bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Evidence-Based Analysis of The Plight of Awaiting Trial Inmates in North-Central Nigeria
Authors: Salawu Ibrahim O
Published: July 2024

Inmates awaiting trial are individuals who have not yet received a legal conviction for any crime, yet they remain in police or correctional custody. This study assessed the increasing number of awaiting trial inmates across correctional facilities in North Central Nigeria with evidence from Kwara State. The study obtained primary data through semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews (KII), and focused group discussions (FGD). The panel data from the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) and other secondary sources to complemented the information. Structural functionalism was the theoretical framework for the study. The population for the study consists of inmates awaiting trial, top officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), senior police officers with prosecutorial experience, and lawyers and magistrates with cognate experience in litigation. The study revealed that the increase in awaiting trial inmates is largely responsible for recorded jailbreaks in the region. It also revealed that prison congestion and the overstretch of physical infrastructure available for convicted inmates results from legal technicalities that make it difficult for bail conditions to be easily met and the nature of crimes committed. The study recommended constitutional reviews to make the surety system less burdensome. This will go a long way toward easing and speeding up the justice delivery system. Budgetary allocations to the statutory bodies in the justice delivery system should be increased to increase the holding capacity of the correctional facilities, the courts and modern court infrastructure, and police stations.
Keywords: Inmates, Awaiting Trial, Correctional Service, Convict, Structural Functionalism
A Grounded Theory Approach to Understanding Jombang Government Strategy in Facing the Era of Digitalization
Authors: Khumairoh Devy Riesta Zuhrotul , Nukyanto Damainsa Prahesti
Published: July 2024

In 1967, Glaser and Strauss created a book entitled "The Discovery of Grounded Theory; Strategies for Qualitative Research'', which was published and became a breakthrough in qualitative research. The work offers systematic consensus methodologies and strategies for a wide range of qualitative research practices. When talking about public administration, grounded theory is rarely used in literature studies, especially in Indonesia. In public administration, grounded theory methodology can be directed toward understanding how the government develops strategic processes for policy, both at the organizational and individual levels. This article discusses the grounded theory research method approach, which is aimed at understanding how the Jombang Regency Regional Government develops strategic processes in facing the era of digitalization. In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 high-ranking regional government officials. This is intended to understand in depth their understanding and experience in managing changing situations. The research results show that there are five core categories: (1) human resource development; (2) technological innovation; (3) improving the management system; (4) security; and (5) mindset. By using selective and axial coding, it was found that there were two main functions of strategy that emerged, namely (1) system maintenance; and (2) adaptation to global change.
Keywords: Grounded Theory, Public Administration, Public Policy, Strategy
Вплив діяльності видавництв на інформаційну безпеку держави
Authors: Кір’як В. С.
Published: July 2024

В умовах постійного розвитку інформаційних технологій інформація стала не лише інструментом для комунікації, а й зброєю для здійснення інформаційно-психологічних операцій. У статті наведено дефініцію поняття інформація. Визначено, що книги є важливими носіями інформації як у друкованому, так і електронному форматах. Виокремлено три основні види руху інформації в системі комунікацій, серед яких: інформація в русі, інформація в процесі, інформація у сховищі. Визначено, що на кожному з етапів руху інформації вона може видозмінюватись, зокрема, з метою порушення інформаційної безпеки держави. Вказано, що поняття інформаційної безпеки досліджують у двох аспектах: як самостійний елемент національної безпеки; як складова інших елементів безпеки держави.
Dr. Zygmunt Klukowski’s and Prof. Adam Wrzosek’s relationships in the field of medical history
Authors: Górny Dariusz
Published: July 2024

W artykule podjęto nieopracowany dotychczas temat relacji dra Zygmunta Klukowskiego do prof. Adama Wrzoska i ich współpracy w zakresie historii medycyny. Praca opiera się na źródłach archiwalnych, w tym nieopublikowanej korespondencji tych historyków medycyny oraz książce „Wspomnienia z Zamojszczyzny 1918-1939” Zygmunta Klukowskiego. W artykule przyjęto ujęcie chronologiczno-problemowe.
Finite Black Holes Inside an Eternal Black Hole: Implications for Dark Energy and Dark Matter
Authors: Laforet Christopher
Published: July 2024

