bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Members Selection for the Expansion of Energy Communities
Authors: Mustika Alyssa Diva , Rigo-Mariani Rémy , Debusschere Vincent , Pachurka Amaury
Published: September 2022

Energy communities are key enablers for end-users to actively participate in the energy transition in a more consumer-centric context. This paper focuses on the expansion of existing energy communities that may need to select new members among a pool of candidates. Selection is based on heuristic methods for better explainability and to promote a transparent selection process from end-users’ perspectives. The proposed methodology is further verified with an accurate optimization-based energy management strategy. The member selection is performed in an iterative process where the best potential candidate is added as a new member of the energy community before running the same procedure over successive iterations. Simulations were performed for a complete month with a real community of six houses and nine potential candidates. The proposed rule-based method achieves similar ranks among candidates for two investigated metrics and return the same results as the more accurate optimization. Furthermore, the results show a hint on how to identify the best location (i.e., member) to install new assets that can contribute best to the energy community since it can boost the value brought by the candidates to the community. In that sense, the proposed method also serves as an investment decision support tool as well as a selection strategy for inhabitants of an energy community.
Application of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Based Tools for Modelling and Enhancing Sustainable Optimization of the Classical/Photo-Fenton Processes for the Landfill Leachate Treatment
Authors: Cüce Hüseyin , Özçelik Duygu
Published: September 2022

This study presents a machine learning (ML)/artificial intelligence (AI)-based perspective to reliably predict and enhance the treatment efficiency of landfill leachate by classical-Fenton (c-Fenton) and photo-Fenton (p-Fenton) processes. This experiment also sought to lower treatment costs by evaluating the impact of using different numbers of UV-c (254 nm) lamps during p-Fenton processes, as well as to develop a sustainable process design for landfill leachate. In the modeling stage, the radial basis function neural network (RBFN), the feed forward neural network (FFNN), and the support vector regression (SVR) were used and the results were evaluated in a broad scanning. Our experimental results, optimized with the help of genetic algorithm (GA), showed an increasing trend in treatment efficiency and a decreasing trend in chemical usage amounts for p-Fenton oxidation. The results indicate that both treatment techniques performed (classical and p-Fenton) within 1 h contact time showed a very high pollutant removal with a reduction in COD of approximately 60% and 80%, respectively, during the first 30 min of processing. Additionally, it was noted that the COD elimination for the c-Fenton and the p-Fenton was significantly finished in first 15 min, 52% and 73%, respectively. According to the results of the optimization model, there is an increase from 62 to 82 percent under eight UV lamps compared to seven UV lamps when considering the impact of the number of UV lamps on the treatment efficiency in p-Fenton. It has been noted that when the results are taken as a whole, the better modeling abilities of ML-based models, particularly the RBFN and the FFNN, come to the fore. From a different angle, the FFNN and the RBFNN have both shown percentile errors that are extremely close to zero when MAPE values, a percentile error measure independent of the unit of the data set, are evaluated alone. Except for two tests whose desirability levels are still around 99.99%, all experiments attained outstanding desirability levels of 100.00%. This serves as more evidence for the higher modeling performance of these ML-based approaches.
The Vision of Future Primary School Teachers as to Education for Sustainable Development from a Competency-Based Approach
Authors: Lorente-Echeverría Silvia , Canales-Lacruz Inma , Murillo-Pardo Berta
Published: September 2022

This study was established as an interpretive or phenomenological approach, based on a content analysis of the vision of future primary education teachers for education for sustainable development and its relationship with professional sustainability competencies. The sample consisted of 367 people—113 men, 247 women, and 7 who preferred not to say—with an average age of 21.82 ± 2.56, all of whom were studying for a Primary Education teaching degree at the Universities of Zaragoza and Granada in Spain. The content analysis process followed the phases proposed by Bardin: pre-analysis, based on an adaptation of the Cebrián and Junyent questionnaire; exploitation of the material, wherein the fragments to be coded were selected and coded one by one, by consensus between the three researchers; data processing and interpretation, using the QRS NVIVO 11 software. The main results show that respect, coexistence, and collaboration are the normative principles that regulate behavior and that the competencies related to education for sustainability have to do with managing emotions, critical thinking, clarifying values, and contextualizing problems. Furthermore, there is a lack of pragmatism that shows the need to develop the field of education for sustainable development through experiential, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and critical educational plans and projects.
Risk of Poverty Returning to the Tibetan Area of Gansu Province in China
Authors: Wang Yao-bin , Zhao Jin-hang , Yao Rong , Zhao Rui-tao , Li Ying
Published: September 2022

