bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Varying the Light Spectrum of a Scene on the Localisation of Photogrammetric Features
Authors: Burdziakowski Pawel
Published: July 2024

In modern digital photogrammetry, an image is usually registered via a digital matrix with an array of colour filters. From the registration of the image until feature points are detected on the image, the image is subjected to a series of calculations, i.e., demosaicing and conversion to greyscale, among others. These algorithms respond differently to the varying light spectrum of the scene, which consequently results in the feature location changing. In this study, the effect of scene illumination on the localisation of a feature in an image is presented. The demosaicing and greyscale conversion algorithms that produce the largest and smallest deviation of the feature from the reference point were assessed. Twelve different illumination settings from polychromatic light to monochromatic light were developed and performed, and five different demosaicing algorithms and five different methods of converting a colour image to greyscale were analysed. A total of 300 different cases were examined. As the study shows, the lowest deviation in the polychromatic light domain was achieved for light with a colour temperature of 5600 K and 5000 K, while in the monochromatic light domain, it was achieved for light with a green colour. Demosaicing methods have a significant effect on the localisation of a feature, and so the smallest feature deviation was achieved for smooth hue-type demosaicing, while for greyscale conversion, it was achieved for the mean type. Demosaicing and greyscale conversion methods for monochrome light had no effect. The article discusses the problem and concludes with recommendations and suggestions in the area of illuminating the scene with artificial light and the application of the algorithms, in order to achieve the highest accuracy using photogrammetric methods.
Range-Velocity Measurement Accuracy Improvement Based on Joint Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Multi-Input Multi-Output Radar
Authors: Chen Penghui , Song Jinhao , Bai Yujing , Wang Jun , Du Yang , Tian Liuyang
Published: July 2024

For time division multiplexing multiple input multiple output (TDM MIMO) millimeter wave radar, the measurement of target range, velocity and other parameters depends on the phase of the received Intermediate Frequency (IF) signal. The coupling between range and velocity phases occurs when measuring moving targets, leading to inevitable errors in calculating range and velocity from the phase, which in turn affects measurement accuracy. Traditional two-dimensional fast fourier transform (2D FFT) estimation errors are particularly pronounced at high velocity, significantly impacting measurement accuracy. Additionally, due to limitations imposed by the Nyquist sampling theorem, there is a restricted range for velocity measurements that can result in aliasing. In this study, we propose a method to address the coupling of range and velocity based on the original signal as well as a method for velocity compensation to resolve aliasing issues. Our research findings demonstrate that this approach effectively reduces errors in measuring ranges and velocities of high-velocity moving targets while efficiently de-aliasing velocities.
An Improved Remote Sensing Retrieval Method for Elevated Duct in the South China Sea
Authors: Cheng Yinhe , Zha Mengling , Qiao Wenli , He Hongjian , Wang Shuwen , Wang Shengxiang , Li Xiaoran , He Weiye
Published: July 2024

Elevated duct is an atmospheric structure characterized by abnormal refractive index gradients, which can significantly affect the performance of radar, communication, and other systems by capturing a portion of electromagnetic waves. The South China Sea (SCS) is a high-incidence area for elevated duct, so conducting detection and forecasts of the elevated duct in the SCS holds important scientific significance and practical value. This paper attempts to utilize remote sensing techniques for extracting elevated duct information. Based on GPS sounding data, a lapse rate formula (LRF) model and an empirical formula (EF) model for the estimation of the cloud top height of Stratocumulus were obtained, and then remote sensing retrieval methods of elevated duct were established based on the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) remote sensing data. The results of these two models were compared with results from the elevated duct remote sensing retrieval model developed by the United States Naval Postgraduate School. It is shown that the probability of elevated duct events was 79.1% when the presence of Stratocumulus identified using GPS sounding data, and the trapping layer bottom height of elevated duct well with the cloud top height of Stratocumulus, with a correlation coefficient of 0.79, a mean absolute error of 289 m, and a root mean square error of 598 m. Among the different retrieval models applied to MODIS satellite data, the LRF model emerged as the optimal remote sensing retrieval method for elevated duct in the SCS, showing a correlation coefficient of 0.51, a mean absolute error of 447 m, and a root mean square error of 658 m between the trapping layer bottom height and the cloud top height. Consequently, the encouraging validation results demonstrate that the LRF model proposed in this paper offers a novel method for diagnosing and calculating elevated ducts information over large-scale marine areas from remote sensing data.
Scalable High-Resolution Single-Pixel Imaging via Pattern Reshaping
Authors: Osicheva Alexandra , Sych Denis
Published: July 2024

