bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonic Weld Quality Inspection Involving Strength Prediction and Defect Detection in Data-Constrained Training Environments
Authors: Mohandas Reenu , Mongan Patrick , Hayes Martin
Published: October 2024

Welding is an extensively used technique in manufacturing, and as for every other process, there is the potential for defects in the weld joint that could be catastrophic to the manufactured products. Different welding processes use different parameter settings, which greatly impact the quality of the final welded products. The focus of research in weld defect detection is to develop a non-destructive testing method for weld quality assessment based on observing the weld with an RGB camera. Deep learning techniques have been widely used in the domain of weld defect detection in recent times, but the majority of them use, for example, X-ray images. An RGB image-based solution is attractive, as RGB cameras are comparatively inexpensive compared to X-ray image solutions. However, the number of publicly available RGB image datasets for weld defect detection is comparatively lower than that of X-ray image datasets. This work achieves a complete weld quality assessment involving lap shear strength prediction and visual weld defect detection from an extremely limited dataset. First, a multimodal dataset is generated by the fusion of image data features extracted using a convolutional autoencoder (CAE) designed in this experiment and input parameter settings data. The fusion of the dataset reduced lap shear strength (LSS) prediction errors by 34% compared to prediction errors using only input parameter settings data. This is a promising result, considering the extremely small dataset size. This work also achieves visual weld defect detection on the same limited dataset with the help of an ultrasonic weld defect dataset generated using offline and online data augmentation. The weld defect detection achieves an accuracy of 74%, again a promising result that meets standard requirements. The combination of lap shear strength prediction and visual defect detection leads to a complete inspection to avoid premature failure of the ultrasonic weld joints. The weld defect detection was compared against the publicly available image dataset for surface defect detection.
Interior Profile Accuracy Assessment Method of Deep-Hole Parts Based on Servo Drive System
Authors: Liang Jintao , Wang Kaixin , Song Xiaotian , Han Xiaolan
Published: October 2024

Dimensional and profile measurements of deep-hole parts are key processes both in manufacturing and product lifecycle management. Due to the particularity of the space conditions of deep-hole parts, the existing measurement instruments and methods exhibit some limitations. Based on the multi-axis, highly precise servo drive system, a novel measuring device is developed. The laser displacement sensors are fed by the flux-switching permanent magnet linear motor, and the part is rotated by the servo motor. On this basis, the assessment methods of roundness, straightness, and cylindricity are proposed by employing the least square method (LSM). Additionally, considering the axial center deviation between the sensors and the part, the rotating center coordinate is optimized by the gradient descent algorithm (GDM). Then, the measurement system is constructed and the experiment study is conducted. The results indicate favorable evaluation error of the LSM fitting and GDM iteration. Compared with the coordinate measuring machine (CMM), the measured results show good consistency. In the error analysis, the angle positioning error of measured point is less than 0.01°, and the axial positioning error is less than 0.05 mm. The proposed system and assessment method are regarded as a feasible and promising solution for deep-hole part measurements.
DGRO: Doppler Velocity and Gyroscope-Aided Radar Odometry
Authors: Guo Chao , Wei Bangguo , Lan Bin , Liang Lunfei , Liu Houde
Published: October 2024

A stable and robust odometry system is essential for autonomous robot navigation. The 4D millimeter-wave radar, known for its resilience in harsh weather conditions, has attracted considerable attention. As the latest generation of FMCW radar, 4D millimeter-wave radar provides point clouds with both position and Doppler velocity information. However, the increased uncertainty and noise in 4D radar point clouds pose challenges that prevent the direct application of LiDAR-based SLAM algorithms. To address this, we propose a SLAM framework that fuses 4D radar data with gyroscope readings using graph optimization techniques. Initially, Doppler velocity is employed to estimate the radar’s ego velocity, with dynamic points being removed accordingly. Building on this, we introduce a pre-integration factor that combines ego-velocity and gyroscope data. Additionally, leveraging the stable RCS characteristics of radar, we design a corresponding point selection method based on normal direction and propose a scan-to-submap point cloud registration technique weighted by RCS intensity. Finally, we validate the reliability and localization accuracy of our framework using both our own dataset and the NTU dataset. Experimental results show that the proposed DGRO system outperforms traditional 4D radar odometry methods, especially in environments with slow speeds and fewer dynamic objects.
Evaluation of the Working Mechanism of a Newly Developed Powered Ankle–Foot Orthosis
Authors: Everaert Laure , Sevit Roy , Dewit Tijl , Janssens Koen , Vanloocke Jolien , Van Campenhout Anja , Labey Luc , Muraru Luiza , Desloovere Kaat
Published: October 2024

Ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly prescribed to children with cerebral palsy (CP). The conventional AFO successfully controls the first and second ankle rocker, but it fails to correct the third ankle rocker, which negatively effects push-off power. The current study evaluated a new powered AFO (PAFO) design, developed to address the shortcomings of the conventional AFO. Eight children with spastic CP (12.4 ± 3.4 years; GMFCS I-III; 4/4-♂/♀; 3/5-bi/unilateral) were included. Sagittal kinematic and kinetic data were collected from 20 steps during barefoot walking, with conventional AFOs and PAFOs. In the PAFO-condition, an actuation unit was attached to a hinged AFO and through push–pull cables to a backpack that was carried by the child and provided patient-specific assistance-as-needed. SnPM-analysis indicated gait cycle sections that differed significantly between conditions. For the total group, differences between the three conditions were found in ankle kinematics (49.6–66.1%, p = 0.006; 88.0–100%, p = 0.011) and angular velocity (0.0–6.0%, p = 0.001; 45.1–51.1%, p = 0.006; 62.2–73.0%, p = 0.001; 81.2–93.0%, p = 0.001). Individual SnPM-analysis revealed a greater number of significant gait cycle sections for kinematics and kinetics of the ankle, knee, and hip. These individual results were heterogeneous and specific per gait pattern. In conclusion, the new PAFO improved the ankle range-of-motion, angular velocity, and power during push-off in comparison to the conventional AFO.
Evaluation and Trade-Offs/Synergies of Ecosystem Services in an Ecologically Fragile Region: A Case Study of Western Jilin Province
Authors: He Zhifang , Liu Wenxin , Liu Chunyan
Published: October 2024

Ecosystem services (ES) are the foundation for the survival and development of human society. It is of great significance to clarify the trade-off and synergy between different types of ES in promoting regional sustainable development. This paper selects the western Jilin Province as a case, focusing on exploring the trade-offs and synergies of ES in ecologically fragile areas, enriching the geographical types of research on the relationships between ecosystem services. Utilizing the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) model, this study focused on quantifying four pivotal services—carbon storage, water yield, soil conservation, and habitat quality index—over a two-decade span encompassing the years 2000, 2010, and 2020, and analyzed the trade-offs/synergies between the four ecosystem service functions. The results show that from 2000 to 2020, among the four ecosystem services, water yield and soil conservation increased by 13.57 × 109 m3 and 220.61 × 106 t, respectively, while carbon storage and habitat quality decreased by 5.09 × 106 milligrams and 0.01 units, respectively. At the regional scale, there were only synergistic relationships between carbon storage and soil conservation, and carbon storage and habitat quality. This study provides scientific references to promote sustainable development in the western Jilin Province and offers new insights into the trade-off and synergy of ecosystem services in ecologically fragile areas.
Entrepreneurial Sustainability: The Impact Mechanism of Opportunity Co-Creation on Entrepreneurial Action in Underdeveloped Regions
Authors: Ouyang Sheng , Li Renyi , Chen Kaili , Liu Zhaoyang
Published: October 2024

The external environment faced by underdeveloped regions is becoming increasingly complex, and the importance of entrepreneurial activities is gradually becoming prominent. To stimulate entrepreneurial vitality in underdeveloped regions, entrepreneurial opportunities are of paramount importance. In the current research on opportunity co-creation and entrepreneurial action, there is often an oversight regarding the liability of newness and the unique characteristics of underdeveloped regions, which has resulted in a lack of specificity in interpreting the underlying mechanisms at play. In this study, based on the perspective of opportunity co-creation, a survey of 330 entrepreneurs is conducted in four underdeveloped regions in China, namely, Hunan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Chongqing, in an attempt to clarify the mechanism of opportunity co-creation in entrepreneurial action. The results show that opportunity co-creation not only has a direct positive impact on entrepreneurial action but also exerts an indirect positive effect through the mediating effect of opportunity belief. Additionally, regulatory focus plays a positive moderating role. Our study reveals that entrepreneurs in underdeveloped regions should be strict with their investors and partners to improve their belief in the chances of entrepreneurial success so as to efficiently co-create opportunities. Meanwhile, governments in underdeveloped regions should pay attention to creating a favorable entrepreneurial environment, actively building facilities that are conducive to entrepreneurial activities, and creating more entrepreneurial and employment opportunities to help entrepreneurial activities be carried out smoothly.
Designing a Bidirectional Power Flow Control Mechanism for Integrated EVs in PV-Based Grid Systems Supporting Onboard AC Charging
Authors: Bharti KM Puja , Ashfaq Haroon , Kumar Rajeev , Singh Rajveer
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the potential use of Electric Vehicles (EVs) to enhance power grid stability through their energy storage and grid-support capabilities. By providing auxiliary services such as spinning reserves and voltage control, EVs can significantly impact power quality metrics. The increasing energy consumption and the global imperative to address climate change have positioned EVs as a viable solution for sustainable transportation. Despite the challenges posed by their variable energy demands and rising numbers, the integration of a smart grid environment with smart charging and discharging protocols presents a promising avenue. Such an environment could seamlessly integrate a large fleet of EVs into the national grid, thereby optimizing load profiles, balancing supply and demand, regulating voltage, and reducing energy generation costs. This study examines the large-scale adoption of EVs and its implications for the power grid, with a focus on State of Charge (SOC) estimation, charging times, station availability, and various charging methods. Through simulations of integrated EV–PV charging profiles, the paper presents a lookup-table-based data estimation approach to assess the impact on power demand and voltage profiles. The findings include multiple charging scenarios and the development of an optimal control unit designed to mitigate the potential adverse effects of widespread EV adoption.
Empirical Research on the Impact of Technological Innovation on New Energy Vehicle Sales
Authors: Xie Wanying , Zhao Wei , Ding Binbin
Published: October 2024

