bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Demographic Factors Influencing Open Burning Incidents in Kentucky
Authors: Ballard Major , Gyawali Buddhi R. , Acharya Shikha , Gebremedhin Maheteme , Antonious George , Blakeman Jeffrey Scott
Published: May 2024

Open burning poses a significant threat to human health and the environment by releasing hazardous chemicals and exacerbating plastic pollution. Urgent action is required to address its pervasive impact and the substantial release of gaseous pollutants. Limited research has explored the demographic aspect of open burning behavior, with none specifically conducted in Kentucky. An analysis of open burning complaints reported to the Kentucky Division for Air Quality in 2015, 2019, and 2021 revealed no significant differences in reported incidents by month and county. Binary logistic regression analyses identified the urban vs rural divide as significant predictors of open burning incidents, while violations were influenced by both urban and rural factors and average household income. Unemployment rates and the percentage of individuals with less than a high school diploma did not significantly predict open burning violations. Targeted interventions at the state and local level, focusing on rural areas and economically disadvantaged communities, can effectively address and mitigate open burning issues.
Investigating Material Performance in Artificial Ankle Joints: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Nazha Hasan Mhd , Adrah Muhsen , Osman Thaer , Issa Mohammad , Imran Ahmed , Zhang Yicha , Juhre Daniel
Published: May 2024

This study delves into an in-depth examination of the biomechanical characteristics of various materials commonly utilized in the fabrication of artificial ankle joints. Specifically, this research focuses on the design of an ankle joint resembling the salto-talaris type, aiming to comprehensively understand its performance under different loading conditions. Employing advanced finite element analysis techniques, this investigation rigorously evaluates the stresses and displacements experienced by the designed ankle joint when subjected to varying loads. Furthermore, this study endeavors to identify the vibrating frequencies associated with these displacements, offering valuable insights into the dynamic behavior of the ankle joint. Notably, the analysis extends to studying random frequencies across three axes of motion, enabling a comprehensive assessment of directional deformities that may arise during joint function. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed design, a comparative analysis is conducted against the star ankle design, a widely recognized benchmark in ankle joint prosthetics. This comparative approach serves dual purposes: confirming the accuracy of the findings derived from the salto-talaris design and elucidating the relative efficacy of the proposed design in practical application scenarios.
Innovating Prosthodontic Rehabilitation: A Streamlined Two-Step Technique for Mobile Denture Fabrication
Authors: Fiorillo Luca , D’Amico Cesare , Gorassini Francesca , Varrà Marta , Parbonetti Emanuele , Varrà Salvatore , Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Cervino Gabriele
Published: May 2024

This manuscript introduces a novel two-step technique for fabricating mobile dentures post-extraction to streamline prosthodontic rehabilitation. The study utilizes various materials, including dental polymers, metals, ceramics, and composite materials, each chosen for their unique properties that contribute to the final prosthesis’s functionality, durability, and esthetics. The detailed procedure involves an initial occlusal registration immediately following tooth extraction, capturing precise occlusal relationships and a comprehensive dental impression. This approach reduces clinical visits and leverages optimal alveolar ridge morphology. The expected results highlight the efficiency of the technique, reducing treatment time without compromising quality and potentially improving patient satisfaction and prosthodontic outcomes. This innovative method conclusively promises rapid, efficient, and patient-centered dental rehabilitation, emphasizing the need for future research to validate its effectiveness and explore long-term outcomes.
Crater Detection and Population Statistics in Tianwen-1 Landing Area Based on Segment Anything Model (SAM)
Authors: Zhao Yaqi , Ye Hongxia
Published: May 2024

Crater detection is useful for research into dating a planetary surface’s age and geological mapping. The high-resolution imaging camera (HiRIC) carried by the Tianwen-1 rover provides digital image model (DIM) datasets with a resolution of 0.7 m/pixel, which are suitable for detecting meter-scale craters. The existing deep-learning-based automatic crater detection algorithms require a large number of crater annotation datasets for training. However, there is currently a lack of datasets of optical images of small-sized craters. In this study, we propose a model based on the Segment Anything Model (SAM) to detect craters in Tianwen-1’s landing area and perform statistical analysis. The SAM network was used to obtain a segmentation mask of the craters from the DIM images. Then non-circular filtering was used to filter out irregular craters. Finally, deduplication and removal of false positives were performed to obtain accurate circular craters, and their center’s position and diameter were obtained through circular fitting analysis. We extracted 841,727 craters in total, with diameters ranging from 1.57 m to 7910.47 m. These data are useful for further Martian crater catalogs and crater datasets. Additionally, the crater size–frequency distribution (CSFD) was also analyzed, indicating that the surface ages of the Tianwen-1 landing area are ~3.25 billion years, with subsequent surface resurfacing events occurring ~1.67 billion years ago.
A Multi-Scale Fusion Strategy for Side Scan Sonar Image Correction to Improve Low Contrast and Noise Interference
Authors: Zhou Ping , Chen Jifa , Tang Pu , Gan Jianjun , Zhang Hongmei
Published: May 2024