Based on the comprehensive analysis framework of the risk of returning to poverty, this study constructed an evaluation index system for the risk of returning to poverty to tourism villages in Tibetan areas of Gansu Province. Principal component analysis and K-means clustering algorithm were adopted to analyze the risk of returning to poverty for characteristic tourism villages in Tiantang Village, Gaxiu Village, and Cirina Village. The results show that tourism villages in Tibetan areas of Gansu are at a moderate risk of returning to poverty, but a few poverty-stricken households still face a high risk of returning to poverty; in addition, financial capital and human capital are the main components of the risk of poverty alleviation. Income level is the most important factor influencing the risk of returning to poverty. Fixed assets, skill training, distance of scenic spots, income source and housing structure also have an important impact on the risk of returning to poverty. Finally, an early warning mechanism consisting of risk assessment, determination of warning signs, identification of warning degree, warning source search, and risk prevention is necessary. To prevent the risk of tourism villages in Gansu Tibetan areas returning to poverty, it is necessary to protect livelihoods, resist the impact of risk, and improve the developmental environment.
One World, Two Ideas and Three Adaptations: Innovation Intermediaries Enabling Sustainable Open Innovation in University–Industry Collaboration in Finland, Mexico and Nicaragua
Authors: Koria Mikko , Osorno-Hinojosa Roberto , Ramírez-Vázquez Delia del Carmen , van den Broek Antonius
Published: September 2022

Sharing global knowledge and practices while adapting them to local contexts is a central concern in innovation and sustainable development. In this paper, we examined how intermediary organisations promoting innovation can foster and enable the diffusion and local adaptation of knowledge, practices of open innovation and collaboration between universities, firms and social innovators. We studied three longitudinal, interlinked cases from Finland, Mexico and Nicaragua, moving from highly industrialised to emerging-economy contexts. We traced how innovation intermediaries support developing cultures of collaboration and the value co-creation by diffusing knowledge, getting actors together, sharing activities and supporting the engagement between organisations. Through observation, interviews, participatory action and self-reflection, we proposed a stepwise generic model for diffusion and adaptation. We argued that all steps and roles must co-exist to achieve successful transfers, and noted the evolutionary nature of the process and the importance of aligning the interests and activities of the actors. We contributed to sustainable development goals through the global diffusion of open innovation knowledge within the collaboration of universities, firms and social innovators. We noted the limitations of addressing three cases, while proposing directions for further research on the capabilities of actors, collaboration practices and the co-creation of value by actors.
Non-Linear Programming-Based Energy Management for a Wind Farm Coupled with Pumped Hydro Storage System
Authors: Jamii Jannet , Trabelsi Mohamed , Mansouri Majdi , Mimouni Mohamed Fouazi , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: September 2022

The large-scale integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) has become one of the most challenging topics in smart grids. Indeed, such an integration has been causing significant grid stability issues (voltage and frequency control) due to the dependency of RESs on meteorological conditions. To this end, their integration must be accompanied by alternative sources of energy to attenuate the power fluctuations. Energy storage systems (ESSs) can provide such flexibility by mitigating local peaks/drops in load demands/renewable power generation. Therefore, the development of energy management strategies (EMSs) has been attracting considerable attention in the management of the power generated from the RESs associated with that which is stored/provided by the ESSs. Then, the optimization of the EMS leads to substantial savings in operation and maintenance and to correct decisions for the future. This study presents an optimized EMS for a wind farm, coupled with a pumped hydro energy system (PHES). The proposed day-ahead EMS consists of two stages, namely the forecasting and the optimization stages. The forecasting module is responsible for predicting the wind power generation and load demand. A random forest (RF) method is used to perform the power forecasting after the extraction of the weather data features using a kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) technique. Then, a nonlinear programming (NLP)-based optimization technique is proposed to define the day-ahead optimal energy of the PHES. The purpose of the optimization is to maximize the profit cost in a day-ahead horizon, taking into consideration the system constraints.
Orthodontic Perspective for Face Asymmetry Correction
Authors: Ko Ellen Wen-Ching , Huang Chiung Shing , Lin Cheng-Hui , Chen Yu-Ray
Published: September 2022

Facial symmetry affects the perception of facial beauty. Overall, facial harmony with an appropriate facial proportion and satisfactory midline facial symmetry are crucial factors for facial attractiveness. The role of orthodontists in correcting facial asymmetry begins with providing suitable diagnosis of the condition and identifying patients’ expectations. Through a thorough, subjective clinical evaluation of dentofacial asymmetry, the procedures for the surgical orthodontic management of facial asymmetry are discussed. The aim of this clinical review is to provide information on surgical indications for facial asymmetry, optimal treatment goals, presurgical orthodontic preparation, the surgery-first approach, three-dimensional (3D) surgical simulation, postsurgical orthodontic finishing, and treatment outcome evaluation. A comprehensive 3D diagnosis with appropriate planning, accurate transference of surgical simulation to real surgery, slight overcorrection, periodic assessment of treatment outcomes, and awareness of treatment limitations are essential to improve treatment outcomes of facial asymmetry.
Considerations for Gain Selection of Feedforward Active EMI Filters
Authors: Chung Se-Kyo , Kang Byeong-Geuk
Published: September 2022