In the context of global carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals, researching the driving forces and influencing factors behind the growth in sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) is particularly urgent and crucial. Although the academic community has extensively explored various factors affecting NEV sales, technological innovation, as the core engine driving industry progress, is yet to receive sufficient and in-depth exploration regarding its potential profound impact on sales. Therefore, this study thoroughly analyzes the mechanism by which technological innovation influences sales, supplementing the existing literature, exploring sustainable industry development, and guiding the optimization of business strategies and precise government policies. This research employs the quality of NEV technology patents as a proxy variable for technological innovation, and conducts an empirical analysis using China’s NEV sales data from 2015 to 2022. The results of the study show the following: (1) the quality of technological innovation significantly contributes to the growth of new energy vehicle sales. This conclusion still holds when the administrative protection of intellectual property rights and the government’s public innovation environment indicators are used as instrumental variables of technological innovation quality. (2) Technological innovations in different links of the new energy vehicle industry chain have a positive impact on sales, especially those in the midstream battery, motor, and downstream charging services. This shows that in the critical period of new energy vehicle development, not only is the breakthrough of key technologies crucial, but also, non-critical technologies can promote sales growth by improving user experience and product performance. (3) Compared with plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the overall technological innovation of new energy vehicles (NEVs) has a more significant effect on the sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). (4) In addition, the study finds that there is no significant difference between high-quality and low-quality technological innovations on the promotion of new energy vehicle sales, which indicates that the market values the overall effect of technological innovations more than the mere level of quality. The study of the impact of technological innovation on sales in different branches of the new energy industry chain can help to clarify the direction of technological innovation, optimize resource allocation, promote the synergistic development of the industry chain, enhance market competitiveness, and provide a scientific basis for policy formulation.
Sustainable Adoption of E-Learning in Romanian Universities after the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Prioteasa Adina-Liliana , Shuleski Darko , Lazăr Laurențiu Dan , Ciocoiu Carmen Nadia , Chivulescu Felicia-Alina
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted economic processes and various facets of daily life, including education, necessitating adjustments to help society adapt to the temporary status quo, with Romanian educational institutions being profoundly affected, and a full transition to online learning was mandated by central authorities in March 2020. The paper’s scope is to assess the sustainability of e-learning in Romanian higher education in the aftermath of the COVID-19 outbreak. The study was conducted on bachelor students from three Romanian universities through an online questionnaire with a sample size of 505 valid responses. This study aims to investigate the relationships between information quality (IQ), system quality (SQ), service quality (SEQ), and quality of life (QL) within an integrated model, based on the variables of the technology acceptance model (TAM) and performance models of information systems (IS). Specifically, the research explores how these factors, along with the mediating roles of perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU), influence students’ behavioral intention to adopt e-learning systems (BISE) and actual use of them (EUOES) as a sustainable solution for post-pandemic COVID-19 education. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS–SEM) was the selected method for data analysis performed with SmartPLS 4.0 software. The research results demonstrated that PU and PEOU showed a positive correlation relationship and were significantly influenced by IQ, SQ, and QL in the educational setting. The study also revealed that PEOU and PU exerted a positive influence on students’ behavioral intention to adopt e-learning systems (BISE) sustainably and on their actual use (EUOES). This study benefits universities and higher education institutions by providing insights into enhancing e-learning platforms and integrating technology effectively, as well as by supporting the formulation of sustainable online learning strategies beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
From Potential to Power: Advancing Nigeria’s Energy Sector through Renewable Integration and Policy Reform
Authors: Adeshina Mohammad Awwal , Ogunleye Abdulazeez M. , Suleiman Habeeb Olaitan , Yakub Abdulfatai Olatunji , Same Noel Ngando , Suleiman Zainab Adedamola , Huh Jeung-Soo
Published: October 2024

Nigeria is a nation endowed with both abundant renewable and non-renewable energy resources. Despite its vast potential, Nigeria struggles with a consistent power supply due to various systemic issues, such as inadequate funding, infrastructural decay, corruption, technical skill shortages, and macroeconomic instability. These challenges hinder the effective harnessing and distribution of energy resources, particularly renewable ones like wind, solar, biomass, and hydropower. This study assesses the existing energy policies and their efficacy in promoting sustainable energy development towards achieving universal electricity access by 2030. It highlights the necessity for a just energy transition that integrates a substantial proportion of renewable energy into the national grid, aiming to meet up to 60% of the country’s energy demands with clean sources by 2050. This transition is critical not only for energy security and reducing the environmental impact but also for fostering socioeconomic equity. Recommendations include overhauling the legal and regulatory frameworks to support renewable energy growth, particularly in off-grid areas, to ensure clean, affordable, and secure energy access. Strategic investments, enhanced infrastructure, and robust public–private partnerships are essential to overcome the current barriers and realize Nigeria’s energy potential. This paper calls for a comprehensive approach that addresses both the technical and socioeconomic dimensions of the energy crisis, laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous energy future for Nigeria.
Optimizing Scorpion Toxin Processing through Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Psenicnik Adam , Ojanguren-Affilastro Andres A. , Graham Matthew R. , Hassan Mohamed K. , Abdel-Rahman Mohamed A. , Sharma Prashant P. , Santibáñez-López Carlos E.
Published: October 2024