Side scan sonar images have great application prospects in underwater surveys, target detection, and engineering activities. However, the acquired sonar images exhibit low illumination, scattered noise, distorted outlines, and unclear edge textures due to the complicated undersea environment and intrinsic device flaws. Hence, this paper proposes a multi-scale fusion strategy for side scan sonar (SSS) image correction to improve the low contrast and noise interference. Initially, an SSS image was decomposed into low and high frequency sub-bands via the non-subsampled shearlet transform (NSST). Then, modified multi-scale retinex (MMSR) was employed to enhance the contrast of the low frequency sub-band. Next, sparse dictionary learning (SDL) was utilized to eliminate high frequency noise. Finally, the process of NSST reconstruction was completed by fusing the emerging low and high frequency sub-band images to generate a new sonar image. The experimental results demonstrate that the target features, underwater terrain, and edge contours could be clearly displayed in the image corrected by the multi-scale fusion strategy when compared to eight correction techniques: BPDHE, MSRCR, NPE, ALTM, LIME, FE, WT, and TVRLRA. Effective control was achieved over the speckle noise of the sonar image. Furthermore, the AG, STD, and E values illustrated the delicacy and contrast of the corrected images processed by the proposed strategy. The PSNR value revealed that the proposed strategy outperformed the advanced TVRLRA technology in terms of filtering performance by at least 8.8%. It can provide sonar imagery that is appropriate for various circumstances.
GNSS Reflectometry-Based Ocean Altimetry: State of the Art and Future Trends
Authors: Xu Tianhe , Wang Nazi , He Yunqiao , Li Yunwei , Meng Xinyue , Gao Fan , Lopez-Baeza Ernesto
Published: May 2024

For the past 20 years, Global Navigation Satellite System reflectometry (GNSS-R) technology has successfully shown its potential for remote sensing of the Earth’s surface, including ocean and land surfaces. It is a multistatic radar that uses the GNSS signals reflected from the Earth’s surface to extract land and ocean characteristics. Because of its numerous advantages such as low cost, multiple signal sources, and all-day/weather and high-spatiotemporal-resolution observations, this new technology has attracted the attention of many researchers. One of its most promising applications is GNSS-R ocean altimetry, which can complement existing techniques such as tide gauging and radar satellite altimetry. Since this technology for ocean altimetry was first proposed in 1993, increasing progress has been made including diverse methods for processing reflected signals (such as GNSS interferometric reflectometry, conventional GNSS-R, and interferometric GNSS-R), different instruments (such as an RHCP antenna with one geodetic receiver, a linearly polarized antenna, and a system of simultaneously used RHCP and LHCP antennas with a dedicated receiver), and different platform applications (such as ground-based, air-borne, or space-borne). The development of multi-mode and multi-frequency GNSS, especially for constructing the Chinese BeiDou Global Navigation Satellite System (BDS-3), has enabled more free signals to be used to further promote GNSS-R applications. The GNSS has evolved from its initial use of GPS L1 and L2 signals to include other GNSS bands and multi-GNSS signals. Using more advanced, multi-frequency, and multi-mode signals will bring new opportunities to develop GNSS-R technology. In this paper, studies of GNSS-R altimetry are reviewed from four perspectives: (1) classifications according to different data processing methods, (2) different platforms, (3) development of different receivers, and (4) our work. We overview the current status of GNSS-R altimetry and describe its fundamental principles, experiments, recent applications to ocean altimetry, and future directions.
Testing for Level–Degree Interaction Effects in Two-Factor Fixed-Effects ANOVA When the Levels of Only One Factor Are Ordered
Authors: Rayner J. C. W. , Livingston G. C.
Published: May 2024

In testing for main effects, the use of orthogonal contrasts for balanced designs with the factor levels not ordered is well known. Here, we consider two-factor fixed-effects ANOVA with the levels of one factor ordered and one not ordered. The objective is to extend the idea of decomposing the main effect to decomposing the interaction. This is achieved by defining level–degree coefficients and testing if they are zero using permutation testing. These tests give clear insights into what may be causing a significant interaction, even for the unbalanced model.
Towards Sustainable Viscose-to-Viscose Production: Strategies for Recycling of Viscose Fibres
Authors: Forsberg Diana Carolina Reyes , Bengtsson Jenny , Hollinger Nadine , Kaldéus Tahani
Published: May 2024

The potential for using discarded viscose textiles to produce high-quality viscose fibres is limited by the low molecular weight of the cellulose and its continued reduction in the recycling process. Herein, we present a straightforward approach of reprocessing discarded viscose textiles while achieving high-quality recycled viscose fibres. Discarded viscose textile was defibrated and centrifuged, and the resulting fibres were reprocessed under industrially relevant conditions. The produced viscose dope was fluid and resulted in viscose fibres with properties comparable to fibres made from commercial wood cellulose pulp (titer ~2 dtex; dry elongation ~16%, dry tenacity ~15 cN/tex). To explore the potential for a more environmentally friendly production process, the steeping step was performed twice (double-steeping), thereby producing a more homogeneous viscose dope. Through double-steeping, the consumption of carbon disulfide (CS2) could be reduced by 30.5%. The double-steeping method shows to be a suitable approach to reprocess discarded viscose textiles while reducing the environmental impact of the viscose process associated with the use of CS2. Our work demonstrates that discarded viscose textile has the potential to be part of a circular textile value chain.
Study on Spatial-Temporal Disparities and Factors Influencing Electricity Consumption Carbon Emissions in China
Authors: Xie Pinjie , Wang Sheng , Liao Jie , Sun Feihu
Published: May 2024

