bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The hidden microbiome of hospital infection surveillance testing: biomarkers of health outcomes in MRSA and VRE colonization
Authors: Hamidi Bashir , Steed Lisa L. , Curry Scott R. , Salgado Cassandra D. , Alekseyenko Alexander V.
Published: August 2023

Background Hospital-acquired infections present a major concern for healthcare systems in the U.S. and worldwide. Drug-resistant infections result in increased costs and prolonged hospital stays. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) are responsible for many drug-resistant infections in the U.S. We undertook two parallel studies aimed to investigate the differences in the microbial communities of individuals colonized with MRSA (or VRE) as compared to their respective non-colonized counterparts matched for age, sex, race, ethnicity, unit of admission, and diagnostic-related group, when available.Results The VRE study showed considerably more Enterococcus genus communities in the VRE colonized samples. Our findings for both MRSA and VRE studies suggest a strong association between 16S rRNA gene alpha diversity, beta diversity, and colonization status. When we assessed the colonized microbial communities in isolation, the differences disappeared, suggesting that the colonized microbial communities drove the change. Isolating Staphylococcus, we saw significant differences expressed across colonization in specific sequence variants.Conclusions The differences seen in the microbial communities from MRSA (or VRE) colonized samples as compared to non-colonized match-pairs are driven by the isolated communities of the Staphylococcus (or Enterococcus) genus, the removal of which results in the disappearance of any differences in the diversity observed across the match-pairs.
Unraveling the Causal Nexus: Exploring the Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Aortic Dissection
Authors: Li Dongrui , Li Fan , Jin Jingyu , Yang Yang , Tong Qian
Published: August 2023

Background: Aortic dissection(AD) is a severe cardiovascular disorder, and its underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain subject to debate. Numerous studies have corroborated the significant impact of gut microbiota on cardiovascular diseases. However, the causal relationship between gut microbiota and AD remains unclear.
Methods: In this study, we leveraged summary data from gut microbiota and AD genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) design to elucidate the causal relationship between gut microbiota and AD. Additionally, sensitivity analyses were conducted using Cochran's Q test, leave-one-out analysis, and MR-Egger intercept test.
Results: MR analysis genetically predicted Lachnospiraceae ND3007 group was associated with an increased risk of AD (OR (95%CI): 2.104(1.629 ~ 2.178), adjusted P value: <0.001). Moreover, we identified 11 gut microbial taxa, including Blautia and Collinsella, that exhibited potential causal relationships with AD.
Conclusion: The present study establishes a causal relationship between gut microbiota and AD, thereby offering novel avenues for research into the pathogenesis and prevention of AD.
Reclaiming Monomers from Waste Polyester Textiles with 4d Metal-Doped ZnO and g-C 3 N 4 Nanocomposites
Authors: Anbarasu Murugan , Preeyanghaa Mani , Vinitha Viswanathan , Neppolian Bernaurdshaw , Sivamurugan Vajiravelu
Published: August 2023

Our investigation focuses on breaking down 100% PET polyester (PES) threads using bimetallic ZnO and g-C3N4 nanocomposites. To do this, we used the sol-gel method to create tin, silver, and cadmium-doped bimetallic ZnO nanoparticles and impregnated them on g-CN. We analyzed the nanocomposites using XRD, FT-IR, UV-visible, and SEM-EDX and found that they had a wurtzite crystalline pattern and a lower optical bandgap than the bimetallic ZnO nanoparticles. Next, we carried out aminolytic and glycolytic depolymerization of the waste polyester threads under microwave irradiation. This resulted in the production of two monomers: bis(2-hydroxyethyl)terephthalamide (BHETA) and bis(2-hydroxyethyl)terephthalate (BHET) from aminolysis and glycolysis, respectively. We confirmed the monomers using FT-IR, 1H & 13C NMR, and MS techniques. Under optimized reaction conditions, we were able to completely depolymerize both blue and green-dyed waste polyester threads and yield colorless monomers. This process has the potential to recycle waste polyester threads and produce valuable monomers that could be used to make virgin polymers.
Correlation study between the fatty infiltration rate and some lumbar diseases
Authors: Liu Sijia , Pan Mingqi , Pan Junnan
Published: August 2023