Single-pixel imaging (SPI) is an alternative method for obtaining images using a single photodetector, which has numerous advantages over the traditional matrix-based approach. However, most experimental SPI realizations provide relatively low resolution compared to matrix-based imaging systems. Here, we show a simple yet effective experimental method to scale up the resolution of SPI. Our imaging system utilizes patterns based on Hadamard matrices, which, when reshaped to a variable aspect ratio, allow us to improve resolution along one of the axes, while sweeping of patterns improves resolution along the second axis. This work paves the way towards novel imaging systems that retain the advantages of SPI and obtain resolution comparable to matrix-based systems.
Features for Evaluating Source Localization Effectiveness in Sound Maps from Acoustic Cameras
Authors: Fredianelli Luca , Pedrini Gregorio , Bolognese Matteo , Bernardini Marco , Fidecaro Francesco , Licitra Gaetano
Published: July 2024

Acoustic cameras (ACs) have become very popular in the last decade as an increasing number of applications in environmental acoustics are observed, which are mainly used to display the points of greatest noise emission of one or more sound sources. The results obtained are not yet certifiable because the beamforming algorithms or hardware behave differently under different measurement conditions, but at present, not enough studies have been dedicated to clarify the issues. The present study aims to provide a methodology to extract analytical features from sound maps obtained with ACs, which are generally only visual information. Based on the inputs obtained through a specific measurement campaign carried out with an AC and a known sound source in free field conditions, the present work elaborated a methodology for gathering the coordinates of the maximum emission point on screen, its distance from the real position of the source and the uncertainty associated with this position. The results obtained with the proposed method can be compared, thus acting as a basis for future comparison studies among calculations made with different beamforming algorithms or data gathered with different ACs in all real case scenarios. The method can be applicable to any other sector interested in gathering data from intensity maps not related to sound.
Enhanced Degradation of Carbamazepine from Constructed Wetlands with a PEC System Based on an Anode of N-TiO2 Nanocrystal-Modified TiO2 Nanotubes and an Activated Carbon Photocathode
Authors: Liang Xiongwei , Yu Shaopeng , Meng Bo , Liu Jia , Yang Chunxue , Shi Chuanqi , Ding Junnan
Published: July 2024

We used the Vienna ab initio Simulation Package (VASP), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and diffuse reflectance (DRS) to optimize anode material for a photoelectric catalytic system. After screening how the doping of TiO2 by N and S affects its photoelectric properties, N-doped TiO2 was selected to fabricate the photoelectron catalytic (PEC) system. TiO2 nanotubes modified by N-doped TiO2 nanocrystals and activated carbon were used as an anode and as a photocathode, respectively, to decompose carbamazepine in water samples from the constructed wetlands. The calculations showed that the N-TiO2 NCs/TNTAs-AC/PTFE system had the highest content of •OH. The highest carbamazepine removal rate under the N-TiO2 NCs/TNTAs-AC/PTFE composite presence was at pH = 8, and 69% of carbamazepine was removed within 180 min of the constructed wetland water treatment at pH = 7.8. The PEC system containing modified (with nano N-TiO2) TiO2 nanotubes as an anode and activated carbon as a photocathode can effectively decompose carbamazepine in the constructed wetlands.
Plagiarism in the Academic Environment
Authors: Rumanovská Ľubica , Lazíková Jarmila , Takáč Ivan , Stoličná Zuzana
Published: July 2024

Plagiarism is a serious problem in the academic environment that affects academic honesty. However, there is usually a lack of knowledge regarding what kinds of practices can be regarded as plagiarism, as it is defined according to various ethical rules that differ from country to country. There is no commonly accepted definition encompassing all currently recognized forms of plagiarism. Therefore, some authors consider pedagogy to be the best measure against plagiarism. To research the impact of educating students on how to correctly quote sources on rates of plagiarism and the impact of specific factors causing plagiarism, we analyzed the measures of association among nominal variables from a dataset based on a survey of bachelor’s and master’s degree students in Slovak universities. According to our results from the Slovak universities, we can confirm that education has a positive impact on the elimination of plagiarism; however, teaching itself is not a sufficient measure to fight plagiarism. Other measures, e.g., checking seminar papers for plagiarism or making regular changes in topics for assignments, must accompany the educational measures that make an effort to eliminate plagiarism. The prevention of certain types of misconduct involves a long process; the teachers must implement educational measures and then uncompromisingly demand that students respect those measures.
Considering the Wellbeing of Those Designing the Built Environment: Attrition Factors Impacting the Career Longevity of Architecture Graduates
Authors: Möller Marli , Fernando Ruwan , Dupre Karine
Published: July 2024

Attrition intentions continue to impact workers within the architectural profession, despite a significant dedication of time and effort towards higher education, skill development and professional licensure. Moreover, it is a significant disruptor to sustainable business planning. This paper investigates factors impacting career wellbeing and longevity, registration status and attrition intentions across a group of architecture graduates to provide preliminary findings into the exit destinations of those having left or intending to leave the profession. Using a conceptual framework established through the literature, qualitative and quantitative data were collected through an investigative online survey across 32 architects and architecture graduates from [Name withheld] University’s architecture program in Australia. Results reaffirm that no singular factor is responsible for attrition, although several themes are specific to architecture, as follows: salary versus expected hours worked, architectural registration difficulties and a discontent or lack of wellbeing within the role or work environment. The data suggest that common exit destinations for architecture graduates include roles similarly aligned within the built environment, such as landscape architecture, construction, real estate and urban planning. This paper contributes to a gap in understanding where exactly architecture graduates and professionals go when they leave and the motivating or demotivating factors that drive such alternative pursuits. It underscores the importance and value of addressing the wellbeing and career longevity of a skilled and valuable workforce in order to address and combat high attrition.
Optimization Strategies for the Envelope of Student Dormitories in Hot Summer and Cold Winter Regions: Multi-Criteria Assessment Method
Authors: Xie Fangyuan , Wu Yi , Wang Xinqi , Zhou Xiling
Published: July 2024

