bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects of use of ecosystem services for estimation of scenarios of urban development
Authors: Erokhova V V , Vasenev V I
Published: June 2018

One of the main trends in changing existing land use is the urbanization process [2]. Since any change bears both positive aspects and negative aspects, an approach is needed to evaluate the various scenarios of this process. Advantages and advantages include the development of infrastructure and the emergence of various social organizations, the development of new projects for cultural leisure and recreation. To the problems of urbanization is the deterioration of the ecological characteristics of urbanized territories, the migration of the population becomes unregulated, the depletion of forest resources, the degradation of the fertility of soils and their functions in general. Anthropogenic impact on territories subject to land use change affects the benefits derived from ecosystems, namely ecosystem services. The main problem of changing the type of land use, and, as a consequence of the volume of ecosystem services, is the lack of a structured methodology for conducting research, in order to forecast such development scenarios that conserve and increase the benefits of ecosystems. This article provides an overview of the literature sources that reflect the problem posed, examines the main categories of ecosystem services, provides approaches to the assessment of soil characteristics from the point of view of ecosystem services, and suggests a methodology for assessing the example of the village of Ryzhovo, TiANAO, Moscow. The article provides the rationale for developing the principles of urban farming, based on the idea of which is the preservation and improvement of soil characteristics. Also, basic methods for assessing the various ecosystem services are applied, both in the overall assessment of services for urban areas and for assessing the land on which the construction of urban farming facilities is planned. The principle of the choice of territories for the organization of urban agriculture is shown, based on an analysis of existing urbanization trends.
Penerapan Multiple Attribute Decision Making dengan Metode Simple Additive Weighting untuk Pemeringkatan Kerentanan Keamanan Website
Authors: MUNADI RIZAL , MUKHROJI MUKHROJI , SYAHRIAL SYAHRIAL , MEUTIA ERNITA DEWI
Published: June 2018

ABSTRAKPada universitas, website dibangun sebagai jendela informasi elektronik yang menyediakan informasi tentang pendidikan tinggi. Namun, adanya celah keamanan pada website berpotensi untuk dieksploitasi bagi kriminal teknologi informasi. Berdasarkan masalah ini, fokus penelitian ini ditekankan pada aspek keamanan. Dalam penelitian ini, perangkat lunak OWASP digunakan sebagai alat uji. Kemudian, evaluasi dan analisis dilakukan terhadap kerentanan website terhadap serangan. Akhirnya, dengan menggunakan teknik Multiple Attribute Decision Making dengan metode Simple Additive Weighting dilakukan proses pemeringkatan kerentanan terhadap lima website universitas negeri di Provinsi Aceh. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa potensi kerentanan yang paling tinggi terjadi pada Universitas-2 dengan nilai rata-rata kerentanan, 1,72. Kerentanan ini menunjukkan adanya celah keamanan ini yang harus segera diperbaiki segera agar informasi yang tersedia menjadi akurat.Kata kunci: Website, OWASP, MADM, SAW, KerentananABSTRACTAt the university, the website is built as a window of electronic information that provides information about higher education. However, the existence of security holes on the website has the potential to be exploited for criminal information technology. Based on this issue, the focus of this research is emphasized on the security aspect. In this study, OWASP software is used as a test tool. Then, the evaluation and analysis carried out against the vulnerability of the website against the attack. Finally, using the Multiple Attribute Decision Making technique using the Simple Additive Weighting method, vulnerability rating was made to five public university websites in Aceh Province. The test results show that the highest vulnerability potential occurs at University-2 with an average vulnerability score of 1.72. This vulnerability indicates a security hole that needs to be fixed immediatelyso that the information available becomes accurate. Keywords: Website, OWASP, MADM, SAW, Vulnerability
Балансове узагальнення та звітність підприємств у період реорганізаційних перетворень
Authors: Krupka Yaroslav , Nazarova Iryna
Published: June 2018

Розглянуто різні варіанти реорганізаційних перетворень на підприємствах, роль і значення перехідних балансів та інших форм звітності при їх здійсненні. Визначено основні процедури, пов’язані з формуванням такої звітності під час об’єднання, поділу підприємств, набуття ними іншої організаційно-правової форми. Зроблено пропозиції стосовно особливостей відображення у звітності операцій, пов’язаних із передачею майна, капіталу й зобов’язань новоутвореним структурам.
Applying Econometric Modelling of Time Series for Analysis and Making Product Cost Forecasts (by the Example of NE «LRP “MOTOR”»)
Authors: Begun Svitlana , Sliepchenko Kateryna
Published: June 2018

In the article, we researched dynamic series of product cost using the reporting data of the NE «LRP “Motor”. We suggest applying econometric modelling inasmuch as it can help conduct the complex analysis not only in short periods, but also in the large scope dynamics. In our opinion,implementing this method will give an opportunity to make effective trend forecasts and thus, provide accurate analytical maintenance for the enterprise in the field of product costing. Article has both scientific and high practical value.
Забезпечення продовольчої безпеки України за допомогою національного виробництва продукції галузі птахівництва
Authors: Grigoriev Sergei
Published: June 2018