The Schwarzschild metric encompasses both exterior and interior regions, with a reversal of signature upon transition from one to the other. Inside the Black Hole, the radial spacelike coordinate transforms into a timelike radius, introducing a time-dependent scale factor on the interior metric's angular term. We investigate situating a Black Hole within another, yielding a spherically symmetric vacuum described by the Schwarzschild metric. As the interior metric's angular term contracts towards the center, the inner Black Hole's surface and gravitational field collapse to a point, ultimately vanishing at the singularity. Homogeneously distributing multiple Black Holes inside the shell allows the interior metric's spacelike $t$ coordinate to characterize the expanding space between them and their gravitational fields. Moreover, we propose a cosmological model wherein the intersection of a Universe and Antiverse spawns FRW Universes, transitioning into Schwarzschild Universes as matter aggregates. This mirrors the Black Hole within a Black Hole scenario, with the FRW Universe acting as the shell's surface. Our model is shown to reconcile with cosmological data, explaining the Universe's Dark Energy without a cosmological constant.
Non-invasive Techniques for Monitoring and Fault Detection in Internal Combustion Engines: A Systematic Review
Authors: Torres Norah Nadia Sánchez , Lima Jorge Gomes , Maciel Joylan Nunes , Gazziro Mario , Filho Abel Cavalcante Lima , Salvadori Fabiano , Ando Junior Oswaldo Hideo
Published: July 2024

This article provides a detailed analysis of non-invasive techniques for prediction and diagnosis of faults in internal combustion engines, focusing on the application of the Proknow-C and Methodi Ordinatio systematic review methods. Initially, the relevance of these techniques in promoting energy sustainability and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions is discussed, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Agenda 2030 and the Paris Agreement. The systematic review conducted in the subsequent sections offers a comprehensive mapping of the state-of-the-art, highlighting the effectiveness of combining these methods in categorizing and systematizing relevant scientific literature. The results reveal significant advancements in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital signal processors (DSP) to enhance fault diagnosis, as well as underscore the crucial role of non-invasive techniques in minimizing interference in monitored systems. Finally, concluding remarks point towards future research directions, emphasizing the need to develop digital twins for internal combustion engines and identify gaps for further improvements in fault diagnosis and prediction techniques.
Invasive Candida Infections in the NICU. Risk Factors and New Insights in Prevention
Authors: Dermitzaki Niki , Baltogianni Maria , Tsekoura Efrosini , Giapros Vasileios
Published: July 2024

Invasive Candida infections represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), with a particular impact on preterm and low birth weight neonates. In addition to prematurity, several predisposing factors for Candida colonization and dissemination during NICU hospitalization have been identified, including prolonged exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics, central venous catheters, parenteral nutrition, corticosteroids, H2 antagonist administration and poor adherence to infection control measures. According to the literature, the implementation of antifungal prophylaxis, mainly fluconazole, in high-risk populations has proven to be an effective strategy in reducing the incidence of fungal infections. This review aims to provide an overview of risk factors for Candida invasive infections and current perspectives regarding antifungal prophylaxis use. Recognition and reduction of exposure to these modifiable risk factors, in conjunction with the administration of antifungal prophylaxis, has been demonstrated to be an effective method for preventing invasive candidiasis in susceptible neonatal populations.
Development of an HPLC Method through the QbD Approach for the Quantification of Honokiol and Metformin Hydrochloride – Method Validation and Pharmaceutical Applications on Oral Dosage Forms
Authors: Sha’at Mousa , Spac Adrian Florin , Stoleriu Iulian , Bujor Alexandra , Cretan Monica Stamate , Hartan Mihaela , Ochiuz Lăcrămioara
Published: July 2024

For quantitative determination of honokiol (HNK) and metformin hydrochloride (M-HCl) by HPLC from formulations and from dissolution studies, a QbD approach using three factors - three levels design was implemented to optimize the chromatographic conditions. To study the impact of each variable on the peak area of both compounds and retention time of last compound eluted, the 3D response surface plots were developed. HNK and M-HCl were separated on a Thermoscientific ODS Hypersyl TM (250 x 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column mantained at 30 C, using 0.02 M acetate buffer (pH = 3) / methanol (15 / 85, v / v) as mobile phase with a flow rate of 1 mL/min. The injected volume was 20 L, and the detection wavelengths were 256 nm for HNK and 236 nm for M-HCl. The validation of proposed method showed a linearity range of 4 – 1200 μg/mL for M-HCl (r2 = 0.9992) and 1 – 300 μg/mL for HNK (r2 = 0.9998), good precision (RSD < 2% for both HNK and M-HCl, in intra- and inter-day studies) and accuracy (mean recovery = 100.09% in the range 99.80 – 100.43% for M-HCl and mean recovery = 100.12% in the range 99.70 – 100.38% for HNK). The environmentally friendly nature of the method was confirmed by the evaluation of the method’s greenness. The proposed method was applied for the determination of HNK and M-HCl from oral dosage forms and in dissolution studies.
Advanced Predictive Modeling for Dam Occupancy Using Historical and Meteorological Data
Authors: Badem Cemkut , Yılmaz Recep , Cesur Muhammet Raşit , Cesur Elif
Published: July 2024