Background
The aim of this study was to measuring the data of the cross-sectional area(CSA)of normal people and some patients with lumbar diseases,and to explore the correlation of the change of paravertebral muscles CSA, the fat infiltration rate༈FIR) of paravertebral muscles and some lumbar diseases.
Methods
Their lumbar magnetic resonance imaging(MRI )was obtained from L3 to L5, and the upper endplate, intervertebral disc and lower endplate were three planes respectively, a total of 9 planes. Image J software was used to measure the area of left and right erector spinae, left and right psoas major muscles, left and right multifidus muscles and fat infiltration area. A total of three people were measured at the same time, each site was measured 3 times, and the average paravertebral muscle area and the average fat infiltration were calculated. The patients were investigated by questionnaire and tested.
Result
The FIR of the normal female paraspinal muscle was significantly higher than that of the normal male group (P < 0.05). In the three experimental groups: the FIR of the male multifidus muscle was higher than that of the psoas major muscle and the erector spinae muscle (P < 0.05);There was a linear positive correlation between the FIR of paraspinal muscles and age.Compared with normal people, patients with LDH and LBP had significantly increased paravertebral muscle FIR (P < 0.05).In the LDH group and LBP group: There was a linear positive correlation between VAS score, ODI score and FIR. Liking sweets and high-fat foods, exercising, hyperlipidemia, calcium deficiency and age were correlated with the FIR of paravertebral muscle(P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The total FIR in female in the normal group was higher than that in male. With the increase of age, the paravertebral muscle FIR also increased. The FIR of multifidus muscle of some patients with lumbar diseases was greater than that of psoas major muscle and erector spinae muscle; The total FIR was higher than that in normal group. The higher the pain, the higher the FIR. Liking sweets foods, liking exercise, and so on were related to the FIR.
HEalth and QUality of life in Oncological patients (Hequobip study): call to definitive guidelines for the improvement of long-term patients’ quality of life
Authors: Paola Villa , Clara Pafundi Pia , Francesca Turchiano , Dona Amar Inbal , Ilaria Pasqua , E. Nappi Rossella , Chiara Cassani , Angelamaria Becorpi , Monica Pinto , Stefano Magno , Ida Paris , Giorgia Garganese , Giovanni Scambia
Published: August 2023

Purpose. There is no current consensus in the counseling about diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines for bone disease in breast cancer (BC) patients. Hence, we aimed to study the current state of clinical and therapeutic approach to bone disease in an Italian BC population treated with adjuvant and/or hormone therapy, alongside overall Quality of Life (QoL).Methods. This observational multicenter longitudinal ambispective study involved four Italian clinical units recruiting patients receiving either Aromatase Inhibitors (AI) or Tamoxifen. Data on BC, bone health, osteoporosis screening, anti-resorptive therapy types and timing were collected. We focused on bone health status and therapeutic approach adopted and adhesion rate to the different indications identified by the scientific board: ESCEO-2017 (I); ASCO-2019 (II); Note-79-AIFA-Determination (III).Results. 555 women (mean age 54.2 ± 9.5 years) were finally enrolled, most in iatrogenic menopause (62.2%). Half of patients (50.3%) had osteopenia, whilst only 18.4% osteoporosis. DXA exam was performed in 52.6% of cases within the first 24 months after BCtherapy. At enrollment, only 7% of patients received anti-resorptive therapy, whilst after they reached 48.3% of women, mainly Denosumab. Followed indications were mainly “type-III” (46.7%) vs. 16.6% “type-I” and “4.1% “type-II”. Patients showed a moderate impairment of global QoL referred to anxiety and depression, alongside an impairment in mobility and pain.Conclusion. Although clinicians indicate bone screening, they more often prescribe antiresorptive therapy without considering precise guidelines. This study focused on the need for a potential standardized approach to long-term management, which may lead to an improved Qol in BC patients.Trial registration number. Clinicaltrial.gov: NCT04055805.
Predicting Tipping Points of Forest Cover Resilience as a Response to Precipitation – a Step Towards Understanding Climate Resilience
Authors: Das Pulakesh , Behera Mukunda Dev , Roy PS , Barik Saroj Kanta
Published: August 2023

Although the impact of climate change is slow, the transformation in climate regime can lead to an ecosystem structure change from one stable to another stable state through intermediate bistable or metastable conditions. Therefore, the state transition or resilience in nature can never be sharp or be quantified with a single tipping point across the scales; rather, it should be understood through a tipping point range (tipping zone) across hysteresis loop(s). This study uses a satellite data-derived actual forest cover state map of India and high-resolution long-term average precipitation data to predict various tipping point range hysteresis for different forest cover states such as forest, scrubland, grassland and vegetation-less. The forest and vegetation-less states could have one-way, while scrubland and grassland have two-way transition probabilities with a probable shift in precipitation regime. In the dry conditions, the precipitation tipping zone predicted between 154 mm and 452 mm for the forest to scrubland transitions, while the reverse transition (from scrubland to forest) could occur in wet conditions between 1080 mm and 1400 mm. Similarly, the transition between scrubland and grassland, between grassland and vegetation-less state, may occur in contrasting dry and wet conditions, creating a hysteresis loop. The study indicates that the reversal of state change requires differential energy spent during the onward transition. The study proposes a novel characteristic curve demonstrating the varied precipitation tipping points/ zones, precipitation overlaps and distribution of the various life forms, and co-existence zones. The characteristic curve offers valuable inputs to explain life form transition and demarcate regions where forest enrichment and degradation may occur due to climate regime shifts. Such a spatially explicit database could provide vital inputs for planning forest cover restoration and management activities and mitigate the climate change impact.
Nest-building using place cells for spatial navigation in an artificial neural network
Authors: Portegys Thomas
Published: August 2023

