Matheus Menini , Teixeira Flávia , Bachini Vanessa Menezes Ferreira
Published: December 2024

Sports nutrition is an area dedicated to the study and application of nutritional principles with the aim of improving the physical performance of athletes, in addition to helping to prevent and recover from injuries. This work investigates how sports nutrition contributes to preventing and recovering from injuries, analyzing nutrients that maintain tissue integrity, reduce risk and accelerate healing. Material and methods: A survey of studies was conducted in the Scielo, Google Scholar, Pubmed, Lilacs databases, published between the years 2015 and 2024, capturing 10 articles that met all inclusion criteria. Results: Of the 10 studies analyzed, 8 demonstrated positive results when using a protein dosage between 1.6 and 2.5 g/kg. Regarding the use of supplements, 8 studies indicated beneficial effects, while 2 presented inconclusive results. Thus, only 8 studies showed improvements in injury recovery. Conclusions: The results of this research demonstrated that sports nutrition plays a fundamental role in preventing and recovering from sports injuries, in addition to a balanced and diversified diet providing the necessary substrates for carrying out physical activities.
O PAPEL TRANSFORMADOR DA INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL NA PRODUÇÃO DE SENTENÇAS NO JUDICIÁRIO
Authors: Sá José Célio de Lacerda
Published: December 2024

This article explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the production of judgments in the judiciary. The increasing complexity of legal cases and the volume of cases demand efficiency and accuracy, challenges that AI is prepared to address. We will cover how natural language processing and machine learning technologies are being applied to optimize the production of court judgments, providing faster, more accurate, and more efficient analysis.
Un Componente Indispensable en el Proceso de Enseñanza/Aprendizaje del Español Como Lengua Extranjera: La Expresión Escrita
Authors: Muchuly Cabrera Iliria , Parra Batista Idis , Altabás Jorge Ramona
Published: December 2024

El auge del enfoque comunicativo ha provocado, en gran medida, que la expresión escrita se convierta en la cenicienta de las habilidades integrantes del sistema comunicativo; generalmente utilizada para el trabajo o el estudio independiente. Esta situación no es ajena al proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje del Español como Lengua Extranjera (ELE) en la Universidad de Oriente, y en la de Las Tunas, espacios multiculturales y multilingües donde asisten extranjeros con la finalidad de aprender la lengua y cultura metas. El presente artículo se propone indagar en estas limitantes y la repercusión que tienen en el desarrollo de la competencia comunicativa en condición de inmersión sociocultural.

Palabras clave: Didáctica de la lengua; expresión escrita; interacción; español como lengua extranjera.

Abstract

The rise of the communicative approach has caused, to a great extent, that the written expression becomes the cinderella of the abilities integrating the communicative system; generally used for work or independent study. This situation is not alien to the teaching-learning process of Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) in the University of Oriente, and in Las Tunas, multicultural and multilingual spaces where foreigners attend to learn the language and culture goals. This article intends to investigate these limitations and the repercussion that it has on the development of communicative competence in the condition of sociocultural immersion.

Keywords: Didactics of the language; written expression; interaction; Spanish as a foreign language.
CMIP6 Frequently Asked Questions: A resource for water managers
Authors:   Lukas Climate Research and Consulting, Lukas Jeff , Vano Julie
Published: December 2024

The WUCA CMIP6 Working Group asked the authors to develop a CMIP6 Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQ) document for water managers which would assume little or no previous
experience with CMIP6 and other climate-model datasets. The goal was to develop a dozen
or so highly relevant questions — and clear responses — to aid in the use and interpretation
of CMIP6 datasets, with a focus on the contiguous United States (CONUS). The FAQ questions
were initially proposed by Working Group members, and then iteratively refined in
collaboration with the Working Group, resulting in 13 questions. The document benefited
considerably from reviews by the CMIP6 Working Group and by external subject matter
experts.
Each question has a “short answer” (1–2 paragraphs) and a “long answer” (2–5 pages),
including figures where appropriate, recommendations for further reading, and other
references. A glossary and reference list are also available at the end of the document.
Interactive Learning Model For Feature Selection Using Classifiers
Authors: Md Sirajul Huque  , V.Kiran Kumar
Published: December 2024

