bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cache-Based Matrix Technology for Efficient Write and Recovery in Erasure Coding Distributed File Systems
Authors: Shin Dong-Jin , Kim Jeong-Joon
Published: April 2023

With the development of various information and communication technologies, the amount of big data has increased, and distributed file systems have emerged to store them stably. The replication technique divides the original data into blocks and writes them on multiple servers for redundancy and fault tolerance. However, there is a symmetrical space efficiency problem that arises from the need to store blocks larger than the original data. When storing data, the Erasure Coding (EC) technique generates parity blocks through encoding calculations and writes them separately on each server for fault tolerance and data recovery purposes. Even if a specific server fails, original data can still be recovered through decoding calculations using the parity blocks stored on the remaining servers. However, matrices generated during encoding and decoding are redundantly generated during data writing and recovery, which leads to unnecessary overhead in distributed file systems. This paper proposes a cache-based matrix technique that uploads the matrices generated during encoding and decoding to cache memory and reuses them, rather than generating new matrices each time encoding or decoding occurs. The design of the cache memory applies the Weighting Size and Cost Replacement Policy (WSCRP) algorithm to efficiently upload and reuse matrices to cache memory using parameters known as weights and costs. Furthermore, the cache memory table can be managed efficiently because the weight–cost model sorts and updates matrices using specific parameters, which reduces replacement cost. The experiment utilized the Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) as the distributed file system, and the EC volume was composed of Reed–Solomon code with parameters (6, 3). As a result of the experiment, it was possible to reduce the write, read, and recovery times associated with encoding and decoding. In particular, for up to three node failures, systems using WSCRP were able to reduce recovery time by about 30 s compared to regular HDFS systems.
On a Class of Analytic Functions Related to Robertson’s Formula Involving Crescent Shaped Domain and Lemniscate of Bernoulli
Authors: Gruszecki Lech , Lecko Adam , Murugusundaramoorthy Gangadharan , Sivasubramanian Srikandan
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we introduce and study the class of analytic functions in the unit disc, which are derived from Robertson’s analytic formula for starlike functions with respect to a boundary point combined with a subordination involving lemniscate of Bernoulli and crescent shaped domains. Using their symmetry property, the basic geometrical and analytical properties of the introduced classes were proved. Early coefficients and the Fekete–Szegö functional were estimated. Results for both classes were also obtained by applying the theory of differential subordinations.
Improving Acceptability of Cost Savings Allocation in Ridesharing Systems Based on Analysis of Proportional Methods
Authors: Hsieh Fu-Shiung
Published: April 2023

Due to its potential for cutting down energy consumption, sharing transport costs, and reducing negative impacts on the environment, ridesharing has been adopted as a viable model by many cities all over the world to achieve sustainability goals. Although there have been many studies on ridesharing systems, most of these studies have focused on the optimization of performance directly linked to saving energy consumption costs or travel distance. The methods used to divide the cost savings among the ridesharing participants have been less explored. In practice, proportional methods are commonly used to allocate cost savings in ridesharing systems. However, the effectiveness of proportional methods has not been well studied. The goal of this paper is to study and compare three proportional cost savings allocation methods to provide a guideline for choosing an effective method based on an analysis of the properties and performance in terms of the number of acceptable rides and the number of ridesharing participants. The properties were verified by experimental results. This study showed that how cost savings are divided among ridesharing participants has a significant influence on participants’ willingness to adopt the ridesharing transport mode. The properties and experimental results provide a rule and principle that can be used by policy makers and service providers to move towards their sustainability goals by promoting ridesharing through adopting the right proportional cost savings allocation method in ridesharing systems.
Do We Need Another CT Scanner?—The Pilot Study of the Adoption of an Evolutionary Algorithm to Investment Decision Making in Healthcare
Authors: Kolasa Katarzyna , Kozinski Grzegorz , Wisniewska Maria , Pohadajlo Aleksandra , Nosowicz Agata , Kulas Piotr
Published: April 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of the adoption of a machine learning (ML) algorithm in support of the investment decisions regarding high cost medical devices based on available clinical and epidemiological evidence. Methods: Following a literature search, the set of epidemiological and clinical need predictors was established. Both the data from The Central Statistical Office and The National Health Fund were used. An evolutionary algorithm (EA) model was developed to obtain the prediction of the need for CT scanners across local counties in Poland (hypothetical scenario). The comparison between the historical allocation and the scenario developed by the EA model based on epidemiological and clinical need predictors was established. Only counties with available CT scanners were included in the study. Results: In total, over 4 million CT scan procedures performed across 130 counties in Poland between 2015 and 2019 were used to develop the EA model. There were 39 cases of agreement between historical data and hypothetical scenarios. In 58 cases, the EA model indicated the need for a lower number of CT scanners than the historical data. A greater number of CT procedures required compared with historical use was predicted for 22 counties. The remaining 11 cases were inconclusive. Conclusions: Machine learning techniques might be successfully applied to support the optimal allocation of limited healthcare resources. Firstly, they enable automatization of health policy making utilising historical, epidemiological, and clinical data. Secondly, they introduce flexibility and transparency thanks to the adoption of ML to investment decisions in the healthcare sector as well.
Pathogenesis and Host Responses to Viral Diseases in Livestock Species
Authors: Vicosa Bauermann Fernando , Maggioli Mayara F.
Published: April 2023