Scorpion toxins are relatively short cyclic peptides (<150 amino acids) that can disrupt the opening/closing mechanisms in cell ion channels. These peptides are widely studied for several reasons including their use in drug discovery. Although improvements in RNAseq have greatly expedited the discovery of new scorpion toxins, their annotation remains challenging, mainly due to their small size. Here, we present a new pipeline to annotate toxins from scorpion transcriptomes using a neural network approach. This pipeline implements basic neural networks to sort amino acid sequences to find those that are likely toxins and thereafter predict the type of toxin represented by the sequence. We anticipate that this pipeline will accelerate the classification of scorpion toxins in forthcoming scorpion genome sequencing projects and potentially serve a useful role in identifying targets for drug development.
Decoding Quantum Gravity Information with Black Hole Accretion Disk
Authors: You Lei , Feng Yu-Hang , Wang Rui-Bo , Hu Xian-Ru , Deng Jian-Bo
Published: October 2024

Integrating loop quantum gravity with classical gravitational collapse models offers an effective solution to the black hole singularity problem and predicts the formation of a white hole in the later stages of collapse. Furthermore, the quantum extension of Kruskal spacetime indicates that white holes may convey information about earlier companion black holes. Photons emitted from the accretion disks of these companion black holes enter the black hole, traverse the highly quantum region, and then re-emerge from white holes in our universe. This process enables us to observe images of the companion black holes’ accretion disks, providing insights into quantum gravity. In our study, we successfully obtained these accretion disk images. Our results indicate that these accretion disk images are confined within a circle with a radius equal to the critical impact parameter, while traditional accretion disk images are typically located outside this circle. As the observational angle increases, the accretion disk images transition from a ring shape to a shell-like shape. Furthermore, the positional and width characteristics of these accretion disk images are opposite to those of traditional accretion disk images. These findings provide valuable references for astronomical observations aimed at validating the investigated quantum gravity model.
Viroids and Satellites and Their Vector Interactions
Authors: Hadidi Ahmed , Czosnek Henryk H. , Kalantidis Kriton , Palukaitis Peter
Published: October 2024

Many diseases of unknown etiology with symptoms like those caused by plant viruses but for which no virions could be found were described during the early and mid-20th century [...]
Higher Frequency of SARS-CoV-2 RNA Shedding by Cats than Dogs in Households with Owners Recently Diagnosed with COVID-19
Authors: Lunardi Michele , Martins Felippe Danyel Cardoso , Gustani-Buss Emanuele , Chideroli Roberta Torres , de Oliveira Isabela Medeiros , Peronni Kamila Chagas , Figueiredo David Livingstone Alves , Alfieri Alice Fernandes , Alfieri Amauri Alcindo
Published: October 2024

Studies have demonstrated the susceptibility of companion animals to natural infection with SARS-CoV-2. Using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and sequencing analyses, this study investigated SARS-CoV-2 RNA excretion in pets in households with infected owners. Oropharyngeal and rectal swabs were collected from dogs and cats in Parana, Southern Brazil, between October 2020 and April 2021. Viral RNA was detected in 25% of cats and 0.98% of dog oropharyngeal swabs; however, systemic, respiratory, and gastrointestinal signs were absent. Complete viral genomes belonged to the Gamma lineage. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that pet samples were probably derived from human-positive cases in Parana. Viral excretion in the oropharynx was more frequent in cats than in dogs. Mutations in the S protein characteristic of Gamma strains were present in all sequenced SARS-CoV-2 strains. The receptor-binding domain of these Brazilian strains did not show any additional mutations not reported in the Gamma strains. Mutations in NSP6, NSP12, and N proteins previously mapped to strains that infect deer or minks were detected. This study highlights the importance of actively monitoring the SARS-CoV-2 strains that infect pets with continued viral exposure. Monitoring genetic changes is crucial because new variants adapted to animals may pose human health risks.
Local Inflammatory and Systemic Antibody Responses Initiated by a First Intradermal Administration of Autogenous Salmonella-Killed Vaccines and Their Components in Pullets
Authors: Santamaria Jossie M. , Beck Chrysta N. , Erf Gisela F.
Published: October 2024