Investigating the factors influencing the spatial-temporal disparities in China’s electricity consumption carbon emissions (ECCEs) will be of great help to advancing the reduction in carbon emissions on the consumption side of electricity. Based on the measurement of the ECCEs in 30 Chinese provinces between 2005 and 2021, we utilized the natural breakpoint method and the Dagum Gini coefficient to analyze the spatial-temporal disparities in ECCEs at the provincial and regional levels, and then we used Geodetector to explore the factors influencing the spatial-temporal disparities in ECCEs. The results revealed the following: (1) There were obvious inter-provincial spatial disparities in ECCEs, with coastal provinces such as Jiangsu and Guangdong consistently ranking at the top of the country and inland provinces such as Qinghai and Yunnan having relatively low carbon emission values. (2) The overall disparities in China’s ECCEs fluctuated and rose, with inter-regional disparities being the primary source of the overall disparities. (3) Economic development, industrialization level, population density, and foreign direct investment all had strong explanations for the spatial-temporal disparities in China’s ECCEs. When all these influencing factors were spatially superimposed, their effects were enhanced.
Study on the Evaluation of Urban Park Landscape Pattern Index and Its Driving Mechanisms in Nanchang City
Authors: Deng Xuechun , Zhou Yuchen , Sun Na
Published: May 2024

Urban planning is often influenced by industrial and construction activities, leading to a lack of attention to the planning and construction of urban parks, which results in prominent spatial layout problems. Urban parks, as an important part of the urban green space system, play a significant role in improving the ecological environment, promoting urban economic development, and enhancing the daily living standards of the people. As a typical representative of China’s second and third-tier cities, Nanchang’s analysis of the evolution process of urban landscape patterns has reference significance for other similar cities in China. This paper is based on the theoretical foundations of landscape ecology, human geography, and urban planning, and analyzes the evolution of the park landscape pattern in the central urban area of Nanchang from 1999 to 2019 from the perspective of urban context, revealing the driving mechanisms. It provides important references and bases for the further optimization and construction development of the park landscape pattern in Nanchang. The results show that the park area and number in the central urban area of Nanchang have significantly increased, with the overall layout evolving from “central aggregation” to “core aggregation in each area”, and from “central scarcity, more on the periphery” to “inward concentration, outward diffusion”. However, the distribution of various types of parks is uneven, and there is a lack of green corridor links between parks. The park landscape pattern is driven by multiple factors such as natural factors of urban context, socio-economic factors, urban construction factors, historical policies, and related planning, which can have positive or negative effects. Incorporating relevant urban factors into the park planning system analysis can promote the benign development of urban context and park landscape layout, thereby achieving the “parkification” of the city.
Influence of Different Proportions of the Addition of Electrocoagulated Metal Sludge (EMS) Obtained from Oily Wastewater Treatment on the Properties of Laboratory Bricks
Authors: Drušković Morana , Vouk Dražen , Kučić Grgić Dajana , Šiljeg Mario
Published: May 2024

Electrochemical wastewater treatment technologies are increasingly being used in practice, and the combination of electrocoagulation with advanced oxidation processes has been shown to increase treatment efficiency. The treatment of oily wastewater produces electrocoagulated metal sludge (EMS). In this work, the possibility of using different ratios of EMS produced during oily wastewater treatment was investigated. EMS was dried conventionally in an oven at 105 °C and used as a partial substitute for clay in the manufacture of laboratory bricks. The main research objectives of this study were to examine the possibility and justification of introducing EMS in brick production. The results show that an increase in the proportion of EMS in the manufacturing of bricks leads to a deterioration in the quality of the bricks. Bricks with an addition of 1 wt% and 5 wt% EMS showed the best properties. The loss on ignition (LOI), compressive strength, boiling water absorption and initial water absorption were determined at 5.7%; 49 N/mm2, 16%, 14 g/min/200 cm2, 15% for modified bricks with 1 wt% EMS and 6.3%, 48 N/mm2, 20%, 15 g/min/200 cm2 for modified brick with 5 wt%.
Environmental Injustice: The Effects of Environmental Taxes on Income Distribution in an Oligopolistic General Equilibrium Model
Authors: Kumar Ronald R. , Stauvermann Peter J.
Published: May 2024

