bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Providing support to young people through groupwork
Authors: Westergaard Jane
Published: February 2024

A key outcome of support work with young people, it is hoped, is increased self awareness and autonomy on the part of the recipient. Engagement in one-toone interventions with youth support workers can enable this process to take place. However, a valuable alternative approach to the work exists, which focuses on helping young people to enhance their personal learning and development (PLD) in a group interaction.This chapter will explore how youth support professionals can facilitate PLD effectively in a group context. It focuses on the following:• Identifying what ‘personal learning and development’ means• Examining how groupwork can enable young people to learn about themselves, develop greater self awareness and make decisions about their lives• Evaluating ways in which being part of a group can lead to positive outcomes for individuals• Analysing the role of the youth support worker in facilitating PLD in the group contextIn addition, the chapter offers a model to inform the planning, preparation and delivery of PLD groupwork with young people.
A retrospective records audit of bereaved carers’ groups
Authors: Finley Rob , Payne Malcolm
Published: February 2024

Research on the effectiveness of groupwork for bereaved people in reducing symptoms of grief, is mixed, but many bereavement services in the UK offer support groups as part of their service. Information about the running and content of groups is mainly based on practitioners’ accounts of their experiences. An evaluation of groups organised in a large hospice and associated carers' groups for 70 bereaved carers was undertaken by an independent retrospective review. This covered 65 records of group meetings and 22 evaluation forms completed by group members at reunions. The outcomes of this study contribute further qualitative information about the themes discussed by group members and arrangements for running such groups. Groupwork focused on the death as a shared difficult experience in their lives. 34 discussion themes in the groups were identified from the records, the most frequently discussed themes were family life, stories of the dying process and loss and loneliness. Facilitators’ assessments of the dominant mood in groups were analysed. Sadness was predominant. The group function in most groups was supportive. Members’ evaluations were mostly favourable. They valued meeting others and experiencing shared feelings.
Community engagement using World Café
Authors: Sheridan Kevin , Adams-Eaton Faye , Trimble Allison , Renton Adrian , Bertotti Marcello
Published: February 2024

The Well London programme was launched across twenty boroughs in London during late 2007 to improve the health and well-being of residents living in some of the most deprived communities in London. Well London employed a multistage community engagement process which informed the overall project strategy for each intervention area. In this article we establish and describe the key principles that guided the design of this innovative community engagement process. Principles included building collaborative partnerships, working with whole-systems, privileging community knowledge and working with the deficit of experience in each area. The article then describes in detail how these principles were operationalised throughout the preparation and delivery of forty World Cafes, which were the first open community activities of the Well London community engagement process. Finally, this article reflects on and summarises the lessons learned when employing innovative, inclusive and transparent community engagement for health promotion.
The Recovery Model or the modelling of a cover-up?
Authors: Scanlon Christopher , Adlam John
Published: February 2024

In this article we present a psycho-social, ‘group-ish’ (Bion, 1961) and philosophically Cynical commentary upon contemporary notions of recovery, well-being and positive psychology. These are, at times, being cynically deployed to address profoundly damaging processes of social traumatisation that give rise to certain forms of mental disease, which we describe as ‘being unwell-ness’, and related psycho-social disease which is being linked to low productivity, under- or unemployment and low social status, and that we describe as worklessness and worth-lessness. We state at the outset of the paper that much excellent work is done by statutory, non-statutory and service user led groups and organisations to engage with these problems. However, in our commentary we will suggest how the language and currency of these initiatives are in danger of being hi-jacked and side-tracked by the vested interests of explicit and tacit political and professional agendas of the in group at the expense of those whom we seek to help.
Engagement of men in group treatment programs
Authors: Roy Valérie , Gourde Marie-Andrée , Couto Éric
Published: February 2024

The goal of this paper is to arrive at a better understanding of the process of men’s engagement in treatment groups. Given the low perseverance rate of men in such groups, engagement is crucial to program continuance and results. A number of treatment factors and strategies that can influence engagement in group therapy programs are drawn from a review of the literature. To gain a better understanding of the factors and how they interrelate, the literature was reviewed from the perspective of Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) ecological model. The studies reviewed show that engagement is influenced by various factors associated with the characteristics of the participants, their family environment, treatment program, and cultural and social values. Current knowledge is discussed to highlight the main research and practice issues concerning men’s engagement in treatment groups. The review underscores the importance of exploring the influence of male socialization on men’s engagement, given that some traditional norms may curb their involvement and willingness to invest in group programs.
Groupwork
Authors: Wadesango Newman
Published: February 2024

This study sought to investigate the type and effects of leadership styles used by school heads in selected schools. The study adopted a qualitative/interpretive research methodology and used the case study research design as the operational framework for data gathering. Data was collected through interviews, documentary analysis and observation of two staff meetings per school from five secondary schools in Zimbabwe. The population sample comprised five secondary school heads and 20 secondary school teachers. The study established that imposed decisions face various problems during implementation. Teachers may reject the ideas for the simple reason that they were never part of its development. The study therefore recommends groupwork in decision- making if schools are to be effective.
The Men’s Group
Authors: Peet Steven
Published: February 2024

