bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting Fetal Buprenorphine Exposure through Maternal–Fetal Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling
Authors: van Hoogdalem Matthijs W. , Tanaka Ryota , Abduljalil Khaled , Johnson Trevor N. , Wexelblatt Scott L. , Akinbi Henry T. , Vinks Alexander A. , Mizuno Tomoyuki
Published: March 2024

Buprenorphine readily crosses the placenta, and with greater prenatal exposure, neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) likely grows more severe. Current dosing strategies can be further improved by tailoring doses to expected NOWS severity. To allow the conceptualization of fetal buprenorphine exposure, a maternal–fetal physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for sublingual buprenorphine was developed using Simcyp (v21.0). Buprenorphine transplacental passage was predicted from its physicochemical properties. The maternal–fetal PBPK model integrated reduced transmucosal absorption driven by lower salivary pH and induced metabolism observed during pregnancy. Maternal pharmacokinetics was adequately predicted in the second trimester, third trimester, and postpartum period, with the simulated area under the curve from 0 to 12 h, apparent clearance, and peak concentration falling within the 1.25-fold prediction error range. Following post hoc adjustment of the likely degree of individual maternal sublingual absorption, umbilical cord blood concentrations at delivery (n = 21) were adequately predicted, with a geometric mean ratio between predicted and observed fetal concentrations of 1.15 and with 95.2% falling within the 2-fold prediction error range. The maternal–fetal PBPK model developed in this study can be used to forecast fetal buprenorphine exposure and would be valuable to investigate its correlation to NOWS severity.
Modeling Xanthan Gum Foam’s Material Properties Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Ergün Halime , Ergün Mehmet Emin
Published: March 2024

Xanthan gum is commonly used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. However, there have been no studies on utilizing this natural biopolymer as a foam material in the insulation and packaging sectors, which are large markets, or modeling it using an artificial neural network. In this study, foam material production was carried out in an oven using different ratios of cellulose fiber and xanthan gum in a 5% citric acid medium. As a result of the physical and mechanical experiments conducted, it was determined that xanthan gum had a greater impact on the properties of the foam material than cellulose. The densities of the produced foam materials ranged from 49.42 kg/m3 to 172.2 kg/m3. In addition, the compressive and flexural moduli were found to vary between 235.25 KPa and 1257.52 KPa and between 1939.76 KPa and 12,736.39 KPa, respectively. Five machine-learning-based methods (multiple linear regression, support vector machines, artificial neural networks, least squares methods, and generalized regression neural networks) were utilized to analyze the effects of the components used in the foam formulation. These models yielded accurate results without time, material, or cost losses, making the process more efficient. The models predicted the best results for density, compression modulus, and flexural modulus achieved in the experimental tests. The generalized regression neural network model yielded impressive results, with R2 values above 0.97, enabling the acquisition of more quantitative data with fewer experimental results.
Correction: Hong et al. Applying SEM, Exploratory SEM, and Bayesian SEM to Personality Assessments. Psych 2024, 6, 111–134
Authors: Hong Hyeri , Vispoel Walter P. , Martinez Alfonso J.
Published: March 2024

Addition of an Author [...]
Cultivation of Vitamin C-Rich Vegetables for Space-Radiation Mitigation
Authors: Mortazavi Alireza , Yarbaksh Helia , Zarandi Batool Faegheh Bahaaddini Baigy , Yarbakhsh Reza , Ghadimi-Moghaddam Fatemeh , Mortazavi Syed Mohammad Javad , Haghani Masoud , Firoozi Donya , Sihver Lembit
Published: March 2024