У статті розглянуто проблему підтримання прийнятного рівня продовольчої безпеки, яку визначено як важливу складову частину національної безпеки в концепції розвитку АПК. Доведено, що птахівництво – одна з найдинамічніших галузей тваринництва України, яка здатна покращити продовольчу безпеку України. Уста-новлено, що істотне збільшення обсягів виробництва мʼяса птиці можливе лише за умови сприятливого інвести-ційного клімату в галузі, що обумовлюється стабільною, прогнозованою державною політикою на підтримку вітчизняного товаровиробника в бюджетній, кредитній, ціновій та регулятивній сферах державного управління, а також у налагодженні випуску технологічного обладнання з урахуванням інноваційних технологій. Визначено умо-ви, загрози та фактори забезпечення продовольчої безпеки України шляхом національного виробництва продукції галузі птахівництва.
Діагностика загрози економічній безпеці підприємства й напрями їх нівелювання в умовах євроінтеграційних процесів
Authors: Ivankiv Olga
Published: June 2018

У статті досліджено систему економічної безпеки підприємств України та здійснено спробу пошуку способів зниження загроз їхній діяльності в умовах євроінтеграції. Ідентифіковано можливі загрози економічній безпеці підприємств у процесі взаємодії з постачальниками, споживачами, конкурентами та органами державного управління. Запропоновано способи забезпечення економічної безпеки для підприємств щодо кожного субʼєкта взаємодії.
Використання пропорційного підходу до оподаткування в Україні: проблеми та можливі способи їх розвʼязання
Authors: Karlin Mykola
Published: June 2018

У статті проаналізовано основи пропорційного (лінійного) підходу до реформування податкової системи України в сучасних умовах, указано на його недоліки та запропоновано способи запровадження прогресивності в податковій системі України з урахуванням досвіду зарубіжних країн. Це забезпечить дотримання принципу справедливості, якого поки не дотримується влада країни.
Genç Kadın Kros ve Alp Kayakçılarında İzokapnik Tamponlama Fazının Karşılaştırılması
Authors: KORKMAZ Selcen , POLAT Metin
Published: June 2018

Bu çalışma, genç
kadın kros ve alp kayakçılarının izokapnik tamponlama faz değerlerini
birbirleriyle karşılaştırmak amacıyla çalışılmıştır. Araştırmaya, uluslararası
düzeyde yarışmalara katılan 10 genç kadın kros kayakçısı ve 8 genç kadın alp
kayakçısı katılmıştır. Maksimal oksijen alımı (VO2max), solunumsal
eşik (SE) ve solunumsal kompenzasyon noktası (SKN) değerleri [1]koşu
bandında şiddeti giderek artan egzersiz test protokolü uygulanarak tespit
edilmiştir.SE ve SKN değerleri V-Slope yöntemi ile belirlenmiştir. İzokapnik
tamponlama (İKT) fazı, SKN ile SE arasındaki fark olarak hesaplandı ve hem
mutlak hem de göreceli VO2 (İKTVO2) ve koşu hızı (İKTHIZ)
değerleri ile ifade edildi. SE ve SKN karşılık gelen VO2, kalp atımı
hızı ve koşu hızı tespit edilerek, VO2max’nin ve maksimal koşu
hızının yüzdesi cinsinden görece değerleri hesaplandı. Tükenme zamanı testin
toplam süresi olarak belirlendi.Kros kayakçıları VO2max, maksimal
koşu hızı, tükenme zamanı, hem mutlak hem de göreceli SE değerleri ve mutlak
SKN değerleri alp kayakçılarına kıyasla anlamlı olarak yüksek bulunurken
(P<0.05), görece SKN değerleri arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark
görülmedi (p>0.05). Hem mutlak hem de görece İKTVO2 değerleri alp
kayakçılarında kros kayakçılarına kıyasla istatistiksel olarak daha yüksek
bulundu (p<0.05). Görece İKTHIZ değerleri alp kayakçılarında kros
kayakçılarına kıyasla anlamlı olarak yüksek bulunurken (p<0.05), mutlak İKTHIZ
değerleri iki grupta istatistiksel olarak benzerlik gösterdi (p>0.05).
Araştırma bulgularımız, alp kayakçıların kros kayakçılarına kıyasla aerobik
kapasitelerinin daha düşük ve solunumsal eşiğe daha erken girdiklerini, öte
yandan izokapnik tamponlama fazlarının daha geniş ve eşik sonrası egzersize
toleranslarının daha yüksek olduğunu göstermiştir.
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy findings in patient presenting with dyspepsia
Authors: Shrestha Roshan , Karki Sanjit , Pandey Bimal , Sharma Yuba Raj
Published: June 2018

Introductions: The objective of this study was to evaluate the upper gastrointestinal endoscopy findings in patients presenting with dyspepsia.Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted in Department of Internal Medicine, Patan Hospital from April 2013 to March 2014. Adult patients who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for dyspepsia were included in the study.Results: There were 2141 endoscopies (out of total 3195) performed for dyspepsia, male 996 (46.52 %), female 1145 (53.48%), mean age 39.37 years (SD ± 18.16). A single endoscopic diagnosis was made in 1991 (93%) and in rest, combinations of lesions were seen. Gastritis 892 (41.66%), oesophagitis 215 (10.04%), duodenal ulcer 100 (4.67%), gastro-duodenitis 85 (3.97%), hiatus hernia 82 (3.82%), gastric ulcer 46 (2.14%) and no lesions in 594 (27.74%) were seen.Conclusions: Gastritis followed by oesophagitis was seen in half of the dyspeptic, while a quarter had functional dyspepsia with normal findings.Journal of Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Vol. 2, No. 2, 2015. page: 19-22
Necessary improvements of the GRS simulation chain for the simulation of light-water-cooled SMRs
Authors: Schaffrath A. , Krüssenberg A.-K. , Buchholz S. , Wielenberg A.
Published: June 2018