The reduction of the electromagnetic interference (EMI) is an important issue in the design of switching power converters. The passive EMI filter has been widely used for the reduction of the conducted EMI. The active EMI filter (AEF) has recently been considered as a useful alternate for the small sized implementation. This paper deals with an optimal design of a voltage sensing and voltage cancellation (VSVC) type feedforward AEF. The ideal feedforward AEF is theoretically stable because it does not have any feedback loop. However, some non-ideal factors such as the source and load impedances cause the unstable operation of the AEF for certain AEF gains, which limits the magnitude of the gain and degrades the performance of the AEF. In order to overcome this problem, the method of selecting the optimum AEF gain is studied with considering both the stability and AEF performance using the concept of the symmetry. The characteristics of the cancellation loop for the AEF including the source and load impedances is first investigated in view of the stability. The boundary of the maximum AEF gain to ensure the stable operation is then discussed based on the theoretic analysis and experimental works for the actual AEF. The results can be used for implementing the AEF with the optimum EMI reduction performance.
An Algorithm Based on Unions of Nonexpansive Mappings in Metric Spaces
Authors: Zaslavski Alexander J.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we obtain two extensions of a recent result of Tam, which was proved for iterates of set-valued paracontracting operators in a finite-dimensional space. Our results are obtained for operators in an arbitrary metric space. In the first result, we study exact iterates of the set-valued mapping, while in the second one, we deal with its inexact iterates, taking computational errors into account. In a particular case of a Banach space, if all the operators are symmetric, then the set of all limit points of iterates is symmetric too.
Fourier Series Expansion and Integral Representation of Apostol-Type Frobenius–Euler Polynomials of Complex Parameters and Order α
Authors: Corcino Cristina , Corcino Roberto , Casquejo Jeremar
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the Fourier series expansions of Apostol-type Frobenius–Euler polynomials of complex parameters and order α are derived, and consequently integral representations of these polynomials are established. This paper provides some techniques in computing the symmetries of the defining equation of Apostol-type Frobenius–Euler polynomials resulting in their expansions and integral representations.
Quadratic First Integrals of Constrained Autonomous Conservative Dynamical Systems with Fixed Energy
Authors: Mitsopoulos Antonios , Tsamparlis Michael
Published: September 2022

We consider autonomous conservative dynamical systems which are constrained with the condition that the total energy of the system has a specified value. We prove a theorem which provides the quadratic first integrals (QFIs), time-dependent and autonomous, of these systems in terms of the symmetries (conformal Killing vectors and conformal Killing tensors) of the kinetic metric. It is proved that there are three types of QFIs and for each type we give explicit formulae for their computation. It is also shown that when the autonomous QFIs are considered, then we recover the known results of previous works. For a zero potential function, we have the case of constrained geodesics and obtain formulae to compute their QFIs. The theorem is applied in two cases. In the first case, we determine potentials which admit the second of the three types of QFIs. We recover a superintegrable potential of the Ermakov type and a new integrable potential whose trajectories for zero energy and zero QFI are circles. In the second case, we integrate the constrained geodesic equations for a family of two-dimensional conformally flat metrics.
The Characterizations of Parallel q-Equidistant Ruled Surfaces
Authors: Li Yanlin , Şenyurt Süleyman , Özduran Ahmet , Canlı Davut
Published: September 2022

In this paper, parallel q-equidistant ruled surfaces are defined such that the binormal vectors of given two differentiable curves are parallel along the striction curves of their corresponding binormal ruled surfaces, and the distance between the asymptotic planes is constant at proper points, which is related to symmetry. The characterizations and some other useful relations are drawn for these surfaces as well. If the surfaces are considered to be closed, then the integral invariants such as the pitch, the angle of the pitch, and the drall of them are given. Finally, some examples are presented to indicate that the distance between the proper points on the corresponding asymptotic planes is always constant.
Application of Augmented Reality for Learning Material Structures and Chemical Equilibrium in High School Chemistry
Authors: Tarng Wernhuar , Tseng Yu-Cheng , Ou Kuo-Liang
Published: September 2022

Material structures and chemical equilibrium are important learning units in high school chemistry. In this study, an augmented reality (AR) system is developed to assist high school students in learning chemistry. Students can use AR cards to conduct virtual chemistry experiments, and the submicroscopic view of a chemical reaction will be displayed according to the chemical equation specified by the reactants and coefficients on AR cards. They can change the AR cards to observe the experimental results and obtain the simplest integer ratio in a chemical equation. It is helpful for understanding that a chemical reaction changes the composition of reactants to form new products and that the process obeys the law of conservation of mass. Empirical research has been conducted in which the experimental group used the AR system and the control group used the traditional teaching method for learning chemistry. The analytical results show that the AR system is more effective than the traditional teaching method, especially for low-achievement students. The questionnaire results indicate that the learning motivation of the experimental group was slightly higher than that of the control group, and the cognitive load was slightly lower than that of the control group, both without achieving a significant difference.
Microalgal Phycoremediation: A Glimpse into a Sustainable Environment
Authors: Pradhan Biswajita , Bhuyan Prajna Paramita , Nayak Rabindra , Patra Srimanta , Behera Chhandashree , Ki Jang-Seu , Ragusa Andrea , Lukatkin Alexander S. , Jena Mrutyunjay
Published: September 2022