Space exploration introduces astronauts to challenges, such as space radiation and microgravity. Researchers have investigated vitamin C as a potential radiation mitigator, as well as antioxidants for sustaining astronaut health. Our own studies demonstrate vitamin C’s life-saving radioprotective effects and its potential as a radiation mitigator, thus highlighting promise, even when administered 24 h post-exposure. This is particularly relevant in scenarios where astronauts may be exposed to sudden large solar particle events, potentially resulting in lethal doses of space radiation. The success of vegetable cultivation on the International Space Station using NASA’s Veggie system offers fresh, vitamin C-rich food. While approved supplements address somatic function, further research is needed to optimize vitamin C’s efficacy in humans, and to develop appropriate antioxidant cocktails for space missions. The variable vitamin C content in vegetables underscores the necessity for the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) to assist astronauts in selecting and cultivating the vitamin C-rich vegetables best-suited to combat high levels of space radiation and microgravity. Particularly, AI algorithms can be utilized to analyze various factors, such as nutritional content, growth patterns, and cultivation methods. In conclusion, vitamin C shows significant potential for mitigating space radiation, and ongoing research aims to enhance astronaut health through optimal dietary strategies.
Are Land Use and Cover Changes and Socioeconomic Factors Associated with the Occurrence of Dengue Fever? A Case Study in Minas Gerais State, Brazil
Authors: Andrade Ana Clara , Falcão Luiz Alberto Dolabela , Borges Magno Augusto Zazá , Leite Marcos Esdras , Espírito Santo Mário Marcos do
Published: March 2024

Several studies have already demonstrated the relationship between the loss of natural habitats and the incidence of diseases caused by vectors, such as dengue, which is an acute fever disease that is considered a serious public health problem. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the number of dengue cases and land use and cover changes (LUCC) and socioeconomic and climatic factors by municipality, using the state of Minas Gerais as a case study. For this, secondary data obtained from openly available sources were used. Natural vegetation cover data were obtained from the MAPBiomas platform and dengue occurrence data from the Ministry of Health, in addition to eight socioeconomic parameters from the Brazilian Institute for Geography and Statistics and precipitation data from the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA, Sete Lagoas, Minas Gerais). Between 2015 and 2019, 1,255,731 cases of dengue were recorded throughout the state of Minas Gerais, ranging from 0 to 227 per thousand inhabitants between municipalities. The occurrence of dengue was distributed throughout all regions of Minas Gerais and was associated with LUCC and socioeconomic factors. In general, municipalities with a net loss of natural vegetation, predominantly located in the Cerrado biome, had the highest number of dengue cases in the studied period. Additionally, the occurrence of dengue was associated to three socioeconomic parameters: population density, human development index (both positively), and Gini inequality index (negatively). These results indicate that, contrary to expectations, municipalities with better social conditions had more dengue cases. Our study indicates that natural vegetation is, directly or indirectly, involved in the ecosystem service of dengue control, despite the occurrence of this disease being affected by multiple factors that interact in a complex way. Thus, policies towards reducing deforestation must be complemented by a continuous investment in public health policies and a reduction in social inequalities to efficiently control dengue fever.
Interannual Monitoring of Cropland in South China from 1991 to 2020 Based on the Combination of Deep Learning and the LandTrendr Algorithm
Authors: Qu Yue , Zhang Boyu , Xu Han , Qiao Zhi , Liu Luo
Published: March 2024

Timely and accurate acquisition of spatial distribution and changes in cropland is of significant importance for food security and ecological preservation. Most studies that monitor long-term changes in cropland tend to overlook the rationality in the process of cropland evolution, and there are conflicts between the interannual cropland data, so they cannot be used to analyze land use change. This study focuses on the rationality of annual identification results for cropland, considering the long-term evolution and short-term variations influenced by natural environmental changes and human activities. An approach for annual monitoring of cropland based on long time series and deep learning is also proposed. We acquired imagery related to cropland’s vegetation lush period (VLP) and vegetation differential period (VDP) from Landsat images on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform and used the ResUNet-a structural model for training. Finally, a long-time-series cropland correction algorithm based on LandTrendr is introduced, and interannual cropland maps of Guangdong Province from 1991 to 2020 were generated. Evaluating the cropland monitoring results in Guangdong Province every five years, we found an overall accuracy of 0.91–0.93 and a kappa coefficient of 0.80–0.83. Our results demonstrate good consistency with agricultural statistical data. Over the past 30 years, the total cropland area in Guangdong Province has undergone three phases: a decrease, significant decrease, and stabilization. Significant regional variations have also been observed. Our approach can be applied to long-time-series interannual cropland monitoring in the southern regions of China, providing valuable data support for the further implementation of cropland protection.
A Spatiotemporal Enhanced SMAP Freeze/Thaw Product (1980–2020) over China and Its Preliminary Analyses
Authors: Cui Hongjing , Chai Linna , Li Heng , Zhao Shaojie , Li Xiaoyan , Liu Shaomin
Published: March 2024