We apply a static oligopolistic general equilibrium model to investigate the effects of an environmental tax on labor incomes, capital incomes, profits, and the distribution of income. The study is motivated by the fact that environmental taxation is one main political tool to realize environmental sustainability and support sustainable development. However, to ensure social and economic sustainability, the taxes applied must be perceived as fair by the majority of the civil society. Moreover, efforts to determine a fair taxation policy would ensure, inter alia, responsible consumption and production, and lower inequality in the economy, which are one of the two priorities of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 10 and 12). Therefore, it is necessary to determine the tax incidence to inform policymakers regarding the distribution of the tax burden. To examine environmental policy, we assume the government applies a policy objective to realize strong environmental sustainability, as proposed by the Dutch economist Rofie Hueting. The main result is that oligopolistic firms can shift the whole tax burden resulting from environmental taxes to workers and capital owners. Consequently, we show that environmental taxes can lead to more income inequality, and the more concentrated the markets, the bigger the social and economic inequality. Noting that addressing environmental problems is a priority of the UN SDGs, our analysis shows that approaching the issue using just environmental tax propositions is not advisable. These results of the analysis also provide a justification of why many members of the society tend to oppose environmental taxes.
The Collapse Mechanism of Slope Rill Sidewall under Composite Erosion of Freeze-Thaw Cycles and Water
Authors: Huang Wenbin , Shao Shuai , Liu Yuhang , Xu Xiangtian , Zhang Weidong , Liu Yong
Published: May 2024

The composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow on slope rills is characterized by periodicity and spatial superposition. When revealing the collapse mechanism of slope rill sidewalls under the composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow, it is necessary to fully consider the effect of water migration and its impact on the stability of the rill sidewall. In this paper, we placed the self-developed collapse test system in an environmental chamber to carry out model tests on rill sidewall collapse on slopes under the composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow. We utilized three-dimensional reconstruction technology and the fixed grid coordinate method to reproduce the collapse process of the rill sidewall and precisely locate the top crack. We obtained the relationship between the water content of the specimen and mechanical indexes through the straight shear test. The main conclusions are as follows: The soil structure of the rill sidewall is significantly affected by the freeze-thaw cycle, which benefits capillary action in the soil. One freeze-thaw cycle has the most serious effect on the soil structure of the rill sidewall, and the change in the moisture field is more intense after the soil temperature drops below zero. The friction angle of the soil increases with the number of freeze-thaw cycles and tends to stabilize gradually. The effect of the freeze-thaw cycle on the rate of change of the water content of the soil at each position of the wall can be accurately described by a logarithmic function. The expression of the two-factor interaction effect on the rate of change of water content of soil at each position of the rill sidewall can be accurately fitted. We propose a calculation system for locating cracks at the top of the rill sidewall and determining the critical state of instability and collapse of the rill sidewall during the process of freeze-thaw and water flow composite erosion. The results of this research can help improve the accuracy of combined freeze-thaw and water flow erosion test equipment and the development of a prediction model for the collapse of the rill sidewall under compound erosion. This is of great significance for soil and water conservation and sustainability.
Analysis and Reflection on the Green, Low-Carbon, and Energy-Saving Design of the Super High-Rise Building
Authors: Li Yangluxi , Chen Huishu , Yu Peijun , Yang Li
Published: May 2024

Shanghai Tower has become a new landmark of Shanghai. In the current trend advocating green building and energy efficiency, considerations of wind loads and thermal characteristics of the perimeter structure of Shanghai Tower are crucial. This paper conducts comparative simulation studies on the wind environment of Shanghai Tower using Ecotect software, and stress analyses and thermal simulations of the perimeter structure using ANSYS software. The study compared three buildings’ surface wind pressure distributions using models with equal-volume and circular cross-sections. We found that the unique exterior design of the Shanghai Tower results in a more regular and uniform distribution of wind pressure on its surface compared to both circular and square planar models, with a lower average wind pressure value. In addition, the stress analysis results indicate significant differences in deformation and stress distribution between the windward and leeward sides. Enhancing the bending moment detection of the peripheral structure and optimizing the layout of detection points are recommended. Thermal simulation results show excessive heat conduction flux in winter conditions, suggesting optimization using passive energy-saving methods such as light-sensitive thermal insulation materials during winter. This research is a reference for designing other super-tall buildings prioritizing low-carbon energy efficiency and structural safety.
The Effectiveness of Inflammatory Indexes in Assessing Oropharyngeal Cancer Prognosis
Authors: Jang Wooyoung , Zeitouni Jad F. , Nguyen Daniel K. , Mohiuddin Ismail S. , Ward Haven , Satheeshkumar Anu , Dundar Yusuf
Published: May 2024