Dams significantly impact the environment, industry, residential areas, and agriculture. Efficient dam management can mitigate negative impacts and enhance benefits such as flood and drought reduction, energy efficiency, water access, and improved irrigation. This study tackles the critical issue of predicting dam occupancy levels precisely within the framework of Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM). Our research proposes that combining the physical model of evapotranspiration using the Penman–Monteith equation with data-driven models based on historical reservoir data, weather data, and consumption data is essential for accurately predicting occupancy levels. We implemented various prediction models, including Random Forest, Extra Trees, Long Short-Term Memory, Orthogonal Matching Pursuit CV, and Lasso Lars CV. To strengthen our proposed model with robust evidence, we conducted a statistical test on the MAPE values. We achieved a remarkable accuracy in predicting the occupancy level one month ahead, with an error margin of just 1% using Extra Trees. This study represents a pioneering effort in providing guidance and proposing a hybrid model in this field.
Evaluation of Gastric Digestion Behavior of Protein Sports Supplements by In Vitro Dynamic Gastrointestinal Digestion Model
Authors: Li Wenbo , Dong Wenxia , Tian Chengxin , Zhao Yanrong , Li Yan
Published: July 2024

Commercial protein supplements are the main sources for the sports nutrition. Nowadays, those protein supplements mainly differ in the ingredients and formulations, possibly affecting the digestion behavior and protein absorption during gastrointestinal digestion. Herein, this work aimed to investigate the gastric digestion behavior and protein hydrolysis of commercial protein supplements by using an in vitro dynamic digestion model. Five commercial protein supplements were selected, including three protein powders and two liquid protein beverages. The results indicated that liquid protein beverages had smaller particle size than protein powder dispersions, and one of the protein powders existed as the microcapsules. During gastric digestion, all samples tended to form aggregates as the pH decreased, and the degree of aggregation was more pronounced in liquid protein beverages than in protein powders, where the intact structure of the microcapsules was gradually disrupted. Protein hydrolysis degree in liquid protein beverages was higher than that in protein powders. One of the liquid products (M20) had the highest protein hydrolysis degree of around 35.74% after 120 min gastric digestion and a half-empty time of 37.82 min. These findings suggest that the formulation and ingredients of commercial protein supplements will affect their digestion behavior, resulting in varying degree of protein hydrolysis. Hence, sports supplements should be carefully designed to provide precise nutrition for the athletes and exercisers.
Comparative Study of Rapid Assessment Methods of Earthquake-Triggered Landslides Based on Newmark Model - A Case Study of The 2022 Luding Ms6.8 Earthquake
Authors: Li Huan-yu , Li Dong-ping , Yin Jing-fei , Sun Hai-qing , Li Min , Dai Chen-bing
Published: July 2024

Earthquake-triggered landslides represent a significant seismic-related disaster, posing threats to both the lives and properties of individuals in affected areas. Furthermore, they can result in road and river blockages, as well as other secondary disasters, significantly impacting post-earthquake rescue efforts. Efficient and accurate rapid assessment of high-risk landslide zones carries important implications for decision-making in disaster response and for mitigating potential secondary disasters. This study uses the high-intensity Zone VII to IX of the 5 September 2022 Luding Ms6.8 earthquake as a case study. The "difference method" and the "cumulative displacement method," based on the simple Newmark model, are employed to assess earthquake-triggered landslides. The evaluation results from both methods demonstrate that the areas posing an ex-tremely high risk of earthquake-triggered landslides are predominantly situated on the western side of the Xianshuihe Fault. Actual landslide data verification shows that both models have high predictive accuracy, with the difference method model slightly outper-forming the cumulative displacement method model. Moreover, the study recommends determining threshold values for each landslide hazard interval with significant physical meaning using past strong earthquake data as soon as possible when utilizing the difference method to assess the risk of earthquake-triggered landslides.
Exploring Open Educational Resources (OER): OER Awareness and Perceptions within STEM Fields
Authors: Hacisalihoglu Gokhan
Published: July 2024

Open Educational Resources (OER), educational materials permit unrestricted use and adaption, have proven beneficial for cost savings and curriculum flexibility. However, OER are not frequently used in college courses. An OER initiative was designed to understand the factors contribute to increasing access to STEM course materials. This study employed a survey to investigate faculty awareness and usage of OER and explore support needed to increase the use of OER in STEM. Results indicated that one-sixth of the respondents were unaware of OER, and 53% had never used OER. The motivating factors for OER usage included cost-free licenses, day-one availability to students, and increased access. The support strategies for new OER creation included OER workshops, grants, and recognition for OER authoring. In conclusion, the current study fills a gap in the existing literature by documenting motivating factors for faculty to integrate OER into STEM for the first time.
Verification of Nasogastric Tube Positioning Using Ultrasound by an Intensive Care Nurse
Authors: Robles-Gonzalez María , Arrogante Oscar , Sánchez-Giralt Juan Antonio , Ortuño-Soriano Ismael , Zaragoza-García Ignacio
Published: July 2024