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are one interesting option for new builds in almost all countries worldwide continuing to use nuclear energy for commercial power generation. For asserting of legitimate nuclear safety and/or security interests German authorities require in this context own and independent expertise for the safety assessments. The Gesellschaft für Anlagen und Reaktorsicherheit (GRS) mbH, which is the main technical support organization in nuclear safety for the German federal government, has among others performed a study on Safety and International development of Small Modular Reactors (GRS-376) to identify essential issues of SMR safety as well as needs for adaption, improvement and validation of nuclear evidence tools developed and applied by GRS. For the light-water-cooled SMRs, which have (at least according to GRS) the best prospects for realization, selected results of this study will be presented.
Chlorhexidine Cleansing of the Umbilical Cord for Prevention of Umbilical Infection: A Hospital based Study in Bangladesh
Authors: Khairuzzaman M , Rouf MA , Sarker MMA , Hossain I , Matin A , Mowla G , Sarker NR , Mannan MA , Shahidullah M
Published: June 2018

Background: The umbilical cord is an important site for bacterial colonization. A possible consequence of bacterial colonization is cord stump infection, a factor that can greatly increase morbidity and mortality for infants in developing countries. Chlorhexidine cleansing of the cord can reduce neonatal mortality among newborns infants in low-resource settings with high risk of infection. This objective of this study was to determine the effect of cord cleansing with chlorhexidine in reduction of umbilical infection among newborns in hospital settings.Methodology: Between April 2013 to July 2014, 510 newborns were randomly assigned within a tertiary level hospital in Bangladesh to receive 1 of 3 cord care regimens: single cord cleansing with 4% chlorhexidine(Group-1), multiple cord cleansing with 4% chlorhexidine (Group-2) and clean and dry cord care (Group-3 : control).Results: The risk of umbilical cord infection (omphalitis) was significantly reduced in both the single (Relative risk [RR] 0.15 [95% CI] 0.008-0.93) and multiple chlorhexidine cleansing group (RR 0.37 [95% CI] 0.04- 0.99) compared to the dry cord care group. The risk of omphalitis was not significantly different between multiple and single chlorhexidine cleansing group (RR 3.14 [0.13-76.54]).Conclusion: 4% chlorhexidine significantly reduce the risk of umbilical infection in both single and multiple cord cleansing groups as compared to clean and dry cord care group.Bangladesh J Child Health 2018; VOL 42 (1) :4-8
Procalcitonin – A Reliable Marker for Diagnosis of Neonatal Sepsis in Compare to CRP
Authors: Akter Jesmin , Ahammad Forrukh , Begum Tahmina
Published: June 2018

Background: Early recognition and diagnosis of neonatal sepsis are difficult because of the variable and non-specific clinical presentation of this condition. It is extremely important to make an early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis for prompt institution of antimicrobial therapy. So the objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of serum procalcitonin as a reliable marker in diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.Methodology: This cross sectional analytical study was carried out in the Special Care Baby Unit of a tertiary level care hospital in Bangladesh from September 2012 to May 2013. Total 75 newborn with suspected sepsis were included in the study. Specimens of blood were obtained from each neonate prior to commencement of antibiotic for sepsis work up. Serum CRP and procalcitoninlevels were measured. The data from blood cultures were used as the gold standard to evaluate the optimum sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and area under the Receiver Operative Characteristic (ROC) curves.Results:Among total 75 newborns included in this study, 49.3% (37) newborn were diagnosed as proven sepsis and 50.7% (38) newborn as clinical sepsis.The procalcitonin (PCT) was high in 58.7% (500-<2000 pg/ml) newborn and remarkably high (2000-<10000) in 36% newborn with sepsis. At a cut-off value > 500pg/ml, the sensitivity of PCT in detecting sepsis was 48.6%, its specificity 76.3%, positive predictive value was 66.7%, and negative predictive value was 60.4% whereas the sensitivity of CRP for predicting sepsis was 35.1%, specificity 78.9%, positive predictive value 61.9% and negative predictive value was 55.6%. The area under the ROC curve for procalcitonin(0.653) was significantly higher than CRP (0.571).Conclusion:Serum PCT was superior to serum CRP level in terms of early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis, in detecting the severity of sepsis. PCT is a reliable marker than CRP in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.Bangladesh J Child Health 2018; VOL 42 (1) :19-25
Epidemiological & Clinical Profile of Patients Presented with Mandible Fracture in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Sultana Farjana , Karim Md Rezaul , Haider Ismat Ara
Published: June 2018