Energy consumption in student dormitories, key living and study spaces, is a major concern for institutions and communities. This paper proposes a multi-objective optimization model to address the issue of incomplete single-dimensional analysis in existing research. Firstly, optimization was conducted separately for the external walls, windows, and roof to study different parts of the building envelope. Secondly, a student dormitory in a hot summer and cold winter region was used for a comprehensive optimization analysis. The study compared energy consumption, carbon emissions, and costs with the original building, showing a 31.79% reduction in energy savings (ESR), while carbon emission savings (CESR) and cost savings (CSR) increased by 57.18% and 15.58%. This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate window configurations for sustainability. Optimized thermally broken Low-E glass windows save 5.6% in annual energy consumption compared to aluminum alloy double-glazed windows, with only a 0.03% increase in energy consumption and a 4.49% rise in costs. Long-term, optimized windows provide greater positive feedback for energy efficiency. This case study offers insights for retrofitting buildings with good wall performance but poor window performance and emphasizes the comprehensive decision-making authority of designers and policymakers in sustainable renovations.
Construction and Optimization of Urban and Rural Ecological Security Patterns Based on Ecological Service Importance in a Semi-Arid Region: A Case Study of Lanzhou City
Authors: Wang Xiyun , Tang Xianglong , Shi Jin , Du Pengzhen
Published: July 2024

The construction of ecological security patterns has become a crucial approach to assessing ecosystem health and integrity and is essential for achieving sustainable and high-quality development in both urban and rural areas. Using Lanzhou City as an example, our study employed the InVEST model, ecological service importance evaluation, and hotspot analysis to classify ecological sources. Additionally, ecological corridors were identified and optimized using the least resistance model and circuit theory. The identified corridor pattern was further analyzed using space syntax and neural networks to determine the influences of various factors. This framework can be applied to the circular construction of corridors. Our findings revealed a three-stage differentiation trend in the importance of ecosystem services. Ecological source areas and corridors were densely distributed in the northwest of Lanzhou. The optimized ecological source area increased from 2914.1 km2 to 4542.5 km2, raising its proportion in the study area from 22.2% to 34.7%. The total number of corridors after optimization was 217, spanning a 2657.3 km length. The Gaolan Mountain area had the highest current density, whereas the ecological barrier area was mainly distributed in the northwest of Yongdeng County and the north of Yuzhong County. The spatial syntax index indicated significant potential reachability between the Honggu area and the northwest area. Finally, using neural network perceptrons to simulate ecosystem service functions, our findings revealed that habitat quality showed the best fit under single-dependent-variable prediction, followed by water yield, with soil conservation showing a poor fit. Under three-dependent-variable prediction conditions, population factors had the greatest impact on ecosystem services, while slope had the least impact. Therefore, it is important to promote the construction of green infrastructure in the northwest and southeast, improve the connectivity of ecological corridors in Honggu District, and adopt corresponding spatial corridor optimization strategies according to different ecological needs. Collectively, our findings provide a theoretical and practical basis for the construction and optimization of urban and rural ecological security patterns in the semi-arid region of Lanzhou.
Insight into Policy Structure and Key Characteristics of China’s Low-Carbon Policy System: Based on Text Mining Method
Authors: Xu Jinhua , Wang Xueying , Wang Yuanyuan
Published: July 2024

Developing a comprehensive low-carbon policy system is essential for China to achieve both the “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality” milestones, significantly contributing to sustainable development. However, research on low-carbon policy predominantly emphasizes policy tools, implementation paths, and implementation effects, neglecting the comprehensive analysis of the systemic structure and evolutionary traits of such policy frameworks. To address the above problems, this study elucidates the structure, evolutionary stages, and key characteristics of low-carbon policies issued from 2007 to 2022 through text mining methods. Results show that: (1) China’s low-carbon policies progress through three distinct stages: initial exploration stage (2007–2015), accelerated advancement stage (2016–2019), and comprehensive implementation stage (2020–2022). (2) China’s “1 + N” policy system covers a broad spectrum of sectors, including energy, industry, construction, transportation, and finance, ensuring comprehensive coverage across various domains of policy. (3) The policy spotlight has progressively shifted from environmental protection to low-carbon development, emphasizing carbon market construction and innovative development. According to the key findings, this study provides recommendations that encompass crucial aspects such as accelerating technological innovation, strengthening carbon market mechanisms, and promoting green finance. Overall, the textual analysis of the low-carbon policy system in this study underscores the significance of policy structural coordination and evolution, offering insights for shaping China’s future roadmap in advancing low-carbon objectives.
Coupled and Coordinated Relationship between Land-Use Cover Change and Ecosystem Services Value in Horqin Sandy Land
Authors: Ba Zhidan , Du Huishi , Zhao Yujie
Published: July 2024

