bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the heartbeat of employee engagement and social responsibility: the mediating role of affective commitment in Ghanaian Universities
Authors: Prempeh Emmanuel Barima Agyemang , Dzansi Dennis Yao
Published: June 2024

In the current higher education environment in Ghana, universities have directed their attention towards fulfilling their social obligations, which are referred to as University Social Responsibility (USR), to both their internal and external stakeholders. This study, driven by the Stakeholders Theory, examines the premise that affective commitment serves as a positive and substantial mediator in the relationship between USR and employee engagement. Therefore, this study investigates the impact of both internal and external corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives on the emotional commitment and level of involvement of employees in Ghanaian institutions. This study utilised the research onion framework to guide its methodology. It employed a cross-sectional survey design, based on the positivism paradigm and supported by the hypothetico-deductive model. The purpose was to test hypotheses and measure the relationships between user satisfaction and staff engagement, with affective commitment acting as a mediator. The study was conducted within the context of Ghanaian universities.  A two-stage stratified sampling method was utilised to choose 412 participants for the survey. The data collected via a 5-point Likert scale empirically validated questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (?) > 0.70 was adapted for the survey. The data collected were configured and subjected to Structural Equation Modelling for analysis at a significance level of p<.05 using the SMART pls software. This survey found that affective commitment is a statistically significant factor that directly explains and predicts the mediation effect of internal CSR on employee engagement (beta=0.217; t>1.96; p=0.000: p<0.05), and external CSR on employee engagement (beta=0.065; t>1.96; p=0.000: p<0.05) in Ghanaian universities enrolled in the survey. This study recommends that public and private universities in Ghana should foster a strong sense of commitment and loyalty among employees towards the organisation and its CSR efforts.
Understand the role of user-generated content on purchase intention of ChatGPT premium in undergraduate student
Authors: Andarsari Fitriana Dwi , Suryadi Nanang
Published: June 2024

The study investigates the impact of user-generated content (UGC) on the purchase intention (PI) of ChatGPT Premium among undergraduate students, focusing on the mediating roles of brand attitude (BA) and brand trust (BT) by using SOR and HOE models. Using quantitative research methods and analyzing data from 105 undergraduate students who using TikTok in Malang City, Indonesia. Data analysis using SEM-PLS, and the results show that user-generated content has no direct effect on purchase intention. Meanwhile, user-generated content has a direct positive and significant effect on brand attitude and brand trust. Each brand attitude and brand trust also have a significant positive effect on purchase intention. Positive UGC can increase brand attitude and brand trust as well as increase interest in purchasing premium ChatGPT. Furthermore, based on the results of the indirect effect, it is known that brand attitude and brand trust can mediate the influence of user-generated content on purchase intention, where both act as full mediators in this research. This paper offers valuable insights into how UGC on platforms like TikTok influences consumer behavior in the context of freemium to premium transitions.
Feasibility Study on Modified Edge-Free Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) on Metal Powder – Al7075 Case Study
Authors: Magnus Carl , Orekunrin Ayomide
Published: June 2024

A modification to the conventional spark plasma sintering (SPS) process was undertaken to allow edge-free deformation of grains longitudinally to the loading axis in a process termed spark plasma texturing (SPT). The resulting Al7075 SPT compact was compared to SPSed Al7075 in terms of densification behaviour, microstructural evolution, and mechanical properties. The result reported herein highlights the unique benefits of the SPT technique and potential application in the manufacturing of advanced materials.
IMPROVING CONTEXTUALIZED PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS IN 8TH GRADE STUDENTS THROUGH "DIGESTIVE SYSTEM" PROBLEM-ORIENTED LEARNING
Authors: Alfanisa Dwi Pramudia Wardani  , Wirawan Fadly  , Martinez David
Published: June 2024

Problem solving ability is one of the competencies that must be achieved by students to reach sustainable development goals (SDGs). There is a need for more appropriate learning methods and education policies in Indonesia to improve literacy and numeracy skills, including problem-solving competencies, which is fundamental in this era of Industrial Revolution 4.0. Science Education for Sustainable Development (SESD) focuses on developing learners' attitudes and competencies to alleviate life and find an innovation that is relevant to a problem. This study investigated whether Digestive System learning designed to be oriented towards contextual problems with SESD-based direct teaching promotes learners' ability to solve contextual problems better than conventional classroom learning. Data collection included assessment with tests on learners' problem-solving skills through quasi-experimental research using a pretest-posttest experimental control group design. The experimental group received learning about the digestive system with a problem-oriented learning model and the SESD approach. The research sample was the VIII grade students of SMPN 4 Ponorogo. The pre-test scores for the experimental and control groups were similar, at 66.4 and 67.0 respectively. However, the experimental group had a higher post-test score of 82.0, while the control group had an average score of 73.0. Supported by Cohen's d analysis of 0.60 shows that problem-based learning (PBL) with the SESD approach is more effective than conventional learning in improving students' problem-solving skills.
Development and validation of anthropometric equations for the prediction of skeletal muscle mass in hospitalized adults and older people using computer tomography.
Authors: SOARES BRUNA , Soares NatalY , Burgos Maria Goretti , de Arruda Ilma
Published: June 2024

