bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel 2D Nickel(II) Coordination Polymer Based on Trimesic Acid as Ligand For Coordination of Glyphosate
Authors: Gonçalves João M. R. , Wong Ademar , Santiago Pedro H. O. , Arroyos Guilherme , Piva Augusto H. , Ellena Javier A. , Demets Gregóire J. F. , Lima-Neto Benedito S. , Frem Regina C. G.
Published: August 2024

This work presents the synthesis and characterization of a new coordination polymer of the MOF type named Ni-BTC, where Trimesic Acid (H₃BTC) acts as the ligand and nickel as the metal center. The structure was initially determined by Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction (SCXRD), revealing that the MOF has a minimal formula {[Ni(HBTC)(DMF)₂]·xDMF}, exhibiting a 2D dimensionality. The Ni(II) center is hexacoordinated, expanding in the equatorial direction, while N,N'-dimethylformamide (DMF) molecules occupy the axial positions originating from the solvent used in solvothermal synthesis. Additionally, Co-BTC MOF was synthesized, showing an isostructural structure to Ni-BTC, with similar coordination modes and numbers for BTC and DMF ligands. Analysis using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (FESEM-EDS) revealed the presence of two distinct phases in Ni-BTC, highlighting the influence of the counter-ion in modulating phases during synthesis. Ni-BTC was further characterized by thermal methods such as Thermogravimetric Analysis and Differential Thermal Analysis (TGA and DTA), demonstrating moderate thermal stability. Magnetic Susceptibility measurements indicated both metal centers are in the + 2 oxidation state. Finally, the bidentate molecule glyphosate (GLY) was used to coordinate with Ni-BTC, replacing the more labile axial DMF ligands. This coordination was confirmed by Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) and Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), along with electrochemical techniques such as Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Square Wave Voltammetry (SWV). These results highlight the potential application of glyphosate-modified Ni-BTC in glyphosate detection and removal systems.
Enhancement in the Performance of Concrete using Crystalline
Authors: Firoj Mohd , Bahuguna Ashish
Published: August 2024

Concrete structures suffer deterioration due to penetration of water, aggressive chemicals or other liquids in concrete, which leads to degradation and other issues which abbreviate the life of the concrete structure. If such penetration continues, the durability of the structure is seriously affected. Ingress of water or dampness or atmospheric pollution in the RCC structures results in corrosion of steel and spalling of concrete, thus endangering the structure’s integrity and durability. In the present study, the crystalline admixture is used in concrete with the experimental investigation to avoid these problems. Concrete specimens with 0.8% by weight cement admixed concrete are investigated and compared with control concrete. Compressive strength tests, water permeability tests, rapid chloride penetration test, and durability studies of the specimen are performed. The performance of crystalline admixture in terms of durability indicates that admixed concrete is better than control concrete. Crystalline admixture is one of the best solutions to reduce the water permeability or resistance of water permeability in concrete.
Prediction of late-onset depression in the elderly Korean population using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Park Jong Wan , Ko Chang Woo , Lee Diane Youngmi , Kim Jae Chul
Published: August 2024

Late-Onset Depression (LOD) refers to depression that newly appears in elderly individuals without prior depression episodes. Predicting future depression is crucial for mitigating the risk of major depression in prospective patients. This study aims to develop machine learning models to predict future depression. Using public data from the nationwide panel survey ‘Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging,’ we employed latent growth modeling and growth mixture modeling to identify four latent classes of depression trajectories in the elderly Korean population. Based on the results of binary logistic regression, we selected 12 variables capable of distinguishing the LOD population from the reference population and tested 12 machine learning (ML) algorithms. While most ML algorithms showed acceptable predictive capability, LIGHTGBM, GBC, and RF demonstrated superior performance. Consequently, we successfully established new ML-based LOD prediction programs. These programs could be further developed into self-checking online tools, expected to serve as decision support systems for primary medical care and health screening services.
Deep Intergranular Fluoride Attack by High Temperature Corrosion on Alloy 625 by LiF in Air at 600°C
Authors: Nikbakht Aida , Bahramian Behnam , Geers Christine
Published: August 2024

In most chemical and high temperature processes metals are exposed to temperature gradients which in turn affect the extent of corrosion phenomena. In this study, a long, continuous strip of alloy 625 was exposed to lithium fluoride in a temperature range of 50–600°C, air environment. The hottest section of this strip was analyzed as a coupon and compared with two other coupons which were exposed isothermally. One of the isothermal exposures was carried out in a tube furnace and the other one was in a vertical furnace. Oxygen had three different kinds of access to these three coupons, which in turn affected the corrosion process. In order to limit the access of oxygen, a long column of lithium fluoride was used in a vertical furnace. The results of the isothermal exposure showed that more access of oxygen in a horizontal tube furnace facilitated the fluoride ingress to a great extent. However, a long sample exposed to a temperature gradient suffered more corrosion attack than the isothermal coupon, under the same LiF load in the vertical furnace. This was associated with the reduction of oxygen at a larger cathode area reaching into colder regions in Inconel 625 strip. Increased oxygen reduction also increases the efficiency of an inner anode at the hottest section, causing the observed rapid intergranular fluoride uptake. The study proposes a mechanism explaining these observations.
Simulation Study of the Risk Transmission of Energy Supply Chain in Sichuan-Chongqing Region Based on SEIRS Model
Authors: Liu Bo , Sun Xiaowen , Qin Tong
Published: August 2024