Groupwork is a process of enquiry, discovery and action in which all participants are prepared to engage. It is a shared endeavour towards resolving problems or circumstances felt by participants to be both real and urgent. (Preston-Shoot, 2007, p.27). This is a reflective piece about my first fieldwork placement experience of establishing and running a therapeutic group. The work was based in a day-centre for clients with mainly mental health issues. The piece opens with an analysis of the theories used and effectively examines the first six weeks of a ‘Men’s Group’. The aim has been to include an honest reflection about what worked and what didn’t. As a first piece of groupwork, the Author feels it was an extremely valuable experience and one which he intends to build on in the future.
A sporting chance
Authors: Brown Sherrod , Garvey Timothy , Harden Troy
Published: February 2024

This paper assesses the relevance of social work group methods with athletics and sports programming in urban settings. Exploring the connection between sports teams, sports-related interventions, and groupwork, the authors offer a conceptualization for approaching group interventions utilizing sports, as well as sports teams incorporating social work group principles. Social workers are well-suited to support these types of endeavors, as social work as a profession seeks to work with underserved populations, provide an ethical barometer to professional approaches to well-being, and have multiple methods of addressing social and emotional concerns.
A preliminary review of an outpatient dual diagnosis recovery group programme
Authors: Chilton John , Parrish Margarete , Crone Diane
Published: February 2024

The complexities of providing services suited to meet the needs of people with dual diagnoses are familiar to most professionals across mental health, substance usage and medical settings. This article discusses an ongoing recovery group therapy programme designed to address the psycho-educational and therapeutic needs associated with dual diagnoses among a diverse and complex outpatient population. As a means of addressing the multifaceted needs that characterise dual diagnoses, outpatient groups have been provided over the course of 18 months. This article presents some initial considerations resulting from observations of the therapeutic benefits of the groupwork for this challenging and often-overlooked population. Benefits of groupwork among this population and implications for good practice are discussed.
The ‘Rainbow Nation’ way of teaching sensitivity to diversity for social work with groups
Authors: Prinsloo Reineth
Published: February 2024

Because social work clients are often members of oppressed, vulnerable and disempowered groups, teaching sensitivity to diversity and empowering social work students to be culturally competent is of the utmost importance. South Africa’s history of apartheid has had detrimental effects on personal, social, economic, and political development. A department of social work at a university in South Africa introduced specific study units within its Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programme to address the influence of this particularly vicious form of discrimination. The units help students to confront their own prejudices, enhance their self-awareness, and obtain knowledge of and exposure to diverse client populations. This paper discusses the need for coursework in this area, and describes the process of teaching these study units.
Mutual inspiration
Authors: McLaughlin Donna M. , Grantz Será Godfrey
Published: February 2024

Mentoring relationships provide mutual inspiration that enlivens the practice of social work for students as well as mentors. This paper demonstrates the significance of mentoring relationships for student group workers and teachers. Personal narratives of both students and teachers illuminate the need for groupwork mentors in social work education. Identifying as a groupwork mentor aids in the professional’s ongoing reflection of their own practice, refreshing the mentor’s commitment to the advancement of the field and enhancing his/her satisfaction with the work. Schools of Social Work must formalize this relationship by integrating mentoring into the curriculum.
Exploring exclusion
Authors: Sulman Joanne , Kanee Marylin , Day Camala , Stewart Paulette , Savage Diane
Published: February 2024

Listening to the voices of exclusion can heighten our awareness of the crucial nature of equity in any organization. This paper describes qualitative focus group research that utilized social group work skills and techniques to deepen the understanding of diversity and human rights in a hospital workplace, and helped lead to change in its culture. Groupwork skills and activities that encouraged participants to share their authentic stories will be illustrated. In addition, the paper will outline the background to the research, summarize the outcomes, and document the process in which the group research itself became a social action intervention in the organization.
Reviews
Authors: Weich Hellmuth , Kelly Brian L
Published: February 2024

Book reviews
Trajetórias do marxismo europeu
Authors: Silva Leonardo da
Published: February 2024

A obra de que trata esta resenha, de autoria de Ricardo Musse, é uma apresentação didática, clara e densa do percurso do marxismo na Europa. Ao invés de uma exposição da relação dos movimentos sociais com o marxismo, a obra expõe o que seriam os fundamentos das principais correntes teóricas da tradição intelectual marxista, sem perder de vista que mudanças históricas pedem mudanças teóricas, atualizações na teoria. O autor é livre-docente em sociologia da USP, universidade na qual obteve seu título de doutor em filosofia.
Case Report: Meningitis in Postpartum
Authors: Pratama Medio Yoga
Published: February 2024

Highlight:

Meningitis is an infectious disease of the brain membranes and spinal cord.
Bacterial meningitis is a severe infection with high mortality and morbidity rates and can be one of the causes of fever in postpartum patients.
The most common pathogen that can cause bacterial meningitis is Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS), which causes most of the cases.