Placing a nasogastric tube (NGT) is a frequent nursing technique in intensive care units. The gold standard for its correct positioning is the chest X-ray due to its high sensitivity but represents a radiation source for critically ill patients. Our study aims to analyze whether the ultrasound performed by an intensive care nurse is a valid method to verify the NGT’s correct positioning and to evaluate the degree of interobserver agreement between this nurse and an intensive care physician in the NGT visualization using ultrasound. Its correct positioning was verified by direct visualization of the tube in the stomach and indirect visualization by injecting fluid and air through the tube ("dynamic fogging" technique). 23 critically ill patients participated in the study. A sensitivity of 35% was achieved using direct visualization, increasing up to 85% using indirect visualization. The degree of interobserver agreement was 0.88. Therefore, the NGT indirect visualization by an intensive care nurse using ultrasound could be a valid method to check its positioning. However, the low sensitivity obtained by direct visualization suggests the need for further training of intensive care nurses in ultrasonography. According to the high degree of agreement obtained, ultrasound could be performed by both professionals.
Adsorption Technology For PFAS Removal In Water: Comparison Between Novel Carbonaceous Materials
Authors: Petrangeli Papini Marco , Senofonte Marta , Cuzzola Riccardo , Remmani Rania , Pettiti Ida , Riccardi Carmela , Simonetti Giulia
Published: July 2024

PFAS are a variety of ecologically persistent compounds of anthropogenic origin loosely included in many industrial products, in which the carbon chain can be fully (perfluoroalkyl substances) or partially (polyfluoroalkyl substances) fluorinated. Their ubiquitous presence in many environmental compartments over the years, and highly long-lasting nature, arose concern because of the possible adverse effects of PFAS on ecosystem and human health. Between the remediation technologies, adsorption has been demonstrated to be a maneageble and cost-effective method for the removal of PFAS in aqueous media. This study tested two novel and eco-friendly adsorbents (pinewood and date seeds biochar) on 6 different PFAS (PFOS, GenX, PFHxA, PFOA, PFDA, PFTeDA). Batch sorption tests (24 hours) were carried out to evaluate the removal efficiency of each PFAS substance in relation to the two biochars. All samples of liquid phase were analysed by a developed and then well-established method: i) pre-treatment (centrifugation and filtration); ii) determination by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Results evidenced a comparable adsorption capacity of both materials, but greater for the long-chain PFAS. Such findings may lead to a promising path for the use of waste origin materials in the PFAS remediation field.
Determination of Crop Coefficients for Flood-Irrigated Winter Wheat in Southern New Mexico Using Three Contrasting ETo Estimation Methods
Authors: Yang Hui , Shukla Manoj K. , Gonzalez Adam , Yuan Yusen
Published: July 2024

Crop coefficient (Kc), the ratio of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) to reference evapotranspiration (ETo), is used to schedule an efficient irrigation regime. This research was conducted to investigate variations of ETc and growth-stage-specific Kc in a flood-irrigated winter wheat as a forage crop from 2021 to 2023 in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of southern New Mexico, USA, and evaluate the performances of the two temperature-based ETo estimation methods of Hargreaves-Samani and Blaney-Criddle with the widely used Penman-Monteith method. Results indicated that the total ETc over the whole growth stage for flood-irrigated winter wheat was 556.4 mm on a two-year average, while the average deep percolation (DP) was 2.93 cm and 2.77 cm, accounting for 28.8% and 27.2% of applied irrigation water, respectively in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 growing seasons. The ETo over the growing season computed by Penman-Monteith, Hargreaves-Samani, and Blaney-Criddle equations were 867.0 mm, 1015.0 mm, and 856.2 mm in 2021-22, and 785.6 mm, 947.0 mm, and 800.1 mm in 2022-23, respectively. The Hargreaves-Samani method performed better than the Blaney-Criddle method with higher statistical indicators of model efficiency coefficient (CE), and smaller mean bias error (MBE), mean absolute error (MAE), and the root mean square error (RMSE) in both growing seasons. The result of a global sensitivity analysis showed that the mean temper-ature is main driving factor for estimated ETo based on Blaney-Criddle and Hargreaves-Samani, but the sensitivity percentage for Blaney-Criddle was 76.9%, which was much higher than that of 48.9% for Hargreaves-Samani, given that Blaney-Criddle method is less accurate in ETo estimation for this area especially during the hottest season from May to August. In contrast, wind speed and maximum temperature were the main driving factors for the Penman-Monteith method, with sensitivity percentages of 70.9% and 21.9%, respectively. The two-year average crop coefficient (Kc) values at the initial, mid, and late growth stage were 0.54, 1.1, and 0.54 based on Penman-Monteith, 0.51, 1.0 and 0.46 based on Blaney-Criddle, and 0.52, 1.2 and 0.56 based on Hargreaves-Samani. Results showed that the Hargreaves-Samani equation serves as an alternative tool to predict ETo when fewer meteorological variables are available. The calculated local growth-stage-specific Kc can help improve irrigation water management in this region.
Epidemiology and Sex-related differences in extracranial complications in ICU patients with traumatic brain injury.
Authors: Cruz-Garcinuño Manuel , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Martínez-Sabater Antonio , Chover-Sierra Elena , Sánchez-González Juan Luis , Gea-Caballero Vicente , Ballestar-Tarín Maria Luisa , Serrano Lázaro Ainhoa , Cobos-Rincón Ana , Nanwani Nanwani Kapil Laxman , Ruiz de Viñaspre-Hernández Regina , Quintana-Diaz Manuel
Published: July 2024