The safe and efficient operation of all network nodes in the energy supply chain is of great significance for promoting China's economic development. In order to explore the internal law of risk transmission in the energy supply chain, this paper establishes a SEIRS (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered-Susceptible) model for the risk transmission of the energy supply chain in the Sichuan-Chongqing region and analyzes the impact of its threshold on the risk transmission in the energy supply chain in the Sichuan-Chongqing region using MATLAB software. The study analyzes factors affecting risk transmission and puts forward suggestions for improving the stability and competitiveness of the energy supply chain. The results show that the model can provide some references for policymaking for the security and stability of energy supply in the Sichuan-Chongqing region.
Targeting IKK epsilon to Prevent Meniscal Degeneration in Osteoarthritis: Insights from Human Tissue and Mouse Models
Authors: Hirose Ryota , Akasaki Yukio , Kuwahara Masanari , Uchida Taisuke , Hyodo Yuki , Sakai Mamiko , Kita Takumi , Kurakazu Ichiro , Lotz Martin , Nakashima Yasuharu
Published: August 2024

Objective. Meniscal degeneration may precede or indicate early-stage osteoarthritis (OA); however, the pathogenetic involvement of the NF-κB pathway and its upstream IκB kinase (IKK) is unclear. This study investigated the functional role of IKK in the pathogenesis of meniscal degeneration, and the efficacy of IKKε inhibition as a therapeutic approach.
Methods. IKK expression in normal and OA human menisci was analyzed immunohistochemically. Gain- or loss-of-function experiments were performed in human meniscal cells. Additionally, meniscal degeneration was induced in wild-type mice and treated with intraarticular injection of the IKKε inhibitors amlexanox and BAY-985 every 5 days for 4 weeks. Meniscal degeneration was also induced in IKKε knockout mice. Mice were subsequently examined histologically.
Results. IKK protein expression was increased in human OA menisci. In vitro, the expression of meniscal degeneration–related factors was decreased after knockdown of each IKK, particularly IKKε, using small interfering RNA in human OA meniscal cells. Conversely, IKKε overexpression significantly increased the expression of these factors, and amlexanox and BAY-985 canceled this effect. Western blot analysis showed that IKKε overexpression increased IκBα and p65 phosphorylation. In vivo, both IKKε deletion and intraarticular injection of IKKε inhibitors protected mouse menisci against degeneration.
Conclusion. These results indicate that IKKs are involved in meniscal degeneration when it constitutes the preliminary or early stage of OA, with IKKε possibly playing a significant role. Furthermore, IKKε regulates meniscal degeneration through NF-κB signaling–mediated catabolism. Two IKKε inhibitors, amlexanox and BAY-985, are potential targets for the treatment of meniscal degeneration prior to OA.
Assessing Landslide Susceptibility of Türkiye at Drainage Basin Scale: A Semi-quantitative Approach
Authors: Okalp Kıvanç , Akgün Haluk
Published: August 2024

This study uses the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) integrated with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to assess landslide susceptibility in Türkiye at a drainage basin scale. Türkiye's mountainous terrain makes it highly prone to landslides, especially due to heavy rainfall from climatic changes. Addressing the need for comprehensive assessments, the study integrates multiple parameters such as slope, lithology, internal relief, land cover, and rainfall intensity using publicly accessible datasets such as digital elevation models (DEM), geological maps, and rainfall records. The first comprehensive landslide susceptibility map for Türkiye was produced, validated through histogram and ROC curve analyses, resulting in 1:500,000 scale maps for each basin. This assessment offers a detailed understanding of landslide occurrences, identifying that moderate slopes (5°-15°) and internal relief (200–250 m/km²) significantly influence landslides. A potential threshold for the Topographic Wetness Index (TWI) at 12–13 was also identified. The study highlights the importance of DEM resolution and strategic area subdivision for detailed analysis. The maps and classification methods provide a valuable framework for future research, enhancing understanding of geological hazards and aiding decision-makers in managing landslide risks. Recommendations include prioritizing open data, evaluating TWI, and refining classification methods for improved accuracy.
The Postoperative Lidocaine and Ketamine Effects on Morphine Requirement in Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Pérez Gregory Contreras , Avendaño Carolina Frederico , Cotínez Luis Ignacio , Crouseilles José Giménez , Carví Alex
Published: August 2024