Vaccination strategies are used to manage Salmonella in chickens. Salmonella-killed vaccines are considered safer since they are inactivated. However, little is known regarding the cellular immune activities at the site of vaccine administration of Salmonella-killed vaccines. The growing feather (GF) cutaneous test has been shown to be an effective bioassay to monitor local tissue/cellular responses. We assessed local and systemic antibody responses initiated by intradermal injection of Salmonella-killed vaccines into GF-pulps of 14–15-week-old pullets. Treatments consisted of two autogenous Salmonella-killed vaccines (SV1 and SV2), S. Enteritidis (SE) lipopolysaccharide (SE-LPS), and the water-oil-water (WOW) emulsion vehicle. GF-pulps were collected before (0 h) and at 6, 24, 48, and 72 h post-GF-pulp injection for leukocyte population analysis, while heparinized blood samples were collected before (0 d) and at 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28 d after GF-pulp injections to assess plasma levels (a.u.) of SE-specific IgM, avian IgY (IgG), and IgA antibodies using an ELISA. Injection of GF-pulps with SV1, SV2, or SE-LPS, all in a WOW vehicle, initiated inflammatory responses characterized by the recruitment of heterophils, monocytes/macrophages, and a few lymphocytes. The WOW vehicle emulsion alone recruited more lymphocytes than vaccines or SE-LPS. The SV1 and SV2 vaccines stimulated Salmonella-specific IgM and IgA early, while IgG levels were greatly elevated later during the primary response. Overall, SV1 and SV2 stimulated a heterophil and macrophage-dominated local inflammatory- and SE-specific humoral response with an isotype switch from IgM to IgG, characteristic of a T-dependent primary antibody response. This study provides comprehensive information on innate and adaptive immune responses to autogenous Salmonella-killed vaccines and their components that will find application in the management of Salmonella in poultry.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Nirsevimab in Reducing Pediatric RSV Hospitalizations in Spain
Authors: Jimeno Ruiz Sara , Peláez Adrián , Labourt Agustín , Acuña Florencia Mercedes , Linares Lucía , Llana Martín Isabel , Calle Gómez Ángeles , Martínez Silvina Natalini
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of hospitalization in infants. Nirsevimab has demonstrated to be a promising tool for preventing severe RSV disease. Although clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Nirsevimab in preventing severe RSV disease, evidence regarding its performance in real-world clinical settings is still limited due to its recent introduction. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by evaluating the impact of Nirsevimab in a cohort of infants and determining its effectiveness in reducing the burden of RSV disease. Methods: A retrospective study of RSV hospitalizations was conducted in children under six months of age, between 1 October and 31 March, across four seasons: pre-COVID (2018–2019), COVID (2019–2020), post-COVID pre-Nirsevimab (2022–2023), and Nirsevimab season (2023–2024). Results: Nirsevimab demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing RSV-related hospitalizations in infants under six months of age. During the 2023/2024 season, following the introduction of Nirsevimab, there was a substantial reduction in RSV-related lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) hospitalizations. Among infants under 3 months of age, hospitalizations decreased by 79.3% (IRR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.12–0.34). In infants aged 3 to 6 months, there was a 66.9% reduction (IRR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15–0.64). Additionally, Nirsevimab decreased the severity of RSV cases with LRTI who required the support of equipment for sanitary use, further reducing overall healthcare burden. Conclusions: These results underscore Nirsevimab’s vital role in preventing severe RSV infections and hospitalizations, especially among the most vulnerable infants, positioning it as a critical advancement in pediatric respiratory care.
Hydrogeochemical Characteristics and Sulfate Source of Groundwater in Sangu Spring Basin, China
Authors: Bai Zhanxue , Hou Xinwei , Li Xiangquan , Wang Zhenxing , Zhang Chunchao , Gui Chunlei , Zuo Xuefeng
Published: October 2024

The Sangu Spring Basin is located in an important economic area, and groundwater is the main source of water for local life and industry. Understanding the sources of chemical components in groundwater is important for the development and utilization of groundwater. In this paper, we analyzed the origin of the chemical components of groundwater and their evolution in the Sangu Spring Basin using statistical analysis, Piper diagrams, Gibbs diagrams, ion ratios, and combined hydrochemistry–isotope analyses. The results show that the groundwater in the Sangu Spring Basin is mainly derived from atmospheric precipitation, that the groundwater in stagnant and confined environment zones was formed under colder climatic conditions, and that the surface water (SW) has a close hydraulic relation with the groundwater. Water–rock interaction is the main factor controlling the composition of groundwater. The compositions of groundwater are mainly derived from carbonate weathering, silicate weathering, and dissolution of gypsum. Na+ and K+ in groundwater mainly come from the dissolution of albite and potassium feldspar, rather than rock salt. Ion exchange occurs in karst groundwater (KGW) and fissure groundwater (FGW), and ion exchange is dominated by the exchange of Mg2+ and Ca2+ in the groundwater with Na+ and K+ in the rock or soil. Sulfate in groundwater is derived from dissolution of gypsum, infiltration of atmospheric precipitation, and leakage of SW. Groundwaters with the highest sulfate content are located in the vicinity of SW, as a result of receiving recharge from SW seepage. Groundwaters with higher sulfate contents are located in the stagnant and deeply buried zones, where sulfate is mainly derived from the dissolution of gypsum. SW seepage recharges groundwater, resulting in increased levels of Cl−, NO3− and SO42− in groundwater. These insights can provide assistance in the protection and effective management of groundwater.
The Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of Soil Conservation and Its Influencing Factors in the Ten Tributaries of the Upper Yellow River, China
Authors: Hou Xianglong , Yang Hui , Cao Jiansheng
Published: October 2024