A lot of attention to feature selection has been focused in the multi-directional field of machine learning to enhance prediction accuracy through feature set analysis and lowering dimensionality. Finding the best features from many feature spaces is challenging, even if several attention techniques have been investigated for feature selection. Therefore, an agent-based interactive learning model is proposed for feature selection with achieving maximum feature subset. At the outset, state-level feature selection is taken in an interactive learning framework, where agents create the environment's based on the state with corresponding actions and build a stable representation of it to feed into interactive learning. The range of feature subset space is explored by agent activity using the interactive learning technique. An interactive learning (IL) model is considered using an exploration or current strategy. The experiment is demonstrated per the proposed model with specific data sets where the suggested strategy significantly improved over more conventional approaches. According to the comparison results, Ada boost performs better (Train score - 1.00). It outperformed competing classifiers on the Parkinson's dataset (testing score:0.93, accuracy:0.93, mean score: 0.67) regarding performance.
Adapt to Win: A Statistical Analysis on Strategies in Rock-Paper-Scissors
Authors: Huang Ruohan
Published: December 2024

Game theory provides a robust framework for analyzing strategic decision-making, and Rock-
Paper-Scissors (RPS), despite its simplicity, serves as an effective model due to its balanced structure and broad applicability. This study evaluates the performance of nine RPS strategies—ranging from random and fixed patterns to adaptive techniques—through pairwise matchups simulated over multiple rounds. Statistical tools, including Moving Average (MA), Cumulative Sum (CUSUM)
Control Chart, and Decay-Weighted (DW) Metrics, assess each strategy’s stability and adaptability
in individual match pairs and overall outcomes. Results show that adaptive strategies focusing on
recent history, such as multi-round observation and certain reaction-based techniques, excel in long term performance by precisely adapting to opponents’ behavioral shifts while avoiding overreactions to minor variations. These findings highlight the critical importance of adaptability in optimizing
decision-making in competitive environments.
Training AI to detect Tuberculosis in chest X-rays
Authors: Agarwal Khushi
Published: December 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, leading to over 1.3 million deaths in 2022. Early and accurate detection of TB is crucial for effective treatment. Shortage of expert radiologists, especially in resource-constrained settings is one of the most significant impediments in detection of TB. This study explores the application of artificial intelligence in detecting TB features in chest X-rays. Utilizing a data set of 4,200 labeled chest X-ray images, a convolutional neural network (CNN) was developed to identify key radiological features associated with TB, including infiltrates, cavities, pleural effusion, enlarged lymph nodes, and miliary patterns. The model achieved an accuracy of 97.98%, demonstrating its potential as a supplementary tool for healthcare professionals. However, limitations such as reliance on a homogeneous dataset and lack of integration of patient medical history suggest further enhancements are necessary. Future work should focus on diversifying the dataset and incorporating comprehensive diagnostic elements to improve the model's applicability in varied clinical scenarios.
Children’s bedroom illumination while reading at night
Authors: Fernández Irigaray Leonardo , Bernatene Julián , Szeps Abel , Albertazzi Roberto , Cortínez Florencia , Lanca Carla , Iribarren Rafael
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aims to describe children’s patterns of reading at night. 
Methods: A questionnaire was developed as a google survey with 10 brief questions sent by email to a sample of 35,000 adult subjects who had attended two ophthalmic medical centers in Argentina. Questions included information on age, gender, whether the child had myopia or not, if the child read before going to bed, if there were one or two lights on while reading, and the type of house the child lived in (simple house, house with garden and high rise building). 
Results: The sample consisted of 588 school aged children (mean age =10.9 ± 2.6 years; 51.7 % males). The prevalence of “self-reported myopia”, “no spectacle use (emmetropes)” and “spectacle use other than myopia” was 21.0%, 62.9% and 16.1% respectively. A large percentage of the children read at night in bed before sleeping (81.6%). In 31.7% of cases children read with lights off with only the light of the device, in 26.4% read with one light on, and in 18.0% of the cases read with two lights on (23.8% answered that their children did not go to bed reading). Older age was the only variable associated with an increased odds of self-reported myopia (Odds Ratio: 1.16; 95% CIs 1.04, 1.29; p=0.006). 
Conclusion: We found that most children go to bed reading at night in mesopic conditions under low illumination. This could be a risk factor for myopia development. Thus, further studies are necessary to explore this hypothesis.
Etiología y prevalencia de alteraciones pupilares neurooftalmologicas y oftalmológicas en el Hospital Universitario Austral Pilar-Buenos Aires
Authors: Contini Vicente L. , De Virgiliis Mariana , Copati Irene
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Describir las principales etiologías de las alteraciones pupilares de aquellos pacientes que asistieron al Hospital Universitario Austral ubicado en la localidad de Pilar, en el período comprendido desde el año 2001 hasta el 2023.
Materiales y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional y descriptivo. Se filtraron aquellas historias clínicas de pacientes con alteraciones pupilares que presentaron como diagnóstico: anisocoria, midriasis y miosis. Se obtuvieron un total de 226 pacientes. Se recolectaron variables como: edad, sexo, motivo de consulta, alteración pupilar, etiología, duración de afección pupilar, síntomas asociados, comorbilidades, estudios por imágenes solicitados con sus resultados y tratamiento.
Resultados: Dentro de los defectos pupilares, encontramos que el 92% (n=208) fueron debidos a anisocoria, el 6% (n=13) a midriasis, y el 2% (n=5) a miosis. Un total de 78 pacientes se clasificó dentro del grupo de las miosis/midriasis por químicos-insecticidas-picaduras de insecto; 47 pacientes con anisocorias fisiológica, 28 pacientes con pupila de Adie, pacientes fueron de causa no identificada; 23 pacientes de causas oftalmológicas; 18 pacientes con Síndrome de Horner; 4 de causa traumática, y 3 con parálisis del tercer par craneal.
Conclusión: Debemos conocer la patología pupilar para arribar al correcto diagnóstico, hacer un buen interrogatorio, hacer pruebas con variación de la luz, realizar exámenes complementarios y neurológico. El pronóstico visual está determinado principalmente en la condición causal.
Presencia de arteria cilio-retiniana en la obstrucción de arteria central de la retina
Authors: Villegas Facundo Nicolás , Boras María Agustina , Osaba Matías , Maffrand Carola , Reviglio Víctor
Published: December 2024