Microalgae are continually exposed to heavy metals and metalloids (HMMs), which stifles their development and reproduction due to the resulting physiological and metabolic abnormalities, leading to lower crop productivity. They must thus change their way of adapting to survive in such a hostile environment without sacrificing their healthy growth, development, reproductive capacity, or survival. The mode of adaptation involves a complex relationship of signalling cascades that govern gene expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels, which consequently produces altered but adapted biochemical and physiochemical parameters. Algae have been reported to have altered their physicochemical and molecular perspectives as a result of exposure to a variety of HMMs. Hence, in this review, we focused on how microalgae alter their physicochemical and molecular characteristics as a tolerance mechanism in response to HMM-induced stress. Furthermore, physiological and biotechnological methods can be used to enhance extracellular absorption and clean up. The introduction of foreign DNA into microalgae cells and the genetic alteration of genes can boost the bio-accumulation and remediation capabilities of microalgae. In this regard, microalgae represent an excellent model organism and could be used for HMM removal in the near future.
Copper Effect on Microalgae: Toxicity and Bioremediation Strategies
Authors: Cavalletti Elena , Romano Giovanna , Palma Esposito Fortunato , Barra Lucia , Chiaiese Pasquale , Balzano Sergio , Sardo Angela
Published: September 2022

Microalgae are increasingly recognised as suitable microorganisms for heavy metal (HM) removal, since they are able to adsorb them onto their cell wall and, in some cases, compartmentalise them inside organelles. However, at relatively high HM concentrations, they could also show signs of stress, such as organelle impairments and increased activities of antioxidant enzymes. The main aim of this review is to report on the mechanisms adopted by microalgae to counteract detrimental effects of high copper (Cu) concentrations, and on the microalgal potential for Cu bioremediation of aquatic environments. Studying the delicate balance between beneficial and detrimental effects of Cu on microalgae is of particular relevance as this metal is widely present in aquatic environments facing industrial discharges. This metal often induces chloroplast functioning impairment, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and growth rate reduction in a dose-dependent manner. However, microalgae also possess proteins and small molecules with protective role against Cu and, in general, metal stress, which increase their resistance towards these pollutants. Our critical literature analysis reveals that microalgae can be suitable indicators of Cu pollution in aquatic environments, and could also be considered as components of eco-sustainable devices for HM bioremediation in association with other organisms.
Influence of Agronomic Factors on Mycotoxin Contamination in Maize and Changes during a 10-Day Harvest-Till-Drying Simulation Period: A Different Perspective
Authors: Borràs-Vallverdú Bernat , Ramos Antonio J. , Cantero-Martínez Carlos , Marín Sonia , Sanchis Vicente , Fernández-Ortega Jesús
Published: September 2022

Agronomic factors can affect mycotoxin contamination of maize, one of the most produced cereals. Maize is usually harvested at 18% moisture, but it is not microbiologically stable until it reaches 14% moisture at the drying plants. We studied how three agronomic factors (crop diversification, tillage system and nitrogen fertilization rate) can affect fungal and mycotoxin contamination (deoxynivalenol and fumonisins B1 and B2) in maize at harvest. In addition, changes in maize during a simulated harvest-till-drying period were studied. DON content at harvest was higher for maize under intensive tillage than using direct drilling (2695 and 474 μg kg−1, respectively). We found two reasons for this: (i) soil crusting in intensive tillage plots caused the formation of pools of water that created high air humidity conditions, favouring the development of DON-producing moulds; (ii) the population of Lumbricus terrestris, an earthworm that would indirectly minimize fungal infection and mycotoxin production on maize kernels, is reduced in intensive tillage plots. Therefore, direct drilling is a better approach than intensive tillage for both preventing DON contamination and preserving soil quality. Concerning the simulated harvest-till-drying period, DON significantly increased between storage days 0 and 5. Water activity dropped on the 4th day, below the threshold for DON production (around 0.91). From our perspective, this study constitutes a step forward towards understanding the relationships between agronomic factors and mycotoxin contamination in maize, and towards improving food safety.
Examination of Microcystin Adsorption by the Type of Plastic Materials Used during the Procedure of Microcystin Analysis
Authors: Seo Chan , Lee Joo Won , Jung Won-Kyo , Lee Yoon-Mi , Lee Seungjun , Lee Sang Gil
Published: September 2022