Mandible is the second most commonly fractured bone after nasal bone, though it is the largest and strongest facial bone. Fractures of the mandible can involve only one site or can often involve multiple anatomic sites. It account for 36% to 59% of all maxillofacial fracture. The large variability in reported prevalence is due to a variety of contributing factors such as gender, age, environment, and socio-economic status of patient, as well as the mechanism of the injury. The most favorable site of fracture (in descending order) in mandible is the body, angle, condylar region, symphysis, and coronoid process. The descriptive type of cross sectional retrospective study was undertaken to determine the epidemiological & clinical profile of patients presented with fractures of mandible and their different methods of treatment modalities. Four hundred and thirty five patients with mandible fractures were treated during the year 2014-2015. A review of patient’s record was conducted. Data regarding age, gender, cause of fracture, anatomic site and treatment modalities were reviewed. There was higher prevalence in male (3.9:1), with occurrence peak between 21-30 years. The principal causes of fracture in this study were RTA (Road Traffic Accidents) representing 54.02% followed by physical assault 17.24%, Fall, Sports injury, Blow by heavy objects, Tube well injury & others which includes Tire blast injury, Gunshot injury, Iatrogenic cause, Pathological fracture, Boat handle injury, Penetrating injury by metal etc. The most injured sites were in parasymphysis (26.31%) followed by angle of mandible 17.89% then symphysis, condyle, body of mandible, dentoalveolar, ramus, coronoid process of mandible. Most patients (70.11%) of mandible fractures were treated by closed reduction (arch bar, arch bars with intermaxillary fixation IMF, eyelet wiring & lateral compression plate) & 21.83% of patients were treated with open reduction (miniplates fixation. 3D plate fixation) .Only 8.05% patients were managed by conservative approach. This study reflects patterns of mandible fracture within the community and discuss various methods of mandible fracture management in the department of Maxillofacial casualty in Dhaka Dental college hospital. It is hoped that information presented here will be useful to the government agencies and health care professionals involved in planning future programs of prevention & treatment of mandible fracture.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(3): 107-111
Prevalence of High Risk Human Papillomavirus (type-16 and 18) in High-Grade Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) and Cervical Cancer in a Tertiary Hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Shahida SM , Ansary Nazma Parvin , Begum Afrina , Islam Md Anisul , Rifat Zannat Ara
Published: June 2018

Background: Persistent infection with high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes development of cervical cancer. Among the high risk group, HPV-16 accounts for 50% & HPV-18 accounts for 12% of cervical cancer.Objective: The current sudy aimed to evaluate the prevalence of HPV genotype 16 and 18 in high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CINII&III) and cervical cancer.Methods: This descriptive type of cross-sectional observational study was carried out in colposcopy clinic of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH), Bangladesh, from July 2012 to June 2013. Women with colposcopically diagnosed high-grade CIN and clinically diagnosed cervical carcinoma were enrolled. Pregnant & menstruating women were excluded from this study. Colposcopy guided cervical biopsy were taken from high grade CIN with loop electrosugical excision procedure (LEEP) and wedge biopsy were taken from cervical cancer. All the specimen were reviewed by histopathologist to confirm the diagnosis. Extra sample of specimen were sent to the Department of Microbiology and Hygiene of Bangladesh Agriculture University, Mymensingh for the detection of HPV-16 & 18 DNA by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).Result: Out of 71 samples, histopathologically 4.2% was diagnosed as chronic cervicitis, 8.5% CIN I, 26.8% CIN II, 16.9% CIN III, 40.8% squamous cell carcinoma and 2.8% adenocarcinoma of cervix. The results revealed that 30 cases were positive for HPV-16, 06 cases for HPV-18 and 04 cases for both. In this study, the prevalence of HPV- 16 & 18 infection was 56.3%. Infection found to be higher in women aged between 45 and 54 (P<0.01). Most of them were from low socioeconomic status (P<0.01) and married at an early age ranging from 11 to 15 (P<0.01). It was found that multiparity correlated higher rate of HPV positivity than only one or two pregnancy, but statistically it was not significant (P>0.05).Conclusion: The high prevalence of HPV-16 and 18 in high grade CIN and cervical cancer samples suggests that vaccination against HPV-16 and 18 may be effective in bringing down the cervical cancer incidence in Bangladesh.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(3): 112-117
Letter To The Editor Vol.36(3)
Authors: Hossain Homayra Tahseen , Abedin Md Forhad
Published: June 2018

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(3): 135
Popular Culture Icons:The Simpsons
Authors: Ritzer Jeremy
Published: November 2024

The Simpsons, an American animated television show, has transcended its status as a popular cultural artifact to become a bona fide sociological phenomenon, one with almost unmatched longevity. Instead of just entertaining the masses, the show devotes a significant amount of time to addressing sociological phenomena and major social issues.
Transnational Capitalist Class
Authors: Sklair Leslie
Published: November 2024

The transnational capitalist class, as a theoretical concept and an empirical reality, has its origins in theories of capitalist globalization developed since the 1960s. Traditional Marxist theories of the international bourgeoisie tend to be conceptualized in state‐centrist terms and to focus mainly on business leaders, usually big capitalists, and their corporations in rich and powerful countries exploiting capitalists, workers, and peasants in poor countries. The transnational corporation, in contrast, transcends national class structures and, for some researchers, includes groups whose members do not directly own the means of production but nevertheless directly serve the interests of global capitalism.
Capitalism in the Interregnum: Reconstructed Social Democracy or Authoritarian Capitalism
Authors: Antonio Robert J. , Bonanno Alessandro
Published: November 2024

This entry elaborates the changes in the structure and ideology of capitalism from postwar Keynesian capitalism, through the neoliberal era, to the current legitimacy crisis of the latter or the interregnum after the Great Recession, the ascendance of ethnoracial nationalism, the failed Trump coup, and the COVID‐19 crisis. The focus is primarily on the USA, the now threatened hegemon of the Keynesian and neoliberal regimes, with due attention to global convergences and divergences.
Prosumer
Authors: Esposti Piergiorgio Degli , Tirabassi Laura
Published: November 2024