Objective: To develop and validate a prediction model for estimating skeletal muscle mass (SMM) in hospitalized adults and older people based on easily obtained demographic and anthropometric data and using computer tomography (CT) as the gold standard.
Methods: A methodological study was conducted with male and female participants ³ 20 years of age hospitalized at a public tertiary hospital in Northeast Brazil. Patients with characteristics that could influence the body composition analysis by CT and/or anthropometric measures were excluded. Sociodemographic characteristics and clinical data were obtained from the electronic records of the patients. Nutritional status was assessed using the anthropometric method (weight, height, body mass index, weight loss, arm circumference and calf circumference) and a subjective assessment. Abdominal CT images were used to obtain the area of SMM determined in cm2, taking density values of -29 to 150 Hounsfield units. Statistical analysis was performed with the aid of IBM SPSS version 16.0.
Results: The sample comprised 564 individuals 20 to 89 years of age. Two prediction models were created – one for adults (SMM = 66.28 + (-36.20*sex) + (3.04*CC) + (0.19*weight), R2 = 73.9%) and one for older people (SMM = -56.34 + (-26.70*sex) + (1.71*CC) + (0.97*height), R2 = 67.3%). The predictive capacity of these equations was 74.1% for adults and 67.7% for older people compared to SMM determined by CT (p < 0.001).
Conclusions: The equations developed in the present study should be tested for clinical purposes and in the analysis of data from mixed hospitalized populations.
Causal effects of AP on ovarian cancer risk in European and East Asian populations: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Tong Yan , lai zhiqing , liu zhaoxia
Published: June 2024

Background
Ovarian cancer (OC) is a great public health issue, and the relationship between OC and air pollution (AP) continues to be uncertain. Consequently, we implemented a TSMR analysis to assess the correlation between AP and the risk of OC.
Methods
From the UKB, we selected five risk factors related to AP (PM2.5, PM2.5-10, PM10, NO2, and NOx). The SNPs of OC from individuals of European and East Asian descent via the OCAC. Our main analytical technique was the IVW method, utilizing for calculating OR and 95% Cl. We implemented the weighted median, MR-Egger, simple, and weighted models for quality control, using Cochran's Q test for heterogeneity and MR-Egger regression and the MR-PRESSO test for pleiotropy detection. A leave-one-out strategy and the scatter plots were conducted to do sensitivity analyses. BMI, alcohol, and smoking were considered as potential mediators/confounders in MVMRs.
Results
Through TSMR analysis, we discovered a causal link between genetically inferred NOx commencement and OC risk in the European population (OR: 2.64, 95%CI: 1.152–6.087, P = 0.021). Some SNPs associated with the initiation of NOx production are linked toendometrioid OC(EnOC)risk (OR: 7.39, 95%CI: 1.209–45.171, P = 0.03). No statistical association was found between AP and OC levels in European (PM2.5: p = 0.993; PM2.5-10: p = 0.833; PM10: p = 0.257; NO2: p = 0.215; NOx: p = 0.614) or East Asian populations (PM2.5: p = 0.468; PM2.5-10: p = 0.814; PM10:p = 0.652; NO2: p = 0.392; NOx: p = 0.910). Even after adjusting for smoking and drinking through MVMR, a direct positive link between nitrogen oxide and OC risk was observed, which did not persist when BMI was accounted for (OR [95%CI] = 1.29 [0.76–2.19], p = 0.351), suggesting BMI may mediate the effect of nitrogen oxide on OC risk.
Conclusion
The results demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship between exposure to NOx and OC risk, specifically for EnOC, within the European population.
Bone Alterations around Dental Implants Placed with Flapless Guided Surgery Technique with or without immediate loading: A Retrospective 1-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Marão Heloisa Fonseca , Campos Annika Ingrid Maria Soderberg , Santos Pâmela Leticia dos , de Oliveira Guilherme José Pimentel Lopes , Gulinelli Jéssica Lemos
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess, after 1-year follow-up, the marginal bone alterations around dental implants placed by using the flapless guided surgery technique with and without immediate loading.
Methods: For this, conventional loading was placed in 8 patients (G1), whereas immediate loading was placed in the other 8 patients (G2). Tomographic measurements of the buccal and palatal bone wall thickness and buccal, palatal, mesial, distal bone wall height were measured in the cone beam computed tomography after the surgery (T0) and 1 year after the prosthesis installation (T1).
Results: The results showed of the 16 patients treated, ten were female and six were men. There were statistically significant differences between T0 and T1 in both groups regarding buccal bone resorption (buccal-G1-P=0.0185;G2-P=0.0017), palatal bone resorption (palatal-G1-P=0.008) and loss of vertical bone height in the buccal (G1 P=0.0066;G2-P=0,0015), palatal (G1-P=0,0015;G2-P<0.001), mesial (G1-P=0.0029; G2-P=0.001), and distal (G1-P<0.002;G2-P<0.005) walls. Regarding the comparison between G1 and G2, there were no statistically significant differences for all parameters evaluated at time T0 and T1.
Conclusions: This study indicates that the flapless guided surgery technique with or without immediate loading did not influence in the marginal bone loss around dental implants after 1-year follow-up.
Gastrointestinal Calciphylaxis: A Rare and Devastating Complication in End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Aarabi Amirhossein , Kumar Karthik
Published: June 2024