The incidence of eutrophication is increasing due to fertilizer abuse and global warming. Eutrophication can induce the proliferation of cyanobacteria such as Microcystis, which produces microcystins. Microcystins are toxic to specific organs such as the liver and the heart. Thus, monitoring of microcystins is strongly required to control drinking water and agricultural product qualities. However, microcystins could be adsorbed by plastic materials during sample storage and preparation, hindering accurate analysis. Therefore, the current study examined the recovery rate of microcystins from six plastics used for containers and eight plastics used for membrane filters. Among the six plastics used for containers, polyethylene terephthalate showed the best recovery rate (≥81.3%) for 48 h. However, polypropylene, polystyrene, and high- and low-density polyethylenes showed significant adsorption after exposure for 1 hr. For membrane materials, regenerated cellulose (≥99.3%) showed the highest recovery rate of microcystins, followed by polyvinylidene fluoride (≥94.1%) and polytetrafluoroethylene (≥95.7%). The adsorption of microcystins appeared to be strongly influenced by various molecular interactions, including hydrophobic interaction, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interaction. In addition, microcystins’ functional residues seemed to be critical factors affecting their adsorption by plastic materials. The present study demonstrates that polyethylene terephthalate and regenerated cellulose membrane are suitable plastic materials for the analysis of microcystins.
Deoxynivalenol and T-2 Toxin as Major Concerns in Durum Wheat from Italy
Authors: Haidukowski Miriam , Somma Stefania , Ghionna Veronica , Cimmarusti Maria Teresa , Masiello Mario , Logrieco Antonio Francesco , Moretti Antonio
Published: September 2022

Fusarium Head Blight is a devastating disease of wheat caused by a complex of Fusarium species producing a wide range of mycotoxins. Fusarium species occurrence is variable in different geographical areas and subjected to a continuous evolution in their distribution. A total of 141 durum wheat field samples were collected in different regions of Italy in three years, and analyzed for Fusarium species and related mycotoxin occurrence. Mycotoxin contamination varied according to year and geographical origin. The highest mycotoxin contamination was detected in 2014. Deoxynivalenol was detected with an average of 240 µg/kg only in Central and Northern Italy; and T-2 and HT-2 toxins with an average of 150 µg/kg in Southern Italy. Approximately 80% of samples from Southern Italy in 2013/2014 showed T-2 and HT-2 levels over the EU recommended limits. Fusarium graminearum occurred mostly in Northern Italy, while F. langsethiae occurred in Southern Italy. These data showed that a real mycotoxin risk related to Fusarium exists on the whole in Italy, but varies according with geographical areas and environmental conditions. Consistent monitoring of Fusarium species and related mycotoxin distribution on a long period is worthwhile to generate more accurate knowledge on Fusarium species profile and mycotoxins associated and better establish the climatic change impact on wheat Fusarium epidemiology.
Leukocyte and IgM Responses to Immunization with the CIDR1α-PfEMP1 Recombinant Protein in the Wistar Rat
Authors: Sulistyaningsih Erma , Wibisono Renaldi , Dewi Rosita
Published: September 2022

The malaria vaccine is an important strategy for the global malaria elimination program, but the complexity of the Plasmodium antigen is a major hurdle in malaria vaccine development. The cysteine-rich interdomain region 1α (CIDR1α) of Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) is crucial in malaria pathogenesis, making it a vaccine candidate. This study investigated the leukocyte and IgM response generated after administering a CIDR1α-PfEMP1 recombinant protein injection in Wistar rats. The rats were divided into a control group, who received a physiological saline solution (PSS), and a treatment group, who were subcutaneously injected with 150 µg of purified CIDR1α-PfEMP1 protein three times at the 3-week interval. Blood samples were collected every week after each injection. The number of leukocytes were counted using a Neubauer chamber, and the IgM concentration was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data were analyzed using an independent, paired-T test, a Mann–Whitney test, and a Wilcoxon test, based on the distribution of the data. The total number of leukocytes notably increased on day 29 (p < 0.05). The percentage of neutrophils decreased, especially on day 8 (p < 0.05), whereas the percentages of monocytes and lymphocytes increased, primarily on day 14 (p < 0.05). The IgM concentration increased on day 14 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the CIDR1α-PfEMP1 recombinant protein may induce leukocyte and IgM responses, making it a potential malaria vaccine candidate.
Health-Related Quality of Life of Tuberculosis Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Conakry, Guinea: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Touré Almamy Amara , Magassouba Aboubacar Sidiki , Camara Gnoume , Doumbouya Abdoulaye , Cissé Diao , Barry Ibrahima , Camara Lansana Mady , Béavogui Abdoul Habib , Delamou Alexandre , Veronese Vanessa , Merle Corinne Simone , Traoré Hugues Asken , Bangoura Adama Marie
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on all facets of life and has exacerbated many challenges faced by people living with tuberculosis (TB). This study aimed to assess the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of TB patients in Guinea during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A mixed methods study was conducted using two validated tools to assess HRQoL and qualitative interviews among TB patients enrolled in treatment at 11 health centers in Conakry, Guinea. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the deterioration of HRQoL. We included 439 participants in the study, among whom 44% and 31% experienced pain and anxiety, respectively. We found that an increase in the number of household size and the distance from participants’ residence to the health centers were significantly associated with lower HRQoL. Qualitative interviews highlighted nutritional and financial issues, which were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic and beliefs that the Guinean Government’s assistance plan was insufficient. This study supports the implementation of specific relief plans for TB patients, which includes nutritional and psychological support, especially those whose movements are limited by travel restrictions, preventing access to TB care, reducing work opportunities and exacerbating financial needs and stress.
Importation, Local Transmission, and Model Selection in Estimating the Transmissibility of COVID-19: The Outbreak in Shaanxi Province of China as a Case Study
Authors: Zhang Xu-Sheng , Xiong Huan , Chen Zhengji , Liu Wei
Published: September 2022