Background
Effective postoperative pain management in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery is challenging due to the adverse effects associated with opioid use. Multimodal analgesic approaches during the intraoperative period have shown to effectively reduce postoperative opioid consumption This study evaluates the impact of prolonged postoperative lidocaine and ketamine infusion for 90 minutes on postoperative morphine consumption as a complementary multimodal analgesic approach.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 64 patients who underwent elective sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. Thirty-two patients who received lidocaine and ketamine infusions postoperatively (Group A) were compared with 32 patients who received standard postoperative analgesia (Group B). The primary outcome measured was total morphine consumption within the first 48 hours post-surgery. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at 1, 2, 4, 24, and 48 hours post-surgery.
Results
Mean cumulative morphine consumption at 48 hours was 0.82 ± 1.55 mg in Group A versus 2.03 ± 2.61 mg in Group B (p = 0.0696). : In total, 62.5% of patients did not require morphine during the first 48 postoperative hours. VAS scores were significantly lower in Group A at the four postoperative hour (1.03 ± 1.36) vs Group B (2.16 ± 1.65), p-value 0.0024.
Conclusion
Postoperative morphine consumption and pain scores were low with the current multimodal analgesic approach. Prolonging lidocaine and ketamine infusion for 90 minutes postoperatively is not justified based on current results.
COVID-19 symptoms and obesity in Korean airline crew
Authors: Jeong Yeo-Won , Kim Jung-Ha
Published: August 2024

Background We aimed to investigate the differences in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms according to weight among flight and cabin attendants in Korea.Methods This study was designed as a cross-sectional survey, comprising 180 airline crew members.Results Out of 180 participants, 22 participants had no symptoms at the onset. Among the 158 participants who experienced symptoms, the most common ones were fatigue (79.7%), cough (63.9%), and myalgia (63.3%). Participants who did not currently smoke and drank less than once a month reported more symptoms of COVID-19. The number of COVID-19 symptoms was significantly higher in participants with normal weight compared to those who were overweight/obese (p = .004). The time taken to return to flight duties after completing COVID-19 treatment was significantly longer for participants with normal weight compared to those who were overweight/obese (p = .041).Conclusion Airlines should make efforts to manage fatigue in airline crew members infected with COVID-19. Additionally, smoking and weight have an impact on the severity of COVID-19 in young people; therefore, continuous management is necessary, even if the number of reported symptoms is small.
CSearch: Chemical Space Search via Virtual Synthesis and Global Optimization Short title: Chemical Space Search via Virtual Synthesis and Global Optimization
Authors: Kim Hakjean , Ryu Seongok , Yang Jinsol , Seok Chaok
Published: August 2024

The two key components of computational molecular design are virtually generating molecules and predicting the properties of these generated molecules. This study focuses on an effective method for molecular generation through virtual synthesis and global optimization of a given objective function. Using a pre-trained graph neural network (GNN) objective function to approximate the docking energies of compounds for four target receptors, we generated highly optimized compounds with 300–400 times less computational effort compared to virtual compound library screening. These optimized compounds exhibit similar synthesizability and diversity to known binders with high potency and are notably novel compared to library chemicals or known ligands. This method, called CSearch, can be effectively utilized to generate chemicals optimized for a given objective function. With the GNN function approximating docking energies, CSearch generated molecules with predicted binding poses to the target receptors similar to known inhibitors, demonstrating its effectiveness in producing drug-like binders. Scientific Contribution We have developed a method for effectively exploring the chemical space of drug-like molecules using a global optimization algorithm with fragment-based virtual synthesis. The compounds generated using this method optimize the given objective function efficiently and are synthesizable like commercial library compounds. Furthermore, they are diverse, novel drug-like molecules with properties similar to known inhibitors for target receptors.
Evapolectrics: Direct Harvesting of Electricity from Evaporation
Authors: Cao Jing , Dong Jinfeng , Wu Jing , Suwardi Ady
Published: August 2024

Evaporation is a key to global water and energy cycle. It drives climate dynamics, and regulates human body temperature. It has a perennial nature rarely observed in other energy sources, including sunlight. Despite this, evaporation has hardly ever been exploited for energy harvesting.1 The few limited efforts to-date mainly focused on indirect approaches, via mechanical or biochemical means, yielding only minuscule amount of power.2-4 Herein, we demonstrate scalable and continuous direct-harvesting of electricity from evaporation (evapolectrics), which leverages on wet-bulb depression to maintain robust temperature gradient (ΔT) across thermoelectric generators. The power density of 4.2 W/m2 from evapolectrics is comparable to those of indoor photovoltaics, triboelectrics, and radiative cooling power harvesting.5 Our demonstration suggests a compelling development of ambient-energy harvesting technologies in powering small electronics.
The Use of Technology for the Phased Formation of Methodological Skills of a Physics Teacher in the Context of Professional Retraining
Authors: Vaganova Valentina I. ,   East Siberian State University of Technology and Management, Vaganova Vladislava G. ,   East Siberian State University of Technology and Management
Published: August 2024