The soil freeze/thaw (FT) state has emerged as a critical role in the ecosystem, hydrological, and biogeochemical processes, but obtaining representative soil FT state datasets with a long time sequence, fine spatial resolution, and high accuracy remains challenging. Therefore, we propose a decision-level spatiotemporal data fusion algorithm based on Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory networks (ConvLSTM) to expand the SMAP-enhanced L3 landscape freeze/thaw product (SMAP_E_FT) temporally. In the algorithm, the Freeze/Thaw Earth System Data Record product (ESDR_FT) is sucked in the ConvLSTM and fused with SMAP_E_FT at the decision level. Eight predictor datasets, i.e., soil temperature, snow depth, soil moisture, precipitation, terrain complexity index, area of open water data, latitude and longitude, are used to train the ConvLSTM. Direct validation using six dense observation networks located in the Genhe, Maqu, Naqu, Pali, Saihanba, and Shandian river shows that the fusion product (ConvLSTM_FT) effectively absorbs the high accuracy characteristics of ESDR_FT and expands SMAP_E_FT with an overall average improvement of 2.44% relative to SMAP_E_FT, especially in frozen seasons (averagely improved by 7.03%). The result from indirect validation based on categorical triple collocation also shows that ConvLSTM_FT performs stable regardless of land cover types, climate types, and terrain complexity. The findings, drawn from preliminary analyses on ConvLSTM_FT from 1980 to 2020 over China, suggest that with global warming, most parts of China suffer from different degrees of shortening of the frozen period. Moreover, in the Qinghai–Tibet region, the higher the permafrost thermal stability, the faster the degradation rate.
FusionHeightNet: A Multi-Level Cross-Fusion Method from Multi-Source Remote Sensing Images for Urban Building Height Estimation
Authors: Ma Chao , Zhang Yueting , Guo Jiayi , Zhou Guangyao , Geng Xiurui
Published: March 2024

Extracting buildings in urban scenes from remote sensing images is crucial for the construction of digital cities, urban monitoring, urban planning, and autonomous driving. Traditional methods generally rely on shadow detection or stereo matching from multi-view high-resolution remote sensing images, which is cost-intensive. Recently, machine learning has provided solutions for the estimation of building heights from remote sensing images, but challenges remain due to the limited observation angles and image quality. The inherent lack of information in a single modality greatly limits the extraction precision. This article proposes an advanced method using multi-source remote sensing images for urban building height estimation, which is characterized by multi-level cross-fusion, the multi-task joint learning of footprint extraction and height estimation, and semantic information to refine the height estimation results. The complementary and effective features of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and electro-optical (EO) images are transferred through multi-level cross-fusion. We use the semantic information of the footprint extraction branch to refine the height estimation results, enhancing the height results from coarse to fine. Finally, We evaluate our model on the SpaceNet 6 dataset and achieve 0.3849 and 0.7231 in the height estimation metric δ1 and footprint extraction metric Dice, respectively, which indicate effective improvements in the results compared to other methods.
Assessment of Welfare in Transhumance Yak Hybrids (Chauris) in the Lower Himalayan Region of Nepal
Authors: Sapkota Sujan , Laven Richard , Barsila Shanker Raj , Kells Nikki , Mueller Kristina Ruth , DC Dhurba
Published: March 2024