Background: Since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, many models have been applied to understand its epidemiological characteristics. However, the ways in which outbreak data were used in some models are problematic, for example, importation was mixed up with local transmission. Methods: In this study, five models were proposed for the early Shaanxi outbreak in China. We demonstrated how to select a reasonable model and correctly use the outbreak data. Bayesian inference was used to obtain parameter estimates. Results: Model comparison showed that the renewal equation model generates the best model fitting and the Susceptible-Exposed-Diseased-Asymptomatic-Recovered (SEDAR) model is the worst; the performance of the SEEDAR model, which divides the exposure into two stages and includes the pre-symptomatic transmission, and SEEDDAAR model, which further divides infectious classes into two equally, lies in between. The Richards growth model is invalidated by its continuously increasing prediction. By separating continuous importation from local transmission, the basic reproduction number of COVID-19 in Shaanxi province ranges from 0.45 to 0.61, well below the unit, implying that timely interventions greatly limited contact between people and effectively contained the spread of COVID-19 in Shaanxi. Conclusions: The renewal equation model provides the best modelling; mixing continuous importation with local transmission significantly increases the estimate of transmissibility.
Predicting HIV Status among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Bulawayo & Harare, Zimbabwe Using Bio-Behavioural Data, Recurrent Neural Networks, and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Chingombe Innocent , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Cuadros Diego , Mapingure Munyaradzi Paul , Mbunge Elliot , Chaputsira Simbarashe , Madziva Roda , Chiurunge Panashe , Samba Chesterfield , Herrera Helena , Murewanhema Grant , Mugurungi Owen , Musuka Godfrey
Published: September 2022

HIV and AIDS continue to be major public health concerns globally. Despite significant progress in addressing their impact on the general population and achieving epidemic control, there is a need to improve HIV testing, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). This study applied deep and machine learning algorithms such as recurrent neural networks (RNNs), the bagging classifier, gradient boosting classifier, support vector machines, and Naïve Bayes classifier to predict HIV status among MSM using the dataset from the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care. RNNs performed better than the bagging classifier, gradient boosting classifier, support vector machines, and Gaussian Naïve Bayes classifier in predicting HIV status. RNNs recorded a high prediction accuracy of 0.98 as compared to the Gaussian Naïve Bayes classifier (0.84), bagging classifier (0.91), support vector machine (0.91), and gradient boosting classifier (0.91). In addition, RNNs achieved a high precision of 0.98 for predicting both HIV-positive and -negative cases, a recall of 1.00 for HIV-negative cases and 0.94 for HIV-positive cases, and an F1-score of 0.99 for HIV-negative cases and 0.96 for positive cases. HIV status prediction models can significantly improve early HIV screening and assist healthcare professionals in effectively providing healthcare services to the MSM community. The results show that integrating HIV status prediction models into clinical software systems can complement indicator condition-guided HIV testing strategies and identify individuals that may require healthcare services, particularly for hard-to-reach vulnerable populations like MSM. Future studies are necessary to optimize machine learning models further to integrate them into primary care. The significance of this manuscript is that it presents results from a study population where very little information is available in Zimbabwe due to the criminalization of MSM activities in the country. For this reason, MSM tends to be a hidden sector of the population, frequently harassed and arrested. In almost all communities in Zimbabwe, MSM issues have remained taboo, and stigma exists in all sectors of society.
Efficacy of Fosfomycin against Planktonic and Biofilm-Associated MDR Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Clinical Isolates
Authors: Dzib-Baak Haziel Eleazar , Uc-Cachón Andrés Humberto , Dzul-Beh Angel de Jesús , Rosado-Manzano Rey Fernando , Gracida-Osorno Carlos , Molina-Salinas Gloria María
Published: September 2022

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are a severe public health problem and are caused mainly by the uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Antimicrobial resistance and limited development of new antimicrobials have led to the reuse of old antibiotics such as fosfomycin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of fosfomycin on a collection of multidrug-resistant (MDR) UPEC and the degradative activity on biofilm producers. A total of 100 MDR UPEC clinical isolates were collected from patients at Mexican second- and third-level hospitals. Microorganism identification was performed using an automated system, the evaluation of the susceptibility of clinical isolates to fosfomycin was performed using the resazurin microtiter assay, and the identification of biofilm producers and the effect of fosfomycin in biofilms were evaluated using the crystal violet method. Among planktonic MDR UPEC, 93% were susceptible to fosfomycin. Eighty-three MDR UPEC were categorized as weak (39.8%), moderate (45.2%), and strong (14.5%) biofilm producers. Fosfomycin exhibited degradative activity ranging from 164.4 µg/mL to 1045 µg/mL. Weak producers required statistically lower concentrations of fosfomycin to destroy the biofilm, contrary to moderate and strong producers. In conclusion, fosfomycin could be an option for the treatment of infections caused by MDR UPEC, for which the antimicrobial treatment is more often becoming limited.
Single- and Double-Charge Exchange Reactions and Nuclear Matrix Element for Double-Beta Decay
Authors: Ejiri Hiroyasu
Published: September 2022