An animal behavior problem is presented in the form of a nest-building task that involves two cooperating birds, a male and female. The female builds a nest into which she lays an egg. The male's job is to forage in a forest for food for both himself and the female. In addition, the male must fetch stones from a nearby desert for the female to use as nesting material. The task is completed when the nest is built and an egg is laid in it. A goal-seeking neural network and a recurrent neural network were trained and tested with little success. The goal-seeking network was then enhanced with “place cells”, allowing the birds to spatially navigate the world, building the nest while keeping themselves fed. Place cells are neurons in the hippocampus that map space.
A comparison between 2D DeepCFD, 2D CFD simulations and experimental 2D/2C PIV measurements of NACA 0012 10° AoA and NACA 6412 0° AoA airfoils
Authors: Berger Manuel , Raffeiner Patrik , Senfter Thomas , Pillei Martin
Published: August 2023

In this study, fluid flow predictions using three different methods were compared: DeepCFD, an artificial intelligence code; computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with Ansys Fluent and openFoam; and two-dimensional, two-component particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements. The airfoils under investigation were the NACA 0012 with a 10° angle of attack and the NACA 6412 with a 0° angle of attack. To train DeepCFD, 763, 2585, and 6283 openFoam simulations based on primitives were utilized. The investigation was conducted at a free stream velocity of 10 m/s and a Reynolds number of 82000. Results show that once the DeepCFD network is trained, prediction times are negligible, enabling real-time optimization of airfoils. The mean absolute error between CFD and DeepCFD, with 6283 trained primitives, for NACA 0012 predictions resulted in velocity components Ux = 1.77 m/s, Uy = 0.73 m/s, and static pressure p = 8.97 Pa. For NACA 6412, the corresponding MSE are Ux = 0.81 m/s, Uy = 0.59 m/s, and p = 7.5 Pa. Qualitative agreement was observed between PIV measurements, DeepCFD, and CFD. Results are promising that artificial intelligence has the potential for real-time fluid flow optimization of NACA airfoils in the future.
Coffee consumption and risk of lung cancer: a systematic review and meta- analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Jabbari Maedeh , Salari-Moghaddam Asma , Larijani Bagher , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad
Published: August 2023

Background
Studies on the association between coffee consumption and risk of lung cancer have been conflicting.
Objective
The aim of this study was to systematically review the current evidence on the association between coffee consumption and risk of lung cancer and to quantify this association by performing a meta-analysis.
Methods
A comprehensive systematic search was performed on online databases including PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science up to June 2023 investigating the association between coffee consumption and risk of lung cancer. All prospective cohort studies reporting odds ratios (ORs), rate or risk ratios (RRs), or hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in this context were included. The overall effect size was calculated using the random-effects model and statistical between-studies heterogeneity was examined using Cochrane’s Q test and I2.
Results
A total of 12 prospective cohort studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. We found a significant positive association between coffee consumption and risk of lung cancer (RR: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.73). This association remained significant when we excluded a pooled analysis paper and included 12 cohort studies (RR: 1.29; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.50). A sensitivity analysis showed that no particular study had a significant influence on the summary effects. In addition, we observed no proof of significant publication bias using Egger’s test (P = 0.49).
Conclusion
We found a significant positive association between coffee consumption and risk of lung cancer.
Implementation of a Novel Adaptive Coding using VLSI Architecture for Data Compression in Image Processing
Authors: G Kiranmaye , B Sridhar
Published: August 2023

: Image Compression is one of the emerging techniques of a Digital System for storing and retrieving of digital information. The main challenge in implementing Image Compression is to maintain the accuracy of the retrieved data. As the encoding techniques used for data compression are computationally intensive, new hardware architectures are required so that the processing of image consumes less space with increase in computation speed, reduction in area and power consumption. In this paper we address this problem and developed an Adaptive coding technique and implemented using VLSI architecture. An adaptive compression model using dynamic code allocation based on probability of occurrence is proposed. Here the Entropy code has a maximum search overhead of 6 match per 4-bit pattern. Wherein a maximum of 5-bit search is observed in proposed approach. This reduces a search overhead of (N⨉m)-1 iterations. Here N is the number of unique patterns and m is the block size. The proposed architecture is developed using VHDL language and implemented using Xilinx Aldec’s FPGA. The adaptive coding approach attains a compression of 35% more as compared to the entropy coding. The implementation on to targeted Xilinx FPGA results in power minimization and area coverage reduction. The speed of operation is observed to be improved by 135MHz. The validation of proposed approaches is made on image data to observe the coding accuracy. The mean square error of the output image is reduced by 35% with an increase in the signal to noise ratio of the output image.
Chrysophyllum Albidum Extract as a New and Green Protective Agent for metal
Authors: I. Okeke Pamela , C. Nleonu Emmanuel , Ichou Hamza , Berdimurodov Elyor , Dagdag Omar , O. Amanze Kenneth , C. Adindu Blessing. , Berisha Avni
Published: August 2023