Calciphylaxis, also known as calcific uremic arteriolopathy (CUA), is an exceptionally rare and severe condition that predominantly affects individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It manifests through vascular calcifications that precipitate tissue necrosis, with cutaneous manifestations being common. However, gastrointestinal (GI) involvement is an infrequent but gravely serious occurrence.
In this report, we present an atypical case of GI calciphylaxis in a 66-year-old woman undergoing peritoneal dialysis. The patient's initial symptoms of abdominal pain and turbid peritoneal fluid raised suspicions of bacterial peritonitis. Despite therapeutic interventions, the patient's condition deteriorated. Computed tomography (CT) imaging revealed a perforation in the caecal wall, necessitating emergent surgical intervention. Histopathology post-surgery confirmed the diagnosis of GI calciphylaxis.
The patient's postoperative trajectory was fraught with complications, ultimately leading to a fatal outcome. This case underscores the critical need for increased vigilance for calciphylaxis in the differential diagnosis when abdominal pain develops in patients with ESRD, regardless of the presence of characteristic dermatological symptoms. Prompt detection and an integrated care approach are essential for improved prognosis. Further research is needed to find more efficacious treatments for this devastating illness.
Characterization and Innovative Process of Oily Wastewater from Substations
Authors: HUANG Yan , Wen Shangyong , WAN Zhengdong , Xin Hongyan , Li Kaiman
Published: June 2024

The increasing demand for electrical power has led to a surge in the construction of substations worldwide. In the context of today's carbon emission reduction, more and more people are be-ginning to pay attention to the treatment of oily wastewater generated from substations. The specific traits such as the complicated components and rapid change in the raw wastewater quality make it rather hard to be degraded thoroughly and economically. In response to this challenge, we introduce a novel solution that combines pre-treatment, dissolved air flotation, and fine multi-stage filtration techniques to efficiently remove oil and suspended solids from oily wastewater discharge. This study comprehensively summarizes the characteristics of oil-containing wastewater in substations and invents a novel process for treating oil-containing wastewater from substations. It exhibits notable advantages in terms of energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional treatment methods. This research not only promotes the technical advances in the field of wastewater treatment but also provides a practical and sustainable solution for industries grappling with the conundrum of oily wastewater manage-ment. The findings presented here can be supposed to serve as a stepping stone towards the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment strategies.
Multiple causes of death associated with dementia in Spain: educational differences and its impact on life expectancy
Authors: Spijker Jeroen , Renteria Elisenda , Calazans Julia Almeida , Trias-Llimós Sergi , Doblhammer Gabriele
Published: June 2024

We examine dementia-related mortality in Spain during the period 2016–2021 from a multiple cause of death (MCOD) perspective, focusing on comorbidities associated with dementia-related mortality and the impact of dementia-related mortality on educational inequalities in life expectancy at age 60. We used mortality data from the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE) by level of education from 2016 to 2021 to analyse mortality from dementia-related diseases, both as underlying cause of death (UCOD) and as MCOD. We estimated age-standardized mortality rates and used life tables and demographic decomposition techniques to assess the impact of dementia-related diseases on educational differences in life expectancy at age 60. Results showed that in 2016-21 MCOD dementia-related deaths accounted for 17% of all deaths occurring after the age of 60 (men: 11%; women 21%). The difference in years lost to MCOD dementia-related diseases between the most and least educated was 0.13 years (8.4%) for men and 0.26 years (22.7%) for women. Educational gradients in dementia-related mortality in Spain highlights the importance of disentangling risk factors from a socioeconomic perspective. Moreover, the MCOD approach provides a more realistic estimate of the impact of dementia-related diseases on life expectancy, bringing insights into the burden of ageing-related diseases.
User Perspective of Misplaced PPIUCD and Factors resulting in PPIUCD Removal: Qualitative Pilot Study
Authors: A.G. Radhika , Gupta Rashmi , Kashyap Pooja
Published: June 2024

Objective - The aim of the current study was to assess the impact of operative interventions for misplaced device among women who opted for PPIIUCD and the evaluation of reasons for PPIUCD removal within the follow up period of two years.
Design - A descriptive exploratory study was conducted over three months among fourteen PPIUCD acceptors at a tertiary care health facility in Delhi, India. Face-to-face & telephonic in-depth interviews were conducted with a selected sample of PPIUCD acceptors who had later opted for its removal.
Results Participants (n=14) aged 24–40 exhibited generally positive attitudes towards PPIUCDs indicating an indicate an understanding of the importance of PPIUCD in preventing unintended pregnancies. Menstrual disturbance and misplaced IUCD were major reasons for removal. despite their own experience necessitating the removal of IUCD, positive experience by other family members (mothers in law) in this study helped to keep the confidence on the contraceptive. Themes included (a) general experience of PPIUCD use (b) Health Facility accessed for removal of IUCD (c) Would she recommend it to others? (d) preferred contraceptive after removal of IUCD
Conclusion Misplaced IUCD, missing thread, menstrual irregularities, and pain are all associated with PPIUCD and are important reasons for dissatisfaction. Appropriate, timely and supportive individualized care that address knowledge gaps, societal perceptions, and healthcare system challenges would certainly help in reducing dissatisfaction due to PPIUCD and thereby the removal rates.
COVID-19 Mortality Through the Inequality Lens: The Impact of Obesity, Age, and Income Across Countries and Time
Authors: Barrera Emiliano Lopez , Barnor Kodjo , Miljkovic Dragan , Miljkovic Kristina
Published: June 2024