Neutrino properties such as the Majorana nature and the masses, which go beyond the standard model, are derived from the experimental double-beta decay (DBD) rate by using the DBD nuclear matrix element (NME). Theoretical evaluations for the NME, however, are very difficult. Single-charge exchange reactions (SCERs) and double-charge exchange reactions (DCERs) are used to study nuclear isospin (τ) and spin (σ) correlations involved in the DBD NME and to theoretically calculate the DBD NME. Single and double τσ NMEs for quasi-particle states are studied by SCERs and DCER. They are found to be reduced with respect to the quasi-particle model NMEs due to the τσ correlations. The impact of the SCER- and DCER-NMEs on the DBD NME is discussed.
Cubic–Quartic Optical Soliton Perturbation for Fokas–Lenells Equation with Power Law by Semi-Inverse Variation
Authors: Biswas Anjan , Moseley Jawonki , Khan Salam , Moraru Luminita , Moldovanu Simona , Iticescu Catalina , Alshehri Hashim M.
Published: September 2022

The current work addresses cubic–quartic solitons to compensate for the low count of the chromatic dispersion that is one of the major hindrances of soliton transmission through optical fibers. Thus, the present paper handles the cubic–quartic version of the perturbed Fokas–Lenells equation that governs soliton communications across trans-oceanic and trans-continental distances. The model is also considered with the power-law form of nonlinear refractive index that is a sequel to the previously reported result. This is a tremendous advancement to the previously known result that was only with the Kerr-law form of nonlinear refractive index. The present paper mainly contributes by generalizing the Kerr law of nonlinearity to the power law of nonlinearity. The prior results therefore fall back as a special case to the results of this paper. The semi-inverse variational principle yields a bright 1-soliton solution that is imperative for the telecommunication engineers to carry out experimental investigation before the rubber meets the road. Hamiltonian perturbation terms are included that come with maximum intensity. The soliton amplitude–width relation is retrievable from a polynomial equation with arbitrary degree. The parameter constraints are also identified for the soliton to exist.
A Preliminary Study of Large Scale Pulsar Candidate Sifting Based on Parallel Hybrid Clustering
Authors: Ma Zhi , You Zi-Yi , Liu Ying , Dang Shi-Jun , Zhang Dan-Dan , Zhao Ru-Shuang , Wang Pei , Li Si-Yao , Dong Ai-Jun
Published: September 2022

Pulsar candidate sifting is an essential part of pulsar analysis pipelines for discovering new pulsars. To solve the problem of data mining of a large number of pulsar data using a Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), a parallel pulsar candidate sifting algorithm based on semi-supervised clustering is proposed, which adopts a hybrid clustering scheme based on density hierarchy and the partition method, combined with a Spark-based parallel model and a sliding window-based partition strategy. Experiments on the two datasets, HTRU (The High Time-Resolution Universe Survey) 2 and AOD-FAST (Actual Observation Data from FAST), show that the algorithm can excellently identify the pulsars with high performance: On HTRU2, the Precision and Recall rates are 0.946 and 0.905, and those on AOD-FAST are 0.787 and 0.994, respectively; the running time on both datasets is also significantly reduced compared with its serial execution mode. It can be concluded that the proposed algorithm provides a feasible idea for astronomical data mining of FAST observation.
Splashback Radius in a Spherical Collapse Model
Authors: Del Popolo Antonino , Le Delliou Morgan
Published: September 2022

It was shown several years ago that dark matter halo outskirts are characterized by very steep density profiles in a very small radial range. This feature has been interpreted as a pile-up of different particle orbits at a similar location, namely, splashback material at half an orbit after collapse. Adhikari et al. (2014) obtained the location of the splashback radius through a very simple model by calculating a dark matter shell trajectory in the secondary infall model while it crosses a growing NFW profile-shaped dark matter halo. Because they imposed a halo profile instead of calculating it from the trajectories of the shells of dark matter, they were not able to find the dark matter profile around the splashback radius. In the present paper, we use an improved spherical infall model taking into account shell crossing as well as several physical effects such as ordered and random angular momentum, dynamical friction, adiabatic contraction, etc. This allows us to determine the density profile from the inner to the outer region and to study the behavior of the outer density profile. We compare the density profiles and their logarithmic slope of with the simulation results of Diemer and Kravtsov (2014), finding a good agreement between the prediction of the model and the simulations.
Speech communication in terms of cognition
Authors: Pesina Svetlana A. , Kiseleva Svetlana V. , Rudakova Svetlana V. , Vinogradova Svetlana A. , Trofimova Nella A.
Published: September 2022