The destruction of metallic materials is an economic and environmental challenge. Traditional corrosion inhibitors are often toxic and nonbiodegradable. This study evaluates the protective performance of an extract from the leaves of Chrysophyllum albidum, a plant known for its medicinal properties, for mitigating metal destruction in aggressive systems. Gravimetric measurements and PDP techniques were employed to investigate the protective performance for metal in 1 M HCl and 0.5 M H2SO4 solutions by the C. albidum leaf extract at different concentrations (400-1600 mg/L) and time periods (up to 96 hrs). The results showed the highest protection ability of over 94%, with inhibition increasing with higher extract concentrations. Polarization studies indicated a mixed inhibition mechanism, reducing both anodic dissolution and cathodic hydrogen evolution rates. GC‒MS analysis identified major organic constituents in the extract. Thermodynamic data fitted the Langmuir isotherm model, suggesting chemisorptive adsorption of inhibitor molecules on the mild steel surface. Computational methods, including DFT, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum chemical calculations, provided insight into inhibitor-metal interactions and adsorption behavior at the molecular level. Overall, the study demonstrates that C. albidum leaf extract is a promising green alternative to synthetic corrosion inhibitors. It inhibits mild steel corrosion efficiently and could potentially be developed as a sustainable, eco-friendly solution for industrial applications requiring corrosion control and protection.
Women’s Decision-Making Autonomy as a Mitigating Factor for Complete Antenatal Care Coverage: Evidence from Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey, 2017-18
Authors: Morshed Ramisa , Sohan Md. Asaduzzaman , Afrin Naurin , Urmy Amatul Aziz
Published: August 2023

The study defines complete antenatal care (ANC) coverage as a measure of better quality ANC by using three indicator variables: ANC from skilled health providers, initiating ANC during the first trimester, and receiving at least 4 ANC visits. The research work is aimed to determine the impact of women’s household decision-making autonomy on complete ANC coverage and investigates other potential factors associated with complete ANC coverage. As per researchers’ knowledge, this is the first study in Bangladesh where the association between women’s decision-making autonomy and complete ANC coverage has been explored. The study obtained data from 4864 women on their last successful pregnancy which has been extracted from Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS), 2017-18. Descriptive and analytical analysis has been carried out using frequency tables, the chi-square test of association, and the binary logistic regression model. The result shows that almost one-fourth of women (25.5%) fulfill the requirements of complete ANC coverage. Moreover, both the chi-square test and the logistic regression model confirm the significant association between women’s decision-making autonomy and complete ANC coverage. It is evident from the study that women with higher decision-making autonomy have significantly 25% higher adjusted odds of experiencing complete ANC coverage compared to those who have low autonomy power. Moreover, the findings of the study signify the factors Division, Place of residence, Maternal education level, Wealth index, Mother’s age at birth, Media coverage, Exposure to domestic violence, Partner’s education level, and Birth order as potential factors affecting complete ANC coverage in Bangladesh. Therefore effective policies are required to prioritize interventions that promote women's autonomy in household decision making which in return can lead to better maternal and child health outcomes in Bangladesh.
Survey Responses Identify Community Member Interest in Visiting Public Gardens and Arboreta
Authors: Kelley Kathleen M. , Sellmer James C. , Robert Rebecca H.
Published: August 2023

An Internet survey was conducted from 28 May to 8 June 2008 to investigate consumer awareness and interest in attending programming offered at The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College (Swarthmore, PA). The study was designed to investigate what traditional and non-traditional programs might attract community members to the arboretum and to identify potential barriers, perceived or real, that might discourage community members from visiting the arboretum. Among demographic groups, more females were interested in “hands-on workshops” (42.5%) and “fact sheets, instructional bulletins, and how-to guides” (37.4%) than males (26.8% and 26.3%, respectively). In examining events and activities, significant differences were found for “wine tasting and tours” and “outdoor concerts and live performances” based on household income; however, no significant differences were found among age groups and other demographics tested. Differences in interest in other activities were apparent based on number of adults and number of children in the household. Public gardens and arboreta can use this information as the foundation for modifying programs and services offered, though input from the community and trialing of alternative programs should be considered before completely changing programs and services offered.
Present Status and Future Prospects of Cut Rose Production in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Iftikhar , Dole John M. , Khan M. Aslam , Qasim M. , Ahmad Tanveer , Khan A.S.
Published: August 2023

Present status and future prospects of cut rose (Rosa ×hybrida) flower production and postharvest management in Punjab, Pakistan, were investigated. Cut roses were the leading flower crop in the area under study, but production systems and practices were outdated and primitive, resulting in cut stems that were not acceptable in international markets. The majority of growers (65%) had only basic education (grade 10 or less) and 57% had small landholdings (<1 ha); therefore, they did not have modern production techniques and resources for high-quality cut rose production. Moreover, lack of production and postharvest facilities, ignorance of both public and private resources, and poor production and postharvest practices were prevalent. Growers' training regarding production and postharvest management would be required to lift the quality standards of this industry up to the international level. However, a positive trend was observed in cut rose businesses as more than half of growers (52%) entered into the business during last 5 years. In addition, 30% of growers were in business over 10 years, indicating that cut rose production can provide a sustained income for producers. This analysis of the cut rose industry in Punjab can serve as a model for other countries whose cut flowers industries are at a similar stage of development.
Effect of Mulching on Plant and Weed Growth, Substrate Water Content, and Temperature in Container-grown Giant Arborvitae
Authors: Amoroso Gabriele , Frangi Piero , Piatti Riccardo , Fini Alessio , Ferrini Francesco
Published: August 2023