This study examines COVID-19 mortality inequalities among 171 countries, analyzing the impact of obesity, age, and income on mortality. We employ three temporal snapshots of COVID-19 attributable deaths: cumulative deaths until December 1, 2020, August 1, 2021, and February 1, 2022. Utilizing innovative metrics, such as the COVID-19 Mortality Inequality Curve, the COVID-19 Mortality Inequality Index (CMII), and the Theil Index, we offer comprehensive insights into the distribution of COVID-19-related deaths across different demographics and socioeconomic groups. Our findings reveal those countries with higher obesity rates and a larger elderly population face significantly higher COVID-19 mortality rates. Contrary to initial expectations, income-based disparities were relatively low at the outset and remained stable throughout the study period, underscoring the pandemic's complex and multifaceted nature. Obesity is identified as a crucial determinant of COVID-19 mortality inequalities. The results highlight the critical need for promoting and ensuring equitable vaccine distribution, particularly in regions vulnerable due to high rates of obesity and significant elderly populations. The study challenges previous assumptions about the role of income in influencing COVID-19 mortality outcomes at the international level, emphasizing the need for targeted public health interventions.
JEL Classification: I14, I18, Q18
Accessibility of Ontario pharmacies offering COVID-19 vaccination by rurality, community material deprivation, and ethnic concentration : A repeated cross-sectional geospatial analysis
Authors: Alsabbagh Mhd Wasem , Pan Shayna , Wieland Markus , Waite Nancy , Houle Sherilyn , Grindrod Kelly
Published: June 2024

Background
Community pharmacies are largely recognized as geographically accessible; yet concerns arise regarding inequitable access to COVID-19 vaccination, especially during early vaccine availability.
Objectives
This study aims to investigate the accessibility of COVID-19 vaccination from Ontario's community pharmacies from April to December 2021 considering community-level rurality, material deprivation, and ethnic concentration.
Methods
Data from the Ontario Ministry of Health website COVID-19 vaccination pharmacies were analyzed. Pharmacy addresses were geocoded using Environics Analytics Business Data and the Postal Code Conversion File (PCCF+). Material deprivation and ethnic concentration at the Dissemination Area (DA) level were based on Public Health Ontario's marginalization data and organized into quintiles. Mean accessibility was calculated for each quintile using the 2-Step Floating Catchment Area method using service areas of 1000, 1500, or 3000 metres for urban DAs and 10000 m for rural DAs. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to compare mean accessibility across eight selected dates reflecting vaccine eligibility and availability changes.
Results
Of 15,174 pharmacies identified, 92.9% were successfully linked to geographic coordinates. Three eras of vaccine availability were identified: (1) Intermediate; (2) Scarcity (May 2021); and (3) Abundance (November and December 2021). During vaccine shortages, more deprived and ethnically concentrated urban areas had greater vaccine accessibility than less deprived areas, while rural areas had no access. During other periods, more deprived urban areas either showed higher accessibility or no significant difference compared to less deprived areas; however, rural deprived areas generally had lower accessibility than urban areas.
Conclusions
During COVID-19 vaccine scarcity or abundance, deprived and ethnically concentrated urban areas had similar or enhanced access compared to less deprived areas. However, rural deprived areas experienced lower accessibility. Access to pharmacies can be enhanced in rural deprived areas by incentivization and outreach. Further research examining whether this accessibility variance influenced vaccine uptake and infection rates.
Kindness is lesser preferable than happiness: Investigating interest in different effects of the Loving-kindness and Compassion Meditations
Authors: DENG Yanhe , WANG Wen , DU Taoyuan , ZENG Xianglong
Published: June 2024

The primary purpose of the Loving-kindness and Compassion Meditations (LKCM) in Buddhism was the cultivation of kindness, but many modern LKCM trainings focused on happiness, and even used the “kindness for happiness” strategy that advocate cultivation of kindness for the benefit of happiness. This study investigated whether cultivating kindness was lesser desired than enhancing happiness for potential trainees, and it impacts on LKCM training. Study 1 recruited 583 university students, study 2 involved 1075 participants from a 4-week online LKCM training. The measures included interest in meditation trainings that focused on emotional happiness, kind attitudes and other effects. Two studies cohesively supported kind attitudes were the least desired effects, and study 2 showed that higher interest in meditations on Emotional Well-being predicted increases in personal happiness. In summary, this study provided first evidence that trainees’ preference on potential effects of LKCM existed and linked with effects of training. It suggested the hedonic bias in modern positive psychology is facilitated by trainees, and encouraged further attention in the philosophical and ethical issues in the trainings. The intervention program has been retrospectively registered with the PRS on May 17, 2024, under registration number NCT06424951.
Developing of tunable attenuatter of laser beam via ZnSe thin films
Authors: Mahdi Suroor , Ali Huda Saadi
Published: June 2024