Infectious diseases in livestock species are responsible for significant economic losses worldwide and constantly threaten food security [...]
A Route Search System to Avoid the Danger to Life in Dynamic Inundation
Authors: Ogawa Kohei , Inoue Takuya , Hiramatsu Yuki , Mishra Jagriti
Published: April 2023

In recent years, the frequency of torrential rains has increased due to abnormal weather conditions. Torrential rains have caused extensive flooding damage in many areas. As delays in evacuation can pose a threat to life, a quick search for safe evacuation routes has become more important than ever before. In this study, we constructed a new system for searching evacuation routes that incorporates a function that varies the weight of each road in the route search depending on the distance from the flooded area D and the distance that the flood area extends in 10 min D′ (i.e., the flood’s inundation speed). We conducted multiple hypothetical flood simulations with different locations of levee breaches and shelters in the study site (Obihiro City, Japan). Then, we compared the results with the conventional system that does not include the proposed function. The results showed that the system proposed in this study increased the number of successful evacuees by up to 2.16 times compared to the conventional system. In our system, the weight function is set to the Cd power of D/D′; increasing the model parameter Cd selects a route that detours more of the flooded area. The model parameter Cd that maximizes the number of successful evacuees is roughly constant, regardless of the locations of the levee breaches or shelters in the study site.
Estimation of Evapotranspiration Based on a Modified Penman–Monteith–Leuning Model Using Surface and Root Zone Soil Moisture
Authors: Duan Hao , Zhao Hongli , Li Qiuju , Xu Haowei , Han Chengxin
Published: April 2023

Most of the current parameterization schemes for the Penman–Monteith–Leuning evapotranspiration (ET) model (PML) consider meteorological and energy factors and land use types, but the analysis of the effect of soil moisture (SM) changes on ET processes lacks sufficient attention. This paper proposes a parameterization scheme for the sensitive parameters of the PML model considering soil water content, i.e., coupling the land surface SM in the calculation of soil evaporation coefficient f and coupling the SM of the root zone layer in the calculation of maximum stomatal conductance gsx, respectively. The new parameterization scheme is validated at 13 flux sites worldwide and showed significant improvements in improving the correlation with measured values. Moreover, based on the analysis of the spatial distribution of soil evaporation and vegetation transpiration, and the correlation between SM and ET, the regional characteristics of the effect of SM on ET are further revealed. This study provides a new idea for conducting the fusion simulation of SM based on a PML model, which is useful for the subsequent development of the model.
Selective and Binary Adsorption of Anions onto Biochar and Modified Cellulose from Corn Stalks
Authors: Tejada-Tovar Candelaria , Villabona-Ortíz Ángel , González-Delgado Ángel Darío , Herrera-Barros Adriana , Ortega-Toro Rodrigo
Published: April 2023

Water treatment alternatives such as adsorption using agricultural residues are currently being studied to eliminate pollutants that cause eutrophication in water bodies, avoiding the alteration of aquatic ecosystems. In this work, two bio-adsorbents were prepared using cellulose extracted from corn stems, Zea mays, which were labeled as MC (quaternized cellulose modified with Cetyl trimethyl ammonium chloride) and B 1:1 (biochar obtained by the impregnation of the biomass with an H2SO4 solution, 50% v/v, using a ratio of 1:1% weight of biomass to volume, followed by carbonization at 520 °C for 30 min with a heating rate of 10 °C/min). FTIR, TGA, DSC, and SEM-EDS were used to study the properties of the bio-adsorbents. The effect of temperature over nitrate and phosphate adsorption in the selective and binary system at 100 mg/L was tested at five temperatures: 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 °C, using a load of the pollutant of 100 mg/L, volume of 5 mL, and a rate of bio-adsorbent of 2 g/L at 200 rpm. Results showed a phosphate removal of 29.1% using the B 1:1 bio-adsorbent at 30 °C and 23.8% with the MC bio-adsorbent at 35 °C. In the case of nitrate, removal of 40% was determined with the B 1:1 bio-adsorbent at 25 °C, while removal of 38.5% was attained at 30 °C after using the MC bio-adsorbent. The equilibrium was reached at 420 min. Nitrate adsorption with the MC sample showed a good adjustment to the pseudo-second-order model. The pseudo-first-order model described the kinetics of phosphate removal with MC, while this model had a good fit with the B 1:1 sample for nitrate and phosphate. Freundlich’s model also adjusted the adsorption equilibrium for both anions with acceptable accuracy. Moreover, the binary study indicated selectivity for the phosphate, suggesting the potential applications of the carbon-based bio-adsorbents for anionic ions remotion in aqueous media.
Applying Chemical and Statistical Analysis Methods to Evaluate Water and Stream Sediments around the Coal Mine Area in Dazhu, China
Authors: Deng Dongping , Wu Yong , Ren Bangzheng , Yin Heng
Published: April 2023