This research evaluated the effectiveness of biodegradable mulches for weed control in container-grown ‘Martin’ giant arborvitae (Thuja plicata) and measured the effects of these mulches on evaporation and substrate temperature. The experiment was carried out in the 2008 and 2009 growing seasons. Four biodegradable mulching materials were tested and compared with a chemical control (oxadiazon) and a non-mulched/non-treated control. Two levels of overhead irrigation were evaluated: 1) daily irrigation to container capacity (well watered) and 2) daily irrigation to 30% of container capacity (water stressed). Two weed management regimes were used: 1) hand weeding three times during the growing season and 2) no weeding until the end of the growing season. Plants were potted in 3-L containers and arranged in a split–split plot design in an experimental nursery. Ornamental shoot dry weight was measured at the end of the growing season. Weed shoot dry weight per container was recorded after each hand weeding. Water content per pot (as a percentage of water-holding capacity) was measured by weighing containers every 2 hours during the day. Substrate temperature was measured in the warmest period of the day. Mulches limited weed growth to the same extent as the chemical control. In 2008, mulched plants resulted in a higher shoot dry weight than non-treated and non-mulched plants, while in the second year, no differences were observed. The black color of the 3-L containers was probably the main factor driving substrate temperature increase, indicating mulching materials did not affect substrate temperatures. In both experiments, container water content was unaffected by mulching materials. Results seem to demonstrate that transpiration is the main component of water loss from container-grown giant arborvitae plants.
A Twin-head “V” High-wire Greenhouse Cucumber Production System for Reducing Crop Start-up Costs
Authors: Hao Xiuming , Wen Guang , Papadopoulos Athanasios P. , Khosla Shalin
Published: August 2023

A high-wire system, in which the plant is trained into a single stem, is gaining popularity in year-round greenhouse cucumber (Cucumis sativus) production, especially with supplemental lighting, as it allows for uniform foliar and light distribution and higher yield and quality. However, this system requires much higher plant densities than the conventional umbrella system, resulting in increased crop start-up costs. A technique for raising twin-head transplants and a twin-head “V” high-wire cucumber system were developed to address this issue. The twin-head transplants were raised by topping the seedlings after the appearance of the fourth true leaf and then two strong lateral shoots were allowed to develop and be trained into a “V” system after planting. The twin-head system achieved similar plant growth and fruit yield as the conventional single-head system on two long English seedless cucumber cultivars (Bodega and Myrthos) and two breeding lines (2005A and 24–119) tested over 2 years. The twin-head system also improved the fruit grades in ‘Bodega’ by increasing the percentage of fruit in medium size while reducing the percentage of fruit in small size. Because the twin-head system achieved the same fruit yield as the conventional single-head system while using only half the number of transplants, we can conclude that the twin-head “V” high-wire system is a more cost-effective high-wire system for year-round greenhouse cucumber production.
Effects of Various Horticultural Activities on the Autonomic Nervous System and Cortisol Response of Mentally Challenged Adults
Authors: Lee Min-Jung
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to examine how horticultural activities, such as pressing flowers, planting, creating flower arrangements, and making topiaries, affect stress relief for patients who are mentally challenged. Two experiments were conducted in this study. In Expt. 1, the heart rate variation (HRV) of 30 mentally challenged people from the Daegu Rehabilitation Center (Daegu, South Korea) was measured. The pressed flower group and the planting group showed a significant improvement (P < 0.01) in the sd of the normal–normal interval HRV measurements (SDNN), which improved from 42.37 to 45.54 ms. The planting group's SDNN and low frequency (LF) significantly improved from 38.68 to 45.49 ms and from 5.87 to 6.58 ms, respectively, at P < 0.05. A significant improvement in total power (TP) and high frequency (HF) at P < 0.01 was also observed; results changed from 6.90 to 7.46 ms and from 4.76 to 5.28 ms, respectively. The flower arrangement group displayed a significant difference in LF (from 5.26 to 5.89 ms) at P < 0.05. Finally, the topiary group showed a significant difference in TP (from 6.72 to 7.23 ms) at P < 0.05. In Expt. 2, the cortisol levels of 20 mentally challenged people from the P Residential Home (Yeongcheon, South Korea) were measured. Compared with the baseline measurement, the pressed flower group displayed a significant decrease in cortisol density from 4.66 nmol·L−1 on day 1 to 4.64 nmol·L−1 on day 7; however, no significant difference was observed on day 4. The planting group showed a significantly decreasing difference (3.08 nmol·L−1) in cortisol density (8.84 nmol·L−1) on day 7 compared with day 4 of planting activities. Finally, the topiary group continued to show a significant decrease (from 9.98 to 7.0 nmol·L−1) in cortisol density at each cortisol collection after the first day of topiary activities. It was concluded that indoor horticultural activities have an effect on mentally challenged people's stress relief. In particular, planting activities were effective for this relief.
Performance of Primocane-fruiting Experimental Blackberry Cultivars in the Southern Appalachian Mountains
Authors: Fernandez Gina E. , Ballington James R.
Published: August 2023