 
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Meningitis is an infectious disease of the brain membranes and spinal cord. Viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, or aseptic actions can all cause meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a severe infection with high mortality and morbidity rates that can induce fever in postpartum patients. The incidence of invasive Streptococcus agalactiae Group B (SGB) in pregnant women reached 31.58%; the older the pregnant woman, the greater the risk of invasive SGB. Case: The patient came to the emergency room with unconsciousness, fever, and shortness of breath. The patient presented with Ronchi +, neck stiffness +, and GCS E1M1V1. A chest X-ray found cardiomegaly as well as pulmonary edema. A full blood count indicated leukocytosis, increased neutrophils, elevated SGOT and SGPT levels, and lymphocytopenia. The patient was then given antipyretics, anticonvulsants, neurotonics, neurotrophics, diuretics, antihypertensives, and antianginals. Conclusion: In this study, it can be determined whether infection during pregnancy or labor can cause postpartum meningitis. The most common pathogen that can cause bacterial meningitis is Streptococcus agalactiae Group B (SGB), which causes most cases. Early diagnosis of postpartum meningitis is important in order to begin as soon as possible and achieve the best results for the patient's recovery.
Comparison of Recurrent Stroke in Patients with First Stroke Ischemic and Hemorrhagic in Soetomo General Academic Hospital Surabaya
Authors: Sihotang Marselia Febriyanti , Ardhi Mohammad Saiful , Parenrengi Muhammad Arifin
Published: February 2024

Highlight:

The incidence of recurrent stroke in patients with the first stroke of ischemic type was 2.5-fold higher than that of hemorrhagic type, with the majority of recurrent strokes being the same type as the first stroke.
Hypertension is the most common modifiable stroke risk factor in both stroke types, and in 5% of cases, secondary prevention is still not optimal.
The average length of hospital stay for patients with the first stroke of hemorrhagic type was 3 days longer, along with a higher average NIHSS score on presentation than patients with ischemic stroke.

 
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Stroke is the leading cause of mortality and disability in Indonesia, as well as being the major cause of death and disability-adjusted life years (DALY) lost worldwide. Recurrent stroke is one of the most common complications of stroke after discharge, despite being highly preventable. Objective: This study aimed to compare the differences in recurrent stroke profiles between patients with first stroke ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Methods: The study was done by collecting secondary data from medical records and the stroke registry at Dr. Seotomo General Academic Hospital over a period of six months (January–July 2020). Result: This study examined 36 samples that met the inclusion criteria. The results revealed that patients who experienced their first stroke of the ischemic type had a 2.5-fold higher incidence of recurrent stroke than those who suffered a hemorrhagic type. Except for one case, the majority of patients had the same type of stroke as the first. The most frequent modifiable risk factors seen in these two types of strokes are hypertension and physical inactivity. It was found that there were still 5% of the risk factors for which secondary prevention had not been carried out optimally with antidyslipidemic, antidiabetic, or antihypertensive drugs. The most common acute treatment for ischemic stroke is antiplatelet therapy, either single or dual therapy. Up to 90% of hemorrhagic strokes were treated conservatively, and in one patient, extraventricular drainage was performed. Conclusion: There were more stroke patients with a first stroke of hemorrhagic type that presented with NIHSS scores in the severe to very severe range, and the average length of hospitalization in this group was longer.
Defect-induced-reduced Au quantum Dots@MXene decorated separator enables lithium-sulfur batteries with high sulfur utilization
Authors: Du Yahao , Liu Yuhong , Cao Feifei , Ye Huan
Published: February 2024

Although lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries have a high theoretical energy density, their practical applications are limited by rapid capacity fading and poor cycling stability due to the dissolution of high-order polysulfides in electrolytes and the sluggish kinetics of the solid-state Li2S2/Li2S redox reaction. Herein, a polysulfide sorbent and redox reaction catalytic promoter, Au quantum dots (Au QDs)-decorated MXene nanosheet, is designed by proposing defect-induced-reduced Ti3C2Tx (MXene) to improve the performance of Li-S batteries. The polar surface functional groups and high electronic conductivity of the MXene boost the conversion of sulfur/polysulfides and restrict the dissolution of the polysulfide shuttle. The Au QDs catalyst reduces the conversion reaction activation energy to achieve rapid solid-state Li2S2/Li2S reaction kinetics. Due to the adsorption-catalysis synergistic effect between MXene and Au QDs, an initial discharge capacity of 1,500 mA h g-1 is obtained, corresponding to a sulfur utilization of 90%. A Li-S battery based on the Au QDs@MXene-decorated separator exhibits a capacity retention rate of 71.0% for 300 cycles at 1 C.
Unraveling the complexity of the organic food market: Indonesian consumer perspective on price and product knowledge
Authors: Luthfiana Della Nanda , Andika Andika , Bidayati Utik
Published: February 2024