In this study, groundwater, stream water, and stream sediment samples were collected from a coal mine area in Dazhu, Southwestern China, and hydrogeochemical, multivariate, and X-ray analyses were conducted to examine the effects of coal mine pollution. The groundwater and stream samples were slightly acidic to alkaline (6.7 to 8.2). Typically, the water samples were dominated by Ca2+ + Mg2+–HCO3− and Ca2+ + Mg2+–Cl−. SO42− originates from gypsum dissolution and pyrite oxidation, and Ca2+ and Mg2+ may be related to the dissolution of carbonate. According to the Chinese standard and World Health Organization guidelines, the water in the coal mine area is of good quality in terms of its physical and chemical properties, except for the concentration of Mn and Fe, with values of 1925.14 μg/L and 12,872.88 μg/L, respectively. A principal component analysis revealed two groups in which the concentration of metals and metalloids in stream sediments are affected by the coal mine drainage. The Mn and Fe average concentration in the downstream Kongjiagou drain sediment samples was 2035.1 ppm and 6%, respectively. These values were higher than the average Mn and Fe concentration in Xiaojiagou at 453.1 ppm and 2.9%, respectively. Both the Mn and Fe concentration were higher than the background values (640 ppm and 4.4%).
The Spatio-Temporal Dynamic Patterns of Shallow Groundwater Level and Salinity: The Yellow River Delta, China
Authors: Fan Xiaomei , Min Tong , Dai Xiaojie
Published: April 2023

Shallow groundwater in coastal aquifers is a highly dynamic and complex system with a high risk of seawater intrusion. Analyzing the spatio-temporal dynamic patterns of groundwater can help to manage the groundwater resource and prevent it from degradation. Based on the groundwater level (GWL) and electrical conductivity (EC) monitoring data of 18 observation wells in the Yellow River Delta (YRD) from 2004 to 2010, this research analyses the groundwater dynamics using a robust seasonal trend decomposition technique (STL) and spatial interpolation method to detect the groundwater spatio-temporal dynamic patterns of groundwater level and salinity. Combined with hydro-climatic data, the Pearson correlation method and the Mann-Kendall (MK) trend analysis were used to further reveal the impacts that induce their trends and seasonal variations. Our analyses show that the risk of seawater intrusion into local shallow aquifers in this region is high, with the mean groundwater level over 42% of the region lower than the local sea level, and the mean groundwater EC over 96% of the region met the standards for seawater intrusion. In addition, the trends of groundwater level generally declined by 0.01~0.45 m/a and salinity increased by 1.153~25.608 μs/cm.a, which are consistent with the trend of precipitation decline. The seasonal dynamics of groundwater level and salinity are highly correlated with the seasonal components of rainfall and evaporation. It can be concluded that the extent of seawater intrusion will increase in the future with sea level rise. The approaches used in this study proved to be effective and can certainly serve as an example for the analysis of the spatio-temporal dynamics of groundwater in other coastal regions.
Remediation of Methylene Blue Dye from Wastewater by Using Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Loaded on Nanoclay
Authors: Choudhary Nisha , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Ali Huma , Ali Daoud , Almutairi Bader O. , Cavalu Simona , Patel Ashish
Published: April 2023

Dyes are one of the major environmental pollutants throughout the world, leading to pollution and numerous diseases. Though several techniques have been applied for the remediation of dyes, most of them are ineffective. The authors developed a halloysite clay/zinc oxide nanocomposite (HC/ZnONC) via a chemical route in the present study. The nanocomposite and its constituents, i.e., raw halloysite clay (HC) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) (synthesized using the same chemical method) were analyzed for their detailed properties by sophisticated instruments. The field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis showed spherical-shaped ZnONPs with an average size of 54.9 nm and tube-like shapes of HC with a diameter ranging from 40–200 nm and a length at the micron scale, while the nanocomposite had incorporated ZnONPs in their tube-like structures. Ultraviolet-Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopic (UV-DRS) study revealed the photocatalytic ability of the nanocomposite with a band of 3.08 eV. A high surface area of 60.25 m2/g and the microporous and mesoporous nature of the nanocomposite were confirmed by the Brunauer–Emmet–Teller (BET) surface area analyzer. Finally, the developed nanocomposite was used for the remediation of methylene blue from the aqueous solutions, and the efficiency of removal varied from 90 to 97%.
Geochemistry of Metals and Organic Matter in Water and Sediments of the Karst River Cetina, Croatia
Authors: Maldini Krešimir , Cukrov Neven , Pikelj Kristina , Matić Natalija , Mlakar Marina
Published: April 2023