Yield performance of primocane-fruiting experimental blackberry (Rubus spp.) cultivars from two breeding programs were evaluated in the southern Appalachian Mountains. The trial consisted of the nine experimental cultivars: NC 533, NC 534, NC 535, NC 537, NC 538, NC 539, APF-27, APF-46, and Prime-Jim®. In addition, rowcovers were applied to split plots in the spring to determine if harvest dates could be advanced. In 2007, five experimental cultivars had comparable high total yields (APF-27, APF-46, NC 535, NC 537, and NC 539), yet only three of these had comparable marketable yields (APF 27, APF-46, and NC 537). In 2008, APF-27 and APF-46 had significantly higher total yield (2234.5 and 2257.3 g/plant, respectively) and marketable yield (1611.2 and 1654.2 g/plant, respectively) than all other experimental cultivars. Rowcover treatments did not increase or decrease either total or marketable yield in any of the experimental cultivars in either year. In addition, rowcovers did not advance the date of 5% or 50% harvest in either year. On the basis of the conditions imposed in these studies, we determined that “APF” selections evaluated in this trial have higher second-year yield than “NC” selections, primocane-fruiting experimental cultivar yields are lower than yields commonly found with floricane-fruiting blackberries, and rowcovers as applied in this study are not a viable option for advancing harvest season of primocane-fruiting blackberries in the southern Appalachian Mountains.
Creative Battle Space: The Sea in Indonesian Newspaper Short Stories
Authors: Suwondo Tirto , Wahyuni Dessy , Zamzuri Ahmad , Satiyoko Yohanes Adhi , Saptawuryandari Nurweni
Published: August 2023

The sea has always been a source of inspiration in literature. The sea becomes a creative battleground in literature because it depicts human life full of challenges, difficulties, hopes, and adventures. In literature, the sea becomes a metaphor that helps reveal human life's complexity by showing life's beauty and ferocity. This study aims to advance existing studies to identify unique concepts, ideologies, or discourses relating to the ocean that are hidden in 25 short stories from 2010 to 2021 in Indonesian newspapers. Using an interactive interpretation method, all short stories are analyzed through content analysis techniques to reveal the various creative battle spaces. Through a mixed methods study with a critical approach, this research found four creative battle spaces with their respective subspaces, namely: (1) economic battle space with capitalist and impact of capitalism subspace; (2) moral battle space with action crime and power struggle subspace; (3) inner battle space with serenity, sorrow relief, the battle between reality and desire, and the battle of life subspace; and (4) surrealism idea battle space with the meeting space of two worlds, the endless search, surrealism-economics, and spirituality and imagery subspace.
People and Mangroves: Biocultural Utilization of Mangrove Forest Ecosystem in Southeast Asia
Authors: Buenavista Dave , Purnobasuki Hery
Published: August 2023

Mangroves provide diverse benefits for various coastal communities in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, the same region exhibits the highest global rates of mangrove loss. Whilst studies exploring its value as a biocultural refugia remain lacking, the associated biocultural uses of mangroves are likewise under threat. Using the PRISMA approach, 33 studies passed the eligibility and screening process. The majority of biocultural studies were from Indonesia (60%), Malaysia (9%), Philippines (9%), and Thailand (9%) whilst the least were from Myanmar (6%), Vietnam (3%), and Timor-Leste (3%). We identified seven biocultural lenses for Southeast Asian mangroves; food source, cultural and spiritual use, livelihood source, construction materials, fuelwood and charcoal, medicinal use, and fish poison and fishing material. As a biocultural refugia, management of mangroves are intimately intertwined with traditional practices which stemmed from cultural and spiritual importance of mangroves. However, many Asian cultures remain undocumented and understudied. We, therefore, recommend a more culture-sensitive approach in various community-based mangrove conservation projects that respectfully integrate the indigenous and local knowledge systems (ILKS) and practices. Studies relating to the biocultural values, both tangible and intangible benefits of mangroves, should be further explored to promote the sustainable utilization and conservation of the remaining mangroves in Southeast Asia.
Functional flows for complex effective actions
Authors: Ihssen Friederike , Pawlowski Jan M.
Published: August 2023

In the present work we set up a general functional renormalisation group framework for the computation of complex effective actions. For explicit computations we consider both flows of the Wilsonian effective action and the one-particle irreducible (1PI) effective action. The latter is based on an appropriate definition of a Legendre transform for complex actions, and we show its validity by comparison to exact results in zero dimensions, as well as a comparison to results for the Wilsonian effective action. In the present implementations of the general approaches, the flow of the Wilsonian effective action has a wider range of applicability and we obtain results for the effective potential of complex fields in \phi^4ϕ4-theories from zero up to four dimensions. These results are also compared with results from the 1PI effective action within its range of applicability. The complex effective action also allows us to determine the location of the Lee-Yang zeros for general parameter values. We also discuss the extension of the present results to general theories including QCD.
CFTs with $\mathbf{U(m)\times U(n)}$ global symmetry in 3D and the chiral phase transition of QCD
Authors: Kousvos Stefanos Robert , Stergiou Andreas
Published: August 2023