Background: Inflammation has long been a key tenet in the diagnosis and management of malignancies, likely contributing to cancer incidence, staging, and progression. Systemic inflammation, in particular, is often elevated prior to and during cancer development. Systemic inflammation in the context of cancer diagnosis and monitoring is measured by various inflammatory indexes such as the systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), plasma-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune inflammation index (SII), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). We set out to determine the relationship between pre- and post-treatment levels of these inflammatory indexes and the prognosis and outcomes of oropharyngeal cancer (OPC). Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of 172 patients with OPC who underwent treatment for oropharyngeal cancer at University Medical Center in Lubbock, TX between May 2013 to May 2023. Sites of primary cancer were obtained through chart review. HPV infection status and differentiation of the tumor were noted for each patient. Treatment modalities were classified as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or concurrent chemotherapy and radiation. Treatment outcomes were classified based on recurrence and death secondary to disease. The relationships between treatment outcome and the described inflammatory indexes were evaluated. Appropriate parametric tests were selected based on the large number of variables. Results: Pre-treatment SIRI and Albumin levels were positively predictive in determining locoregional recurrence (p = 0.031 and p = 0.039). NLR, SII, and SIRI levels taken at three months post-treatment were also found to be positively predictive of locoregional recurrence (p = 0.005, p < 0.0005, and p = 0.007). SIRI taken at six months post-treatment was also found to be positively predictive of locoregional recurrence (p = 0.008). SII at six months post-treatment was found to be positively predictive of survival (p = 0.027). Conclusion: This study suggested that post-treatment levels of several inflammatory indexes, particularly SIRI, NLR, and SII, may be useful in determining the long-term outlook and recurrence of head and neck cancer following treatment.
Diode Laser Surgery of Peripheral Developing Odontoma in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report with Narrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Forte Marta , Barile Giuseppe , D’Amati Antonio , Ingravallo Giuseppe , Corsalini Massimo , Manfuso Alfonso , Favia Gianfranco , Capodiferro Saverio
Published: May 2024

Peripheral developing odontoma is a rare odontogenic lesion that mostly occurs in children. Their clinical and radiological features generally provide clinical suspicion of a benign lesion but only a histological examination may lead to the final diagnosis. Surgical management is generally easy and resolutive, but it can become more complicated in uncooperative patients and may thus require additional procedures to perform a fit surgery. We report a case of peripheral developing odontoma of the palatal aspect of the anterior maxilla that occurred in an uncooperative child subsequently treated by diode laser surgery, highlighting the benefit of this kind of surgery in pediatric patients. Data from the literature on peripheral developing odontoma have been collected and discussed with a narrative review.
Aqueous Solution of Ionic Liquid Is an Efficient Substituting Solvent System for the Extraction of Alginate from Sargassum tenerrimum
Authors: Moradiya Kinjal , Pereira Matheus M. , Prasad Kamalesh
Published: May 2024

Three ionic liquids (ILs) and three deep eutectic solvents (DESs) with identical counterparts, as well as their aqueous solutions, were prepared for the selective extraction of alginate from Sargassum tenerrimum, a brown seaweed. It was found that the ILs and their hydrated systems were only able to extract alginate from the seaweed directly, while the DESs were not, as confirmed by molecular docking studies. When the quality of the polysaccharide was compared to that produced using the hydrated IL system with the widely used conventional method, it was discovered that the physicochemical and rheological characteristics of the alginate produced using the ILs as solvents were on par with those produced using the conventional method. The ILs can be seen as acceptable alternative solvents for the simple extraction of the polysaccharide straight from the seaweed given the consistency of the extraction procedure used in conventional extraction processes. The hydrated ILs were discovered to be more effective than their non-hydrated counterparts. The yield was also maximized up to 54%, which is much more than that obtained using a traditional approach. Moreover, the ionic liquids can also be recovered and reused for the extraction process. Additionally, any residual material remaining after the extraction process was converted into cellulose, making the process environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Botulinum Toxin for Axial Postural Abnormalities in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gandolfi Marialuisa , Artusi Carlo Alberto , Imbalzano Gabriele , Camozzi Serena , Crestani Mauro , Lopiano Leonardo , Tinazzi Michele , Geroin Christian
Published: May 2024

Axial postural abnormalities (APAs), characterized by their frequency, disabling nature, and resistance to pharmacological treatments, significantly impact Parkinson’s disease and atypical Parkinsonism patients. Despite advancements in diagnosing, assessing, and understanding their pathophysiology, managing these complications remains a significant challenge. Often underestimated by healthcare professionals, these disturbances can exacerbate disability. This systematic review assesses botulinum toxin treatments’ effectiveness, alone and with rehabilitation, in addressing APAs in Parkinson’s disease, utilizing MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases for source material. Of the 1087 records retrieved, 16 met the selection criteria. Most research has focused on botulinum toxin (BoNT) as the primary treatment for camptocormia and Pisa syndrome, utilizing mostly observational methods. Despite dose and injection site variations, a common strategy was using electromyography-guided injections, occasionally enhanced with ultrasound. Patients with Pisa syndrome notably saw consistent improvements in APAs and pain. However, studies on the combined effects of botulinum toxin and rehabilitation are limited, and antecollis is significantly under-researched. These findings recommend precise BoNT injections into hyperactive muscles in well-selected patients by skilled clinicians, avoiding compensatory muscles, and underscore the necessity of early rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is crucial in a multidisciplinary approach to managing APAs, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary team of experts.
Community Participation Trajectories over the 5 Years after Traumatic Brain Injury in Older Veterans: A U.S. Veterans Affairs Model Systems Study
Authors: Vasic Stefan , Xia Bridget , Dini Mia E. , Klyce Daniel W. , Tyler Carmen M. , Juengst Shannon B. , Liou-Johnson Victoria , Talley Kelli G. , Dams-O’Connor Kristen , Kumar Raj G. , Venkatesan Umesh M. , Engelman Brittany , Perrin Paul B.
Published: May 2024