In the past decade, the organic food industry has witnessed a tremendous surge in popularity as consumers increasingly perceive it as a healthier, more natural, and more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional foods. This trend has prompted extensive research into consumer behavior towards organic food, mainly focusing on the factors that drive its acceptance. Despite its growing interest, the adoption of organic food faces considerable challenges, mainly due to its higher price. This study examines Indonesian consumers’ willingness to pay more for organic food (WTPM) by examining the role of product knowledge (PK), consumer attitude (CA), and price consciousness (PC). Data was collected from 250 respondents representing consumers in Indonesia through an online survey. Descriptive Statistical Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) are used to test hypotheses and understand relationships between variables. The results show that PK significantly affects CA towards organic food but does not directly affect WTPM. In addition, CA emerged as a significant mediator between PK and WTPM, indicating that consumers with positive CA towards organic food tend to pay more, as they see the cost as an investment for environmental sustainability and health. However, this relationship is moderated by PC, which indicates that price sensitivity may reduce the effect of positive CA on WTPM. The findings of this study underscore the need for a multifaceted approach to promoting organic food. To increase consumer acceptance and uptake, strategies should include education initiatives, awareness raising, and addressing issues related to price and perceived value.
Spatiotemporal Graph Autoencoder Network for Skeleton-Based Human Action Recognition
Authors: Abduljalil Hosam , Elhayek Ahmed , Marish Ali Abdullah , Alsolami Fawaz
Published: February 2024

Human action recognition (HAR) based on skeleton data is a challenging yet important technique because of its wide range of applications in many fields, including patient monitoring, security surveillance, and observing human-machine interactions. Many algorithms that attempt to distinguish between many types of activities have been proposed. However, most practical applications require highly accurate detection of specific types of activities. In this study, a novel and highly accurate spatiotemporal graph autoencoder network for HAR based on skeleton data is proposed. Furthermore, an extensive study was conducted using different modalities. For this purpose, a spatiotemporal graph autoencoder that automatically learns spatial as well as temporal patterns from human skeleton datasets was built. The powerful graph convolutional network named GA-GCN, developed in this study, notably outperforms most of the existing state-of-the-art methods based on two common datasets, namely NTU RGB+D and NTU RGB+D 120 . On the first dataset, we achieved an accuracy of 92.3% and 96.7% based on the cross-subject and cross-view evaluations, respectively. On the other more challenging dataset (i.e. NTU RGB+D 120), GA-GCN achieved 88.8% and 90.4% based on the cross-subject and cross-set evaluation, respectively.
Detecting CSV File Dialects by Table Uniformity Measurement and Data Type Inference
Authors: García Wilfredo
Published: February 2024

The human-readable simplicity with which the CSV format was devised, together with the absence of a standard that strictly defines this format, has allowed the proliferation of several variants in the dialects with which these files are written. The latter has meant that the exchange of information between data management systems, or between countries and regions, requires human intervention during the data mining and cleansing process. This has led to the development of various computational tools that aim to accurately determine the dialects of CSV files, in order to avoid data loss during data loading by a given system. However, current systems have limitations and make assumptions that need to be improved and/or extended. This paper proposes a method for determining CSV file dialects through table uniformity, a statistical approach based on table consistency and records dispersion measurement along with the detection of data type over each field. The new method has a 100% accuracy over a dataset with 147 sampling CSV files from a benchmark framework. Furthermore, the proposed method is accurate enough to determine dialects by reading only ten records, requiring more data to disambiguate those cases where the first records do not contain the necessary information to conclude with a dialect determination.
Effect of Stabilized nZVI Nanoparticles on the Reduction and Immobilization of Cr in Contaminated Soil: Column Experiment and Transport Modeling
Authors: Ibrahim Hesham M. , Al-Issa Abdallah A. , Al-Farraj Abdullah S. , Alghamdi Abdulaziz G. , Al-Turki Ali M.
Published: February 2024