Describimos las características clínicas y el resultado del tratamiento de un paciente con oclusión de la arteria central de la retina y permeabilidad la arteria ciliorretiniana. Paciente femenina de 69 años consultó por disminución súbita e indolora de la agudeza visual del ojo izquierdo de cinco horas de evolución. Al realizar fondo de ojo de ese ojo se evidenció palidez retinal en los cuatro cuadrantes por OACR con conservación del territorio papilo-macular, compatible a permeabilidad de la arteria ciliorretinal. 
Se interconsultó con cardiología y clínica médica ya que es indispensable el manejo interdisciplinario. Se informa en eco doppler arterial de troncos supra-aórticos: placa fibrocálcica con reducción del 20% de la luz en la bifurcación carotídea bilateral y ecocardiograma con insuficiencia tricuspidea leve. El tratamiento en ese momento fue realizar masaje ocular y colocar hipotensores tópicos.
La agudeza visual final del paciente fue de movimiento manos a 3 metro en ojo izquierdo (OI) que no corrige y 6/10 CSC en ojo derecho (OD). A pesar de haber desarrollado posteriormente rubeosis y neovasos retinales, para lo cual recibió tratamiento con antiangiogenicos y fotocoagulación retiniana. 
Resulta de mejor pronóstico la presencia de la arteria cilio-retiniana que se encuentra presente en un 20% de las personas aproximadamente, ya que permite la perfusión del área macular, pero no previene la neovascularización ocular.
PERANCANGAN DAN IMPLEMENTASI SISTEM INFORMASI SIMPANAN DAN PEMBIAYAAN BERBASIS SYARIAH PADA KOPERASI DESA TANIMULYA (MENGGUNAKAN VISUAL BASIC 2013 DAN MYSQL)
Authors: Putri Sukma Fitria , Agustina Riska
Published: December 2024

The design of this sharia-based Savings and Financing Information System uses Visual Basic programming language and MySQL database. The system development method used is using the SDLC (System Development Life Cycle) approach, while for system testing using black box testing. The information system that has been implemented in the RT 03 RW 14 Cooperative of Tanimulya Village is a solution to the problems found in the system used previously... because this information system is a development of the system used in the previous system. Because this information system is a development of a system that has not been computerized to be computerized. This system has access rights that can be controlled by a login menu that functions to protect data security and can display the main menu according to the authority of the position owned by the user. In data processing, this information system functions for data entry related to principal savings, mandatory savings, wadi'ah (voluntary) savings and financing activities, so that the reports needed by the RT 03 RW 14 Cooperative of Tanimulya Village can be presented.
SISTEM INFORMASI PENERIMAAN DAN PENGELUARAN KAS PADA PT. GANESA MITRA EDUTAMA BERBASIS DEKSTOP
Authors: Hasanah Pratiwi Mangkul , Rum Avid Inang
Published: December 2024