Background: Given the aging of the overall U.S. population, the resulting changes in healthcare needs especially among veterans, and the high prevalence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) among older adults, additional research is needed on community participation after TBI in older veterans. The current study examined predictors of community participation trajectories over the 5 years after TBI in veterans who were 55 years of age or older upon injury. Method: This study included data from 185 participants in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs TBI Model System national study who had sustained a TBI at age 55 or older and had completed at least one of each Participation Assessment with Recombined Tools-Objective (PART-O) subscale scores at one or more follow-up time points (1, 2, and 5 years post-TBI). Results: PART-O Productivity, Social, and Out and About scores remained constant over time. Lower PART-O Productivity trajectories were seen among participants who were unemployed at the time of injury (p = 0.023). Lower PART-O Social trajectories were seen among participants who had a lower education level (p = 0.021), were unmarried at injury (p < 0.001), and had private insurance coverage (p < 0.033). Conclusion: These findings add to the growing body of literature on TBI and community participation by focusing on an older adult veteran population. There is an urgency to understand the needs of this group, many of whom are aging with service-connected disabilities including TBI. Veterans with characteristics identified herein as being associated with lower community participation trajectories would be prime candidates for interventions that aim to increase community and social engagement after later-life TBI.
Malaria during COVID-19 Travel Restrictions in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Melebari Sami , Hafiz Abdul , Alzabeedi Kamal , Alzahrani Abdullah , Almalki Yehya , Jadkarim Renad , Qabbani Fadel , Bakri Rowaida , Jalal Naif , Mashat Hutaf , Alsaadi Aisha , Hakim Ashwaq , Malibari Feras , Alkhyami Ahmed , Fallatah Othman
Published: May 2024

Malaria is a parasitic infection that may result in an acute, life-threatening illness. It is a major public health problem in the tropical world. The disease is caused by the parasites of the genus Plasmodium and is transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes. Saudi Arabia is in the elimination phase of malaria control. Several parts of Saudi Arabia report cases of imported malaria among travelers and visitors. The city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia has a population of about 2.3 million. Moreover, over 6 million religious visitors from different parts of the world visit Makkah annually. During the COVID-19 outbreak, travel restrictions were enforced in Makkah to contain the spread of COVID-19. We compare the total reported cases of malaria in Makkah before, during, and after COVID-19 travel restrictions in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Data on demographics, clinical data, and laboratory parameters were collected from the medical records of the Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia. The annual malaria incidence rates in Makkah were 29.13/million people (2018), 37.82/million people (2019), 15.65/million people (2020), 12.61/million people (2021), and 48.69/million people (2022). Most of the malaria cases in Makkah were caused by Plasmodium falciparum, followed by P. vivax. Sudan, Nigeria, Yamen, Pakistan, and India are the top five countries contributing to malaria cases in Makkah. Weekly malaria case analyses revealed that COVID-19-related travel restrictions resulted in zero malaria cases in Makkah, indicating the magnitude of the travel-related malaria burden in the city.
The Role of Environmental Factors in Lyme Disease Transmission in the European Union: A Systematic Review
Authors: Giesen Christine , Cifo Daniel , Gomez-Barroso Diana , Estévez-Reboredo Rosa M. , Figuerola Jordi , Herrador Zaida
Published: May 2024

Background: Lyme disease (LD) is an emergent vector-borne disease caused by Borrelia spp. and transmitted through infected ticks, mainly Ixodes spp. Our objective was to determine meteorological and environmental factors associated with LD transmission in Europe and the effect of climate change on LD. Materials and methods: A systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines was performed. We selected studies on LD transmission in the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) published between 2000 and 2022. The protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database. Results: We included 81 studies. The impact of environmental, meteorological or climate change factors on tick vectors was studied in 65 papers (80%), and the impact on human LD cases was studied in 16 papers (19%), whereas animal hosts were only addressed in one study (1%). A significant positive relationship was observed between temperature and precipitation and the epidemiology of LD, although contrasting results were found among studies. Other positive factors were humidity and the expansion of anthropized habitats. Conclusions: The epidemiology of LD seems to be related to climatic factors that are changing globally due to ongoing climate change. Unfortunately, the complete zoonotic cycle was not systematically analyzed. It is important to adopt a One Health approach to understand LD epidemiology.
Candidiasis in Pregnancy: Relevant Aspects of the Pathology for the Mother and the Fetus and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Messina Alessandro , Mariani Alessia , Brandolisio Romina , Tavella Elena , Germano Chiara , Lipari Giovanni , Leo Livio , Masturzo Bianca , Manzoni Paolo
Published: May 2024