The Cetina River Basin (CRB) belongs to a Dinaric karst area (Croatia). According to the obtained results on water and sediment quality, the Cetina River reaches the sixth goal of Sustainable Development (source of drinking water). Together with the CRB water quality assessment, it was confirmed that sediments undoubtedly contribute to the purification of watercourses from trace metals as well as organic matter. In 5 years, water samples were collected at 20 sampling sites and sediment samples were collected at 18 sampling sites. The fresh water of the Cetina River belongs to the hydrocarbonate type due to its lithology. The concentrations of the measured elements in the sediments, normalized to Al, are an indicator of possible pressures affecting the ecosystem of the river. According to the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for elements in sediments, Principal Component 1 (PC1) describes the geogenic origin of the elements, while Principal Component 2 (PC2) describes positive values reflecting anthropogenic pressures (Total Nitrogen, TN; and Total Phosphorus, TP). Depending on element composition, the factor scores related to PC1 and PC2 resulted in four different groups of sites. The first three groups of sediments showed geological impact, while the fourth group was partially anthropogenic in origin. The hierarchical cluster analysis showed four clusters in relation to the content of the elements. Cluster analysis of all elements and the Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in the sediments showed grouping in only two clusters, the first cluster consisting of Ca, and the second of TOC with other elements.
Sr Isotope, Major, and Trace Element Signatures in Karst Groundwaters
Authors: Török Anamaria Iulia , Moldovan Ana , Tănăselia Claudiu , Kovacs Eniko , Mirea Ionuț Cornel , Moldovan Oana Teodora , Levei Erika Andrea
Published: April 2023

Natural and anthropogenic factors highly influence the concentration of major (Na, Mg, K, Ca) and trace (Sr, Ba, Mn, Li) elements, anions (HCO3−, NO3−, SO42−, Cl−), and Sr isotopic signatures. The current study identified the Sr isotopic signature in groundwaters from the Southern Carpathians and Apuseni Mountains karst areas of Romania and its relation to the water’s chemistry. The Sr concentration ranged between 16.5 and 658 µg/L, but in most groundwaters, it was below 200 µg/L. A considerable spatial variation and a low temporal variation, with a slightly lower Sr concentration in the winter than in spring, were observed. The strong positive correlation of the Sr with Ca, Mg, K, and Na indicated the common source of these elements. The main source of the Sr in groundwaters was the dissolution of carbonates, especially calcite, and dolomite to a lesser extent. The 87Sr/86Sr isotopic ratio ranged between 0.7038 and 0.7158. Generally, waters with a high Sr concentration and moderate 87Sr/86Sr ratios indicated carbonate dissolution, whereas samples with low Sr concentrations and high 87Sr/86Sr ratios suggested the dissolution of silicates.
Motion Characteristics of Gas–Liquid Two-Phase Flow of Microbubbles in a Labyrinth Channel Used for Aerated Drip Irrigation
Authors: Liu Yanfang , Wang Guocui , Zhang Xianna , Li Hongchen , Si Bingcheng , Liu Wenqian , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: April 2023

The indefinite characteristics of gas–liquid two-phase flow limit the usage of aerated drip irrigation. Gas–liquid two-phase flow in a labyrinth channel was observed using a particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) technique in this study. The motion trajectory and velocity vector of large numbers of microbubbles were characterized and analyzed at 0.01, 0.02, 0.04 MPa inlet pressure and in three labyrinth channels with different geometries. The results indicated that bubbly flow was the typical flow pattern in a labyrinth channel, with slug flow occurring occasionally. Smooth and gliding motion trajectories of bubbles were observed in the mainstream zone, while twisted trajectories were seen in the vortex zone. Increasing the inlet pressure increased the number of bubbles and the trajectory length in the vortex zone. When the inlet pressure increased from 0.02 to 0.04 MPa, the 25th percentile of Rc-t (the Ratio of Circular path length in the vortex zone to the Total trajectory length for a single bubble) increased from 0 to 12.3%, 0 to 6.1%, and 0 to 5.2% for channels A, B, and C, respectively; the 75th percentile increased from 31.3% to 43.9%, 27.5% to 31.9%, and 18.7% to 22.3%. The velocity vectors of the bubbles showed position dependence. Bubbles with high speed were found in the mainstream zone with their directions parallel to the water flow direction. Bubbles with low speed were seen in the vortex zone, moving in all directions. With inlet pressure increased from 0.01 to 0.04 MPa, the mean instantaneous velocities of bubbles in channels A, B, and C are increased by 106.2%, 107.6%, and 116.6%, respectively. At 0.04 MPa, channel A has the longest path length and the highest instantaneous velocity of bubbles in the vortex zone among three channels, exhibiting the highest anti-clogging performance of the three channels. This study will help in the comprehensive understanding of gas–liquid two-phase flow in a labyrinth channel used for aerated drip irrigation.
Evaluation of SPI and Rainfall Departure Based on Multi-Satellite Precipitation Products for Meteorological Drought Monitoring in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Pazhanivelan Sellaperumal , Geethalakshmi Vellingiri , Samykannu Venkadesh , Kumaraperumal Ramalingam , Kancheti Mrunalini , Kaliaperumal Ragunath , Raju Marimuthu , Yadav Manoj Kumar
Published: April 2023