The origins of the concept of the prosumer can be traced to the work of Marshall McLuhan and Barrington Nevitt who in 1972 predicted the gradual transformation of the consumer into a producer as a consequence of electronic technology and the development of simultaneous and instantaneous computing environments, as in the techno‐productive infrastructure of the western world. The term “prosumer” was first introduced by Alvin Toffler in 1980 to refer to the blurring of the distinction between production and consumption. Prosumers consume what they produce and/or produce what they consume. Prosumption, the activity of prosumers, focuses on both production and consumption simultaneously rather than on either independently.
Virtual Sports
Authors: Milik Oskar T.
Published: November 2024

Virtual sports refer to digitalized systems, either in games or in simulations, that replicate the social experience, physical actions, and/or cognitive processes of a real‐world, or physical, sport. Between digital games and virtualized practice systems for players, these sports have been around since the 1970s. Over time, virtual sports have evolved into a variety of experiences, each with different connections to modern society. From casual games that run on everyday devices like smartphones, to complex simulations that require huge investments of time and resources, to competitive virtual sports (e‐sports) that have spawned entire industries in tournaments and professional teams, virtual sports have become a core aspect of digital sociology.
Clinical commissioning and introduction of an in‐house artificial intelligence (AI) platform for automated head and neck intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment planning
Authors: Li Xinyi , Sheng Yang , Wu Qingrong Jackie , Ge Yaorong , Brizel David M. , Mowery Yvonne M. , Yang Dongrong , Yin Fang‐Fang , Wu Qiuwen
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

To describe the clinical commissioning of an in‐house artificial intelligence (AI) treatment planning platform for head‐and‐neck (HN) Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT).

Materials and methods

The AI planning platform has three components: (1) a graphical user interface (GUI) is built within the framework of a commercial treatment planning system (TPS). The GUI allows AI models to run remotely on a designated workstation configured with GPU acceleration. (2) A template plan is automatically prepared involving both clinical and AI considerations, which include contour evaluation, isocenter placement, and beam/collimator jaw placement. (3) A well‐orchestrated suite of AI models predicts optimal fluence maps, which are imported into TPS for dose calculation followed by an optional automatic fine‐tuning. Six AI models provide flexible tradeoffs in parotid sparing and Planning Target Volume (PTV)‐organ‐at‐risk (OAR) preferences. Planners could examine the plan dose distribution and make further modifications as clinically needed. The performance of the AI plans was compared to the corresponding clinical plans.

Results

The average plan generation time including manual operations was 10–15  min per case, with each AI model prediction taking ∼1 s. The six AI plans form a wide range of tradeoff choices between left and right parotids and between PTV and OARs compared with corresponding clinical plans, which correctly reflected their tradeoff designs.

Conclusion

The in‐house AI IMRT treatment planning platform was developed and is available for clinical use at our institution. The process demonstrates outstanding performance and robustness of the AI platform and provides sufficient validation.
Electrical Characterization of a Large‐Area Single‐Layer Cu3BHT 2D Conjugated Coordination Polymer
Authors: Estévez Sandra M. , Wang Zhiyong , Liu Tsai‐Jung , Caballero Gabriel , Urbanos Fernando J. , Figueruelo‐Campanero Ignacio , García‐Pérez Julia , Navío Cristina , Polozij Miroslav , Zhang Jianjun , Heine Thomas , Menghini Mariela , Granados Daniel , Feng Xinliang , Dong Renhao , Cánovas Enrique
Published: November 2024

Understanding charge transport properties of large‐area single‐layer 2D materials is crucial for the future development of novel optoelectronic devices. In this work, the synthesis and electrical characterization of large‐area single‐layers of Cu3BHT 2D conjugated coordination polymers are reported. The Cu3BHT are synthesized on the water surface by the Langmuir‐Blodgett method and then transferred to SiO2/Si substrates with pre‐patterned electrical contacts. Electrical measurements revealed ohmic responses across areas up to ≈1 cm2, with a mean resistance of approximately 53 ± 3 kΩ at a probe separation of 50 µm. Cooling and heating cycles show hysteresis in the electrical response, suggesting different current pathways are formed as the samples underwent structural‐chemical changes during temperature sweeps. This hysteresis vanished after several cycles and the conductivity shows a stable exponential behavior as a function of temperature, suggesting that a temperature‐dependent tunneling process is governing the conduction mechanism in the analyzed polycrystalline single‐layer Cu3BHT samples. These results, together with density functional theory calculations and valence band X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy data suggest that the single‐layer samples exhibit a semiconducting rather than a metallic behavior.
Mathematical Modeling of the Co‐Infection Dynamics of Dengue and Malaria Using Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Prakash Raj M. , Venkatesh A. , Arun Kumar K. , Manivel M.
Published: November 2024