In this study, an ecosystem service value evaluation method was applied to establish a coupling coordination degree model, quantify the coupling and coordination relationship between land-use cover change and ecosystem service value changes, and examine the impacts of different driving factors on ecosystem service value changes. The results were as follows. (1) In 2020, the coupling degree between these two variables peaked at a level above 0.9. (2) Their coupling degree was one in 2000, indicating a transformative shift and the entry into a new stage during this period within the study area. This study provides valuable information for the development of ecological compensation and restoration strategies within Horqin Sandy Land’s ecological civilization construction and development plan.
Forecasting Future Vegetation Dynamics under SSP/RCP Pathways under Spatially Changing Climate and Human Activities Conditions
Authors: Yang Wei , Su Xinquan , Li Lu , Yu Bing , Chen Xiao , Luo Zhibang , Chu Wenyv , Zhang Wenting
Published: July 2024

Vegetation dynamics result from the interaction between human activities and climate change. Numerous studies have investigated the contributions of human activities and climate change to vegetation cover dynamics using statistical methods. However, these studies have not focused much on the spatially non-stationary effects of human activities on vegetation cover changes and future trends. Taking the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) area as the case study area, it was divided into 32 combinations by considering the spatially varying effects of five factors related to human activity and climate change, including gross domestic product (GDP), population, land use change, precipitation, and temperature. Regression in terms of pixels was then performed for each combination at the pixel scale. The result showed that from 2001 to 2020, the annual average normalized digital vegetation index (NDVI) in the TGR area exhibited an upward trend (slope = 0.0051, p < 0.01), with the mean NDVI increasing from 0.53 to 0.64. Compared with the regression with climate variables, the proposed model improved the R2 value from 0.2567 to 0.6484, with the p-value in the t-test reduced from 0.2579 to 0.0056. It indicated that changes in vegetation were dominated by human activities and climate change in 48.77% and 3.19% of the TGR area, respectively, and 43.70% of the vegetation coverage was dominated by both human activities and climate change. This study also predicted the future NDVI according to the shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) and representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios provided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It suggests that, assuming future regional policies are the same as the historical policies in the TGR, the SSP5–8.5 scenario would have the highest and fastest growth in average NDVI, with the average NDVI increasing from 0.68 to 0.89, because of the large increase in the GDP, lower population in this scenario, and adequate hydrothermal conditions.
New Electric Power System Stability Evaluation Based on Game Theory Combination Weighting and Improved Cloud Model
Authors: Tang Mingrun , Li Ruoyang , Dai Xinyin , Yu Xuefeng , Cheng Xiaoyu , Yang Shuxia
Published: July 2024

The development of new electric power system is a requirement for China to realize its “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals”, so it is of great importance that we assess the stability of a new electric power system under certain conditions. Firstly, according to the factors affecting the stability of the new power system, the characteristics of the new electric power system are analyzed in depth, so as to establish a stability evaluation index system including four first-level indices of safety, adequacy, flexibility, and adaptability. Secondly, a stability evaluation model is proposed. Based on the game theory, the entropy weight method, criteria importance though intercrieria correlation (CRITIC) method, and coefficient of variation method are combined and assigned, and the cloud model is improved through the combination of weights, which is used for evaluating the stability of the new electric power system. Finally, the applicability of the proposed evaluation model is verified by an arithmetic example analysis, which can identify the vulnerability of the new electric power system and provide suggestions for improving its stability. The model can provide a theoretical basis for promoting energy transition and sustainable development.
Waste Cooking Oil Recycling and the Potential Use of Blockchain Technology in the UK
Authors: Gong Yu , Zhang Hengyi , Morris Tom , Zhang Chen , Alharithi Mohammed
Published: July 2024

This study explores the recycling of Waste Cooking Oil (WCO) in the UK, analysing the recycling models and practices, and investigating the application of blockchain technology (BCT) from Z company’s Southern European project to UK’s WCO recycling. Employing a multi-method qualitative approach, including unstructured and semi-structured interviews, the research delves into the experiences of current WCO recycling methods in the UK and Z company’s project. Through thematic analysis of both primary data and archival data, the study identifies seven distinct recycling models in the UK and assesses the implementation of BCT using the Technology, Organization, and Environment (TOE) framework. The research underscores the current state of WCO recycling in the UK, highlighting the industry’s challenges and providing recommendations for future implementation. Its significance lies in addressing the academic gap in WCO recycling studies and offering insights into recycling models and BCT application, potentially guiding future commercial endeavours.
A Genetic Algorithm for Three-Dimensional Discrete Tomography
Authors: Toscano Elena , Valenti Cesare
Published: July 2024