The prevalence of the frequent water stress conditions at present was found to be more frequent due to increased weather anomalies and climate change scenarios, among other reasons. Periodic drought assessment and subsequent management are essential in effectively utilizing and managing water resources. For effective drought monitoring/assessment, satellite-based precipitation products offer more reliable rainfall estimates with higher accuracy and spatial coverage than conventional rain gauge data. The present study on satellite-based drought monitoring and reliability evaluation was conducted using four high-resolution precipitation products, i.e., IMERGH, TRMM, CHIRPS, and PERSIANN, during the northeast monsoon season of 2015, 2016, and 2017 in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. These four precipitation products were evaluated for accuracy and confidence level by assessing the meteorological drought using standard precipitation index (SPI) and by comparing the results with automatic weather station (AWS) and rain gauge network data-derived SPI. Furthermore, considering the limited number of precipitation products available, the study also indirectly addressed the demanding need for high-resolution precipitation products with consistent temporal resolution. Among different products, IMERGH and TRMM rainfall estimates were found equipollent with the minimum range predictions, i.e., 149.8, 32.07, 80.05 mm and 144.31, 34.40, 75.01 mm, respectively, during NEM of 2015, 2016, and 2017. The rainfall data from CHIRPS were commensurable in the maximum range of 1564, 421, and 723 mm in these three consequent years (2015 to 2017) compared to AWS data. CHIRPS data recorded a higher per cent of agreement (>85%) compared to AWS data than other precipitation products in all the agro-climatic zones of Tamil Nadu. The SPI values were positive > 1.0 during 2015 and negative < −0.99 for 2016 and 2017, indicating normal/wet and dry conditions in the study area, respectively. This study highlighted discrepancies in the capability of the precipitation products IMERGH and TRMM estimates for low rainfall conditions and CHIRPS estimates in high rainfall regimes.
Long-Term Change of Lake Water Storage and Its Response to Climate Change for Typical Lakes in Arid Xinjiang, China
Authors: Huang Zijin , Xu Jianhua , Zheng Lilin
Published: April 2023

Lakes play a role as the sentinel of climate change. Surrounded by vast expanses of barren land with limited infrastructure, there is also a lack of knowledge about the dynamics of dryland lakes. The change of lake area can be effectively monitored by remote sensing, and multi-source satellite altimetry datasets provide the possibility to obtain long-term lake water level data. Using the Global Surface Water Monthly Historical dataset and altimetry water level dataset (Hydroweb), we reconstructed a time series of lake water storage changes in Xinjiang, Northwestern China, by establishing the empirical models based on the statistical relationship between the surface area and water level of each lake. We further explored lake response to climate change. The results show that the storage of water at Ayakkum Lake, Aqqikkol Lake and Aksayquin Lake have been undergoing an obvious expanding trend from 2000 to 2020, at a rate of 3.59×108m3/a, 9.43×108m3/a and 0.44×108m3/a, respectively. In the plain and transition zone, Ulungur Lake showed an upward tendency (0.413×108m3/a) in water storage, while Manas Lake and Bosten Lake experienced shrinkage with descending rates of −0.1×108m3/a and −0.86×108m3/a. Temperature changes significantly affect the lake water storage on plateaus, especially those lakes supplied with a large proportion of glacial meltwater. Precipitation is a key factor for changes of lake storage in the plain and transition zones. Meanwhile, extreme weather and man-made factors also play crucial roles. To reduce the risk of flood and drought disasters, rational regulation of water resources is required, and a large-scale integrated catchment management plan can avoid inadvertent trade-offs. This research provides a new perspective for lake water storage inversion, as well as data support for water resources management in arid areas including Xinjiang.
The Lymphatic System in Kidney Disease
Authors: Baker Megan L. , Cantley Lloyd G.
Published: April 2023

The high-capacity vessels of the lymphatic system drain extravasated fluid and macromolecules from nearly every part of the body. However, far from merely a passive conduit for fluid removal, the lymphatic system also plays a critical and active role in immune surveillance and immune response modulation through the presentation of fluid, macromolecules, and trafficking immune cells to surveillance cells in regional draining lymph nodes before their return to the systemic circulation. The potential effect of this system in numerous disease states both within and outside of the kidney is increasingly being explored for their therapeutic potential. In the kidneys, the lymphatics play a critical role in both fluid and macromolecule removal to maintain oncotic and hydrostatic pressure gradients for normal kidney function, as well as in shaping kidney immunity, and potentially in balancing physiological pathways that promote healthy organ maintenance and responses to injury. In many states of kidney disease, including AKI, the demand on the preexisting lymphatic network increases for clearance of injury-related tissue edema and inflammatory infiltrates. Lymphangiogenesis, stimulated by macrophages, injured resident cells, and other drivers in kidney tissue, is highly prevalent in settings of AKI, CKD, and transplantation. Accumulating evidence points toward lymphangiogenesis being possibly harmful in AKI and kidney allograft rejection, which would potentially position lymphatics as another target for novel therapies to improve outcomes. However, the extent to which lymphangiogenesis is protective rather than maladaptive in the kidney in various settings remains poorly understood and thus an area of active research.
Meningite bacteriana na infância e adolescência - perspectivas atuais e desafios futuros
Authors: Schott Abraão dos Reis , Araujo João Vitor Gontijo , Alvarenga Ana Clara Ali , Yochida Bruna Maria Rodrigues , Pohlmann Bruna Kelren Freitas , Duarte Júlia Maria Dantas Costa , De Souza Arthur Vieira , Watanabe Lucca D Heronville , De Souza Diogo Quintino , Conterini Mylena Ventury
Published: April 2023