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Patient treatment and management pose a challenge for healthcare systems. The prognosis of these patients may be influenced by factors such as sex. This study aims to describe the clinical parameters of patients hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a Spanish hospital due to Trauma Brain Injury and to establish differences based on sex. Methodology: An observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted from March 2015 to December 2019. All patients admitted to the ICU during this period who presented isolated significant Traumatic Brain Injury, defined as an abbreviated injury scale (AIS) ≥ 3, were included. Data on baseline characteristics, mechanism of injury, substance use, and acute management in the prehospital and hospital stages (including the need for hospitalization) were recorded. A descriptive and in-ferential analysis was conducted using the chi-square test. Results: A total of 950 patients were ultimately included. The majority of the patients were men (723) with a mean age of 45.16 (± 17.55). There were statistically significant differences in terms of the mechanism of injury (p
Grating Coupler Design for Low-Cost Fabrication in Amorphous Silicon Photonic Integrated Circuits
Authors: Almeida Daniel , Lourenco Paulo , Fantoni Alessandro , Costa João , Vieira Manuela
Published: July 2024

Photonic circuits find applications in biomedicine, manufacturing, quantum computing and communications. Photonic waveguides are crucial components, typically having cross-sections orders of magnitude inferior compared with other photonic components (e. g. optical fibers, light sources and photodetectors). Several light coupling methods exist, consisting of either on-plane (e. g. adiabatic and end-fire coupling) or off-plane methods (e. g. grating and vertical couplers). The grating coupler is a versatile light transference technique which can be tested at wafer level, not requiring specific fiber terminations or additional optical components, like lenses, polarizers or prisms. This study focuses on fully-etched grating couplers without bottom reflector, made from hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H), deposited over a silica substrate. Different coupler designs were tested, of these we highlight two: superimposition of two lithographic masks with different periods and an offset between them to create a random distribution and a technique based on the quadratic refractive index variation along the device’s length. Results were obtained by 2D-FDTD simulation. The designed grating couplers achieve coupling efficiencies for the TE-like mode over -8 dB (mask overlap) and -3 dB (quadratic variation), at a wavelength of 1550 nm. The coupling scheme considers a 220 nm a-Si:H waveguide and an SMF-28 optical fiber.
Explicit Solutions for Coupled Parallel Queues
Authors: Bruneel Herwig , Devos Arnaud
Published: July 2024

We consider a system of two coupled parallel queues, queue 1 and queue 2, with infinite waiting rooms. The time setting is discrete. In either queue, the service of a customer requires exactly one discrete time slot. Arrivals of new customers occur independently from slot to slot, but the numbers of arrivals of both types within a slot may be mutually interdependent. Their joint probability generating function (pgf) is indicated as A(z1, z2) and characterizes the whole model. It is well-known that, in general, determining the steady-state joint probability mass function (pmf) u(m, n), m, n ≥ 0 or the corresponding joint pgf U(z1, z2) of the system contents (i.e., numbers of customers present) in both queues is a formidable task. Only in a number of isolated cases, for very specific choices of the arrival pgf A(z1, z2), explicit results are known in the literature. In this paper, we identify a multiparameter, generic class of arrival pgfs A(z1, z2), for which we can explicitly determine the system-content pgf U(z1, z2). We find that, for arrival pgfs of this class, U(z1, z2) has a denominator which is a product, say r1(z1)r2(z2) of two univariate functions. This property allows a straightforward inversion of U(z1, z2), resulting in a pmf u(m, n) which can be expressed as a finite linear combination of bivariate geometric terms. We also observe that our generic model encompasses most of the previously known results as special cases.
Nuclear Receptors and Stress Response Pathways Associated with the Development of Oral Mucositis Induced by Antineoplastic Agents
Authors: Kagaya Moena , Uesawa Yoshihiro
Published: July 2024

Oral mucositis (OM) is one of the common adverse events associated with cancer treatment that decreases quality of life and affects treatment outcome. However, the medications used to manage OM are generally only palliative, and our knowledge of the syndrome is limited. The etiology of the syndrome is thought to be complex and multifactorial. We investigated the trends and characteristics of OM and estimated molecular initiating events (MIEs) associated with the development of the syndrome using FDA Adverse Event Reporting System. The study of trends and characteristics suggested that OM is significantly more likely to occur in females and nonelderly patients and is likely to be induced by protein kinase inhibitors such as afatinib and everolimus. Next, we used Toxicity Predictor, an in-house quantitative structure–activity relationship system, to estimate OM-associated MIEs. The results revealed that agonist activity of human pregnane X receptor, thyroid-stimulating hormone-releasing hormone receptor, and androgen receptor may be associated with OM development. Our study findings are expected to help avoid the risk of OM induction during the drug discovery process and clinical use of antineoplastic agents.
Leaf-soil C:N:P Stoichiometry and Homeostasis Characteristics of Plantations in the Yellow River Floodplain in Western Shandong, China
Authors: Liu Huiran , Lu Xinghui
Published: July 2024