Discrete tomography is a specific case of computerized tomography that deals with the reconstruction of objects made of a few density values on a discrete lattice of points (integer valued coordinates). In the general case of computerized tomography, several hundreds of projections are required to obtain a single high-resolution slice of the object; in the case of discrete tomography, projections of an object made by just one homogeneous material are sums along very few angles of the pixel values, which can be thought to be 0’s or 1’s without loss of generality. Genetic algorithms are global optimization techniques with an underlying random approach and, therefore, their convergence to a solution is provided in a probabilistic sense. We present here a genetic algorithm able to straightforwardly reconstruct binary objects in the three-dimensional space. To the best of our knowledge, our methodology is the first to require no model of the shape (e.g., periodicity, convexity or symmetry) to reconstruct. Experiments were carried out to test our new approach in terms of computational time and correctness of the solutions. Over the years, discrete tomography has been studied for many interesting applications to computer vision, non-destructive reverse engineering and industrial quality control, electron microscopy, X-rays crystallography, biplane angiography, data coding and compression.
Symmetry Classification of Antiferromagnets with Four Types of Multipoles
Authors: Hayami Satoru
Published: July 2024

A plethora of antiferromagnetic structures have been so far found in condensed matter physics, where the antiferromagnetic phase transition is characterized by symmetry lowering under the magnetic point group. Depending on the types of symmetry lowering, various cross-correlation phenomena, such as the anomalous Hall effect, magneto-electric effect, and magneto-piezoelectric effect, emerge below the critical temperature. We revisit a close relationship between the symmetry of the antiferromagnetic structures and cross-correlations based on the augmented multipoles consisting of electric, magnetic, magnetic toroidal, and electric toroidal multipoles with different spatial inversion and time-reversal parities. The symmetry classification will be useful for further exploration of functional antiferromagnetic materials.
k-Nearest Neighbors Estimator for Functional Asymmetry Shortfall Regression
Authors: Alamari Mohammed B. , Almulhim Fatimah A. , Kaid Zoulikha , Laksaci Ali
Published: July 2024

This paper deals with the problem of financial risk management using a new expected shortfall regression. The latter is based on the expectile model for financial risk-threshold. Unlike the VaR model, the expectile threshold is constructed by an asymmetric least square loss function. We construct an estimator of this new model using the k-nearest neighbors (kNN) smoothing approach. The mathematical properties of the constructed estimator are stated through the establishment of the pointwise complete convergence. Additionally, we prove that the constructed estimator is uniformly consistent over the nearest neighbors (UCNN). Such asymptotic results constitute a good mathematical support of the proposed financial risk process. Thus, we examine the easy implantation of this process through an artificial and real data. Our empirical analysis confirms the superiority of the kNN-approach over the kernel method as well as the superiority of the expectile over the quantile in financial risk analysis.
From Constructing Future Landscapes to Developing Conceptual Narratives: Promoting Design Innovation in the Vehicular Metaverse through Forecasting and Backcasting
Authors: Li Tiantian , Fu Zhiyong
Published: July 2024

The fusion of automotive and metaverse, the vehicular metaverse, is considered the next Internet revolution, bridging physical and virtual spaces. Innovation in the vehicular metaverse requires a bold visionary design while addressing real-world needs and industry concerns. This article proposes a novel transformation paradigm for the automotive metaverse, consisting of two stages: constructing future scenarios and developing scenario narratives. It also introduces an innovative design method for the automotive metaverse that integrates strategic foresight (SF) and design thinking (DT), which is structured into Phase–Key Assumptions–Methodology–Steps–Examples of Methods. In the Constructing Future Landscapes stage, we established a future sign library of 60 cases based on four dimensions, which serve as important materials to construct future scenarios; in the Developing Conceptual Narratives stage, we provided a domain case library of eight case types through LDA topic modeling, helping participants form innovative solutions. Various tools such as future wheels, metaverse product matrices, and conceptual aggregation templates were integrated into the six-step process to form a heuristic innovation methodology. Practical application through an online workshop yielded good results.
Unified Classical Thermodynamics: Primacy of Dissymmetry over Free Energy
Authors: Wang Lin-Shu
Published: July 2024

In thermodynamic theory, free energy (i.e., available energy) is the concept facilitating the combined applications of the theory’s two fundamental laws, the first and the second laws of thermodynamics. The critical step was taken by Kelvin, then by Helmholtz and Gibbs—that in natural processes, free energy dissipates spontaneously. With the formulation of the second law of entropy growth, this may be referred to as the dissymmetry proposition manifested in the spontaneous increase of system/environment entropy towards equilibrium. Because of Kelvin’s pre-entropy law formulation of free energy, our concept of free energy is still defined, within a framework on the premise of primacy of energy, as “body’s internal energy or enthalpy, subtracted by energy that is not available”. This primacy of energy is called into question because the driving force to cause a system’s change is the purview of the second law. This paper makes a case for an engineering thermodynamics framework, instead, to be based on the premise of the primacy of dissymmetry over free energy. With Gibbsian thermodynamics undergirded with dissymmetry proposition and engineering thermodynamics with a dissymmetry premise, the two branches of thermodynamics are unified to become classical thermodynamics.
Gait Reconstruction Strategy Using Botulinum Toxin Therapy Combined with Rehabilitation
Authors: Hara Takatoshi , Takekawa Toru , Abo Masahiro
Published: July 2024