Zinc selenide thin films (ZnSe) were prepared using (ZnCl2 & Na2SeO3) compounds by deposited by spray pyrolysis technique on glass substrates under the temperature of( 200 C°), with different molar concentrations (0.05-0.075-0.1) mol/L and then annealed at a temperature of (450 C°), where it is observed that when the molar concentration increases, the thickness increases and also when the temperature increases, The results of (FE-SEM) that the surface composition has changed from a spherical Particles shape of thin films before annealing to regular, more compact spherical shapes within the Nanoscale range and smaller size. As for the results of the optical properties, it noted that the value of absorbance increases with increasing molar concentration at the point of absorption in the wavelength (320nm) before and after annealing, the results of the Photoluminescence (PL) examination Approached the visible when the violet color before annealing, after annealing, it approached more to the ultraviolet area, as well as the intensity increased, but when the concentration increased, we get the excitement of higher intensity and it was found that the band gap increases with increasing concentration (3.52- 3.70)eV and also increases after annealing (3.60 – 3.76)eV. The Laser (PSU-H-FDA) with a wavelength (473nm) and pulse laser device of the type (Fiber Laser-1064nm-100W), the input power (130 mW),(34W) respectively for all thin films it was found that the highest attenuation of laser radiation was at the higher concentration(0.1mol/L) the lower the Power transmittance(25mW) and (11W) as well as after annealing.
Climatology and trends of Atmospheric Water Vapour Transport in New Zealand
Authors: Krishna Nithin , Kingston Daniel , Mager Sarah
Published: June 2024

Atmospheric moisture transport is crucial for understanding New Zealand's climate dynamics, particularly in influencing extreme precipitation events. While the majority of previous studies have focussed on Atmospheric Rivers (ARs), this study examines the entire spectrum of water vapour transport and its link to extreme precipitation using 40 years (1981–2020) of Integrated Water Vapour Transport (IVT) data over the region. Although ARs are important drivers of extreme precipitation, they are infrequent as they only account for less than 10% of total moisture transport at most coastal locations. Extreme water vapour transport (defined by the 90th percentile IVT threshold) corresponds more closely with precipitation extremes than ARs alone, even using an expanded AR detection range. Here, IVT is classified into strength categories from weak to strong. Over the study period, all but the weakest category of IVT has increased in frequency of occurrence over most of South Island, while decreasing in northern North Island. Similarly, monthly IVT anomaly trends show a positive trend in the South Island and negative trend in the northern North Island during warmer months. Separate analysis of windspeed and total column water (TCW) reveals the driving factors underpinning these IVT trends: TCW has increased universally across New Zealand, while windspeed has decreased in more northern regions. Correspondingly, these findings indicate the importance of analysis both dynamic and thermodynamic factors in seeking to understand hydrometeorological variation and when investigating the responses to climate change.
Vortex force map method to estimate unsteady forces from snapshot flowfield measurements
Authors: Otomo Shuji , Gehlert Pascal , Babinsky Holger , Li Juan
Published: June 2024

An accurate non-intrusive force measurement is challenging in many situations especially those involving animals and vehicles. This paper reports a non-intrusive technique based on the vortex force map (VFM) method, which computes forces from snapshot velocity and vorticity fields obtained from the particle image velocimetry (PIV) flow measurement. This study is the first application of the VFM method to PIV velocity data. The VFM method is applied to three different kinematic families for surging flat plates and pitching NACA~0018 aerofoils at Reynolds numbers of O(104), where flowfields are characterised by a massive flow separation with the shedding of the coherent leading-edge vortex and trailing-edge vortex. In all three cases, we observe a remarkable agreement between the direct force measurements and the VFM method even if a relatively small region around aerofoils is captured for PIV. Moreover, physical explanations of the linkage between the forces and vortical structures are provided based on the visualised force contribution of each vortex. The VFM method is highly robust to noise (a significant feature in experimental fluid mechanics) and can be applied to snapshot data.
Cross Comparison of Traditional and Innovative Trend Methodologies to Understand Climate Change Process
Authors: Tuncer Gamze , Sönmez Osman , Dabanli Ismail
Published: June 2024

The impacts of climate change have been markedly observed worldwide, particularly since the 1990s. To understand, adapt to, and prepare for the adverse consequences of climate change, it is necessary to analyze hydroclimatic parameters such as precipitation, temperature, and humidity. Assessing the average characteristics of these parameters is essential for future measures and adaptation strategies. Addressing climate change involves two main approaches: analysis of past events and generation of future projections. Trend analysis serves as a method for understanding past records. A comparative examination of well-established and recent innovative methodologies offers new insights into the dynamics of change. For this purpose, the Mann-Kendall test, Innovative Sen (ITA), and Innovative Polygon Method (IPTA) are applied, and their outcomes are compared by evaluating the record period spanning from 1966 to 2022. While the Mann-Kendall trend test generally does not imply a significant trend, the ITA approach provides outputs that should be considered for future flood and drought studies. A decreasing trend in precipitation alongside increasing trends in temperature and humidity are observed throughout the studied basin. The ITA method detected both increasing and decreasing trends in almost all of the data whereas no trend was observed according to the Mann-Kendall test. Moreover, the IPTA method provides a more detailed analysis of the time series. Consequently, it is inferred that the IPTA and ITA approaches exhibit greater sensitivity compared to the Mann-Kendall test in detecting trends.
Data-driven optimal control with neural network modeling of gradient flows
Authors: TIAN XUPING , Ganapathysubramanian Baskar , Liu Hailiang
Published: June 2024