The concentrations and ratios of plant C, N, and P serve as important indicators of ecological processes. However, how plant and soil C:N:P relationships and ratios change with forest stand types remain unclear. Here, we analyzed the ecological stoichiometric characteristics by measuring leaf and soil organic C, total N and P contents in four stand types in Liaocheng, including Populus tomentosa pure forest, Populus tomentosa-Robinia pseudoacacia mixture forests, Platanus orientalis pure forest, and Salix matsudana pure forests. We find that: (1) The N and P leaf contents varied significantly across the four forest stands, with Populus tomentosa-Robinia pseudoacacia mixture forests having higher P levels. Platanus orientalis pure forests had lower C and N but higher P levels compared to others. (2) Uncoupled cycling of P in leaf-soil systems due to environmental influences, but C and N elements showed coupled cycles in some forest stands. (3) All forest stand types were limited by N and P elements. Overall, environmental factors, in addition to species variations, influence the C, N, P, and C:N:P ratios in leaves and soils of different forest stand types. Enhancing conservation and efficient use of N and P elements is crucial for sustainable plantation forest management to promote optimal growth in the region.
Mistreatment and Academic Motivation Among Medical Students in Thailand
Authors: Hiranwong Tanrin , Sitthiprawiat Patipan , Wongpakaran Nahathai , Siritikul Sirinut , Klaychaiya Sirilux , Jiwtrakul Jiraphat , Chaipinchana Pookit , Kuntawong Pimolpun , Deesomchok Athavudh , Wedding Danny , Wongpakaran Tinakon
Published: July 2024

Mistreatment can adversely affect students’ academic performance and mental health. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of mistreatment and its association with academic motivation among Thai medical students in clinical years. A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students throughout Thailand using the Composite Questionnaire of Mistreatment and Academic Motivation Scale (AMS). Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, correlations, and regression analyses were conducted. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The sample included 399 students, with mean age of 23 ± 1.29 years old, and 61.5% were female. A total of 81% of participants experienced mistreatment. Twenty-nine percents of students thought that mistreatment occurred because the maltreaters did not consider mistreatment as inappropriate or serious. Students who experienced mistreatment exhibited lower AMS (B = -9.16, 95% CI: -15.37 to -2.95, p-value = 0.004) than those who did not. Moreover, students who experienced academic mistreatment exhibited a higher amotivation score (B = 1.50, 95% CI: 0.16 to 2.85, p-value = 0.029) than those who did not. The prevalence of mistreatment was unexpectedly high, and it associated with students' motivation to study. Educational institutions should prioritize addressing this issue and developing strategies to provide assistance, including the enhancement of reporting systems.
Evaluation of Patient Experience in a Private Hospital in Costa Rica: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Restrepo-Arango Sergio , Zavaleta-Monestel Esteban , Quesada-Loria Diego , Fallas-Mora Abigail , García-Montero Jonathan , Anchia-Alfaro Adriana , Quesada-Villaseñor Ricardo , Arguedas-Chacón Sebastián
Published: July 2024