Batch and transport experiments were used to investigate the remediation of a loamy sand soil contaminated with Cr(VI) using zero valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) stabilized by the carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC-nZVI). The effect of pH, ionic strength (IS), and flow rate on the removal efficiency of Cr(VI) were investigated under equilibrium (uniform transport) and non-equilibrium (Two-site sorption) transport using the Hydrus-1D model. The overall removal efficiency ranged from 70 to over 90% based on the chemical characteristics of the CMC-nZVI suspension and the transport conditions. The concentration and pH of the CMC-nZVI suspension had the most significant effect on the removal efficiency and transport of Cr(VI) in the soil. The average removal efficiency of Cr(VI) was increased from 24.1 to 75.5% when the concentration of CMC-nZVI nanoparticles was increased from 10 to 250 mg L-1, mainly because of the increased total surface area at larger particle concentration. Batch experiments showed that removal efficiency of Cr(VI) was much larger under acidic conditions. The average removal efficiency of Cr(VI) reached 90.1 and 60.5 % at pH 5 and 7, respectively. The Two-site sorption model described quite well (r2 = 0.96-0.98) the transport of Cr(VI) in soil as compared to the uniform transport model (r2 = 0.81-0.98). The average retardation of Cr(VI) was 3.51 and 1.61 at pH 5 and 7, respectively, indicating earlier arrival for the breakthrough curves and shorter time to reach maximum relative concentration at lower pH. The Hydrus-1D model has proven to be an efficient tool for assessing the removal of Cr(VI) pollutants, offering innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly remediation methodologies.
Development of a Landslide Hazard Index to Land Use by Using Logistic Regression and Geographic Information System: A Case Study in Pingtung County in Southern Taiwan
Authors: Tseng Chih-Ming , Chen Yie-Ruey , Tsai Ching-Ya , Hsieh Shun-Chieh
Published: February 2024

In Taiwan, mountainous areas account for approximately two-thirds of the total area. The steep terrain and concentrated rainfall during typhoons cause landslides, which pose a considerable threat to mountain settlements. Therefore, models for analyzing rainfall-induced landslide hazards are urgently required to ensure adequate land use in mountainous areas. In this study, focusing on Pingtung County in southern Taiwan, we developed a landslide hazard index (IRL) to land use. Using FORMOSA-2 and SPOT-5 satellite images, data were collected before and after four typhoons (one in 2009 and three in 2013). The ArcGIS random tree classifier was used for interpreting satellite images to explore surface changes and disasters, which were used to analyze slope disturbances. The product of the maximum 3-h rolling rainfall intensity and effective accumulated rainfall was used as a rainfall trigger index (IRT). Considering environmental and slope disturbance factors, an index of slope environmental strength potential (ISESP) was developed through logistic regression (LR). Landslide hazard to land use was estimated using IRT and ISESP. The average coefficient of agreement (Kappa) was approximately 0.71 (medium to high accuracy); the overall accuracy of slope environmental strength potential analysis was approximately 80.4%. At a constant ISESP, IRT increased with the increasing hazard potential of rainfall-induced landslides. Furthermore, IRT and ISESP were positively correlated with landslide occurrence. When large ISESP values occur (e.g., fragile environment and high land development intensity), small IRT values may induce landslides.
Retarded Gravity in Disk Galaxies
Authors: Glas Yuval , Zimmerman Tomer , Yahalom Asher
Published: February 2024

Disk galaxies have a typical dimension of few tens of thousands of light years. It follows from the theory of general relativity that any signal originating from the galactic center will be noticed at the outskirts of the galaxy only tens of thousands of years later. This retardation effect is absent in modelling used to calculate rotation curves throughout the entire galaxy and its external gas. The considerable differences between Newtonian action at a distance predictions and observed velocities are currently removed either by assuming dark matter or by suggesting various modifications to the laws of gravity, MOND being a long standing alternative to Newtonian gravity. In previous papers we have shown that applying general relativity in a rigorous fashion without mindlessly neglecting retardation, one can explain the radial velocities of galactic matter without modifying gravity or adding unseen matter. Moreover, it was shown that dark matter effects as they appear in gravitational lensing, the Tully-Fisher relation, and mass estimations based on the virial theorem could also be explained as retarded-gravity effects. In the original main paper on the subject only one galaxy (M33) was analysed in detail. This was later amended somewhat with a published study of eleven galaxies. Here we give a more comprehensive retardation analysis of 143 galaxies of different types from the SPARC Galaxy collection. We show that in most cases we obtain an excellent fit without postulating dark matter or modifying general relativity.
Contact Dermatitis Due to Hair Care Products: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Cebolla Verdugo Marta , Velasco Amador Juan Pablo , Navarro Triviño Francisco José
Published: February 2024