The paper presents various approaches to defining the essence of a sign in cognitive science and philosophy of language. It offers presentations of critical review of research publications on sign processes. Based on extensive theoretical work in a cognitive approach to communication process, the hypothesis that each speaker of a language acts exclusively within the framework of their cognitive area is supported in the article. Given the results, meaning as a fact of consciousness is closed in it and during the “translation” of meanings they are not transmitted: signs cannot be considered to be carriers of meanings in the sense that meanings making up a part of their material body are contained in them. The material components of signs stimulate the appearance of identical or similar meanings, actuating analogous conceptual spheres in communicating minds.
Axiological potential development model and its implementation in digital educational environment of a technical university
Authors: Arishina Elina S. , Abilova Makhabat G. , Oleynik Elena V. , Dorfman Oksana V. , Chernobrovkin Vladimir A. , Kabirova Olga R.
Published: September 2022

Nowadays, it seems necessary to study the axiological potential of students in the digital educational environment of a technical university. This study, conducted on the basis of the experimental sites of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, offers the model for the axiological potential development among students and its implementation in the digital educational environment of a technical university. The axiological potential of technical university students is manifested in the value attitude to educational and research activities, awareness of needs and opportunities, in the development of abilities to the level of productive activity, in the implementation of abilities and self-fulfillment. The article analyzes the model for student axiological potential development in the digital educational environment of a technical university, pays attention to methodological approaches, a set of pedagogical conditions for development and the structural-level content of axiological potential components among the students of a technical university.
Utilization Instagram as an Communication Marketing Media
Authors:   Departemen Ilmu Komunikasi, Universitas Komputer Indonesia, Indonesia, A Asrul , I M Alfandy , S Aufa Fauziah
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study is to analyze the use of Instagram as a communication marketing medium in utilizing the new internet media as an alternative to approach potential consumers. This study used qualitative research methods. The results of this study are the use of Instagram social media in expanding and improving the marketing communication function. Because the presence of the internet in marketing communications can help business people or marketers in carrying out marketing communications, because marketers must have a strategy to be able to take advantage of Instagram social media as a marketing medium in order to achieve their goals and target market. This research was conducted to determine the benefits of Instagram as a communication marketing medium in approaching consumers and achieving the desired target market
Antropocentrismo y naturaleza
Authors: Moreno María Rita
Published: September 2022

Este artículo sostiene que, a partir del contraste tácito entre obra de arte y naturaleza, Walter Benjamin y Theodor Adorno exploran una estética en la que el proceder antropocéntrico y subjetivista asociado al desencantamiento del mundo retrocede. El propósito del texto, entonces, consiste en articular diversos elementos provenientes de las filosofías de ambos pensadores para configurar un montaje conceptual que evidencie un tratamiento de la relación entre el objeto artístico y el natural, relación que fundamenta la potencia de la experiencia estética como enclave crítico de la razón moderna. A tal fin, en primer lugar, se indica la determinación antropocéntrica de la razón moderna y la especificidad que cobra el objeto artístico en relación a ella. Luego, se señala la remisión de la experiencia estética al objeto natural. Finalmente, se explica la dinámica entre objeto artístico y naturaleza, ampliando su noción. Así, se espera explicitar algunas de las discusiones en relación a la tensión arte-naturaleza a partir de las cuales Adorno y Benjamin buscan desmontar las aporías del antropocentrismo racional.
Fourteen modal theorems consistent with the theory of mental models
Authors: López-Astorga Miguel
Published: September 2022

Very important concepts in the theory of mental models are those of ‘possibility’ and ‘necessity’. Based on the definitions this psychology theory gives for those concepts, it has been shown that it complies with the requirement Fitting and Mendelsonh provides in general for modal logic. That requirement consists of being coherent with the modal interpretation of the square of opposition presented by Aristotle. This paper tries to move forward in this direction. It analyzes fourteen modal theorems indicated by Carnap under the approach of the theory of mental models. The results reveal that the theory is also compatible with those theorems.
Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Blood Cells in Hayem's Solution – Stable or Not?
Authors: Bojarski Bartosz , Medkova Denisa , Hollerova Aneta , Szała Leszek , Stonawski Bartłomiej , Chmurska-Gasowska Maria
Published: September 2022

A haematological analysis is commonly used in studies concerning fish, e.g.to evaluate the influence of various environmental factors on the physiological state of a population. Furthermore, a manual haematology is still used for conducting fish blood analyses. The aim of the current
study was to determine how long after the procedure of blood collection in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) the samples diluted with Hayem's solution would provide results for the red blood cell and white blood cell counts with no significant changes. The blood was taken from 15 healthy
individuals and diluted with Hayem's solution immediately after the collection procedure. Next, an erythrocyte count and leukocyte count were performed. The counts were repeated after 1, 2, 3, 5, 9, 16 and 23 days. The results of the current study indicate that the erythrocyte count should
be performed within a maximum of 16 days (or better within 9 days) after the sample preparation, while the leukocyte count should be conducted within 2 days.