Conformal field theories (CFTs) with U(m)\times U(n)U(m)×U(n) global symmetry in d=3d=3 dimensions have been studied for years due to their potential relevance to the chiral phase transition of quantum chromodynamics (QCD). In this work such CFTs are analyzed in d=4-\varepsilond=4−ε and d=3d=3. This includes perturbative computations in the \varepsilonε and large-nn expansions as well as non-perturbative ones with the numerical conformal bootstrap. New perturbative results are presented and a variety of non-perturbative bootstrap bounds are obtained in d=3d=3. Various features of the bounds obtained for large values of nn disappear for low values of nn (keeping m<nm<n fixed), a phenomenon which is attributed to a transition of the corresponding fixed points to the non-unitary regime. Numerous bootstrap bounds are found that are saturated by large-nn results, even in the absence of any features in the bounds. A double scaling limit is also observed, for mm and nn large with m/nm/n fixed, both in perturbation theory as well as in the numerical bootstrap. For the case of two-flavor massless QCD existing bootstrap evidence is reproduced that the chiral phase transition may be second order, albeit associated to a universality class unrelated to the one usually discussed in the \varepsilonε expansion. Similar evidence is found for the case of three-flavor massless QCD, where we observe a pronounced kink.
Aluminum foil immersed in alkalized seawater removes Escherichia coli from household drinking water
Authors: Johan Erni , Ihsan Taufiq , Fukugaichi Satoru , Matsue Naoto
Published: August 2023

The contamination of drinking water by pathogens poses a serious health hazard in developing countries. Herein, a simple sanitization tool for drinking water is proposed using layered double hydroxide (LDH), which adsorbs most pathogens with its positive charges. By immersing aluminum foil in a mixture of seawater and NaOH without heating, a Mg–Al type LDH was directly formed and adhered to the surface (LDH foil). An LDH foil of 20 cm2 was shaken in 100 mL of test water containing Escherichia coli (DH5α) for up to 24 h and manually removed from the water. The initial viable count of approximately 103 CFU mL−1 decreased to 14 CFU mL−1 in 1 h, reaching 0.25 CFU mL−1 in 24 h; without the LDH foil, the variation 980–1,270 CFU mL−1. The simplicity in its development and use makes LDH foil a promising tool for sanitizing household water among rural residents.
Rational utilization of water resources to promote sustainable development of rural ecotourism
Authors: Zhang Songting , Wu Yichao , Xu Bo
Published: August 2023

Today's society is grappling with a critical issue: how to sustainably expand rural ecotourism and make good use of water resources (the following expressions are all denoted by WRs). This paper has analyzed the characteristics of rural ecotourism based on the current situation of WR utilization, starting from the meaning of rural ecotourism, and has taken three tourist villages for research on the utilization of WRs. The results indicated that the WRs used in the tourism industry in rich villages in 2019 accounted for the highest proportion (28.81%) between 2010 and 2019; medium villages reached a maximum of 18.32% in 2017; poor villages in 2014 used the highest proportion of WRs in the tourism industry between 2010 and 2019, accounting for 37.76%. Poor villages have consistently spent the largest amount of water in the tourism industry. It showed that blindly utilizing WRs in the tourism industry could not promote economic development, only rational distribution could achieve sustainable economic growth and sustainable development of tourism ecology. This paper has also discussed the problems of water utilization in rural ecotourism development using this research and provides corresponding solution strategies, hoping to provide a theoretical reference for the sustainable development of rural ecotourism.
COVID-19 Sürecinde Öğretmen Gözüyle Uzaktan Eğitim
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Hüseyin , ÖNDER ÖZDEMİR Neslihan
Published: August 2023

Yeni koronavirüsün (COVID-19) tüm dünyada eğitim üzerindeki zorunlu değişim ve kaçınılmaz etkileri ile birlikte uzaktan eğitim yaklaşımı ön plana çıkmıştır. Bu küresel salgın, eğitimin kesintiye uğratılmadan devam ettirilmesi gerekliliğinden yola çıkarak, eğitimde teknolojik alt yapıya daha fazla yatırım yapılması gerektiğini, kullanılan eğitim modelleri ve yaklaşımları yerine alternatif öğrenme yaklaşımlarına da önem verilmesinin gerekli olduğunu göstermiştir. Bu çalışma, COVID-19 sürecinde öğretmenlerin uzaktan eğitimle ilgili düşüncelerini araştırmayı hedeflemektedir. COVID-19’un devam ettiği ve ne zaman biteceğinin belli olmadığı bu süreçte yapılan bu çalışmada araştırma yöntemlerinden durum çalışması deseni kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri 74 lise öğretmeninden çevrimiçi anket yoluyla toplanmıştır. Araştırmada elde edilen bulgulara göre, öğretmenler, uzaktan eğitim sürecinde karşılaştıkları zorlukları belirtirken internet ve cihaz eksikliğine bağlı teknolojik noksanlıkları ve bundan kaynaklı öğrenci devamsızlıklarını, sürece bağlı motivasyon eksikliğini, iletişimde yaşanan sorunları ve bunun dışında tecrübe ettikleri diğer bazı sorunları dile getirmişlerdir. Çalışmanın sonunda araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre öneriler sunulmuştur.
Ensino remoto e estágio supervisionado na educação do campo
Authors: Cunha Adriana Lima Monteiro , Silva Maria do Socorro Pereira da , Santos Thaynan Alves dos
Published: August 2023

Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar os desafios e as aprendizagens vivenciadas pelos estudantes-estagiários durante o estágio supervisionado no período do ensino remoto na Licenciatura em Educação do Campo (LEdoC). A metodologia utilizada foi a abordagem qualitativa, por meio da pesquisa participante. Para produção dos dados, adotamos o levantamento da literatura, a análise das resoluções e aplicação do instrumento questionário aos estudantes-estagiários do curso de Licenciatura em Educação do Campo, Campus Professora Cinobelina Elvas no munícipio de Bom Jesus, Piauí. Os resultados apontaram para a fragilidade do ensino remoto nas escolas básicas do campo pela impossibilidade de realização de uma proposta emergencial sem atender as condições mínimas de acesso às tecnologias e plataformas digitais. Os dados também revelaram que, mesmo com esse condicionante do ensino remoto em caráter emergencial, o estágio supervisionado como componente curricular possibilitou aprendizagens sobre a docência e sobre os processos pedagógicos.
The Concept of Time in East-Asia
Authors:   The Society of Theology and Thought, Lee Hyang Man
Published: August 2023

According to the ancient Chinese texts, time can be understood in a corre-lational relationship with the space in which the aspect of existence takes place. In this respect, time is both static and dynamic, quantitative and qualitative. Ultimately, ‘the universe’ is the time and space in which the Tao operates. For Chinese philosophers who conducted philosophical thinking under the philosophical premise of the inverse that what exists changes, the concept of time was never a transcendental standard that could be equally applied to all objects quantitatively. Rather, the meaning of performative temporality was highlighted while the context of life was emphasized. The tradition of measuring time was also for the recognition of the change of heaven and earth and for moral practice accordingly. Therefore, this paper deals with China's unique view of time from a performative, metaphysical, ritual, and astronomical point of view in relation to time measurement, focusing on ancient literature, and finally, the ancient Chinese view of time deals with the significance of the Calendar/Music related to the harmony of time and space.
Ontological Study on Time in Terms of Contemporary Physics
Authors:   The Society of Theology and Thought, Lee Jung Won
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the change of the concept of time and its ontological meaning in physics, focusing on modern physics. The concept of absolute time was presented in Newton's classical physics, and since then, the concepts of relativistic time and quantized time have been introduced in Einstein's theory of relativity and quantum gravity theory, respectively. This change raises question about the true concept of time in the universe. In this paper, in order to find an answer to this question, the ontological meaning of the concept of time presented by each theory is compared. First, the concept of absolute time is regarded as a concept of time that we usually accept, and it is revealed that the meanings of uniqueness, independent reality, separability, directionality, continuity, uniformity, transcendence, and objectivity are included in it. And, in the concepts of relativistic time and quantized time, these characteristics are dismantled one by one. Nevertheless, whether the concept of time in the world we experience is compatible with the concept of quantized time is investigated through the thermal time hypothesis. Finally, we examine the implications of time quantization in philosophy of science, even though (loop) quantum gravity theory is a theoretical imagination that has not yet been empirically verified.
Does the Old Testament Conceptualize a Beginning and an End of Time? An Exploration of Time in the Bible
Authors:   The Society of Theology and Thought, Kim Yeong Seon
Published: August 2023

The present article undertakes an examination of the concept of time in the Old Testament, specifically in relation to the question of whether the text presupposes the beginning and end of time. The investigation proceeds in several stages, the first of which involves a close analysis of the term bᵊrēʾšît as it appears in Genesis 1:1. After carefully examining diverse interpretations of the term, including the conventional perspective that defines rēʾšît as an absolute state noun and Genesis 1:1 as an independent clause, the writer arrives at the conclusion that it cannot be conclusively established that Genesis 1:1 denotes the absolute inception of time.
The investigation then turns to the examination of three phrases that are commonly associated with the end of time: ʿeṭ-qēṣ, ʾaḥǎrîṭ hayyāmîm, and yôm yhwh. The writer considers these expressions carefully in order to de-termine whether they presuppose the end of time. Additionally, the writer examines the word ʿôlām in order to assess whether it connotes endless time or atemporality. It is argued that the biblical authors’ interest in the end of time does not imply the concept of absolute disappearance of time, but rather expresses the hope for the opening of a new era. Furthermore, the word ʿôlām is found to indicate permanance rather than endlessness or atemporality. It is important to note that the descriptions of time in the Old Testament are conveyed through symbolic and metaphorical language, rather than through theoretical, physical, or mathematical analysis. Consequently, attempts to impose a single, specific view of time onto the Old Testament's descriptions should be avoided, especially when engaged with scientific, philosophical, or other cultural perspectives on time.