Extracting physical laws from observation data is a central challenge in many diverse areas of science and engineering. We propose Optimal Control Neural Networks (OCN) to learn the laws of vector fields in dynamical systems, with no assumption on their analytical form, given data consisting of sampled trajectories. The OCN framework consists of a neural network representation and an optimal control formulation. We provide error bounds for both the solution and the vector field. The bounds are shown to depend on both the training error and the time step between the observation data. We also demonstrate the effectiveness of OCN, as well as its generalization ability, by testing on several canonical systems, including the chaotic Lorenz system.
The D’Oignies Herbarium: Contents and Origins of an early 18th Century Dutch Plant Collection in the Netherlands
Authors: Offerhaus Aleida , Andel Tinde van , Stefanaki Anastasia , Porck Henk , Kardinaal Adriaan , Bertin Alice
Published: June 2024

A little over 200 years ago an anonymous 18th-century herbarium was bought at auction by the National Library in The Hague. Until recently, not only did nobody know where this herbarium originated, its mystery was also surrounded by its content, beautifully dried plant specimens accompanied by garbled names. In 1868 it was handed over to the National Herbarium in Leiden (later incorporated in Naturalis Biodiversity Centre). The lack of scientific attention seemed at odds with the beauty and the possible historic relevance of this herbarium. We studied 796 digitised specimens, identifying 618 unique plant species in the process. Remarkable was the high number of exotic-, and non-medicinal, indigenous species. By determining their native range, comparing the herbarium with other, contemporary herbaria, studying paper and bindings, retracing the identity of one-time owner Simone D’Oignies, and in particular tracing the origin of the names, we were able to assess when it was made and what the scientific and societal value was. Our initial impression - that the D’Oignies herbarium was a garden herbarium - was eventually confirmed by information that upon his death, Jakob Ligtvoet (1686-1752), head gardener of the Leiden botanical garden, owned a herbarium with all the characteristics of this herbarium. Comparison with its twin herbarium, the Zierikee herbarium, convinced us that – contrary to earlier research by the author - it was the D’Oignies herbarium that matched the description of the herbarium once owned by Ligtvoet. However, both were created and kept by the gardeners of the Leiden botanical garden.
Optimal Design and Sensitivity Analysis of welded structure and Support Vector Machine application Prediction
Authors: Jueyendah Sebghatullah , Martins Carlos Humberto
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of welding design parameters and optimum cost design via Geometric Programming (GP) and the Lingo Program (LP). The first section begins with basic definitions and steps for transforming problems into the GP format, followed by comparing the GP and LP with several other optimization methods. This comparison demonstrates that GP is an effective, robust, and reliable method for optimizing linear and nonlinear problems, whereas Lingo is a simple and suitable program for locating optimal values and analyzing the solutions to engineering problems. The next part of the study concerned sensitivity analysis of the problem and determining the sensitivity of the optimal solution to certain changes in the original model. To perform sensitivity analysis, the optimal response and design parameters of the welded beam for a certain percentage of changes in P, L, бd, and τd values were evaluated and plotted as diagrams. Sensitivity analysis is a crucial component of optimization, as it determines the percentage of change at which the optimal response remains constant. To this end, the support vector machine (SVM) is trained using data from optimal design conditions. In this study, the SVM was utilized to predict the weld thickness variable (h), weld length variable (l), bar thickness (t), bar width (b), and objective function (FX). After successful testing, the model accurately predicted the parameters above, adhering to all design constraints.This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of welding design parameters and optimum cost design via Geometric Programming (GP) and the Lingo Program (LP). The first section begins with basic definitions and steps for transforming problems into the GP format, followed by comparing the GP and LP with several other optimization methods. This comparison demonstrates that GP is an effective, robust, and reliable method for optimizing linear and nonlinear problems, whereas Lingo is a simple and suitable program for locating optimal values and analyzing the solutions to engineering problems. The next part of the study concerned sensitivity analysis of the problem and determining the sensitivity of the optimal solution to certain changes in the original model. To perform sensitivity analysis, the optimal response and design parameters of the welded beam for a certain percentage of changes in P, L, бd, and τd values were evaluated and plotted as diagrams. Sensitivity analysis is a crucial component of optimization, as it determines the percentage of change at which the optimal response remains constant. To this end, the support vector machine (SVM) is trained using data from optimal design conditions. In this study, the SVM was utilized to predict the weld thickness variable (h), weld length variable (l), bar thickness (t), bar width (b), and objective function (FX). After successful testing, the model accurately predicted the parameters above, adhering to all design constraints.
MANAGEMENT OF GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE THROUGH AYURVEDA: A CASE STUDY
Authors:   Founder, Chairman and Managing Director, Ayushakti Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd, Malad, Mumbai., Naram Smita , Gawali Komal ,   Research Head & Consulting Ayurveda Physician, Ayushakti Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd, Malad, Mumbai., Parekh Hemang ,   Medical Head & Consulting Physician, Ayurveda Physician, Ayushakti Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd, Malad, Mumbai.
Published: June 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common gastrointestinal ailment. Its symptoms include heartburn and regurgitation, epigastric pain, dysphagia, belching, nausea, bloating, etc.General line of treatment includes antacids, histamine-receptor antagonists (H2RAs), and proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). If medication treatment fails, patients may require surgical intervention, such as anti-reflux surgery, with varying outcomes for long-term care. This condition can be co-related with Amlapitta described in Ayurveda text. In present case study a 48-year-old patient having chief complaints as acid eructation, burning sensation in the chest (retrosternal burning), episodes of pain in the chest and nauseawere clinically diagnosed as case of amlapitta(corelated with GERD). The patient was treated with specific regimen - Tab Pittashamak, Tab Gulkacid, Tab Vruddhihar and mahatiktaghrita in prescribed dose. Therapeutic evaluation of treatment was done based on improvement in sign & symptoms. Patient was cured completely with no reoccurrence of symptomseven after 3 months. A chronic case of GERD was successfully treated with ayurvedic medicine along with diet and lifestyle modification.
Mesterséges Intelligencia az edzéstervezésben
Authors: Góczán Pál , Biróné Ilics Katalin , Nagyváradi Katalin
Published: June 2024