This study presents a comprehensive mathematical model to analyze the dynamics of co‐infection between dengue and malaria using delay differential equations. The model investigates the transmission dynamics of both diseases, focusing on the stability of equilibrium points and the basic reproductive ratio, which measures the number of secondary infections caused by a single infected individual. A time‐delay component is incorporated to account for the incubation periods, enhancing the model's realism. The study performs a detailed sensitivity analysis and global stability assessments, providing insights into the control and management of diseases. Numerical simulations are conducted to illustrate the effect of various transmission parameters on disease spread. This research highlights the importance of mathematical modeling in understanding co‐infection dynamics and provides critical insights for public health interventions, particularly in regions where both diseases are endemic. The results emphasize the role of controlling transmission rates and the use of vector management strategies in mitigating disease outbreaks.
A New Filter Based on Sliding Mode Method with Discrete‐Time Implementation for Noise Attenuation and Differentiation
Authors: Zhao Zuoping , Li Dongyang
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a novel filter based on the sliding mode method for filtering noise and extracting reliable signals from noisy signals by enhancing Levant's sliding mode filter. Specifically, the proposed sliding mode filter takes advantage of the generalized signum function to adjust the gain in different regions of phase space, thereby decreasing the overshoot during the response phase. Additionally, the discrete‐time implementation of the proposed sliding mode filter is achieved by utilizing the implicit‐Euler algorithm, which effectively eliminates chattering in the output. The effectiveness of the presented sliding mode filter is substantiated via numerical simulation cases.
A Flexible Antibacterial Gel Electrochemiluminescence Device for Monitoring and Therapy of Chronic Diabetic Wounds
Authors: Yuan Yuzhu , Yan Dafeng , Duan Ruixue , Xiong Huayu , Wen Wei , Wang Shengfu , Zhang Xiuhua
Published: November 2024

The rapid development of internal light‐driven photodynamic therapy stems from its capability to eliminate bulky physical light sources, addressing the medical requirements for comfort and portability in long‐term diabetic wound management. To overcome limitations such as tissue penetration depth and controllability of internal light sources, this study introduces an antibacterial gel electrochemiluminescence device for the treatment of diabetic wounds and the monitoring of wound bacteria. We deploy a large‐area luminescent device combining flexible screen‐printed electrodes and a dual‐network hydrogel, in which photodynamic therapy is driven by Ru@COFs' nanoconfinement‐enhanced near‐infrared electrochemiluminescence to achieve a deeper and safer antibacterial effect. The custom‐sized screen‐printed electrodes inherit the inborn electrochemical sensing function and enable intimate contact between reactive oxygen species and the wound. The device avoids physical light sources and provides a new paradigm for developing miniaturized integrated diagnostic and therapeutic wearable devices.
Novel Imine Complexes Incorporating ZrO(II), VO(II), and Pd(II) Cations: Synthesis, DFT Calculation, Molecular Docking, Antimicrobial, and Antitumor Activity
Authors: Abdel‐Fatah Shimaa M. , Basha Maram T. , Al‐Farhan Badriah Saad , Shehata Mohamed R. , Abdel Rahman Laila H.
Published: November 2024

Novel imine complexes of ZrO(II), VO(II), and Pd(II) have been synthesized and described using IR, TGA, UV/Vis, and 1HNMR methods, along with powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), elemental (CHN) analysis, mass spectrometry, molar conductance, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. Conductivity measurements indicate that none of the complexes function as electrolytes. Magnetic susceptibility data confirm the paramagnetism of the VO(II) complex, while ZrO(II) and Pd(II) complexes exhibit diamagnetic properties. Various analyses suggest that divalent cations favor a 1:1 metal‐to‐ligand ratio. Biological studies demonstrated that all complexes possess significant antimicrobial activity against a range of bacterial and fungal strains. We also observed that the antimicrobial potency of the metal complexes follows the order: ZrO(II) > Pd(II) > VO(II) > H2A, with the ZrO(II) complex showing the highest inhibition zone (28 mm) against Gram‐negative bacteria. The antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus increases in the order VO(II) > ZrO(II) > Pd(II) > H2A. Additionally, the complexes exhibit high cytotoxicity against carcinoma cell lines, including the HepG‐2, when compared with the clinically proven vinblastine. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to elucidate the equilibrium geometry of the imine ligand and its complexes at the B3LYP level of theory, using the Gaussian 09 program with 6‐311G++(dp) basis set for C, H, O, N, and Cl atoms, and lanl2dz for Pd, V, and Zr atoms. Finally, docking studies revealed potential binding modes at the active sites of bacterial and fungal receptors.
Cannabidiol Treatment for Adult Patients with Drug‐Resistant Epilepsies: A Real‐World Study in a Tertiary Center
Authors: Calonge Quentin , Besnard Aurore , Bailly Laurent , Damiano Maria , Pichit Phintip , Dupont Sophie , Gourfinkel‐An Isabelle , Navarro Vincent
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

Around 30% of patients with epilepsy show drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE). While cannabidiol has demonstrated efficacy as an adjunctive treatment in Dravet syndrome (DS), Lennox–Gastaut Syndrome (LGS), and epilepsy related to tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), its more global effectiveness in adult patients with DRE apart from these three specific contexts needs to be clarified.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study at the epilepsy unit of Pitié Salpêtrière Hospital. Patients initiating pharmaceutical cannabidiol treatment and followed for at least 1 year were included. Patients were categorized into “authorized” (LGS, DS, or TSC) and “off‐label” groups. Cannabidiol effectiveness and tolerance were compared between groups, and characteristics of responders (patients with >50% reduction in seizure frequency) in the off‐label group were examined.