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common condition that can lead to significant discomfort, affecting approximately 70–75% of women at least once in their lives. During pregnancy, the prevalence of VVC is estimated to be around 20%, peaking at about 30% in the third trimester, with a number of specific risk factors predisposing to yeast infection being identified and needing elucidation. This review aims to provide updated knowledge on candidiasis during pregnancy, addressing risk factors and maternal and neonatal outcomes, as well as discussing optimal therapeutic strategies to safeguard mothers and newborns. The bibliographic search involved two biomedical databases, PubMed and Embase, without imposing time limits. Among all Candida spp., Candida albicans remains the most frequent causative species. The hyperestrogenic environment of the vaginal mucosa and reduced immune defenses, physiological effects of pregnancy, create conditions favorable for Candida spp. vaginal colonization and hence VVC. Recent evidence shows an association between VVC and adverse obstetric outcomes, including premature membrane rupture (PROM), chorioamnionitis, preterm birth, and puerperal infections. Prompt and effective management of this condition is therefore crucial to prevent adverse obstetric outcomes, maternal–fetal transmission, and neonatal disease. Additional studies are required to confirm the benefits of systemic treatment for maternal candida infection or colonization in preventing premature birth or neonatal systemic candidiasis.
Analytical Study of Nonlinear Flexural Vibration of a Beam with Geometric, Material and Combined Nonlinearities
Authors: Madhuranthakam Yoganandh , Chakrapani Sunil Kishore
Published: May 2024

This article explores the nonlinear vibration of beams with different types of nonlinearities. The beam vibration was modeled using Hamilton’s principle, and the equation of motion was solved using method of multiple time scales. Three models were developed assuming (a) geometric nonlinearity, (b) material nonlinearity and (c) combined geometric and material nonlinearity. The material nonlinearity also included both third and fourth nonlinear elasticity terms. The frequency response equation of these models were further evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively. The models capture the hardening effect, i.e., increase in resonant frequency as a function of forcing amplitude for geometric nonlinearity, and the softening effect, i.e., decrease in resonant frequency for material nonlinearity. The model is applied on the first three bending modes of the cantilever beam. The effect of the fourth-order material nonlinearity was smaller compared to the third-order term in the first mode, whereas it is significantly larger in second and third mode. The combined nonlinearity models shows a discontinuous frequency shift, which was resolved by utilizing a set of transition assumptions. This results in a smooth transition between the material and geometric zones in amplitude. These parametric models allow us to fine tune the nonlinear response of the system by changing the physical properties such as geometry, linear and nonlinear elastic properties.
Crab Harvesting, Sustainability Issues, and International Trade: Insights from Russia
Authors: Belov Andrey
Published: May 2024

This article aims to analyze Russia’s efforts, both domestically and internationally, to combat illicit crab harvesting and safeguard its marine resources. A comparison of total crab imports and allowable catch in Russian waters from 1990 to 2022 indicates a peak in shadow activities during the mid-2000s, with a cessation of large-scale illegal fishing observed since 2013. A narrative analysis of institutional shifts reveals that the bolstering of internal oversight, heightened accountability for harvesters, and enhanced global cooperation have been pivotal in fostering these positive dynamics. Concerning trends, however, emerged towards the beginning of the current decade, indicating potential instability within the legal framework of the crab industry. Persistent statistical discrepancies in trade with South Korea, diminishing institutional capacities within Russia to combat shadow activities, and heightened media scrutiny of illicit crab harvesting underscore the need for sustained vigilance in addressing both internal and external dimensions of this multifaceted problem.
Global Distribution and Molecular Evolution of Bat Coronaviruses
Authors: El Sayes Mohamed , Badra Rebecca , Ali Mohamed A. , El-Shesheny Rabeh , Kayali Ghazi
Published: May 2024

Bat coronaviruses cause a wide range of illnesses in humans and animals. Bats are known to harbor a wide diversity of Alphacoronaviruses and Betacoronaviruses. Betacoronaviruses have been linked to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and other diseases such as gastroenteritis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. In the last 20 years, three betacoronaviruses emerged and caused widespread outbreaks in humans, including two deadly betacoronavirus epidemics, SARS-CoV, with mortality rate of 10%, and MERS-CoV, with mortality rate of 34.7%, and SARS-CoV-2, which caused the COVID-19 pandemic, with mortality rate of 3.4%. Studies have shown that bats are the main natural reservoirs for these viruses or their ancestral viruses. Observed variations in bat coronavirus genomes indicate that these viruses may have a potential to transmit to other hosts in close contact with humans and subsequently transmit to humans. As of today, there are no reported cases of direct coronavirus transmission from bats to humans. One reason for this might be that intermediate hosts are required for the transmission of bat coronaviruses to humans. Further studies are needed to map the amino acids and genomic regions responsible for the interactions between the spike of coronavirus and its receptors.
Postphenomenology and education: From cyborg students to immersive classrooms
Authors: Smith Jared
Published: May 2024