Soil erosion is a global environmental problem, and soil conservation is the prevention of soil loss from erosion. The Ten Kongduis (kongdui is the translation of “short-term flood gullies” in Mongolian) are ten tributaries in the upper Inner Mongolia section of the Yellow River Basin. The study of the spatial and temporal variability in soil conservation in the Ten Kongduis is of extraordinary scientific significance both in terms of the discipline and for the ecological and environmental management of the region. With the InVEST model, the characteristics of the spatial and temporal variations in soil conservation service in the Ten Kongduis since 2000 and how rainfall and land use have influenced soil conservation were analyzed. The results show that both avoided erosion and avoided export varied considerably between years. The minimum values of avoided erosion and avoided export were both in 2015, with values of 17.59 × 106 t and 0.92 × 106 t, respectively. The maximum value of avoided erosion was 57.03 × 106 t in 2020 and that of avoided export was 4.08 × 106 t in 2000. Spatially, avoided export was primarily found in the upper reaches of the east–central portion of the study area, and avoided erosion, with values of >40 t·(ha·yr)−1, was in the upper east–central portion of the study area, followed by the upper west–central portion. The difference between upstream and downstream was larger in the western part of the study area. The effect of rainfall was dominant and positive in both avoided erosion and avoided export. The relationships between the rain erosivity factor and the values of avoided erosion and avoided export were significantly positive. Where more erosion occurs, more erosion is retained. Soil that has been eroded away from slopes under vegetation or other water conservation measures may not necessarily be transported to the stream channel in the current year. These conclusions will help us to have a clearer understanding of where sediments are generated and transported and provide a scientific basis for soil and water conservation and ecosystem safety management of watersheds.
Genomic Analysis of Novel Bacterial Species Corynebacterium ramonii ST344 Clone Strains Isolated from Human Skin Ulcer and Rescued Cats in Japan
Authors: Shitada Chie , Moriguchi Mikoto , Hayashi Hideyuki , Matsumoto Kazutoshi , Mori Misato , Tokuoka Eisuke , Yahiro Shunsuke , Gejima Shouichirou , Horiba Kazuhiro , Yamamoto Takatoshi , Takahashi Motohide , Kuroda Makoto
Published: October 2024

Some Corynebacterium strains produce toxins that are similar to those produced by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, leading to human infections that are often transmitted through zoonotic diseases. A novel species, which is formerly classified as Corynebacterium ulcerans lineage II, was recently re-evaluated and renamed “Corynebacterium ramonii sp. nov.”. We isolated C. ramonii from a human skin ulcer in Japan in 2023 (KCU0303-001) and identified it as ST344 using a genomic analysis. In addition, C. ramonii KPHES-18084 (ST344) and six strains of C. ulcerans (ST337/ST1011) were isolated from the oral cavities of 7/208 rescued cats (3.4%). The human ulcer strain KCU0303-001 and the rescued cat strain KPHES-18084 were found to be ST344 and closely related clones by core-genome and pan-genome analyses, suggesting that ST344 may be endemic to both clinical and companion animals in Japan. In support of this finding, another clinical isolate of ST344 (TSU-28 strain) was reported in Japan in 2019. Although ST337 is the most common C. ulcerans infection, the second most recent clinical isolate of C. ramonii, ST344, might be increasing; therefore, further genomic surveillance is required to monitor C. ramonii and C. ulcerans infections.
Locus of Control as Determinants of Online - Dating Behaviour Among Graduates in Kwara – State
Authors: Ibraheem Islamiyyah Olajire , Esere Mary O
Published: October 2024

This study investigated locus of control as a determinant of online dating among university students in Kwara State. A descriptive survey design with a correlational approach was adopted. The study's respondents were 380 university students from four universities in Kwara State. Instruments for data collection were the Online Dating Behaviour Scale adapted from the Tinsel (2019) Survey and the locus of control scale adapted from Rotter (1966). Three null hypotheses were generated and tested at .05 alpha levels. Pearson Product Moment Correlation was used. Result showed a significant relationship between online dating and internal locus of control of university students in Kwara State (r. calculated = 0.41, df = 378 and p < 0.05); a significant relationship between online dating and powerful others locus of control of university students in Kwara State (r. calculated = -0.62, df = 378 and p < 0.05); a significant relationship between online dating and chance locus of control of university students in Kwara State (r. calculated = -0.26, df = 378 and p < 0.05). Recommendations based on the findings of the study were proffered.
Tendencias proyectivas contemporáneas en la constante transformación histórica
Authors: Díaz Astrid Hurtado
Published: October 2024