The problem of shortage of teaching staff in our country is solved by retraining already working teachers. The features of this process in the case of training teachers of physics are considered in the proposed article. Due to the fact that already working teachers have a whole set of general pedagogical competencies, the main efforts should be directed to the formation of specific methodological skills and methods of activity in physics. The methodological skills of a physics teacher are divided into six groups: gnostic, projective-constructive, organizational, research, reflective, experimental. In order to develop methodological skills, the theory of the gradual formation of mental actions and operations is used, which is used in teaching children and finds its application in teaching adults. The study developed a sequence of teacher actions for the formation of methodological skills in physics teachers, which includes: motivation for actions, actualization of students’ professional interests, goal setting, instruction, showing a sample of action, creating an indicative basis for action (designing technological maps, generalized plans, structural and logical schemes, stages of the experiment, etc.), independent implementation of a methodological action based on the developed OOD, micro-teaching in a simulated situation, simulation modeling, analysis and introspection of simulated learning. As a algorithmic model of gradual formation methodically skills we are used modeling method. In the process of training students, an analysis was made of the formation of methodological skills. The technique of self-assessment of difficulties in mastering professional activity was used. The level of formation of the main methodological skills was analyzed: organizational, constructive, design and experimental. An analysis of the degree of development of design skills showed that students, as teachers of other subjects, are well able to design technological maps of lessons, draw up programs for academic disciplines, etc. The level of development of experimental skills is also quite high, since a lot of attention was paid to physical experiment during training. Design and constructive skills are rated by future teachers mainly at 4 points. The results of the study have shown that the phased nature of the formation of methodological skills contributes to a higher level of their development among future physics teachers.
The Model of the Discipline “Life Safety” and its Implementation in Pedagogical Education Taking into Account Interdisciplinary Integration
Authors: Zoltuev Aleksey V. ,   Transbaikal State University, Romanova Lyudmila S. ,   Transbaikal State University
Published: August 2024

The academic discipline “Life safety”, which is mandatory in the system of training future teachers, has features of interdisciplinarity and has a pronounced integrated character with a practical orientation. The use of interdisciplinary connections in the classroom and in independent work on life safety develops scientific thinking among students – future teachers, contributes to the formation of ideas about the relationship of phenomena and events. The article is devoted to the development of a model of the discipline “Life safety” and its implementation in the preparation of bachelors of pedagogical education, taking into account interdisciplinary integration. The main research methods are analysis, synthesis, modeling. On the basis of the analysis of scientific and pedagogical literature, the grounds for the selection of the content of the discipline “BZhD” are identified, presented as the relationship of fundamental and professionally oriented knowledge in different profiles of pedagogical education. The model of the BZhD discipline reflecting the specifics of interdisciplinary training is presented and substantiated. The fundamental component of the BZhD is considered both from the point of view of approaches to the content of education, and the theoretical model of safety as a socio-legal mechanism regulating activities that are constantly associated with risk and are under the influence of various kinds of dangerous sources. The professionally oriented component of the BZhD discipline is justified by the allocation of general knowledge and skills in specialized educational fields and life safety in three areas of pedagogical education: “Life safety and geography”, “Computer Science and Physics”, “Biology and Chemistry”, implemented at the Transbaikal State University. The implementation of the developed discipline model is shown by the example of practical tasks of an interdisciplinary nature, which reflect the connection of specialized knowledge and life safety. The authors come to the conclusion that interdisciplinary integration is a process of combining the content of educational subject-profile disciplines and the course of the BZhD in order to effectively achieve educational and professionally significant tasks.
Kontekstualisasi Makna Bid'ah Dalam Hadis Perspektif Asy-Syatibhi Dan Hasyim Asyari: Analisis Kitab Al-I'tisham Dan Risalah Ahlusunnah Wal Jam'ah
Authors: Hasym Jumiati Binti , Noorhidayati Salamah , Ridho Muhamad , Hidayat Nurul , Abdul Rahim Mohd Hisyam Bin
Published: August 2024

Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan pemahaman Asy-Syatibhi dan Hasyim Asyari tentang makna bid'ah dalam hadis, menganalisis konteks pemahaman dan kontekstualisasinya serta pemberdayaan pemahaman Asy-Syatibhi dan Hasyim Asyari tentang bid'ah dalam konteks kekinian. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif metode deskriptif yang bersifat kepustakaan (Library Research) dengan menggunakan dua sumber data yaitu sumber data primer dan sekunder. Sumber data primer berupa kitab Al-I'tisham dan kitab Risalah Ahlusunnah Wal Jam'ah, sedangkan sumber data sekunder berupa buku, jurnal, karya ilmiah lain dari penelitian terdahulu atau literatur lain yang berkaitan dengan pokok penelitian serta aplikas hadis lembut. Dalam melakukan proses analisis data, penulis menggunakan teori kontekstualis (pendekatan kontekstualis) yang ditawarkan oleh Abdullah Saeed. Penelitian ini menemukan bahwa Asy-Syatibhi dan Hasyim Asyari memiliki perbedaan pemahaman dalam memahami makna bid'ah yang ditulis dalam kitab Al-I'tisham dan Risalah Ahlusunnah Wal Jam'ah Perbedaan Asy-Syatibhi dan Hasyim Asyari diawali dari lafad hadis “kullu bid' atin dhalalah”dan lafad “man ahdatsa fii amrina”.. Asy-Syatibhi dalam memaham bid'ah secara literal terhadap hadis bid'ah dengan fokus hanya kepada lafaz serta tafsiran asal dan keumuman teks. Sedangkan Hasyim Asyari memahami bid'ah dengan tidak melihat keumuman teks tetapi, mentakhsis dengan teks yang lain untuk menemukan makna yang lebih luas.
Implementasi Metode Penilaian Bangunan Hijau Berbasis Aplikasi EDGE pada Pembelajaran Arsitektur
Authors: Octarino Christian Nindyaputra , Dewangga Yordan Kristanto
Published: August 2024