Numerous studies have established a robust body of evidence for botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) therapy as a treatment for upper motor neuron syndrome. These studies demonstrated improvements in spasticity, range of joint motion, and pain reduction. However, there are few studies that have focused on improvement of paralysis or functional enhancement as the primary outcome. This paper discusses the multifaceted aspects of spasticity assessment, administration, and rehabilitation with the goal of optimising the effects of BoNT-A on lower-limb spasticity and achieving functional improvement and gait reconstruction. This paper extracts studies on BoNT-A and rehabilitation for the lower limbs and provides new knowledge obtained from them. From these discussion,, key points in a walking reconstruction strategy through the combined use of BoNT-A and rehabilitation include: (1) injection techniques based on the identification of appropriate muscles through proper evaluation; (2) combined with rehabilitation; (3) effective spasticity control; (4) improvement in ankle joint range of motion; (5) promotion of a forward gait pattern; (6) adjustment of orthotics; and (7) maintenance of the effects through frequent BoNT-A administration. Based on these key points, the degree of muscle fibrosis and preintervention walking speed may serve as indicators for treatment strategies. With the accumulation of recent studies, a study focusing on walking functions is needed. As a result, it is suggested that BoNT-A treatment for lower limb spasticity should be established not just as a treatment for spasticity but also as a therapeutic strategy in the field of neurorehabilitation aimed at improving walking function.
Development and Optimization of Oligonucleotide Ligation Assay (OLA) Probes for Detection of HIV-1 Resistance to Dolutegravir
Authors: Beck Ingrid A. , Boyce Ceejay L. , Bishop Marley D. , Vu Yen L. , Fung Amanda , Styrchak Sheila , Panpradist Nuttada , Lutz Barry R. , Frenkel Lisa M.
Published: July 2024

The WHO currently recommends dolutegravir (DTG)-based ART for persons living with HIV infection in resource-limited-settings (RLS). To expand access to testing for HIV drug resistance (DR) to DTG in RLS, we developed probes for use in the oligonucleotide ligation assay (OLA)-Simple, a near-point of care HIV DR kit. Genotypic data from clinical trials and case reports were used to determine the mutations in HIV-1 integrase critical to identifying individuals with DTG-resistance at virologic failure of DTG-based ART. Probes to detect G118R, Q148H/K/R, N155H and R263K in HIV-1 subtypes A, B, C, D and CRF01_AE were designed using sequence alignments from the Los Alamos database and validated using 61 clinical samples of HIV-1 subtypes A, B, C, D, CRF01_AE genotyped by PacBio (n = 15) or Sanger (n = 46). Initial OLA probes failed to ligate for 16/244 (6.5%) codons (9 at G118R and 7 at Q148H/K/R). Probes revised to accommodate polymorphisms interfering with ligation at codons G118R and Q148R reduced indeterminates to 3.7% (5 at G118R and 4 at Q148H/K/R) and detected DTG-mutations with a sensitivity of 96.5% and 100% specificity. These OLA DTG resistance probes appear highly sensitive and specific across HIV-1 subtypes common in RLS with high burden of HIV infection.
Investigation of the Infection of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Sheep and Goats in Jiangsu, China
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Cai Yuan , Xing Hua , Tao Jianping , Cheng Darong
Published: July 2024

In order to investigate the infection status and genotypes of Enterocytozoon bieneusi (E. bieneusi) in sheep and goats in Jiangsu Province, a total of 786 fresh fecal samples from 18 farms across five regions in Jiangsu were collected and examined for the presence of E. bieneusi, and the genotype of E. bieneusi was examined using nested-PCR and sequencing of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer. The results showed that E. bieneusi was detected in the fecal samples of sheep and goats in all regions, with infection rates ranging from 23.65% to 42.81%. The overall infection rate was 36.51% (287/786). The infection rate of E. bieneusi showed no significant difference between sheep and goats, as well as among different ages of animals (p > 0.05), but showed a significant difference in sheep and goats with different health conditions (p < 0.05). The positive products were amplified and cloned and subjected to sequenced analysis. Six genotypes, BEB6, CHG2, CHG3, CHC8, CHG14, and COS-I, were found. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the six genotypes belonged to Group 2, which had previously been described as a non-zoonotic group.
Groundwater Chemistry and Quality in Coastal Aquifers
Authors: Huang Guanxing , Li Liangping
Published: July 2024