Hair cosmetics are in fashion. Numerous products are commonly used in combination. Frequent allergens are present in hair cosmetics, which, added to almost daily use, increase the risk of sensitization. Familiarity with the clinical distribution of the eczematous rash is necessary to seriously consider patch testing. There are haptens on the market, although not all of them. It is necessary to know how to patch your own products. When avoidance of the allergen cannot be possible, new treatments are being evaluated to combat allergic contact dermatitis, mainly of the occupational type. In this manuscript, a complete and practical review of the main allergens and contact sources of hair cosmetic origin has been carried out.
Situational Modernization: Dynamic and Strength Characteristics of a Passenger Wagon Universal Design
Authors: Issa Zhaisan , Alizhan Almas , Musayev Janat , Zhauyt Algazy , Zhunisbekov Seitbek , Smailova Gulbarshyn , Bikhozhayeva Gulmira , Shigambayev And Timur
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the study is to establish compliance of the design of the modernized car with the requirements for safe operation. An option has been proposed for upgrading a passenger wagon to a Mobile Diagnostic Complex for transporting a combined vehicle equipped with appropriate flaw detection equipment intended for rail diagnostics. The authors have established the most optimal option for locating the diagnostic vehicle on board the Mobile Diagnostic Complex (MDC) wagon, taking into account the additional load from the vehicle. To achieve this goal, the article developed a three-dimensional model of the supporting structure of the wagon body, proposed a methodology and presented the results of a study of the stress-strain state of the wagon body, taking into account the additional weight of the wagon. The article develops a methodology for studying the natural frequencies of vibrations of the wagon body and develops a three-dimensional model of the wagon for calculating dynamic indicators in the Universal Mechanism software package. Taking into account the previously carried out strength calculations, as well as in order to maintain the factory life cycle indicators of the supporting structure of the wagon body, it is recommended to use the model in the first version.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Intelligent Identification Using Neural Networks in Brain Diseases
Authors: Bidabad Behroz , Nazem Mobin , Aghakhani Nozar
Published: February 2024

The main purpose of this article is to identify brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's in an intelligent way using Python software and processing the function of neurons in the neural network areas of the brain, which are classified into different components, and the data is based on the information obtained from FMRI images using algorithms artificial intelligence can intelligently diagnose the type of disease. Therefore, by using spatial clustering based on the deep learning method with noise algorithm (DBSCAN), fMRI brain image and fMRI brain surface complexity are classified, and then image preprocessing will be applied to fMRI images by using artificial intelligence neural networks (ANN) algorithm. became. Then, by using the ANN algorithm and Deep CNN topology of the brain neural network, the type of disease in the brain can be diagnosed by simulating the performance of an artificial neural network (ANN) in Python software. Deep machine learning-based methods, especially algorithms based on neural networks, have shown great success in medical image analysis for various tasks including brain tumor detection, segmentation, and classification, and Alzheimer's and epilepsy. In this research, we propose an integrated model based on a convolutional neural network for simultaneous recognition and classification of brain diseases for intelligent diagnosis of tumors and epilepsy. The average accuracy obtained from our proposed model is 97.89 percent accuracy and 91.66 percent specificity.
The Difference in Shoot Metabolite Profiles of Wild and Cultivated Barley in Response to Four Nitrogen Forms
Authors: Naz Shama , Khan Siffat Ullah , Kanwal Farah , Khan Ameer , Zhang Gouping
Published: February 2024

Plants can utilize the different forms of nitrogen (N), including inorganic and organic N nutrients, and show the great difference in the utilizing efficiency of N-form among species and genotypes within a species. In our previous study, we found that Tibetan wild barley (XZ16) was better in utilization of organic nitrogen in comparison with cultivated barley (Hua30). In this study, metabolite profiles of the two barley genotypes were comprehensively compared in their response to four N forms, including nitrate (NO3-), ammonium (NH4+), urea and glycine. Macro-and micro-nutrient concentrations in shoots were mostly found higher in nitrate and urea treatments than in ammonium and glycine in both the genotypes. XZ16 had higher concentrations of nutrient ions in glycine treatment, but Hua30 accumulated more nutrients in ammonium treatment. Among the total 163 differentially expressed metabolites, highest up-regulation and highest down-regulation was found in XZ16 in glycine and urea treatments respectively. Some important metabolites such as proline, glutamine, serine, asparagine, L-homoserine, aspartic acid, putrescine, ornithine, 4-aminobutyrate were up-regulated in glycine treatment in both the genotypes with higher fold change in XZ16 than in Hua30. Similarly, fructose-6-PO4, aconitic acid and isocitrate were only up-regulated in XZ16 in glycine treatment. Here, we concluded that the genotype XZ16 exhibited higher response to glycine treatment, while Hua30 showed higher response to NH4+ treatment which is attributed to their better utilization of glycine-N and NH4+-N, respectively. .
A Comprehensive Summary of the Application of Machine Learning Techniques for CO2-EOR Projects
Authors: Du Xuejia , Salasakar Sameer , Thakur Ganesh C
Published: February 2024