El presente artículo ofrece un sumario de las tendencias proyectivas contemporáneas y su relación con las transformaciones históricas. A través de un estudio sistemático, se pone de relieve la importancia de la teoría proyectiva en diversos campos, especialmente en el ámbito educativo, donde la proyección de escenarios futuros y la adaptación a cambios históricos son temas recurrentes. Los enfoques contemporáneos de la teoría proyectiva están profundamente conectados con los procesos de transformación social, política y cultural, lo que ha llevado a numerosos autores a explorar la fundamentación teórico-práctica de esta metodología desde diferentes disciplinas y perspectivas. El análisis muestra que las tendencias proyectivas no pueden ser aisladas del contexto socioeducativo, ya que reflejan los cambios y demandas de la época. Docentes e investigadores encuentran en la investigación proyectiva una herramienta para innovar, evaluando la pertinencia de los contenidos educativos y explorando cómo el diseño proyectivo puede aportar soluciones a problemas críticos o aprovechar oportunidades de desarrollo. Este enfoque moviliza no solo a los docentes y estudiantes universitarios, sino también a teóricos y diseñadores de la educación, quienes buscan integrar estos métodos proyectivos en la práctica cotidiana del aula, a fin de enriquecer la enseñanza y responder a las necesidades sociales emergentes. Desde un principio se hace evidente cómo la teoría proyectiva puede contribuir a la evolución de los sistemas educativos y, por extensión, de la sociedad en su conjunto por lo tanto propicia preguntas como ¿qué tan pertinente es lo que se enseña?, ¿qué espera de las investigaciones proyectivas la sociedad? o ¿cómo desde el diseño proyectivo se puede contribuir a la solución de problema críticos de las sociedades o al aprovechamiento de oportunidades de desarrollo?
Modelo didáctico para la educación sexual basada en la perspectiva de género en los estudiantes de las instituciones educativas de Valledupar
Authors: Villalba Kathleen Sareth Ospino
Published: October 2024

El propósito de este estudio de revisión, es documentar un modelo didáctico de enseñanza de Educación sexual con perspectiva de género en las instituciones educativas del municipio de Valledupar. Como instrumentos de recolección de los datos se utilizarán observaciones y reflexiones sobre la investigación durante las diferentes etapas de la investigación. La enseñanza de la educación sexual en las instituciones educativas de Valledupar, supone una serie desafíos en torno a lo didáctico, que deben ser abordadas por los docentes, para garantizar que el proceso pedagógico se desarrolle de forma factible y que permee las prácticas educativas en el aula. Uno de los desafíos actuales, que está en concordancia con la evolución social, humana, tecnológica de la humanidad, refiere a reevaluar la enseñanza de educación sexual desde el paradigma androcéntrico y la reivindicación de la diversidad de roles en los espacios educativos y científicos. Esta propuesta esta dirigida a los asuntos didácticos en torno a la enseñanza de la educación sexual en las instituciones educativas oficiales de Valledupar, las cuales reciben estudiantes de variados sectores socioeconómicos del municipio, también se pretende con dicho trabajo, reflexionar acerca de las prácticas de aula de los docentes y analizar nuevas prácticas pedagógicas en torno a la educación sexual desde una perspectiva de género, acorde a la evolución y transformación paradigmática de la sociedad, generando espacios de aprendizaje plurales, diversos y emancipadores, en tanto la educación se configura como un ejercicio constante, retroalimentado y de construcción de ciudadanía. De corte cualitativo, se presentan los propósitos de investigación, el desarrollo de este trabajo se plantea desde el paradigma sociocrítico según Carr y Kemmis (1986). Esta investigación se enmarca en la línea de investigación Educación y Sociedad de UMECIT.
Microfinanzas, pagadiario y constitución
Authors: Guzmán Javier Darío Canabal , Assías Jairo José Villadiego , Marrugo Sofia Reyes , Gámez Sergio Andrés Arias , Soto Miguel Ángel Durango
Published: October 2024

El objetivo general de la investigación fue promover las condiciones para que el principio constitucional a la igualdad sea real y efectivo en favor de grupos discriminados o marginados para que gocen de los mismos derechos, libertades y oportunidades financieras que el resto de la gente y con tasas equitativas, de tal manera que se permita la adopción de medidas por parte del Estado y que reconozca que la autonomía negocial respete la Constitución Política de Colombia; más aún cuando se establece que esta actividad financiera tiene como uno de sus fines la prestación de un servicio público, analizando desde diferentes escenarios el concepto de microcrédito y cuál es su direccionamiento, demostrando mediante casos reales, las diferencias existentes entre las tasas de créditos ordinarios y las tasas del microcrédito dirigido a grupos discriminados incluyendo el paga diario y determinando desde las matemáticas financieras la equivalencia en tasas efectivas anuales de las diferentes tasas de colocación efectivas mensuales que otorgan las instituciones financieras, incluido el paga diario o gota a gota. Esta investigación posee un enfoque mixto, bajo un método analítico aplicable a las ciencias sociales que se caracterizan por ser ciencias descriptivas.  y un tipo de investigación Proyectiva.
Lithostratigraphy of the Portfjeld Group (Ediacaran – lowermost Cambrian) of North Greenland
Authors: Ineson Jon R , Peel John S , Willman Sebastian , Rugen Elias J , Sønderholm Martin , Frykman Peter
Published: October 2024