This analysis uses a postphenomenological lens to provide insight into the shift occurring within society at large. It focuses on the educational domain, and arguing for a reevaluation of instructive approaches. Philosophical research into technology and education is seemingly lacking, and so this article seeks to fill the present gaps. This analysis initially delves into the postphenomenological frameworks of technological mediation, intentionality, and dimensions, to clearly differentiate the embodiment and cybernetic relationships as they are understood within various texts. Following this the epistemic and practical dimensions of these relations are explored to then be juxtaposed with the descriptive argument of the overall cultivating cybernetic relationship between human user and technological artefact in contemporary times, using the smartphone as the core example case study. Finally, a normative argument is made considering the previous cybernetic insight, in that if the classroom setting is to evolve and adapt, it too must embed technology within the classroom, lessons, and overall educational engagement. It represents an equalizing technological balance of cybernetic student and immersive classroom where the intentionality of user, technology, and classroom blend together to continue the cultivation of our blossoming relationship with technology.
Attempting a gendered cultural semiotic analysis through the transmedial study of the myth of Carmen
Authors: Foundouka Iokasti-Christina
Published: May 2024

The story of Carmen is perhaps one of the most translated, adapted, culturalized, indigenized and re-produced stories in the western world’s canon. Carmen herself has become a myth, an icon, a strong sign of female independence, eroticism and threat. Although suggested to be read as an Orientalistic story of a femme fatale, later readings and reproductions have turned the story of Carmen into a discourse regarding gender, class, race and systems of power. “Whether the adaptation portrays Carmen as victim or victimizer, in short, depends on the politics of the particular contexts of creation and reception” (Hutcheon 2006: 154). This study, however, does not aim to contribute to this vast discourse on femininity, sexuality and violence1, all issues raised by Carmen’s story, but rather track the adaptations and trace the cultural ideologies manifested through female representation. Women in culture, in this case Carmen, act as a counter mirror, reflecting the culture’s Other. Quoting Pollock (2003: 210) “woman is the sign, not of woman, but of that Other in whose mirror masculinity must define itself ”. In this case study of Carmen’s adaptations, cultural semiotic theory will be used as a methodological and analytical tool in the attempt to understand how the sign “woman” is used almost metonymically as the embodiment of counter-culture.
PENGARUH CURRENT RATIO, TOTAL ASSET TURNOVER, DAN KINERJA LINGKUNGAN TERHADAP NILAI PERUSAHAAN YANG DIMEDIASI OLEH RETURN ON ASSET (Studi Kasus Pada Perusahaan Manufaktur Sub Sektor Makanan Dan Minuman Yang Terdaftar Di BEI Periode 2018-2022)
Authors: Cahyono Yoyon Dwi , Aryani Dwi Nita
Published: May 2024

This study was conducted to examine the effect of Current ratio (CR), Total Asset Turn Over (TATO), Enviromental Performance (EP) on Firm Value (PBV) mediated by profitability (ROA). The samples of this study were 19 food and beverage sub-sector manufacturing companies listed on the IDX in the 2018-2022 period. With the total data studied as many as 95 company years. The main data source in this study is the annual report. The data processing application uses Smart PLS. The results showed that Current ratio is able to have a significant effect on profitability, Total asset turnover is unable to have a significant effect on profitability, Environmental performance is able to have a significant effect on profitability, Profitability is able to have a significant effect on firm value, Current ratio is able to have a significant effect on firm value, Total asset turnover is unable to have a significant effect on firm value, Environmental performance is unable to have a significant effect on firm value, and Profitability is unable to significantly mediate the effect of Current ratio, Total asset turnover, and Environmental performance on firm value.

Keywords: Current Ratio, Total Asset Turnover, Environmental Performance, Profitability, Firm Value.
ANALISIS STRATEGI APARATUR DINAS LINGKUNGAN HIDUP DAN PERTANAHAN DALAM PENGELOLAAN SAMPAH DI KABUPATEN TAKALAR
Authors: Hamid Hendrawati
Published: May 2024

This research aims to find out and analyze the strategies implemented by the Environment and Land Service apparatus in managing waste in Takalar Regency. The waste problem in various regions in Indonesia is a very urgent matter that needs attention from officials in each regional government because it is closely related to public health and healthy environmental conditions. This research uses a qualitative descriptive approach method, and the data is analyzed using the SWOT technique. Data collection was carried out by combining observation techniques, in-depth interviews with informants (Heads of Departments, Heads of Divisions, implementing officers in the field, and the general public), as well as documentation data. The findings obtained in this research are that the strategies implemented by the Environment and Land Service apparatus have been working well, although they still require various improvements and attention from the relevant apparatus. This strategy, which has not yet been effective, should receive more serious attention in the waste management process because it has the potential to create new jobs, as well as contribute more to increasing the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) of Takalar Regency. To improve waste management in Takalar Regency, increase the number of PDUs, TPS3R, and community-based waste banks as well as carry out outreach and create the "SALINTAK" application.

Keywords: Strategy Management, Waste Management, SWOT Analysis