Groundwater is the most abundant freshwater resource available on earth, and it accounts for more than 95% of all liquid freshwater [...]
Effect of Grain Size on the Uniaxial Compressive Strength of Ice Forming with Different Wind Speeds in a Cold Laboratory
Authors: Zhang Yujia , Qian Zuoqin , Huang Weilong , Chen Xiaodong , Zhang Zhen , Ren Jie
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the uniaxial compressive strength of distilled water ice prepared in a low-temperature laboratory at −30 °C at varying wind speeds of 0 m/s, 1 m/s, 2 m/s, 4 m/s, 6 m/s, and 8 m/s. The crystal structure and grain size of the ice were measured. The results indicated that, during the ice forming period, the higher the wind speed, the lower the grain size. Uniaxial compression tests were conducted parallel to the ice crystal long axis direction within a strain rate range of 10−6 s−1 to 10−2 s−1. The experimental temperature was controlled at −10 °C. Stress–strain curves were generated, elucidating the mechanical properties and failure modes of the ice. The results suggest that the uniaxial compressive strength of ice is related to the strain rate by a power–law function and shows a linear correlation with −1/2 power of grain size. The results explain the physical fact that the strength of ice is higher when the ice is formed in low-temperature and high-wind-speed environments. Additionally, this highlights how wind speed influences ice strength by controlling grain size during ice forming.
Clinical application of "Ethoxysclerol" and "Bleomycin" in the management of retention cysts of the salivary glands in pediatric patients: case studies
Authors: Bakshi T. A. , Yakovlev S. V. , Topolnitskiy O. Z. , Gurgenadze A. P.
Published: July 2024

Relevance. Retention cysts of the salivary glands are a frequent occurrence in dental practice. Traditional treatments, such as cystadenectomy and cystotomy, are commonly employed. However, these procedures are associated with postoperative complications, including recurrence, damage to adjacent structures (e.g., ducts of neighbouring salivary glands, blood vessels, and nerves), and inadvertent opening of the submandibular salivary gland capsule.

Description of clinical cases. This paper presents clinical cases of four pediatric patients diagnosed with retention cysts of the salivary glands, treated at the Department of Pediatric Maxillofacial Surgery, Russian University of Medicine. All patients received treatment with "Lauromacrogol-400" ("Ethoxysclerol") and "Bleomycin." In the postoperative period, no complications or adverse effects related to the administered drugs were observed. Follow-up examinations revealed no clinical manifestations of retention cysts or ultrasonographic evidence of cysts.

Conclusions. Sclerotherapy using "Ethoxysclerol" and "Bleomycin" for the treatment of retention cysts of the salivary glands presents a viable minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgical methods, potentially mitigating the risks associated with more invasive procedures.
GPs’ reflections on prescribing addictive hypnotics to older people: a qualitative study
Authors: Skjeie Holgeir , Brekke Mette , Skonnord Trygve
Published: July 2024

Background

The European guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of insomnia recommends, for all age groups, only restrictive, short-term, and periodic use of potentially addictive hypnotics. As in other European countries, in Norway, actual practice involving older patients differs substantially from this recommendation, as shown by the persistent high frequency of regular prescriptions of addictive hypnotics.

Aim

To explore experienced Norwegian GPs’ views of the regular prescription of addictive hypnotics to patients aged >70 years living at home.

Design & setting

In-depth individual interviews of a purposive sample of experienced specialists in family medicine at GP offices in Southern Norway.

Method

The interviews used a semi-structured interview guide and were performed between June 2022 and January 2023. Reflexive thematic cross-case analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Most of the 11 GPs interviewed had more than 10 older patients who were prescribed hypnotics for daily use and the same number for intermittent prescription. Almost all prescriptions were of z-hypnotics. The GPs knew this was contrary to the guideline. Many were at ease with this fact. They emphasised the need to avoid creating new dependencies. The GPs considered these patients a selected minority within this age group with serious sleep problems, for whom few realistic alternatives were available and whose tolerance over time was better than expected. This logic of pragmatic practice reflected a patient-centred approach and respect for the patient’s view in a shared decision-making process, combined with challenges of limited alternatives and resources.

Conclusion

A 'zero vision' on the prescription of addictive hypnotics to older people may neither be prudent nor realistic in the context of general practice.
Hubungan Pola Asuh Orang Tua terhadap Kepatuhan Penerapan Protokol Kesehatan pada Anak Usia Sekolah di Era New Normal
Authors: Permana Adi Wijaya I Putu , Sulisnadewi Ni Luh Kompyang , Labir I Ketut
Published: July 2024