Results

Ninety‐one patients, followed by a median duration of 24 months, were included. A total of 35.2% of the patients were in the authorized group. No significant differences were observed in responder rates between groups (31.3% vs. 35.6%, p = 0.85) and retention rates at 1 year (75.0% vs. 74.6%, p = 0.97). Sleepiness was more commonly reported in the authorized group (50.0% vs. 22.0%, p = 0.01), with no other significant differences. Among off‐label patients (n = 59), clobazam co‐prescription was more prevalent in responders (71.4% vs. 28.9%, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that cannabidiol may benefit all adult patients with DRE, particularly those already receiving clobazam. Randomized controlled trials are warranted in off‐label patients to validate these observational findings.
Association Between Dietary Fiber Intake and Sleep Disorders: Based on the NHANES Database
Authors: Chen Yijun , Zhao Zengchen , Ding Weijun , Zhou Zhenting , Xiao Meihong
Published: November 2024

Objective

Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, the primary objective of this investigation was to examine the relationship between dietary fiber intake (DFI) and sleep disorders.

Methods

For analysis, data from three consecutive cycles of NHANES (2009–2014) were pooled. The independent variable of interest was DFI, while the dependent variable was sleep disorders. Weighted logistic regression was employed to model the relationship between the two variables. Subgroup analyses were conducted, stratified, and adjusted to explore the association between DFI and sleep disorders.

Results

This study encompassed a cohort of 14,360 samples. Logistic regression results revealed a significant inverse association between higher DFI and the risk of sleep disorders (OR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98–1.00, p = 0.005). Stratified analysis demonstrated significant interactive effects of gender and physical activity on the association between DFI and sleep disorders (interaction p = 0.017, p = 0.061). Quartile‐stratified analysis of DFI showed that in the crude model, Q4 exhibited a significant protective impact against sleep disorders (OR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.59–0.97, p = 0.026). In model I, which adjusted for demographic characteristics only, Q3 (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.56–0.98, p = 0.036) and Q4 (OR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.55‐0.90, p = 0.006) had significant protective effects on sleep disorders. Additionally, gender subgroup analysis revealed that DFI had a significant impact on the female population, particularly in postmenopausal women, and was more pronounced in subjects with BMI > 30 kg/m2 (p = 0.011). Within the physical activity subgroup, there was a certain effect of DFI on improving sleep disorders in individuals with low activity intensity.

Conclusion

Increasing DFI had a protective effect in reducing the risk of sleep disorders. This protective effect may be more pronounced in the female population and individuals with low physical intensity.
The influence of blockchain technology on circular economy implementation in the automotive sector: From a GMM model to a new machine learning algorithm
Authors: Lin Woon Leong , Leow Nelvin Xe Chung , Lim Wai Mun , Ho Ming Kang , Yong Jing Yi , Pek Chuen Khee
Published: November 2024

This investigation explores the integration of blockchain technology (BCT) with circular economy (CE) principles within the automotive sector, leveraging a dataset from the years 2011 to 2019. Employing advanced analytical techniques, including machine learning models and the system generalized method of moments (GMM), the study meticulously assesses BCT's impact on CE practices over the specified period. The dataset, curated from esteemed sources such as CSRHub, Thomson Reuters, and Bloomberg, enhances the reliability and validity of our analysis. Results indicate a positive influence of BCT on the adoption and effectiveness of CE practices in the automotive industry, suggesting that CE practices can bolster firm performance. Notably, the analysis reveals that support vector machines (SVM) and neural networks (NNs) exhibit superior efficacy over the random forest (RF) model in capturing the nuances of the BCT‐CE interplay. This is evidenced by their lower root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE), signifying greater predictive accuracy. The findings illuminate BCT's potential to revolutionize CE practices, optimize resource use, and foster sustainability in the automotive field.
Environmental photograph use in corporate sustainability reporting: A machine‐supported visual content analysis
Authors: Fenk Lorenz
Published: November 2024

Despite the prevalence of photographs in corporate sustainability reporting, their use is not yet sufficiently understood. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first large‐scale study in the field. Introducing a novel machine‐supported approach, we assess environmental photograph utilization based on a sample of 45,228 photographs contained in 1,463 separately disclosed sustainability reports from European firms between 2011 and 2020. We find that against the overall trend of decreasing photograph utilization, the share of environmentally themed photographs has markedly increased. Furthermore, operating in an environmentally sensitive industry is strongly associated with a substantially larger share of photographs depicting environmental subject matter. Lastly, we observe that companies signal their superior environmental performance through greater utilization of environmental photographs. By introducing a novel machine‐supported approach to analyzing photographs, this study makes a methodological contribution to the field of sustainability reporting. Our results also have important practical implications.
Cobalt Phosphide Decorating Metallic Cobalt With a Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nano‐Shell Surpasses Platinum Group Metals for Oxygen Electrocatalysis Applications
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Farid Muhammad Asim , Aliyev Elvin , Huang Zhenfeng , Zou Ji‐Jun , Du Shangfeng
Published: November 2024