As meninges podem ser infectadas por bactérias patogênicas que resultam em uma resposta inflamatória desregulada no organismo, levando a um quadro clínico grave, com alta possibilidade de óbito e sequelas neurológicas, denominado meningite. Os principais agentes patogênicos associados a essa infecção são o Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae), a Neisseria meningitidis (N. meningitidis) e o Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae), que frequentemente colonizam a nasofaringe de crianças e adolescentes e se disseminam hematologicamente. Os bebês de até dois meses de idade são a faixa etária mais comumente acometida pela meningite bacteriana (MB), em comparação com outras faixas etárias. A patogênese da meningite bacteriana aguda envolve a colonização nasofaríngea, a invasão da corrente sanguínea e da placa cribiforme, a associação com outros agentes infecciosos, a bacteremia e a translocação para o sistema nervoso central (SNC). Em alguns casos, a bactéria pode invadir diretamente o SNC através dos gangliosídeos, da aderência ao bulbo olfatório ou da infiltração de fagócitos. Ademais, a doença está associada a fatores de risco como a não vacinação, países de baixa renda, alterações anatômicas, idade <5 anos e alterações da resposta imune. Essa infecção pode resultar em sequelas agudas ou a longo prazo, incluindo transtornos comportamentais, além de fatores socioeconômicos e biológicos, como baixo desempenho escolar e transtorno do déficit de atenção e hiperatividade.
Optimization and evaluation of the process variable’s effect on color and turbidity removal from coffee processing wastewater: Using a photoelectrochemical oxidation process
Authors: Bidira Firomsa , Asmelash Zerihun , Kebede Seifu , Bekele Abrham
Published: April 2023

Background: Coffee is the foundation of Ethiopia’s economy, but the wastewater generated by coffee processing cannot be properly treated, therefore, causing various environmental problems. Methods: In this research, electrochemical oxidation(ECO) and photo electrochemical oxidation(PECO) are combined with UV and hydrogen peroxide (UV/H2 O2 ) to reduce organic compounds in coffee processing effluent with color and turbidity effect. The effects of various experimental parameters such as hydrogen solubility (pH), sodium chloride and calcium chloride (NaCl and CaCl2 ) concentrations, current and electrolysis time, and H2 O2 dose were investigated. Results: The results were investigated and analyzed using response surface methodology (RSM) and Microsoft Excel. The color (99.6%) and turbidity (99.4%) were removed by combining ECO with UV/ H2 O2 , which produces high amounts of hydroxyl ions (OH- ), oxidizes large amounts of contaminants, and increases efficiency. These results were obtained at pH 7, current of 0.40 AMP, and 1.5 g CaCl2 after 40 minutes of electrolysis. The operating factors were pH, electrolyte dosage, time, current and H2 O2 , which plays a major role in increasing the removal capacity of photoelectrochemical oxidation for coffee processing waste water treatment. CaCl2 was once more wonderful in the removal of organic compounds from coffee processing effluents. Conclusion: Therefore, the introduction of this ultraviolet light is a powerful oxidant with H2 O2 , which can improve pollution control. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a 95% confidence interval can be used to determine the magnitude of the independent variable.
Estimation of average annual soil loss rates and its prioritization at sub-watershed level using RUSLE: A case of Finca’aa, Oromiya, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Seifu , Fufa Fekadu
Published: April 2023

Background: Because of natural and anthropogenic phenomena, most mountain areas experience significant soil loss. It is critical for watershed management to identify high soil loss rates and prone areas. Therefore, the present research aimed to estimate spatial annual soil loss rates and prioritize soil erosion prone areas of the Finca’aa watershed at sub-watershed level. Methods: The revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model, the extension of geographic information system based on five parameters: rainfall erosivity (R), soil erodibility (K), slope length and slope steepness (LS), vegetation cover (C), and conservation techniques (P), was applied. This study also used weather data, a soil type map, a digital elevation model (DEM), and land use land cover, which were all analyzed using ArcGIS 10.4. Results: Annual soil loss rates ranged from negligible to 234 t ha-1 yr-1. The average rates of soil loss was 33.3 t ha-1 yr-1. Approximately 63.36% of the catchment was within and 36.64% of the catchment was above the maximum permissible level, respectively. Approximately 1.96% were in critical condition. Agricultural practices were the primary cause in the watershed’s mountain and hilly areas. Conclusion: The outcome is critical for planners and resource managers interested in long-term watershed management. Also, it is very important for sustainable growth development of 2030 agendas.
Biomonitoring of heavy metal signatures in urbanized contaminated ecosystems of Southern India: A case study using raptor, Athene brama
Authors: Biswas Sanchari , Chinthala Ramakrishna
Published: April 2023