The Portfjeld Formation, as originally defined, is the lowermost lithostratigraphic unit of the mainly Lower Palaeozoic Franklinian Basin in southern Peary Land, central North Greenland. The unit crops out semi-continuously from Valdemar Glückstadt Land to Nordenskiöld Fjord but is also recognised locally in northern parts of Peary Land and Wulff Land (western North Greenland). Regionally, it provides a key record of the early, pre-break-up history of the basin. The type succession in southern Peary Land has thus been the focus of recent biostratigraphical, sedimentological and geochemical study. This has demonstrated the composite nature of the unit, a lower interval (c. 190 m thick) of carbonate ramp deposits of Neoproterozoic (late Ediacaran) age being overlain at a karstic unconformity by a shallow marine, mixed carbonate–siliciclastic interval (c. 100 m thick) of probable earliest Cambrian age. Lithostratigraphic revision of this succession is presented here. The Portfjeld Formation throughout North Greenland is elevated to the rank of group, and two new formations are defined in this group in southern Peary Land and immediately adjacent areas: the Ediacaran carbonate-dominated unit is referred to the Slusen Formation, the upper mixed siliciclastic–carbonate unit to the Glaciologelv Formation.
Estrategias de marketing digital y contaminación visual en el entorno universitario
Authors: Paredes Rumazo Silvia Judith , González Garcés Liliana Elizabeth , Santamaría Freire Edwin Javier
Published: October 2024

El marketing digital en el entorno universitario se manifiesta en el método de aprendizaje como herramienta de apoyo en factores como plataformas institucionales, interfaces de usuarios, sitios web. Sin embargo, puede surgir alteraciones visuales y estéticas las cuales se conocen como contaminación visual. Por ello, el objetivo de esta investigación fue relacionar las estrategias del marketing digital y la contaminación visual en los estudiantes de la carrera de Mercadotecnia de la Facultad de Ciencias Administrativas de la Universidad Técnica de Ambato. Para esto, se empleó una metodología con un enfoque cuantitativo con un alcance correlacional, modalidad bibliográfica y un diseño no experimental transversal. Además, se aplicó como técnica una encuesta compuesta por 20 preguntas entre categóricas y escala de Likert a la población finita de 418 estudiantes. También para determinar la relación que mantienen las variables, se aplicó el modelo de correlación de Spearman, mismo que determinó una correlación positiva principalmente entre las  dimensiones de Marketing de motores de búsqueda con Comportamiento personal, así como Social Media y Comportamiento cultural y finalmente Marketing de motores de búsqueda con Comportamiento psicológico.
Intervención de la realidad aumentada para potenciar la comprensión lectora en los estudiantes de educación general básica
Authors: Sangoquiza Cuenca Shaira Yadira
Published: October 2024

La realidad aumentada en la educación contribuye en la intervención del mundo actual con la tecnología, por medio de representaciones gráficas y elementos virtuales interrelacionados al entorno actual educativo. La investigación se desarrolló con base al objetivo de sugerir la realidad aumentada para potenciar la comprensión lectora en los estudiantes de Educación General Básica. Dentro de la investigación descriptiva, la cual recopila información y demuestra resultados, se usó el método deductivo a partir de instrumentos correspondientes. También se utilizó la investigación documental a través de la búsqueda, sistematización y planificación de información. En relación a los resultados, se determinó un nivel elemental o bajo en la comprensión lectora desde el año 2014 al 2023 evidenciando un rango inferior al 59% en las pruebas “Ser Bachiller” y pruebas PISA. 
 
De tal modo, se sugirió la aplicación de la realidad aumentada como herramienta enriquecedora en entornos educativos para potenciar la comprensión lectora. Los resultados arrogados en la encuesta realizada por el Ministerio de Educación determinaron que el 60% de docentes consideraron el impacto positivo de la TIC en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes. La RA permite al estudiante involucrarse por medio de la autonomía, mejora la atención y comprensión lectora.
Monitoreo en tiempo real del funcionamiento y fallas de un sistema automático de paneles solares
Authors: Chimborazo Nelson , Agila Mateo , Noquez Kevin , Silva Mateo
Published: October 2024

El presente artículo planteó la construcción y evaluación de un seguidor solar casero utilizando una placa de desarrollo Arduino, sensores de luz LDR y servomotores con el objetivo de probar la factibilidad de utilizar sistemas autónomos basados en microcontroladores para optimizar la recolección de energía solar, y explorar su potencial para aplicaciones en áreas remotas o fuera de la red eléctrica convencional. El sistema ajustó automáticamente la posición de un panel solar para maximizar la captación de energía a lo largo del día. En el artículo se describieron los materiales a utilizar, proceso de diseño del sistema y la construcción del mismo, además de una revisión bibliográfica para explicar a detalle la funcionalidad de cada componente del seguidor solar, concentrándose en la programación del Arduino y los resultados obtenidos mediante pruebas comparativas con un panel fijo. 
A través de la investigación, se concluyó que el desarrollo de un sistema de seguimiento solar eficiente y funcional con componentes accesibles y económicos es posible. Además, el diseño del seguidor solar puede adaptarse y mejorarse para diferentes aplicaciones, convirtiéndolo en un sistema versátil y con un alto potencial en la promoción de energía sostenible.