In order to develop a yak/chauri-specific welfare assessment protocol, we sent a set of 31 potential welfare measures to 120 Nepalese experts and asked them to identify the measures that they thought would be useful and propose additional useful measures. Eighty-three experts responded, with 13 measures being identified by >50% of respondents as likely to be useful. These thirteen measures plus one new measure (hematology) were included in an assessment protocol that was tested in the second phase of this study in five chauri herds in two districts in northern Nepal. Animal-based evaluations along with sampling for mastitis, intestinal parasites, and hematology were undertaken during or just after morning milking. Resource- and record-based measures were assessed through structured interviews, with verifications on-site where possible. No chauris exhibited poor body conditions, skin injuries, significant locomotion issues, or significant subclinical mastitis. Fecal testing suggested a high prevalence of intestinal parasites at the herd level, while blood testing suggested no evidence of hematological abnormalities. However, for both results, we need more data to use these effectively as measures of welfare. The resource-based assessment revealed significant challenges across all resources, and veterinary services were reported as being inadequate. A high estimated annual mortality rate (10–21%) needs further investigation. This protocol provided a useful start towards developing a welfare assessment protocol for yak/chauri and identified issues that need addressing to optimize chauri welfare.
Effects of Aquatic Vegetation Decomposition River Nutrient Conditions: A Case Study on the Jeonjucheon River, South Korea
Authors: An Byung-Chul , Lee Dong-Kyu
Published: March 2024

Aquatic vegetation plays an important role in maintaining the health of river ecosystems. However, few studies have evaluated the impact of vegetation decomposition on water quality in rivers. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the effect of aquatic vegetation decomposition on nutrient conditions in the Jeonjucheon River in South Korea. To this end, we determined the distribution and biomass of four dominant species: Phragmites japonica Steud., Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud., Miscanthus sinensis Andersson, and Rumex crispus L. Additionally, we conducted a nutrient leaching experiment to determine the contributions of different species to the nutrient status of the river. We found that the decomposition concentrations of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) were the highest for P. japonica (7.74 mg/L) and R. crispus (1.59 mg/L). The annual load of TN from decomposition was 536,171.6 kg/yr and that of TP was 57,547.1 kg/yr. The total pollution load for the Jeonjucheon River was 2,903,885.3 kg/yr for TN and 17,602.1 kg/yr for TP. However, the TN and TP contribution from vegetation decomposition was negligible compared to that from other sources. This study serves as a valuable reference for sustainable management of river vegetation and water pollution.
Assessing Ecological Restoration in Arid Mining Regions: A Progressive Evaluation System
Authors: Zhu Tianyu , Li Chengzhi , Liu Xiaocao , Zhao Xiaobing
Published: March 2024

The mining activities in arid regions have resulted in significant ecological environmental issues, exacerbating the already challenging ecological conditions and leading to severe ecosystem damage. Merely relying on natural recovery processes proves inadequate, thus necessitating the implementation of artificial restoration measures to facilitate ecosystem recovery in these arid mining regions. However, it is difficult to scientifically answer the questions of how artificial restoration can be effectively combined with natural recovery, and to what extent can artificial assistance can define the beginning of natural recovery in ecosystems. To address this issue, this study proposed a stepwise ecological restoration model for arid mining regions. The model delineated the ecological restoration process in arid mining regions into three phases: “artificial reconstruction”, “auxiliary ecological restoration”, and “natural recovery”, and constructed an evaluation index system of the stepwise ecological restoration process. Taking an example of a mining ecological restoration in Aksu, Xinjiang, this study examined the evaluation effects of the stepwise ecological restoration model on ecological restoration projects in arid mining regions. The research showed that adopting the stepwise ecological restoration model in arid mining regions can achieve scientific and moderate artificial restoration, better clarify ecological restoration goals, and facilitate the implementation of ecological restoration projects.
Concept of Micro Healthcare Entrepreneurship (MHE) to Facilitate Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Prospects and Challenges
Authors: Hossain Forhad , Islam Rafiqul , Osugi Takuzo , Shah Faiz , Mine Tsunenori , Nakashima Naoki , Ahmed Ashir
Published: March 2024