Patient experience is key to patient-centered care and overall healthcare quality. This focus aligns with the growing trend of collaborative care, where patients actively participate in deci-sions alongside providers, leading to better outcomes. Patient experience goes beyond clinical results; it encompasses how patients feel throughout the care journey. Integrating patient per-spectives is essential for high-quality care. The study employed a multicenter, cross-sectional survey design utilizing a questionnaire-based approach. The data collection spanned two loca-tions within the Hospital Clínica Bíblica: San José, and Santa Ana, Costa Rica. The survey target-ed patients receiving treatment across the emergency department, surgery service, and inpatient department. A standardized Picker Patient Experience Questionnaire-33 (PPE-33) was adminis-tered to assess patients' overall experience with received services. A total of 390 questionnaires were analyzed. The participant demographics were as follows: 61.79% female, 56.15% aged be-tween 18 and 44, and 55.67% with undergraduate education. The hospital delivered high-quality service, with strong communication and accessibility (93.7%, 92.6%, and 94.4% positive respec-tively). Improvements are needed in patient rights education (22.7% positive), information about the patient's condition (74.3% positive), discharge instructions (36.5% and 71.4% positive for side effects and warning signs respectively) and addressing patient concerns (26.3% to 44.0%). Patients appreciated their privacy (95.2%), effective pain management (96.2%), respectful com-munication (97.0% and 94.8%), and overall respectful treatment. Satisfaction was influenced by factors like patient needs prioritization, rights communication, sociodemographic, health status, and comfort. The ward of admission had no significant impact on the experience. Enhancing pa-tient experience could boost loyalty and healthcare quality.
HIV, HCV and HIV-HCV Coinfections in General Population versus Inmates from Romania
Authors: Sultana Camelia , Falanga Carmine , Chicin Grațiana , Ion Laurențiu-Cristian , Grancea Camelia , Chiriac Daniela , Iliescu Adriana , Gori Andrea
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study was to analyze the epidemiological links of HIV, HCV and HIV-HCV coinfections to less studied types of transmission in certain populations. We performed an observational, prospective study on 903 patients aged between 15-87 years who took part in the Open Test Project. They were divided into two subgroups: general population and individuals from prisons, and questioned about multiple risk factors. Chi-Square Independence Test was used to establish correlations between the risk factors and the results of the screening tests. Logistic regression was used to calculate the probability of a reactive screening test based on each independent risk factor and age. HIV was very strongly associated with unprotected sexual intercourse with HIV-positive partners (the strongest association), unprotected sexual intercourse with sex workers, newly diagnosed sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), intravenous drug use (IDUs) and sharing injecting materials. In the case of HCV reactive tests, very strong associations have been established with injecting drug use (the strongest association), unprotected sexual intercourse with IDUs and sharing injecting materials. Our study indicates the need for implementing targeted public health programs, tailored to the local epidemiology that can ultimately lead to micro-elimination of hepatitis and HIV infections in this area.
Machine Learning Data Processing for COVID‐19 Diagnostics
Authors: Gorbunov Boris , Chapovsky Alexander
Published: July 2024

A new data processing method based on Machine Learning (ML) algorithms has been developed and tested in clinical environments during COVID-19 trials at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Breath samples have been collected in 2020–2021 from 100 participants using gas chromatography combined with ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS, G.A.S. mbH). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests combined with clinical diagnostics were used as a reference method. Once the ML training-testing cycle is completed, the diagnostics of a single data set may be completed in as little as a few seconds. A convincing difference in the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOS) breath biomarker signature with COVID-19 positive and negative participants has been found. This approach is a generic method that can be applied to data sets collected with other types of hardware, e.g., different settings of GC, GC-MS, GC-GC, or other methods providing high information density in 2-dimensional data sets.
Experimental and Parametric Analysis of Pull-out Resistance of Notched T-Perfobond Connector
Authors: Dong Zifa , Zheng Shuangjie , Jiao Lizhe , Xu Xiaoqing , Yao Yao , Gao Zhuoru , Li Haifeng
Published: July 2024

To enhance the uplift capacity and facilitate the installation of multi-row perfobond connectors at shallow burial depths, this study puts forward a novel notched T-perfobond connector. The design incorporates an integrated flange at the bottom of the connector and a notch at the edge of the hole. Through pull-out model tests on four notched T-perfobond connectors, this research investigates their failure mechanisms and pull-out capacities. Utilizing the explicit dynamics method in Abaqus, a finite element model of the pull-out resistance test for the notched T-perfobond connector is established and verified against experimental data. Furthermore, a detailed parametric analysis involving 54 models is conducted, examining crucial parameters such as rib dimensions, hole geometry, flange size, notch width, bar diameter, and material properties. Based on the combined experimental and numerical results, the paper assesses the suitability of current formulas for calculating the pull-out capacity of perfobond connectors and proposes a refined calculation method specifically for notched T-perfobond connectors. All the findings in this paper can serve as a reference in the design and construction of composite structures.
Plan Time Management in School Activities and Relation to Procrastination: A Study for Educational Sustainability
Authors: Valente Sabina , Dominguez-Lara Sergio , Lourenço Abílio
Published: July 2024

Academic procrastination, more than merely postponing tasks, represents a significant failure in the self-regulation process of learning. Research on study skills highlights academic time management as one of the crucial elements of learning strategies and sustainable education. These abilities will help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals fourth goal. Therefore, this study aimed to understand how students plan time management in school activities and its influence on study procrastination, analyzing differences between genders and the hours students spend studying. The Time Management Planning Inventory, the Study Procrastination Questionnaire, and a personal and school data sheet were used. A sample of 506 students from elementary schools in northern Portugal was utilized. The results revealed that gender and study hours significantly influence how students plan time management for school tasks in the short and long term. This variable also showed a significant impact on the procrastination of study activities. The practical implications of this study are substantial, as they provide educators and researchers insights into the factors influencing academic procrastination and the role of time management planning and study hours. These insights can be applied to develop effective strategies to reduce academic procrastination and promote sustainable education.
Effect of Postbiotic Supplementation on Nutrient Digestibility and Milk Yield During the Transition Period in Dairy Cows
Authors: Vicente Fernando , Campo-Celada María , Menéndez-Miranda Mario , García-Rodríguez Jairo , Martínez-Fernández Adela
Published: July 2024