Compliance of health protocols implementation on school age children in the new  normal era influenced by many factors, one of which is parents parenting. The purpose of this study was to determine the relation between parents parenting with compliance of health protocols implementation on school age children in the new normal era. The research was conducted at SD No. 4 Mengwi in 2021. The research design used correlational analytic with cross-sectional design. The sample in this study amounted to 97 people using simple random sampling technique. Parenting patterns were measured using a parenting style questionnaire, compliance of health protocols implementation was measured using a health protocols questionnaire. The results showed that 50.5% were male, 36.1% were 11 years old. 92.8% of the parenting characteristic was point to democratic parenting. The category compliance of health protocols implementation, obedient was 3.1% in authoritarian parenting, obedient was 92.8% in democratic parenting, and unobedient was 4.1% in permissive parenting. Chi square test results obtained values of r +0.765 and sig. = 0.000 (α=0.050). The conclusions that there are strong, positive, and significant relation between parents parenting with compliance of health protocols implementation.
Pengaruh Pendidikan Kesehatan Melalui Whatsapp Reminder terhadap Tingkat Pengetahuan Pencegahan Covid-19
Authors: Surya Swarnata Putu Gede , Sipahutar Ida Erni , Yunianti SC NLP
Published: July 2024

The world was shocked by the outbreak of new pneumonia which started in China, then spread rapidly to more than 190 countries in the world. The impact is almost the entire sector, not only health and economy, but also education. This limitation of the activities affects the pattern of education and all activities that are usually done by Indonesian, then disrupting the movement and dissemination of health information about Covid-19 in the community. Social media can help to increase their knowledge of prevention in dealing with Coronavirus. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of health education through regular WhatsApp reminders on the level of  knowledge of Covid-19 prevention. This type of research is the One-group pre-post test design. The sampling technique used was proportionate stratified random sampling with a sample size of 81 people. The results showed that the average score of students' preparedness before treatment was 78.23 and after 90.70 with the average difference before and after treatment of 12.47. The results of the study were tested with the Wilcoxon test and the Asymp.Sig value was obtained. = 0.000 (0.05), It can be concluded that there was an effect of health education through periodical-WhatsApp-reminders to the knowledge level of Covid-19 prevention at SMP N 1 Gianyar in 2021. Prevention of Covid-19 through WhatsApp can be developed with interesting, diverse, effective and efficient methods such as video, sound and images.
Hubungan Tingkat Kecemasan Ibu Menyusui dengan Kelancaran Pengeluaran ASI di Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Mas Saraswati Putu , Hartati Ni Nyoman , Suratiah Suratiah , Runiari Nengah
Published: July 2024

Feelings of anxiety can affect the release of breast milk which causes milk to come out late. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused high anxiety disorders in the Indonesian population which can affect the smooth release of breast milk. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the anxiety level of mothers during breastfeeding 0-2 years and the smoothness of expressing breast milk during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UPT work area. Ubud Public Health I uses a correlational research design that aims to reveal the correlative relationship between variables with a cross-sectional approach. Sampling uses nonprobability sampling with purposive sampling technique. The number of samples used in the study were 105 samples. The instruments used in this study were anxiety questionnaires for breastfeeding mothers and the smoothness of breastfeeding. The analysis technique used to see the relationship between the two variables is the Spearman rank test. The results of the study found that the anxiety level of the majority of breastfeeding mothers was moderate by 40 people (38.1%), and 48 people (45,7%) experienced irregular breastfeeding. Statistical test using Spearman rank obtained p value = 0.00 alpha (0,05) It can be concluded that there is a significant relationship between the anxiety level of mothers during breastfeeding 0-2 years and the smoothness of breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UPT work area. Public Health of Ubud I. It is suggested to the government that there should be a health service program related to efforts to deal with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people's mental health.
Gambaran Perilaku 5M Plus Masyarakat dalam Pencegahan Demam Berdarah Dengue
Authors: Febri Diana Putri Ni Putu , Achjar Komang Ayu Henny , Gama I Ketut , Sudiantara Ketut , Suardana I Wayan
Published: July 2024

Factor related to the incidence of dengue hemorrhagic fever or DHF include behavioural factors, which consist of knowledge, attitudes and actions. This study aims to show the Description of 5M Plus behavior of the community in preventing Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever in Gelgel Village, Klungkung Regency in 2022. The type of research used is descriptive. The population in this study was 90 people. The number of samples based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria used in this study were 47 people. The research was conducted in April 2022. Data collection using questionnaire method which includes knowledge, attitudes, and skills, each with 5 questions.The age level shows that most of them have an age of 18-25 yearsas many as 27 people (57.4%), women as a characteristic based on gender were 32 people (68.1%). There are 19 of students (40.4%), and education degree high school student as many as 43 people (91.5%). The description of the respondent's behavior based on the knowledge of the majority is good as many as 43 people (91.5%), attitudes of 30 people (63.8%), and skills of 19 people (40.4%). Based on the results of research that includes the behavior of preventing dengue with 5M plus the average is good. However, there is still something which not good enough, namely the skills of the community at the age of 18-25 years as many as 11 people (23.4%). The results of the study can be used as input to increase knowledge and reference about the description of community behaviour regarding 5M plus in the prevention of dengue hemorrhagic fever in Gelgel Village, Klungkung Regency in 2022.