Bevezetés: a mesterséges intelligencia (MI) napjaink digitális forradalmának központi eleme, ami számos ponton a mindennapi életünk része lett. Szoftveralapú típusai közé tartoznak például a virtuális asszisztensek, képelemző szoftverek, míg a fizikai MI-k a különböző robotok, vagy az önvezető autók. A mesterséges intelligencia a sport területén is jelentős segítséget nyújthat mind a szabadidő-mind pedig a versenysportban. A mozgások, játékstratégiák vizsgálatával vagy sérülések kockázati elemzésével járulhat hozzá a teljesítmény növeléshez. Cél: munkánkban a mesterséges intelligencia és a sport részletesebb kapcsolatát vizsgáljuk. Arra keressük a választ, hogy képes e az MI személyre szabott, hatékony edzéstervet készíteni? Illetve, milyen adatok szükségesek egy edzésterv összeállításához? Módszer: ChatGPT 3.5 segítségével gyűjtöttük össze az edzésterv elkészítéséhez szükséges paramétereket, melyek megadásával generáltunk egy konkrét, 3000 méteres síkfutásra való 6 hetes felkészítő tervet. Eredmények és következtetés: az edzésterv a szakirodalmak és a vezető edző által készített terv alapján is alkalmasnak látszik a felkészítéshez. A hatékonyság elemzését későbbi vizsgálatunkban széles körű edzés monitorozással végezzük.
Liposomal formulations of metallophthalocyanines-nanoparticle conjugates for hypoxic photodynamic therapy and photoelectrocatalysis
Authors:   , Nwahara Nnamdi Ugochinyere
Published: June 2024

This thesis investigates new strategies to enhance the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) under hypoxic conditions using in-vitro cancer cell models. Phthalocyanines are chosen as viable photosensitizer complexes owing to the favourable absorption properties. To this end, this thesis reports on the synthesis and photophysicochemical properties of various zinc and silicon phthalocyanines (Pcs). To afford better photophysicochemical properties, the reported Pcs were conjugated to different nanoparticles (NPs) through chemisorption as well as amide bond formation to yield Pc-NP conjugates. All the studied Pcs showed relatively high triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields corresponding to their low fluorescence quantum yields. The various mechanisms for hypoxic response include (i) Type I PDT, (ii) PDT coupled with oxygen-independent therapy and (iii) in-situ oxygen generation using catalase-mimicking nanoparticles which serve to supplement in-vitro oxygen concentrations using MPcs or MPc-NPs conjugates. The mechanisms were assessed using electrochemical, computational techniques and catalase mimicking experiments. The as-synthesised Pcs or Pc-NPs were subjected to liposomal loading before PDT studies which led to enhanced biocompatibility and aqueous dispersity. The in-vitro dark cytotoxicity tests and photodynamic therapy activities of the fabricated Pc-liposomes and Pc-NPs-liposomes on either Henrietta Lacks (HeLa) or Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) breast cancer cells are presented herein. This work further showed that folic acid (FA) functionalization of liposomes could be exploited for active drug delivery and herein led to an almost 3-fold increase in drug uptake vs non-FA functionalised liposomes in accordance with folate receptor (FR) expression levels between HeLa and MCF-7 cells. The in-vitro dark cytotoxicity and photodynamic therapy of selected Pc complexes and conjugates were accessed using MCF-7 and HeLa cell lines. The various mechanisms; (i) Type I PDT, (ii) PDT coupled with oxygen -independent therapy and (iii) in-situ oxygen generation using catalase-mimicking nanoparticles were shown to adequately compensate for the otherwise attenuation of PDT activity under hypoxia.
Action Research reflecting the process of a collaborative, multi-theoretical group intervention with foster parents of children affected by childhood trauma
Authors:   , Cahill Susan Mary
Published: June 2024