Background: Heavy metals remain tenacious in the environment which further leads to emerging bioaccumulation, rising through the food chain. Birds are great environmental sentinels that can spot even the smallest changes. The aim of this study was to determine the quantity of heavy metals, specifically Ni, copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), and Se, in the feathers, liver, kidney, muscle, and bones of spotted owlets (Athene brama), which were opportunistically collected from a variety of contaminated ecosystems in the urbanized landscapes of Visakhapatnam on India’s East Coast. Methods: Opportunistic sample collection was done followed by necropsy. Following standard protocols, organic samples were digested by adding 10 mL HNO3 , 5 mL of HClO4 , and 2 mL of H2 O2 to eliminate the excess organic matter. Results: Based on the GIS data, raptors were shown to occur in production landscapes and mostly in urban spaces, and currently, are under several anthropogenic threats. The findings showed that the sequence of heavy metal concentrations was Ti>Al>Cu>Ni>Se, but the tissues of birds in which metals accumulated are in the following order: liver>kidney>bones>muscle. The tissues of A. brama showed the signs of significant concentrations of Ti and Al. The results obtained were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test. Conclusion: Heavy metal studies on various matrices of the environment have been performed over time with certain metals either neglected or not being documented properly. The main finding of this study is the first report of Ti and Al in bird species from India as there is a lacuna in this context.
Face mask use among pedestrians during the COVID-19 pandemic in Northeast Iran: A survey on 223,848 pedestrians
Authors: Sarmadi Mohammad , Bakhtiyaridovvombaygi Mehdi , Ahmadi-Soleimani Seyed Mohammad , Ebrahimipour Hossein , Rezaiemanesh Mohammad Reza , Alizadeh-Siuki Hadi , Barzanouni Somaye , Torkzadeh Mahdieh , Askari Mohammadreza , Rahimi Sajjad
Published: April 2023

Background: Despite the mass vaccination of people in countries, preventive health guidelines of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are still one of the most critical factors for pandemic control. The objectives of this study were to assess the overall use of face masks and investigate the diverse kinds of face masks used among pedestrians in northeast Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was designed in Torbat Heydariyeh, northeastern Iran, from February 19 to May 13, 2020. A total of 223 848 pedestrians were selected from 25 points of the city, using a multistage sampling method in 10 stages. Descriptive statistics were presented with frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test and Fisher exact test were used to assess the association between two categorical variables. Results: The overall percent of face mask usage was 78.68%. Women used face masks considerably higher than men (88.32% vs. 69.02%, P<0.001). Among the male and female pedestrians who used the mask, 6.27% and 2.04% wore face mask incorrectly, respectively. Surgical masks (73.7%) were the most common face masks worn by pedestrians. Overall, the face mask usage was significantly lower during a.m. (88.34%) compared to p.m. (78.52%) (P<0.001). Also, the face mask usage was significantly higher in the center sections of the city (86.49%) compared to the outskirts (43.67%) (P<0.001). Conclusion: Women use face masks significantly more than men. Using educational programs and establishing laws and regulations to prevent pandemics in cities is considered as a key factor.
Effects of perioperative use of two doses of magnesium sulfate infusion on intraoperative blood loss in patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion surgery
Authors: Rahimi Zahra , Masoudifar Mehrdad , Nazemroaya Behzad , Norouzi Mehrdad , Mousavi Amirali
Published: April 2023

Objective: In general, spinal fusion surgery causes heavy bleeding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of two different doses of magnesium sulfate to control the bleeding in lumbar fusion surgery. Methods: This study was carried out as a randomized double-blinded clinical trial in 2020 in Al-Zahra hospital in Isfahan. The participants were 60 patients selected using inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly allocated into three groups. In the first group, 50 mg/kg and in the second group, 40 mg/kg magnesium sulfate was infused. The third group received normal saline. From the beginning of anesthesia, heart rate, diastolic and systolic blood pressure, respiratory rate and blood oxygen saturation percentage were monitored and logged every 30 minutes during the operation and recovery. The volume of bleeding during the operation was calculated by counting the number of gauzes used and the amount of suctioned blood during the operation. Other required information such as the duration of operation, duration of anesthesia, time of intubation and the time period of hospitalization and recovery were determined and recorded in all patients. We used independent t-test and repeated measure ANOVA tests to compare data between different time lines and also different groups. P value<0.05 was considered as significance threshold. The collected data were analyzed by using SPSS software version 23. Results: The group receiving 50 mg/kg magnesium sulfate had a significantly lower systolic blood pressure compared to other groups within 15, 30 and 45 minutes after the injections (P=0.04 for all). The pulse rate was significantly lower in the 50 mg/kg magnesium sulfate group compared to other groups within 15, 30 and 45 minutes after the injections (P<0.05 for all). Patients that received 50 mg/kg magnesium sulfate had a lower duration of surgery (P=0.007), lower duration of anesthesia (P=0.007), lower bleeding volume (P<0.001), lower fluid intake (P=0.01) and also lower transfused blood (P=0.01). The surgeons also had a significantly higher satisfaction with these patients (P=0.001). Conclusion: Injection of 50 mg/kg magnesium sulfate had a correlation with reduced blood pressure as well as bleeding volume compared to 40 mg/kg magnesium sulfate.
Prognostic value of intensive care scores concerning the prediction of 30-day mortality in COVID-19
Authors: Kalani Navid , Tavasolian Masoud , Dehghani Khaterh , Mousavi Seyed Reza , Ghanbarzadeh Erfan , Shakeri Masihallah , Rahmanian Elahe , Aryanpoor Poorya , Hatami Naser , Rahmanian Zhila , Abiri Samaneh
Published: April 2023