Tugas akhir ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis, merancang, dan mengimplementasikan sistem Informasi penerimaan dann pengeluaran kas pada PT. Ganesa Mitra Edutama. Metodologi pegembangan sistem yang digunakan adalah metode Waterfall dengan instrumen penelitian yang meliputi observasi, wawancara, dan studi literatur. Bahasa pemrograman yang digunakan adalah Visual Studio 2010, dan Mysql sebagai Database. Metode analisis menggunakan PIECES. Perancangan sistem dibuat dengan menggunakan pemodelan proses berupa Flowchart dan Data Flow Diagram (DFD), dengan pengujian sistem menggunakan metode BlackBox Testing. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sistem Informasi penerimaan dan pengeluaran kas pada PT.Ganesa Mitra Edutama masih dikerjakan secara semi otomatis dengan menggunakan Spreadsheet. Hal ini dapat menyebabkan data transaksi akan mudah hilang dan berubah karena data tidak tersimpan secara otomatis di dalam Database penyimpanan, sehingga keamanan data tidak terjamin, dan pencarian data transaksi yang memerlukan waktu karena tidak tersusuan dengan rapi, sehingga berpengaruh pada laporan penerimaan dan pengeluaran kas yang tidak cepat dan akurat. Sistem Informasi yang telah diimplemetasikan ini berfungsi untuk mengolah data penerimaan dan pengeluaran kas, dengan output yang dihasilkan berupa laporan penerimaan kas dan Laporan pengeluaran kas. Fungsi yang terdapat dalam sistem Informasi ini adalah untuk mempermudah pengelolaan penerimaan dan pengeluaran kas dan menjadikan proses transaksi penerimaan dan pengeluaran kas lebih efisien. Berdasarkan hasil dari pengujian dengan metode BlackBox Testing yang telah dilakukan diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa semua elemen dalam sistem Informasi penerimaan dan pengeluaran kas dapat digunakan dan berjalan sesuai dengan yang diharapkan.
PENGARUH ONLINE CUSTOMER REVIEW DAN HARGA TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN PADA E-COMMERCE LAZADA DI KOTA BANDUNG
Authors: Rostiawati Iis
Published: December 2024

Currently, the online marketplace in Indonesia is dominated by 5 e-commerce that have a balanced reputation, one of which is Lazada. At the beginning of 2024, the number of Lazada visitors experienced a greater decline than other e-commerce. The decline in visitor frequency and market share indicates that Lazada needs a business strategy to be able to increase purchasing decisions which in turn can affect consumer confidence.  This study discusses the effect of online review and prices of purchasing decisions on Lazada marketplace users. This study uses quantitative methods and the data analysis technique are multiple linear regression with questionnaire research as the instruments. Respondents in this research are Lazada application users in Bandung and the number of samples determined is 96 samples. The results of this study indicate that the variables of customer online review and price have a positive and significant effect simultaneously on purchasing decisions, but partially customer online review has no effect on purchasing decisions. The results of the study can be a reference for Lazada to improve the quality of the product in order to get a rating and positive reviews from consumers to increase sales.
MEMAKSIMALKAN KETERAMPILAN MICROSOFT EXCEL UNTUK MENDORONG PRODUKTIVITAS TENAGA KERJA PEMUDA
Authors: Hamzah Amir
Published: December 2024