Title: Implementation of Green Building Assessment Method based on EDGE Application in Architecture Study
The climate change phenomenon in the modern era is one of the leading causes of environmental quality degradation. The building and construction sector is the largest contributor to carbon emissions, reaching 40% compared to other sectors. The sustainability of life will continue to be threatened by developments that are not ecologically friendly. Thus, humans must exercise greater responsibility in all of their development decisions. It is essential to inculcate early knowledge of sustainability and green building concepts, especially in architectural education. The EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) application is considered capable of being a tool in the design process that can practically calculate the impact of each design element on building efficiency. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of a green building assessment method based on the EDGE application in the learning process of architecture students. The output of the study was the skill to design a building with a green building approach using EDGE as a tool to quantify the building's performance. Based on the output and survey of participating students, they all stated that using EDGE was very useful in the architectural design process. More than 80% also mentioned that the workshop method used in the class was effective. Through this learning process, the fundamental principles of green building design are accessible to students and can be included in architectural plans.
Outcome of Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Unit in a Quaternary Care Hospital
Authors: Sharieff Saleem , Sajjal Ayesha , Idrees Asim , Rafai Wajid Ali
Published: August 2024

Background: Quality Improvement (QI) in intensive care unit (ICU) is directly dependent upon the outcome of patients treated in ICU. Poor quality of care not only increases morbidity and mortality but also increase expenses.
Objective:: To conduct an audit on patients admitted to our ICU to determine their outcomes in terms of mortality and length of stay.
Methods: In this retrospective study, 330 patients who had been admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU) between December 1, 2022, and April 30, 2023, were reviewed. Patient’s demographic data was collected, and correlation was done between the length of stay in ICU, APACHE II score and mortality using t-test.
Results: Out of 330, there were 209 males (63.3%) and 121 (36.7%) females, with mean age of 41.9 + 15.3 years. There were 63 medical patients (19.1%) and 267 (80.9%) surgical patients, mainly liver and kidney transplant patients. Mean duration of ICU stay for survivors was 3.1 + 3.3 days vs 6.9 + 7.7 days for non-survivors (p-value 0.003) and overall mortality rate was 12.7%, mostly with end-stage liver or kidney diseases. In medical patients, the APACHE II score for survivors was 17.9 + 7.8 versus 24.5 + 9.6 in non-survivors (p-value 0.007), and for deceased medical patients it was 24.4 + 9.6 on admission and 31.8 + 8.9 after 48 hours of admission (p-value 0.001). While APACHE II score among deceased surgical patients was 19.5 + 3.7 on admission and 25.7 + 5.8 after 48 hours of admission (p-value 0.015). Most common cause of death was sepsis and multi-organ failure.
Conclusion: This audit presents the profile of patients admitted in ICU of a quaternary level hospital of Pakistan, mainly catering advanced liver and kidney diseases including transplant. The commonest cause of death was septic shock and multi-organ failure. Higher APACHE II scores and longer ICU stay are the predictors of mortality among our patients.
An evaluation of a new rapid qPCR test for the detection of 2019-novel coronavirus nucleocapsid (N1) gene in wastewater in Roanoke and Salem VA sewersheds
Authors: Lehrer Lia Willow , Lewis Anna Marie , Tolliver Susan , Degen Marcia , Singh Rekha , Houser Sara , Rao Jayasimha
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic initiated public interest in wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). Public and private entities responded to the need to produce timely and accurate data. LuminUltra and Hach partnered to provide a rapid, field-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) test for detecting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in wastewater. This study evaluates the Hach GeneCount SARS-CoV-2 Wastewater RT-qPCR Assay Kit and LuminUltra GeneCount® Q-16 RT-PCR instrument. The Hach LuminUltra methods were compared to the Promega Wizard® Enviro Total Nucleic Acid kit and Bio-Rad CFX Opus 96 Real-time PCR Detection System. Over a 12-week period, wastewater samples were collected weekly from seven locations in the Roanoke/Salem, VA sewersheds. Concentration and extraction of the viral RNA were followed by qPCR analysis. The target gene for detection was the nucleocapsid gene (N1) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Costs, ease of use, time to produce results, sample preparation, and data comparisons were considered. The comparison determined that the Hach LuminUltra method and instrument were more affordable, consumed less time, and required less technical expertise. While the new method was specific, it had low sensitivity. This evaluation suggests the Hach LuminUltra method should be reserved for limited situations requiring onsite field analysis where data accuracy is not essential.
Blood Pressure Control Among Diabetic Patients in the Eastern
Mediterranean Region: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Behnoush Amir Hossein , Khosravi Sepehr , Ziamanesh Fatemeh , Atlasi Rasha , Sheidaei Ali , Sanadgol Negin , Khalaji Amirmohammad , Tabatabaei-Malazy Ozra , Ostovar Afshin
Published: August 2024