In recent years, machine learning (ML) techniques have emerged as an efficient and effective technology within the petroleum industry. This paper focuses on the current application of ML in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) through CO2 injection, which exhibits promising economic and environmental benefits of climate-change mitigation strategy. Our comprehensive review explores the diverse use cases of ML techniques in CO2-EOR, including aspects such as minimum miscible pressure (MMP) prediction, well location optimization, oil production and recovery factor prediction, multi-objective optimization, Pressure-Volume-Temperature (PVT) properties estimation, Water Alternating Gas (WAG) analysis, and CO2-foam EOR, from 101 reviewed papers. In this comprehensive review, we catalog relative information, including the input parameters, objectives, data sources, train/test/validate information, results, evaluation, and rating score for each area based on criteria such as data quality, ML building process, and analysis of results. We also briefly summarized the benefits and limitations of ML methods in petroleum industry applications. Our detailed and extensive study could serve as an invaluable reference for employing ML techniques in the petroleum industry. Based on the review, we found that ML techniques offer great potential in solving problems in the majority of CO2-EOR areas involving prediction and regression. With the generation of massive amounts of data in the everyday oil and gas industry, machine learning techniques can provide efficient and reliable preliminary results for the industry.
Threshold and Upper Bound for the Controller’s Designed Parameter of Fokker Planck Kolmogorov Probability Density Function with Applications to Cryptocurrency
Authors: A. Mageed Ismail
Published: February 2024

This work is the first in literature to tackle the difficult open problem of determining the upper bound and threshold theorem for the TDCDP (time-dependent controller parameter) of the (Fokker Planck Kolmogorov) probability density function. This revolutionary exposition will put control theory and other related inter-disciplinary fields to a higher level towards contemporary control theory. Notably, based on the influential role of control theory in both engineering and industry, this paper will be of great value to all engineering and industry professionals who seek to know more about advanced trends within control theory settings. On the other remit of the spectrum, Fokker Planck Kolmogorov(FPK) equations are of high importance to physicists as well as mathematicians, based on their multiple applicability to information theory, graph theory, data science, finance, economics, and beyond. So, this by default adds more taste and credibility to this study. This leads by nature to introducing a different flavor to this ground-breaking research by highlighting the impact of Fokker Planck Kolmogorov(FPK) to revolutionize crypocurrency,which have received its name because it uses encryption to verify transactions, a new debatable digital payment system that doesn't rely on banks to verify transactions. It’s a peer-to-peer system that can enable anyone anywhere to send and receive payments. The paper ends with closing remarks combined with some challenging open problems and the next phase of research.
Introducing Novel Geometric Insights and Three-Dimensional Depictions of the Pythagorean Theorem for any Triangles
Authors: Dos Santos Bernardes Marco Aurélio
Published: February 2024

The paper primarily demonstrates that the three internal triangles formed by connecting any point on a midsegment with the vertices of a generic triangle satisfy the geometric Proof of the Pythagorean theorem in Euclidean geometry. Moreover, this study elucidates the Pythagorean relationships inherent within three-dimensional geometric constructs resulting from the arrangement of three-dimensional spatial triangles. This geometric relationship, akin to a generalized extension of the Pythagorean theorem, unveils a unique spatial region characterized by this harmonious area interrelation among triangles.
How Satellite Imaging and Deep Learning Are Influenced by Tensor Decompositions: A Review
Authors: A. Mageed Ismail
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on examining various approaches for Tensor Decompositions (TDs) and their potential applications in satellite imaging (SI) and deep learning (DL). The research highlights how these decompositions can contribute to the advancement of SI and DL, providing valuable insights for future utilization of TDs in research. It explores how these techniques contribute to the advancement of SI and DL methods, providing insights into their potential applications and suggesting future research directions. The study aims to enhance the use of TDs techniques to further advance research efforts in these fields. More importantly, the current investigation offers a thorough analysis of the potential advantages and reasons for employing TDs techniques in different domains, including satellite imaging and deep learning. The aim is to enhance research outcomes by utilizing TDs. The review also identifies unresolved issues and proposes future directions for further investigation in this field. Fundamentally, these proposed open problems will open new grounds to the research community to articulate, innovate, and provide more real-life applications to improve the current state of the art by delving into a wider vision for a higher-level performance of both satellite imaging (SI) and deep learning (DL). Looking at the bigger scenario, this also suggests that TDs could be potentially employed to revolutionize existing machine learning technologies as well as the current space AI industry.
Water Quality of Eastern Mediterranean Catchments Subject to Different Environmental Pressures Employing Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs)
Authors: Katsouras Georgios , Dimitriou Elias , Karavoltsos Sotirios , Samios Stylianos , Sakellari Aikaterini , Mentzafou Angeliki , Tsalas Nikolaos , Scoullos Michael
Published: February 2024

Environmental monitoring programs rely on periodic spot sampling at specific locations, followed by laboratory analysis, aiming at the evaluation of water quality at a catchment scale. For this purpose, automatic telemetric stations for specific parameters have been installed by the Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters of Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (IMBRIW-HCMR) within several Greek rivers and lakes, providing continuous and temporal monitoring possibilities. Nevertheless, the employment of unmanned surface vehicles (USV) equipped with integrated sensors represents a tool valuable to several monitoring strategies, offering enhanced temporal and spatial coverage over specific timeframes, allowing for targeted examination of sites or events of interest. The USVs have been deployed by Athens Water and Sewerage Company (EYDAP) as a cost-effective tool for the environmental monitoring of surface water bodies of interest, with emphasis on the spatial fluctuations of chlorophyllα, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen and pH, observed in Koumoundourou Lake and rivers Acheloos, Asopos and Kifissos. The effectiveness of an innovative heavy metal (HM) system installed in the USV for thein situ determination of copper and lead was also evaluated herewith. The results obtained demonstrate that both the timely detection of potential pollution from both anthropogenic activities and natural processes as well as the monitoring of inland waters are made feasible through the employment of USV.
Genetic Factors Contributing to the Pathogenesis of Essential Hypertension in Two African Populations
Authors: Kalideen Kusha , Rayner Brian , Ramesar Raj
Published: February 2024