Isu pengangguran di Indonesia menjadi tantangan kompleks yang mempunyai dampak signifikan pada sektor tenaga kerja. Pengabdian ini dilaksanakan berdasarkan data Tingkat Pengangguran Terbuka (TPT) di Kelurahan Babakan, Kecamatan Tangerang, Kota Tangerang pada periode 2019-2023 yang masih tinggi. Materi Microsoft Excel dianggap menjadi keterampilan utama, terutama bagi pemuda di Kelurahan Babakan untuk meningkatkan produktivitas tenaga kerja. Pelatihan intensif dilaksanakan dengan pendekatan Service Learning dengan 20 responden dengan metode cluster random sampling. Hasil pengabdian menghasilkan peningkatan pemahaman signifikan pada materi Aplikasi Microsoft Excel serta materi mengenai Laporan Keuangan, mengelola data keuangan, jurnal dan buku besar, dan pelaporan keuangan. Tahap Evaluasi dan Umpan Balik menjadi langkah awal untuk merumuskan rekomendasi dan perbaikan ke depan guna meningkatkan efektivitas program pelatihan Microsoft Excel dan mendukung pemberdayaan sumber daya manusia di kalangan tenaga kerja pemuda.
Geotechnical Challenges In Urban Expansion: Addressing Soft Soil, Groundwater, And Subsurface Infrastructure Risks In Mega Cities
Authors: Al-Arafat Md , Kabir Md Enamul , Morshed ASM , Sunny Mohammad Aman Ullah
Published: December 2024

This study provides a comprehensive meta-analysis of 100 high-quality research articles to evaluate the advancements, challenges, and future directions in geotechnical engineering practices within urban environments. The review focuses on four key themes: remote sensing and monitoring technologies, artificial intelligence and machine learning applications, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and sustainable geotechnical engineering practices. Remote sensing tools such as LiDAR, ground-penetrating radar, and satellite imagery have revolutionized geotechnical investigations, enabling accurate subsurface mapping and real-time risk monitoring. Artificial intelligence and machine learning have demonstrated significant potential in predictive modeling, soil stabilization optimization, and groundwater management, offering cost-effective and efficient solutions to complex geotechnical challenges. BIM has emerged as a powerful tool for improving collaboration, data integration, and decision-making in large-scale geotechnical projects, particularly in urban megacities. Furthermore, sustainable practices such as the use of recycled materials, bio-cementation, and green infrastructure are becoming increasingly integral to aligning geotechnical engineering with global sustainability goals. This meta-analysis synthesizes findings from the reviewed articles, identifying gaps in research and highlighting emerging trends that underscore the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. By integrating innovative technologies and sustainable practices, this study emphasizes the need for continuous advancements to address the complexities of urban geotechnical projects and contribute to the development of resilient and environmentally sustainable infrastructure.
Un nuevo pedestal honorífico procedente de la ciudad de Dertosa
Authors: Buey Utrilla Teresa , Feliu Pérez Hugo
Published: December 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es dar a conocer una nueva inscripción latina procedente de la ciudad de Dertosa (Tortosa, Tarragona). El soporte conservado presenta una forma paralepípeda, que puede corresponder a la parte central de un pedestal tripartito exento, si bien la pieza se encuentra recortada por todas sus caras fruto de su reutilización. En su texto se documenta un personaje femenino de la gens Aemilia, lo que constituye la única inscripción en la que una mujer recibe un pedestal honorífico en esta ciudad. El artículo incluye un análisis del soporte epigráfico así como una hipótesis de restitución volumétrica.
Automatisierung von juristischen Entscheidungen
Authors: VV. AA.
Published: December 2024

Wieweit können Roboter den Richter-Job übernehmen? Wäre es möglich, eine der wichtigsten juristischen Tätigkeiten, die Streitlösung, zu automatisieren? Und wie hoch wäre der Zuverlässigkeitsgrad einer solchen Automatisierung? Der vorliegende Sammelband enthält, teils in überarbeiteter Form, die Beiträge des Kolloquiums, das am 19. und 20. März 2024 an der Universität Bern stattgefunden hat, und versucht, solche Fragen zu beantworten. Die Anwendung eines KI-Systems auf die römischrechtliche Kasuistik wird die Gelegenheit einer breiteren Auseinandersetzung über die Automatisierung von juristischen Entscheidungen, einer der komplexeren Herausforderungen der heutigen Zeit. Die Rechtsanwendung durch den Computer kann eine richtige Entlastung für die Justiz im Sinne einer Ressourcenoptimierung sein, aber gleichzeitig wirft sie die brennende Frage auf, inwieweit einem „Robo-Richter“ Entscheidungen über Recht und Unrecht und über menschliche Schicksale überlassen werden können.
Intramolecular feedback regulation of the LRRK2 Roc G domain by a LRRK2 kinase-dependent mechanism
Authors: Gilsbach Bernd K , Ho Franz Y , Riebenbauer Benjamin , Zhang Xiaojuan , Guaitoli Giambattista , Kortholt Arjan , Gloeckner Christian Johannes
Published: December 2024