Background:

The control of blood pressure (BP) is a challenge in diabetic patients
and is associated with adverse outcomes of diabetes. In this systematic review and metaanalysis,
we investigated the BP control rate among hypertensive diabetic patients in the Eastern
Mediterranean Region (EMR) countries.

Methods:

We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science
databases up to January 2023 for observational studies on BP control among hypertensive
diabetic patients in all EMR countries. We included studies reporting the proportion of hypertensive,
type 2 diabetic patients with controlled BP, defined as systolic/diastolic BP < 140/90 or
<130/80 mmHg. Study quality was assessed using modified STROBE guidelines, and a random-
effect meta-analysis was conducted to pool prevalence data and calculate overall rates.
Subgroup analysis was performed by gender, study design, country, and BP control cut-offs
(140/90 and 130/80).

Results:

Among the 1949 retrieved studies, 20 studies assessing 27956 individuals were included.
The proportion of BP control regardless of cut-off points was 36.8% (95% CI=29.1%-
45.3%) for both genders combined, with a breakdown of 53.2% (95% CI=36.1%-69.6%) for
women and 43.5% (95% CI=20.0%-70.3%) for men, respectively. Based on cut-offs of 130/80
and 140/90 mmHg as the target, BP control was estimated by 38.2% (95%CI 24.5, 54.1) and
36.5% (95%CI 27.1, 47.0), respectively.

Conclusion:

Our findings indicate that BP control targets are not successfully achieved in hypertensive
diabetic patients in the Eastern Mediterranean region. It is recommended to place
greater emphasis on the quality of hypertension care in the management of type 2 diabetes.
A Parallel Implementation for Large-Scale TSR-based 3D Structural
Comparisons of Protein and Amino Acid
Authors: Chen Feng , Milon Tarikul I. , Khajouie Poorya , Myers Antoinette , Xu Wu
Published: August 2024

Background:

Proteins play a vital role in sustaining life, requiring the formation of specific
3D structures to manifest their essential biological functions. Structure comparison techniques
are benefiting from the ever-expanding repositories of the Protein Data Bank. The development of
computational tools for protein and amino acid 3D structural comparisons plays an important role in
understanding protein functions. The Triangular Spatial Relationship (TSR)-based was developed
for such purpose.

Methods:

A parallelization strategy and actual implementation on high-performance clusters using
the distributed and shared memory programming model, along with the utilization of multi-core
CPU and many-core GPU accelerators, were developed. 3D structures of proteins and amino acids
are represented by an integer vector in the TSR-based method. This parallelization strategy is designed
for the TSR-based method for large-scale 3D structural comparisons of proteins and amino
acids in this study. It can also be adapted to other applications where a vector type of data structure
is used.

Results:

Due to the nature of the vector representation of protein and amino acid structures using the
TSR-based method, the comparison algorithm is well-suited for parallelization on large scale supercomputers.
Performance studies on the representative datasets were conducted to demonstrate the
efficiency of the parallelization strategy. It allows comparisons of large 3D protein or amino acid
structure datasets to finish within a reasonable amount of time.

Conclusion:

The case studies, by taking advantage of this parallelization code, demonstrate that applying
either mirror image or feature selection in the TSR-based algorithms improves the classifications
of protein and amino acid 3D structures. The TSR keys have the advantage of performing
structure-based BLAST searches. The parallelization code could be used as a reference for similar
future studies.
Tannic acid and Gallic Acid as Alternative Compounds for the Application as Preservatives in Cosmetic Products
Authors: Michalska-Sionkowska Marta , Zasada Lidia , Kaczmarek-Szczepańska Beata
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Tannic acid and gallic acid have been known as natural compounds
with antibacterial activity. In this work, the antimicrobial efficiency of tannic acid
(TA) and gallic acid (GA), as well as their mixtures, was tested.

Method:

During the research, the minimal inhibitory concentration, minimal bactericidal
concentration, and fractional inhibitory concentration were defined. Based on them, for further
study, mixtures of TA/GA in ratios 50:50 and 80:20 were chosen as a preservation
mixture applied to the cosmetic emulsion.

Results:

The obtained cosmetics emulsions were analyzed for the total mesophilic aerobic
bacteria count and the total combined yeast count. The preservation efficiency test was
performed according to the ISO 11930 standard. A stability test for cosmetics formulation
was also carried out.