Children are received into the Care of the State in the Republic of Ireland due to chronic or acute maltreatment in their families of origin. Maltreatment may include neglect; physical, sexual, or emotional abuse; exposure to domestic violence; or a combination of these. Resulting emotional and behavioural consequences may be challenging to foster parents who might experience stress, secondary trauma, compassion fatigue or burnout, which along with the child’s emotional and behavioural difficulties can result in placement breakdown. After reviewing the literature on fostering internationally and in Ireland, this study sought to determine the types and level of stress in a sample of foster parents and the types of challenging emotional and behavioural difficulties of their fostered children. Results revealed that foster parents found fostering stressful; factors included biological parents; organisational issues; and the child’s behaviour. According to the foster parents, nearly 60% of the foster children in this sample were showing high levels of emotional and behavioural distress. These difficulties differed according to age and gender. Adolescent Girls and Young Boys (5 – 11 years) were reported as having the most difficulties, including symptoms of behavioural and Conduct Disorder (CD). Symptoms associated with CD were reported in at least 40% of every age and gender category of children over five years. Further, this study outlines the development, facilitation and outcomes of a small group psychoeducational-reflective foster parenting Course, involving six separate groups of parents (n=38) each meeting for eight sessions. In this Course, foster children were conceptualised from a bio-psycho-social-ecological viewpoint, utilising theoretical concepts from Prenatal Development, Attachment and Trauma, pertaining to vulnerable children to illustrate the cumulative effects of adversities. Time for discussion and reflection on the material was structured into the Course. This combination of knowledge, practical skills, reflection and support for parents aimed to promote healing relationship-based practices for the child within their foster home. This multi-faceted study was grounded in Community Psychology, using mixed methods to gather data during action research processes, to reflect the different components of an action cycle. Ideas and modifications to the Course based on feedback from the foster parent participants’ experiences have been included. It is recommended that the Course be provided to other foster parents and audiences such as social workers, teachers and solicitors. Furthermore, suggestions are made regarding assessment, diagnosis and interventions for foster children and parents, based on a multidisciplinary consultancy model.
Comparison of different treatment methods which are used for phenol removal: A mini review
Authors: Patel Mahesh , Patel Dharmendra , Pillai Parwathi
Published: June 2024

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the various adsorption methods developed over time for phenol removal. Phenolic substances pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. If not properly controlled and treated before discharge, industrial effluents contaminated with phenol can cause detrimental effects on surface and groundwater resources. In comparison with advanced treatments such as ozonation, UV therapy, and the Fenton process, which are associated with higher energy costs, conventional physicochemical treatment methods like adsorption, chemical treatment, membrane filtration, and distillation offer superior removal efficiencies. Pistachio nut shell ash, Moringa peregrina tree shell ash, agricultural fibres, red mud, low-cost clay, olive mill waste, natural zeolites, rubber seed coat, peat, fly ash, and bentonite are just a few examples of the adsorbents and adsorption processes that have been used in literature to remove phenol and its derivatives. For instance, biosorption has been shown to be a successful technique with room for further study in this area regarding regeneration and cost–effectiveness. As a result, numerous researchers in the field of phenolic treatment have emphasized the effectiveness of physicochemical processes over time. Furthermore, additional investigation is required to determine the practical application of inexpensive adsorbents on commercial basis.
Flood inundation mapping under climate change scenarios: insights from CMIP6
Authors: Sadiqzai Hazrat Younus , Khan Afed Ullah , Khan Fayaz Ahmad , Ullah Basir , Khan Jehanzeb
Published: June 2024

The present research endeavors to simulate daily stream flow by employing hydrologic and hydraulic modeling techniques to comprehensively assess the impact of climate change on flood risk. This investigation was conducted within the Shekhan basin, situated in the eighth zone of Jalalabad City, Afghanistan. The efficacy of the HEC-HMS model was meticulously evaluated for each individual flood event during both calibration (Jan/2015-October/2019) and validation (November/2019-July/2022) phases using various statistical performance indicators, notably the coefficient of determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and percent bias (PBIAS). During calibration, the HEC-HMS model yielded R2, NSE, and PBIAS values of 0.8795, 0.86, and 12%, respectively, while during validation, these metrics stood at 0.85, 0.8, and 9%, respectively. Among the five GCM models (INM-CM4-8, INM-CM5-0, MIROC6, MPI-ESM1-2-LR, MRI-ESM-2-0) examined, the MPI-ESM1-2-LR demonstrated superior performance based on Taylor Skill Score and Rating Metric analysis. Additionally, the HEC-SSP was employed to scrutinize precipitation frequency and to fit ranking distributions for GCM SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios. Subsequently, the aforementioned GCM data were utilized in hydrologic modeling to generate hydrographs for various return periods, while hydraulic modeling via the HEC-RAS 2D model facilitated the creation of flood inundation maps for different return periods.