The Parkinson’s disease (PD)-linked protein Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) consists of seven domains, including a kinase and a Roc G domain. Despite the availability of several high-resolution structures, the dynamic regulation of its unique intramolecular domain stack is nevertheless still not well understood. By in-depth biochemical analysis, assessing the Michaelis–Menten kinetics of the Roc G domain, we have confirmed that LRRK2 has, similar to other Roco protein family members, a KM value of LRRK2 that lies within the range of the physiological GTP concentrations within the cell. Furthermore, the R1441G PD variant located within a mutational hotspot in the Roc domain showed an increased catalytic efficiency. In contrast, the most common PD variant G2019S, located in the kinase domain, showed an increased KM and reduced catalytic efficiency, suggesting a negative feedback mechanism from the kinase domain to the G domain. Autophosphorylation of the G1+2 residue (T1343) in the Roc P-loop motif is critical for this phosphoregulation of both the KM and the kcat values of the Roc-catalyzed GTP hydrolysis, most likely by changing the monomer–dimer equilibrium. The LRRK2 T1343A variant has a similar increased kinase activity in cells compared to G2019S and the double mutant T1343A/G2019S has no further increased activity, suggesting that T1343 is crucial for the negative feedback in the LRRK2 signaling cascade. Together, our data reveal a novel intramolecular feedback regulation of the LRRK2 Roc G domain by a LRRK2 kinase-dependent mechanism. Interestingly, PD mutants differently change the kinetics of the GTPase cycle, which might in part explain the difference in penetrance of these mutations in PD patients.
The geometric basis of epithelial convergent extension
Authors: Brauns Fridtjof , Claussen Nikolas H , Lefebvre Matthew F , Wieschaus Eric F , Shraiman Boris I
Published: December 2024

Shape changes of epithelia during animal development, such as convergent extension, are achieved through the concerted mechanical activity of individual cells. While much is known about the corresponding large-scale tissue flow and its genetic drivers, fundamental questions regarding local control of contractile activity on the cellular scale and its embryo-scale coordination remain open. To address these questions, we develop a quantitative, model-based analysis framework to relate cell geometry to local tension in recently obtained time-lapse imaging data of gastrulating Drosophila embryos. This analysis systematically decomposes cell shape changes and T1 rearrangements into internally driven, active, and externally driven, passive, contributions. Our analysis provides evidence that germ band extension is driven by active T1 processes that self-organize through positive feedback acting on tensions. More generally, our findings suggest that epithelial convergent extension results from the controlled transformation of internal force balance geometry which combines the effects of bottom-up local self-organization with the top-down, embryo-scale regulation by gene expression.
Nutritional state-dependent modulation of Insulin-Producing Cells in Drosophila
Authors: Bisen Rituja S , Iqbal Fathima Mukthar , Cascino-Milani Federico , Bockemühl Till , Ache Jan M
Published: December 2024

Insulin plays a key role in metabolic homeostasis across vertebrate and invertebrate species.
Drosophila
Insulin-Producing Cells (IPCs) are functional analogues to mammalian pancreatic beta cells and release insulin directly into circulation. IPC activity is modulated by nutrient availability, circadian time, and the behavioral state. To investigate the
in vivo
dynamics of IPC activity in the context of metabolic homeostasis, we quantified effects of nutritional and internal state changes on IPCs using electrophysiological recordings. We found that the nutritional state strongly modulates IPC activity. IPCs became less active with increasing periods of starvation. Refeeding starved flies with glucose or fructose, two nutritive sugars, significantly increased IPC activity, whereas non-nutritive sugar and protein had no effect. In contrast to feeding, glucose perfusion did not affect IPC activity. This was reminiscent of the mammalian incretin effect, in which ingestion of glucose drives higher insulin release than intravenous glucose application. Contrary to IPCs, Diuretic hormone 44-expressing neurons in the pars intercerebralis (DH44
PI
Ns), which are anatomically similar to IPCs, responded to glucose perfusion. Functional connectivity experiments demonstrated that glucose-sensing DH44
PI
Ns do not affect IPC activity, while other DH44Ns inhibit IPCs. This suggests that populations of autonomously and systemically sugar-sensing neurons work in parallel to maintain metabolic homeostasis. Ultimately, metabolic state changes affect behavior. For example, hungry flies increase their locomotor activity in search of food. In support of this idea, activating IPCs had a small, satiety-like effect on starved flies, resulting in reduced walking activity, whereas activating DH44Ns strongly increased walking activity. Taken together, we show that IPCs and DH44Ns are an integral part of a sophisticated modulatory network that orchestrates glucose homeostasis and adaptive behavior in response to shifts in the metabolic state.
Updated range distribution of the non-native Asian green mussel Perna viridis (Linnaeus, 1758) at Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: de Messano Luciana V. R. , Gonçalves José E. A. , Kassuga Alexandre D. , da Silva Alexandre R. , Masi Bruno P. , Messano Héctor F. , Fardin Denny , Coutinho Ricardo
Published: December 2024