Conclusion:

The preservation mixture of TA/GA in an 80:20 ratio incorporated in the cosmetics
formulation showed good preservation efficiency and could be considered a natural
origin preservative.
The Procedural Law of State Administrative Courts As The Rule of Adjudication: Exploring Hart’s Theory
Authors: Efendi Aan , Sudarsono Sudarsono
Published: August 2024

In Hart’s theory, law is a combination of two types of rules: primary and secondary. Primary rules regulate the behavior of individuals or institutions, while secondary rules relate to primary rules, including the rule of recognition to identify the primary rules, the rule of change to modify primary rules, and the rule of adjudication to address violations of primary rules. The law of administrative procedure is an adjudication regulation that resolves violations of primary rules governing the behavior of government organs in administering government. Using a doctrinal legal method, this study explores two problems: the rule of adjudication in Hart’s theory and the procedural law of administrative courts understood as the rule of adjudication according to Hart’s theory. The study results reveal that, first, in Hart’s theory, the rule of adjudication does not stand alone but is, instead, attached to the primary rules, which function to identify violations, adjudicate, and provide punishment or compensation for violations of the primary rules; second, based on Hart’s theory, the procedural law of administrative courts serves as a rule of adjudication for the adjudication process dealing with violations of primary regulations regarding the obligations of government organs in administering government which must be guided by legislation and the general principles of good governance.
The Sale of Prescription Medicines Through E-Commerce Platform Without Prescription: Between Urgency And Compliance
Authors: Shalmont Jerry , Darmawan Grace Iskandar , Dominica Dora
Published: August 2024

The sale of prescription medicines through e-commerce platforms is allowed by attaching the original medical prescription (electronic or handwritten prescriptions) and uploading it to the platforms. However, some parties sold it without the prescription, and some consumers still purchased those medicines. This research is focused on the cause of high demand in terms of the sale and purchase of prescription medicines without medical prescriptions on e-commerce platforms, as well as relevant solutions. This research is normative – empirical legal research, using regulatory and conceptual approaches. Based on the questionnaire and interview results, the consumers purchased those medicines through e-commerce platforms without prescription due to urgent needs. The analysis shows that a lack of consumer awareness of their rights is the main culprit of this phenomenon. In short, consumer awareness needs to be improved regarding compliance with the relevant laws and regulations for safety reasons.
Legal Certainty of Land Rights Affected By Natural Disasters
Authors: Rachman Rahmia , Ardiansyah Erlan
Published: August 2024

This research investigates the revitalisation of land rights after natural disasters. Using empirical juridical methods, the study concludes that the revitalisation of land rights in Central Sulawesi, carried out by the provincial government in collaboration with the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency (Ministry of ATR/BPN) and led by the Head of BPN Central Sulawesi, involves the procurement of land through the use of abandoned land to relocate communities affected by disasters for the public interest. This land procurement is aimed at constructing permanent housing for disaster victims. Although BPN Palu City still recognises the land rights of areas affected by the disaster, these lands can no longer be used as they are located in disaster-prone zones (DPZ). Recipients of permanent housing will receive new certificates for plots of land that have been adjusted to the latest spatial design.
PERMODELAN SPASIAL WATER POVERTY INDEX DENGAN INFRASTRUKTUR DAN KONDISI SOSIAL KECAMATAN DONOMULYO
Authors: Ryan Alfi Marcellino  , Ismu Rini Dwi Ari  , Septiana Hariyani
Published: August 2024

Donomulyo sub-district is one of the priority region to water scarce and clean water infrastructural priority programme, this area only has 23% coverage of piped clean water management. Reinforced by the  water poverty index (WPI) which classified Donomulyo as unsafe to critical level for clean water availability. Water poverty value also influenced by other variabels such as social matter, according to social network analysis (SNA) showed area with lower value of WPI also has a lower value of SNA. Hence, this paper will explain the correlation between the water poverty index (Y) to social (X1) and infrastructure (X2) using spatial regression. Spatial regression used in this case to prove the correlation between dependent variable (WPI) and independent variables (infrastructure and social) with spatial aspect, thus obtained a close or significant correlation (α<0,05) among WPI value along with the well user ratio and households with septic tank in accordance with SNI ratio value. Depending on this model people of Donomulyo district should lessen the number of well user and improve the ratio of households with septic tank in accordance with SNI in order to improve WPI status.
A Synthesis of AI in Higher Education: Shaping the Future
Authors: Jacques Paul H. , Moss Hollye K. , Garger John
Published: August 2024