The metabolites secreted by probiotics or released after their lysis are called postbiotics. They provide physiological benefits to the host, preventing the colonisation of pathogens by improving the intestinal environment for beneficial commensal bacteria, which reduces the incidence of digestive disorders and improve the immune system. The aim of this work was to evaluate the addition of postbiotics to dairy cow rations during the transition period on nutrient digestibility, composition, and milk yield. The effects of two postbiotics were evaluated in twelve Friesian cows from 30 days before calving to two months of lactation. The animals were randomly allocated to the treatments control (CT) and supplemented with postbiotics (PC and PR). Feeding was ad libitum with 60/40 of forage/concentrate ratio. Daily feed intake and milk production were recorded individually throughout the study. Two digestibility balances were performed, one before parturition and one after parturition. Colostrum was sampled at first milking and milk was sampled weekly. Data were analysed using a mixed mode in R software. The results suggest that postbiotic supplementation in late gestation and early lactation increase the voluntary intake of dry matter, especially in the PR treatment, with higher apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and neutral detergent fiber. Both treatments including postbiotics induced an increase in colostral immunoglobulin concentration. Milk production of cows receiving the PC treatment was the highest, with high fat and protein yields and a higher persistence of the production curve throughout the lactation.
Hepatic Steatosis is Generated by the Gut Microbiota-Mitochondria Axis via 2-oleolyl Glycerol and Reverted by Functional Foods
Authors: Sánchez-Tapia Mónica , Tobón-Cornejo Sandra , Noriega Lilia G , Vázquez Natalia , Coutiño-Hernández Diana , Granados-Portillo Omar , Román-Calleja Berenice M , Ruiz-Margáin Astrid , Macías-Rodríguez Ricardo U , Tovar Armando R. , Torres Nimbe
Published: July 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a serious health problem, and recent evidence indicates that gut microbiota plays a key role in its development. It is known that 2-oleoyl glycerol (2-OG) produced by the gut microbiota is associated with hepatic fibrosis, but it is not known whether this metabolite is involved in the development of hepatic steatosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate how a high-fat sucrose diet (HFS) increases 2-OG production through gut microbiota dysbiosis and to identify whether this metabolite modifies hepatic lipogenesis and mitochondrial activity for the development of hepatic steatosis as well as whether a combination of functional foods can reverse this process. Wistar rats were fed HFS diet for 7 mo. At the end of the study, body composition, biochemical parameters, gut microbiota, protein abundance of lipogenic and antioxidant enzymes, measurement of liver 2-OG, and mitochondrial function were assessed in rats and we studied the effect of HFS with functional foods. In humans with MASLD, we analyzed gut microbiota and serum 2-OG. Consumption of HFS diet in Wistar rats caused oxidative stress, hepatic steatosis and gut microbiota dysbiosis, decreasing α-diversity and increased Blautia producta abundance, which increased 2-OG. This metabolite increased de novo lipogenesis through ChREBP and SREBP-1. 2-OG significantly increased mitochondrial dysfunction. Addition of functional foods to the diet modified the gut microbiota, reducing B. producta and 2-OG levels, leading to a decrease in body weight gain, body fat mass, serum glucose, insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, fatty liver formation, and increased mitochondrial function. In order to use 2-OG as biomarker, this metabolite was measured in healthy subjects or with MASLD and it was observed that subjects with hepatic steatosis II and III had significantly higher 2-OG than healthy subjects, suggesting that the abundance of this circulating metabolite could be a predictor marker of hepatic steatosis.
Supplier Collaboration and Partnership: Insights into Building Effective Procurement Relationships
Authors: Cooper Mason
Published: July 2024

Supplier collaboration and partnership in procurement are essential elements for enhancing organizational efficiency, innovation, and resilience in today's globalized markets. This qualitative study investigates the dynamics of effective supplier relationships, focusing on trust, communication, innovation, quality, cost savings, and resilience as critical factors. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, case studies, and document analysis across diverse industries, highlighting insights from procurement professionals and supplier representatives. Key findings underscore the foundational role of trust and communication in fostering successful collaborations. Establishing transparent, ongoing communication channels facilitates mutual understanding, reduces conflicts, and enhances overall satisfaction. Collaborative innovation emerged as pivotal, enabling organizations to pool resources and expertise for product development and process improvement. Quality and reliability were identified as significant outcomes of close partnerships, particularly in industries with stringent standards such as aerospace and healthcare. Furthermore, the study reveals substantial cost savings and efficiency gains through collaborative efforts in process optimization and waste reduction. Effective risk management practices within these partnerships enhance supply chain resilience, enabling organizations to anticipate and mitigate disruptions proactively. Despite these benefits, challenges such as cultural differences, technological integration, and regulatory compliance require strategic mitigation strategies. In conclusion, organizations can optimize supplier collaborations by prioritizing trust-building, fostering a culture of innovation, and investing in robust relationship management practices. This approach not only enhances operational performance but also positions organizations to navigate market uncertainties and achieve sustainable growth in a competitive landscape.