Guanabara Bay, located at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a highly urbanized and polluted estuary that houses different port areas, shipyards, and marinas of intense maritime traffic. This infrastructure is widely associated with the introduction and spread of non-native sessile species. A rapid assessment of non-native benthic sessile species conducted in the bay in late 2022 across 19 sites identified a total of 83 taxa, both native and non-native, classified into the following main groups: one Cyanophyta, 13 Macroalgae, 14 Porifera, 11 Cnidaria, six Bryozoa, five Annelida, 10 Mollusca, six Crustacea, 10 Echinodermata, and seven Ascidiacea. Our findings revealed the proliferation of the Asian green mussel (Perna viridis Linnaeus, 1758), a species noted for its exceptional ability to achieve extremely high biomass levels globally. In Brazil, the bivalve was first reported less than 6 years ago in 2018 at Guanabara Bay, on a mariculture farm at Arraial do Cabo (200 km away) in 2023 and more recently in the south (Paranaguá Bay), besides two coastal islands outside Guanabara Bay on natural rocky shores. The present survey recorded P. viridis at 17 sites, including natural substrata, co-occurring with native species. No Tubastraea spp. were observed in Guanabara Bay. Controlling and mitigating the consequences of bioinvasion events can be challenging, but biosafety protocols should be adopted in the near feature to minimize the risks and impacts caused by species dispersal.
Ultrasonographic modeling of lung and diaphragm mechanics: clinical trial of a novel non-invasive method to evaluate pre-operative pulmonary function
Authors: Li Tianyuan , Wu Xiong-zhi , Long Dingde , Fu Huan , Guo Suping , Liu Fen
Published: December 2024

Background

Pre-operative pulmonary function testing (PFT) plays a key role in predicting postoperative complications or functional impairment. However, PFT requires the subject and examiner to cooperate and the results are influenced by both technical and personal factors. In contrast, the use of ultrasound (US) for structural and functional assessments of the lungs and diaphragm is on the rise, as it requires minimal patient cooperation. Dyspnea is mainly caused by lung or pleural lesions but may also be caused by weak respiratory muscles. As the diaphragm is a primary respiratory muscle, combining lung ultrasonography (LUS) with diaphragm ultrasound (DUS) may enable a more comprehensive assessement of pulmonary function. This study aims to introduce a novel approach for assessing pulmonary function using a mathematical model based on LUS and DUS.

Methods

This prospective study was performed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University between June 2021 and December 2021, 208 patients were recruited and underwent PFT, LUS, and DUS examinations. An experienced physician, blinded to the clinical history and PFT results, performed LUS and DUS and explored the correlations between a mathematical model (ultrasonographic modeling score (U-score)) using LUS combined with DUS and pulmonary function parameters. Univariate, multivariate, and logistic regression analyses were also performed.

Results

According to the univariate and multivariable analysis, diaphragm thickness fraction in deep breathing (D-DTF) (odds ratio (OR), 0.88; 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.83–0.94]; P < 0.001), and LUS score (OR, 1.44; 95% CI [1.16–1.80]; P < 0.001) were each independently associated with pulmonary function. According to the logistics equation, a U-score of −0.126 × D-DTF + 0.368 × LUS score was produced. The U-score showed a more significant negative correlation with forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) (r = −0.605, P < 0.001) than the LUS or DUS indices alone. The U-score (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.971) was greater than the other indices for assessing pulmonary function.