We examine the implications and transformative role generative artificial intelligence (AI) plays in higher education, from its roots to current applications in teaching, research, and administration, discussing trends that are redefining higher education and its outcomes. AI is not simply a technological advancement; it represents a paradigm shift that is revolutionizing how knowledge is imparted, received, and managed. A forward-looking perspective allows exploration of emerging trends and technologies that will define the next era of AI integration. Roles and interactions in the educational ecosystem will be reshaped, and by anticipating and planning for future advancements, we can harness AI’s capabilities to drive innovation, enhance learning, and address societal challenges. As generative AI is increasingly integrated into education, complex ethical considerations arise, including data privacy, security, algorithmic bias, and responsible use of AI, all of which must be addressed. Universities foster informed dialogues and development of robust policies that govern use of generative AI in higher education. Future research must, therefore, ensure that we understand what practices are effective and how to use them effectively.
Simulation model of prestacking at the seaport container terminal
Authors: Malikova T. E. , Petrova E. E.
Published: August 2024

Automation and digitalization of both the entire process and components of technological operations of the terminal are one of the conditions for the balanced development of the port infrastructure of the Russian Federation. Container transshipment in the warehouse area is the most labor-intensive and frequently performed auxiliary operation of the technological process of any container terminal. That is why development of advanced driver assistance systems for mobile reloading equipment based on a digital twin of this operation is in high demand from the point of view of the terminal digitalization. The object of the study is the technological process of containers transshipment in the operating areas of the terminal with formation of auxiliary stacks to speed up the transfer of goods by the different transport means, as well as carrying out other auxiliary operations. The reloader performs the operation of partially dismantling the operational stack with removal from it of a certain number of target containers that make up the logistics flow of cargo moved to the auxiliary stack with the subsequent return of the blocking containers back to their previous stacks of the operational stack. The research method is the modeling of scenarios depending on the sequence of possible states of the simulated technological process. The used mathematical apparatus is automatic programming. The modeling tools are deterministic finite state machine. The main goal of developing the model is to convert the loader control function when performing a selective search operation for containers in an operational stack into a digital code, i. e. mapping the sequence of its possible states into a sequence of characters in the control line of the machine. The result of the study is a digital simulation model of the operation of selective removal of containers from the operational stack with implementation of the work scheme based on the principle of complete disassembly of blocking stacks and removal of containers only from the nearest row, as well as proof of the adequacy of the transition diagram of the finite state machine to the functioning mechanism of the simulated operation. The virtual environment of the automated control system for a mobile loader operating in the rear zone is the place where the digital model of selective removal of containers is used in the architecture of the digital twin of the container terminal. The main advantage of using this version of the finite state machine as an element of the automated control system is that there is no need to urgently interrupt the technological process to adjust operation of the loader at work positions.
Optimization of oil tankers handling at export oil terminals
Authors: Galin A. V. , Khvatov G. M.
Published: August 2024

The problem of optimizing the process of loading a tanker with oil products is examined in the paper. A common oil terminal layout is briefly described. The handling time for all scheduled vessels (minimization of this indicator is required) and the total time of vessels in queue (minimization is also required) are selected as optimality criteria. It is noted that this problem is interconnected with the problem of berth allocation, known in the international scientific literature as the berth allocation problem (BAP). The current state of the BAP is considered, and the development of this problem is analyzed. It is noted that research on this topic mainly focuses on container terminals and, to a lesser extent, on terminals specialized for bulk cargo. The number of BAP studies for oil terminals is not large. The task of developing a spreadsheet-based mathematical model, which would make it possible to compare berth allocation options at an oil terminal and select the optimal one, is set in the paper. The main variables of the model, their relationships, accepted assumptions and scenarios are described. Simulation results are presented and they clearly demonstrate the difference between the conditional option of the complete absence of dispatching at the terminal and the option of rational dispatching, i. e. rational distribution of vessels among berths. It is noted that even with an insignificant difference in the moment of completing the handling of all scheduled vessels, there is a significant difference between the total duration of vessel downtime. Conclusions and main possible directions for further research on this topic are formulated.
Research of models and methods for practical implementation of unmanned transport systems for marine passenger terminals
Authors: Kostin A. S. , Maiorov N. N. , Kuchko D. V.
Published: August 2024

Two scenarios for the use of unmanned systems for marine passenger terminals that are identification of passengers at the terminal and tracking of moving objects are considered. The experimental study and the developed automation routines for identifying passengers were carried out on the basis of the laboratory of unmanned aircraft systems of Saint-Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation. For passenger terminal models, flight tasks of unmanned systems are simulated in the specialized Gazebo environment. Based on a series of experiments, it is found that the chosen method of histogram of oriented gradients provides a high level of accuracy and reliability. It is noted that the Matthews correlation coefficient, which reaches 95.09%, indicates a high degree of consistency and quality of binary classification of machine learning methods. During testing, the oriented gradient histogram method has showed that those with lower results in accuracy have received high results in sensitivity (reminder), which is 97.53%. This indicates that the use of this method can effectively minimize the number of false negative results, which is especially important in tasks where missing and losing an object during its identification can have serious consequences. As a result of the research carried out, the effectiveness of using the presented method is proven. The effectiveness of the developed new subprograms for passengers and other specified objects automatic identification, as well as the identification and tracking of objects for the first time when they are considered in the systems of marine passenger terminals, is also proven. It facilitates management and contributes to increased safety levels and monitoring effectiveness.