Objective: The goal of our study was to determine the prognostic value of CURB-65, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA), pneumonia severity index (PSI), MuLBSTA, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II upon admission in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19, as well as the prediction cut-off value for death regarding these parameters. Methods: This observational retrospective study was performed in COVID-19 triage in Peymaniyeh hospital in Jahrom in 2021. In order to calculate SOFA, APACHE II, PSI, MuLBSTA, and CURB-65, data were collected from patients who were selected by available sampling method from PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients. Thirty-day mortality was assessed as the primary outcome. ROC analysis was conducted using the STATA software to evaluate the prognostic value of the scoring systems. DeLong test was utilized to compare AUC of scores using a web based tool. Results:Ninety-two patients were included in this study with the mean age of 51.02±17.81 years (male to female ratio was 1:1). SOFA had an AUC of 0.656 (P=0.130), but other indices had statistically significant values of AUC. Based on the comparison of the AUCs, SOFA was the worst scoring system in COVID-19 as it had significantly lower AUC than PSI and APACHE II (P<0.05); while its comparison with MULBSTA and CURB65 was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Conclusion: It seems that APACHE II and PSI are the best prognostic factors in our study with no statistical difference compared together (P>0.05). The sensitivity of APACHE II and PSI was 0.857 with the specificity of 0.927 and 0.976, respectively. The optimal cut-off point was 13 and 50 for APACHE II and PSI, respectively.
Renal Angiomyolipoma Associated with Renal Vein and Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis: A Case Report
Authors: Mohammadi Reza , Kamalati Ali , Bagherinasabsarab Mohammadali , Jafari Elham , Yazdanpanah Fatemeh
Published: April 2023

Angiomyolipoma (AML) is the most common benign renal mesenchymal neoplasm. This is a report of a 36-year-old female patient with AML with the involvement of the inferior vena cava (IVC) who was admitted to our hospital. The patient complained of mild right flank pain. CT scan results showed a hypo-dense mass with 47×72 mm dimensions at the right kidney›s lower pole suggesting renal AML. In MRI with contrast, venous thrombosis was detected in the right renal vein and IVC. Right radical nephrectomy and IVC thrombectomy were successfully conducted. Renal AML was confirmed by pathological findings, and the presence of tumor thrombosis was approved in the right renal vein and IVC. Although AML is generally benign and vascular invasion is a rare finding in this condition, imaging studies (including CT scans) should always be considered to determine the extent of vascular involvement and choose an appropriate therapeutic plan, including nephrectomy and thrombectomy in case of vascular involvement. Despite its benign nature, it should be considered that AML can invade venous structures in the kidneys. Early imaging studies and therapeutic interventions are necessary for obtaining the best outcome.
Expert System for Detecting Malnutrition in Toddlers Using the WEB-Based Certainty Factor Method
Authors: Siahaan Fretty S , Tanti Lili , Ummi Khairul
Published: April 2023

Malnutrition is based on the nutritional status indexes Weight Loss by Age (W / A) <-3 SD is severely underweight equivalent term. Where there are two types of malnutrition are kwashiorkor, marasmus. if the lack of nutrition the infants are susceptible to malnutrition because of the growth and development of this cycle requires nutrients were greater than the age of the other so easily suffer from nutritional disorders, if not treated immediately will cause death and chronic infection. In the current system there are some drawbacks such as the absence of security following safety features such as anti-virus as a means to protect the database on these weaknesses then designed and built an expert system Identifying Malnutrition In Toddlers with certainty factor method designed web- based using program based on Macromedia Dreamweaver 8, especially PHP and using MySQL as database. The report is designed using iReport and the modeling system is done with UML 2.0. design aims to build an expert system to identify symptoms of malnutrition using the method of Certainty Factor (CF) and to build an expert system that will generate information from experts (books, as well as references that support) accurately.
El Programa Regional de Acciones para el Desarrollo de la Juventud en América Latina:
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

La VII Conferencia Iberoamericana de Ministros de Juventud, celebrada en Punta del Este (Uruguay) entre los días 20 y 23 de abril de 1994, contó con la participación de delegaciones oficiales de 21 países iberoamericanos y de numerosos observadores internacionales. En ella se procedió a tomar conocimiento, a discutir y a aprobar el Marco de Referencia del Programa Regional de Acciones para el Desarrollo de la Juventud en América Latina, que se presenta más adelante.

Esta propuesta programática de carácter estratégico, cuya ejecución se prevé para el período 1995-2000, comprende la identificación de un conjunto de desafíos regionales y un catálogo de propuestas de acciones y políticas dirigidas a la juventud, de carácter multilateral y multisectorial, de enorme validez en la perspectiva de homologar una actuación gubernamental integral eficaz en el dominio de la juventud, optimizando las políticas nacionales y los futuros trabajos que se desarrollen por parte de las instituciones, gubernamentales y no gubernamentales, interesadas y competentes en esta materia.