Conclusions

With validation, the U-score through both lung and diaphragm ultrasound measurements may assist in estimating pulmonary function. This approach facilitates the assessment of pulmonary function in patients who may be unable to reliably participate in PFT.
Comparative meta-analysis of cold snare polypectomy and endoscopic mucosal resection for colorectal polyps: assessing efficacy and safety
Authors: Wang Shouqi , Zhang Qi , Meng Li Rong , Wu Ying , Fong Pedro , Zhou Weixia
Published: December 2024

Colorectal polyps are commonly treated with surgical procedures, with cold snare polypectomy (CSP) and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) being the two most prevalent techniques. This meta-analysis (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022336152) aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of CSP and EMR in the management of colorectal polyps. Comprehensive searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases, covering publications up until June 2024. The primary outcome was complete resection rate, and secondary outcomes included en bloc resection rate, immediate and delayed bleeding, perforation, and procedure time. The Mantel–Haenszel method was employed for the analysis of binary endpoints, while the inverse variance method was used for continuous outcomes. Subgroup analysis was performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity. Six studies involving 15,296 patients and 17,971 polyps were included in the meta-analysis. CSP had a significantly lower complete resection rate compared to EMR (OR: 0.44, 95% CI [0.21–0.94], p = 0.0334). However, there was no significant difference between CSP and EMR in en bloc resection rate, perforation, or procedure time. Interestingly, CSP had a significantly lower delayed bleeding rate compared to EMR (OR: 0.45, 95% CI [0.27–0.77], p = 0.0034), but there was no significant difference in immediate bleeding rate. In conclusion, CSP is a safe, efficient, and effective technique comparable to EMR. The choice of technique should be based on the individual patient and polyp characteristics.
Potential implementation of the woody biochar waste as an eco-friendly soil stabilization material in sandy environments
Authors: Megrousse Mohamed , Youcef Mahmoudi , Cherif Taiba Abdellah , Azaiez Hamou , Belkhatir Mostefa
Published: December 2024

This experimental analysis aims to develop a fundamental understanding of the geotechnical properties of soils treated with an organic material named biochar. In this context, an experimental protocol was set using the Casagrande shear box apparatus to effectively demonstrate the combined influence of the biochar fraction (Fbio=0%, 5%, 10% and 15%), the initial relative density (Dr = 20%, Dr = 54%, and Dr = 90%), and the initial normal stress (σn = 100, 200, and 300 kPa) on the mechanical behavior of Chlef sand. The obtained results clearly show that biochar has a significant influence on the mechanical behavior of the tested materials. Additionally, the shear strength decreases with increasing biochar content up to a threshold value of (Fbio = 10%). Beyond that, the shear strength increases with the increase of biochar content up to the value of (Fbio = 15%) for all the considered parameters. The observed trend of increasing shear strength with the addition of the biochar content (Fbio = 15%) can be attributed to the amplification of the particle interlocking due to the presence of biochar particles between the large particles of Chlef sand, inducing an increase in the dilative character of the tested materials; offering implications for various geotechnical applications. Moreover, pertinent correlations were obtained between the residual shear strength and the grain size characteristics of the sand-biochar mixtures.
Simulation of the behavior of reinforced concrete rectangular hollow sandwich plates under the effect of contact explosion through SPH method
Authors: Bakir Dursun , Savas Sedat , Üstündağ Hasan
Published: December 2024

When dealing with contact explosion, a type of explosion load that has a substantial impact on structures, it is necessary to use a distinct approach compared to other types of explosion loads. Hence, utmost significance should be attributed to the selection of the analytical approach when modeling the explosion. It is crucial to ascertain the behavior of the explosion pressure in the space between hollow sandwich plates. This work involved conducting experiments to examine the accurate simulation of hollow plates subjected to contact explosions, which result in a reduction in the dispersion of explosive pressure. The structure was modeled using smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH) and Lagrangian modeling techniques, taking into account the effects of explosives and contact explosions. The mesh-free structure of these approaches makes them highly successful in resolving significant deformations resulting from explosions. The comparison criteria included the widths of the crater pits on the upper surface of the plate, the behavior of the explosion pressure in the structure cavity, and the impact of the explosion load on the lower section of the plate. After evaluating several explosion load and hollow structure modeling methodologies, it was concluded that the most appropriate approach for reproducing the experimental results involved using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) to model the explosive and Lagrangian method to model the structure.