It has been a long‐standing challenge to cultivate capable and resilient oxygen electrocatalysts with higher activity, low price, and long lifetime to replace the commonly used platinum group metals, i.e., Pt for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and RuO2/IrO2 for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). This work presents a promising approach to address the challenges associated with oxygen electrocatalysis by introducing a cobalt phosphide/metallic cobalt (Co2P/Co) core wrapped in a nitrogen‐doped conductive carbon (CN) nano‐shell, demonstrated as Co2P/Co@NC. The strong chemical bonding between metallic cobalt and phosphorus, nitrogen and conductive carbon contributes to the enhanced conductivity and stability of the electrocatalyst. The nitrogen doping in the carbon shell provides additional Co–N active sites, which are crucial for ORR activity. Co2P/Co@NC demonstrates promising activity and stability compared to noble metals such as Pt for ORR in an alkaline medium. This suggests its potential as a cost‐effective alternative to Pt‐based catalysts. Further, due to factors such as strong cobalt‐phosphide bonding, high cobalt oxidation states and excellent conductivity of the nitrogen‐doped carbon shell, the Co2P/Co@NC outperforms noble metal oxides like iridium dioxide (IrO2) and ruthenium dioxide (RuO2) for OER. Co2P/Co@NC exhibits a low potential difference of 0.63 V, which is among the lowest reported for bifunctional electrocatalysts capable of both ORR and OER. Overall, the described strategy offers a promising avenue for developing efficient, low‐cost and stable electrocatalysts for oxygen reactions, which are crucial for various electrochemical energy conversion and storage technologies, such as fuel cells and metal–air batteries.
Isobutyric Acid Promotes Immune Evasion in Colorectal Cancer via Increased PD‐L1 Expression
Authors: Lin Qiuhua , Wang Han , Chen Wenbo , Wei Xinjie , Chen Jinglian , Deng Ying , Wei Chunyin , Lai Hao , Mo Xianwei , Tang Weizhong , Luo Tao
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Isobutyric acid (IBA), a short‐chain fatty acid, has been unequivocally demonstrated to exert significant influence on the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Nevertheless, a comprehensive understanding of its intricate regulatory mechanisms remains elusive.

Methods

Employing advanced techniques such as western blot, RT‐qPCR, and flow cytometry, we systematically investigated the impact of IBA on the expression of PD‐L1 in CRC cells. Concurrently, employing RNA silencing technology and small‐molecule inhibitors, we delved into the molecular intricacies underlying the regulatory axis of IBA involving ROCK1/c‐Myc/PD‐L1. Furthermore, through flow cytometry analysis, we examined the alterations in the tumor immune microenvironment following anti‐PD‐L1 antibody therapy in a murine tumor model treated with IBA.

Results

Elevated levels of IBA were found to robustly activate PD‐L1 expression in CRC cells both in vitro and in vivo, concomitantly reshaping the tumor immune microenvironment. Subsequent mechanistic investigations unveiled that IBA, through its interaction and activation of ROCK1, promotes the activation of c‐Myc, thereby enhancing the transcription of PD‐L1. Silencing of ROCK1 and application of ROCK1 inhibitors effectively reversed the regulatory effects of IBA on PD‐L1. Additionally, IBA inhibited the activity of infiltrating CD8+ T cells, resulting in diminished antitumor immunity and attenuating the sensitivity to anti‐PD‐L1 therapy.

Conclusion

Our study elucidates a novel mechanism by which IBA inhibits the sensitivity of CRC to anti‐PD‐L1 antibody therapy. Emphasizing IBA and its downstream pathways as potential therapeutic targets for immune therapy resistance mechanisms, our findings provide a novel theoretical foundation for overcoming immune therapy resistance.
Barriers to discharge: A retrospective study of factors associated with stays of longer than 2 years in a French secure hospital unit
Authors: Larhant Camille , Raymond Sophie , Claude Laurie‐Anne , Lejoyeux Michel , Gasman Ivan
Published: November 2024

Background

Extended stays in specialist secure hospital units raise ethical concerns. While this topic has been investigated in various countries, there has been little research on it in France.

Aims

We aimed to study the length of stay of patients in the Henri Colin unit, a secure hospital unit in the Paris area and test relationships between length of stay and sociodemographic, clinical and legal features.

Methods

In this records‐based retrospective study, we included all 60 inpatients on a census day just prior to the pandemic. We chose a 2‐year threshold to define long stay status.

Results

Mean length of stay was just in the long‐stay range (756.7 days, SD 1071.2). Over a quarter (17, 28%) of the patients had been hospitalised for more than 2 years and 5 (8%) patients for more than 5 years. In multivariate analysis, legal status and need for seclusion during stay were significantly associated with long‐stay status. These results are consistent with international literature, especially as they show the significant interplay between legal and medical aspects in the patients' care pathway.

Conclusion

As the first such study in a specialist medium security hospital unit in France, this study adds to the international evidence on the complexities surrounding extended stays in secure units and underscores the importance of addressing both clinical and legal aspects in the treatment of patients with mental disorders in these settings.
Core‐Shell Amorphous FePO4 as Cathode Material for Lithium‐Ion and Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Tang Peng , Prochest Kachenje John , Qin Xiaoping , Li Huihui , Zeng Xiangdong , Tian Haiyang , Cao Wei , Zhou Ying , Heng Di , Yuan Shishi , Jia Xun , Zhang Xiaolong , Zhao Xiaoyu
Published: November 2024

Amorphous FePO4 (AFP) is a promising cathode material for lithium‐ion and sodium‐ion batteries (LIBs & SIBs) due to its stability, high theoretical capacity, and cost‐effective processing. However, challenges such as low electronic conductivity and volumetric changes seriously hinder its practical application. To overcome these hurdles, core‐shell structure synthesis emerges as a useful solution. In this work, we for the first time made this comprehensive review on the progresses of core‐shell amorphous FePO4 (CS‐AFP). This review summarizes 1) various synthesis methods such as template method, microemulsion method, and other methods, 2) characterization techniques, and 3) their involvement in improving electrochemical performance in LIBs and SIBs. In terms of further understanding the underlying mechanisms of advancing electrochemical performance of CS‐AFP, the future perspective on two main aspects were insighted: (i) in situ characterization and (ii) novel designs of materials and structure for CS‐AFP.