The African continent has the highest prevalence of hypertension globally, with South Africa reporting the highest prevalence in Southern Africa. While the influence of genetic variability in the pathogenesis of hypertension is well described internationally, limited reports are available for African populations. This study aimed to assess the association of genetic variants and essential hypertension in a cohort of two ethnic South African population groups. Two hundred and seventy-seven hypertensive and one hundred and seventy-six normotensive individuals were genotyped for 79 variants. Genotyping was performed using the Illumina GoldenGate Assay and allele-specific polymerase chain reaction. The association of variants was assessed using the Fisher Exact test under the additive and allelic genetic models, while multivariate logistic regression was used to predict the development of hypertension. Five variants (CYP11B2 rs179998, AGT rs5051 and rs699, AGTR1 rs5186 and ACE rs4646994) were significantly associated with essential hypertension in the cohort under study. Furthermore, AGTR1 rs5186 and AGT rs699 were identified as risk factors for the development of hypertension in both ethnic groups. In two ethnic South African populations an association was observed between Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) related genes and the development of hypertension.
Production of Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum: A Review With Emphasis on Fermented Foods
Authors: Iorizzo Massimo , Di Martino Catello , Letizia Francesco , Crawford Jr Thomas W. , Paventi Gianluca
Published: February 2024

The term Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) refers generically to a class of positional and geometric conjugated dienoic isomers of linoleic acid. Among the isomers of linoleic acid cis9, trans11-CLA (c9, t11-CLA) and trans10, cis12-CLA (t10, c12-CLA) are found to be bio-logically active isomers, and they occur naturally in milk, dairy products and meat from ruminants. In addition, some vegetables and some sea-foods have also been reported to contain CLA. Although the CLA levels in these natural sources are insufficient to confer the essential health benefits, anti-carcinogenic or anti-cancer effects are of current interest. In the rumen, CLA is an intermediate of isomerization and the biohydrogenation process of linoleic acid to stearic acid conducted by ruminal microorganisms. In addition to rumen bacteria, some other bacteria, such as Propionibacterium, Bifidobacterium and some lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are also capable of producing CLA.
In this regard, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) has demon-strated the ability to produce CLA isomers from linoleic acid by multiple enzymatic activi-ties, including hydration, dehydration, and isomerization. L. plantarum is one of the most versatile species of LAB and the bacterium is widely used in the food industry as a micro-bial food culture.
The studies reviewed in this article reveal how, in the production of some fermented foods, the use of appropriate strains of L. plantarum, as a starter or additional culture, can be considered a critical factor in the design of new CLA-enriched functional foods.
Assessing the Performance of a Hand-held Laser Scanning for Individual Tree Mapping in an Urban Area
Authors: Yang Jinming , Yuan Wenwen , Lu Huicui , Liu Yuehan , Wang Yongkang , Sun Letong , Li Shimei , Li Haifang
Published: February 2024

Precise individual tree or sample-based inventories derived from 3D point cloud data of mobile laser scanning can improve our comprehensive understanding of the structure, function, resilience, biodiversity, and ecosystem services of urban forests. This study assessed the performance of a hand-held laser scanning system for the extraction of tree position, diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height (H) in an urban area. A total of 2083 trees of 13 species from 34 plots were analyzed. The results showed that the registration of tree positions using ground control points (GCPs) demonstrated high accuracy, with errors consistently below 0.4 m, except for a few instances. The extraction accuracy of DBH for all trees and individual species remained consistently high, with a total root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.06 cm (6.89%) and a bias of 0.62 cm (2.07%). Notably, broad-leaved trees outperformed coniferous trees, with RMSE and bias values of 1.86 cm (6%) and 0.76 cm (2.46%) compared to 2.54 cm (9.46%) and 0.23 cm (0.84%). Tree height extraction accuracy varied significantly among different species, with R2 values ranging from 0.65 to 0.92. Generally, both DBH and height were underestimated. Linear mixed effects models (LME) were applied to evaluate factors affecting the performance of HLS with the plot as a random factor. LME analysis revealed that plant type and terrain significantly influenced the accuracy of DBH and H derived from HLS data. Other fixed factors of plot area, tree density and trajectory length didn’t have significance. With a large sample size, we concluded that the HLS demonstrated sufficient accuracy in extracting individual tree parameters in urban forests.