In the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), developing countries with limited resources face significant hurdles. Traditional top-down approaches, spearheaded by governments, often entail lengthy planning periods and substantial costs to reach underserved communities. This paper proposes a bottom-up, cost-effective, and preventive approach aimed at empowering local human resources and using advanced technology. We call it the Micro Healthcare Entrepreneurship (MHE) model. The MHE model comprises four primary components: (1) utilization of local human resources, (2) disruptive healthcare technology, (3) continuous training, and (4) available funds. Extensive testing of the digital health and social business elements across diverse contexts underscores their efficacy. Furthermore, the viability of social business funds has been established. To solicit feedback and refine the MHE concept, three workshops, conducted in phases, engaged 60 community healthcare service providers. This paper elucidates both the potential advantages and the challenges inherent in implementing the MHE model. By shifting the paradigm toward grassroots empowerment and leveraging existing community assets, this approach offers promise in advancing healthcare accessibility and sustainability in resource-constrained settings to achieve UHC.
Sustainable Gender Equality: A Comparative Perspective on STEM Education and Employment in Jordan
Authors: Sharif Ahlam A. , Lee Angela , Alshdiefat Alaa S. , Rana Muhammad Q. , Abu Ghunmi Noor-Alhuda
Published: March 2024

Gender equality is a concept that is synonymous with debates towards economic and societal advancement, as manifested through the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 5. This study sets out to identify the key indicators driving gender equality in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and employment in Jordan. This area is both critical and timely in light of emerging challenges facing technological advancement, progressive economies, and wider societal inclusion strategies within the professional environment. This study predominantly employs a quantitative methodology, utilising a survey to evaluate and rank a comprehensive set of indicators/challenges associated with gender equality in the published literature. Feedback is gathered from both male and female participants. The findings of this study reveal certain categories and indicators that are highly ranked compared with others, with practical aspects such as workplace conditions and professional treatment, societal norms and gender stereotypes, and professional perceptions and underlying gender bias being more predominant in Jordan. This study also revealed differing challenges facing gender equality in employment compared with the ones faced in education. This finding resonates with the historical trajectory of academic progress in STEM fields in Jordan, and its divergence emphasises the need for a nuanced exploration to advance gender equality in STEM effectively.
Numerical Simulation of Storm Surge Inundation in Estuarine Area Considering Multiple Influencing Factors
Authors: Fu Cifu , Liu Qiuxing , Gao Yi , Cao Haijin , Liang Sendong
Published: March 2024

With global climate change, the risk of extreme storms and storm surges in estuarine areas is increasing; thus, storm surge inundation research and prediction have become important issues to ensure sustainable development in estuarine areas. The Jitimen estuary in Guangdong Province, China, was chosen as our study area. In this study, a numerical model for simulating storm surge inundation in small regions based on unstructured triangular grids was established, and the model accuracy was validated. The typhoon characteristics in the study area were statistically analyzed based on historical data. Three experimental schemes, involving factors influencing storm surge inundation, such as typhoon landfall location, intensity, and direction, were used to evaluate the differences in the numerical results. The results showed that when the typhoon landfall direction remained unchanged and the highest tide levels at the Sanzao tide gauge station were similar, the differences between the numerical results for the typhoon landfall location and typhoon intensity schemes were less than 5%, and the inundation characteristics were similar. However, when the typhoon location and intensity were unchanged and the highest tide levels at the Sanzao tide gauge station were similar, the numerical results for the typhoon landfall direction scheme significantly differed; this result was caused by the difference in the duration of the high tide level (exceeding 3 m); these results indicated that the topographic characteristics and the typhoon landing direction had a greater impact on storm surge inundation. The results from this study can aid in the prediction of storm surge inundation information for the Jitimen estuary area when the typhoon landing direction and the maximum tide level are known.
Estimation of Diameter at Breast Height in Tropical Forests Based on Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Shape Diameter Function
Authors: Wu Yang , Gan Xingli , Zhou Ying , Yuan Xiaoyu
Published: March 2024

Estimating forest carbon content typically requires the precise measurement of the trees’ diameter at breast height (DBH), which is crucial for maintaining the health and sustainability of natural forests. Currently, Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) systems are commonly used to acquire forest point cloud data for DBH estimation. However, traditional circular fitting methods face challenges such as a reliance on forest elevation normalization and underfitting of large trees. This study explores a novel approach, the Shape Diameter Function (SDF) algorithm model, leveraging the advantages of three-dimensional point cloud information to replace traditional circular fitting methods. This study employed a parallel approach, combining the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) with Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) to segment tree point clouds at breast height. Additionally, a point cloud SDF algorithm based on an octree structure was proposed to accurately estimate individual tree DBH. The research data were obtained from tropical secondary forests located in Cameroon, Peru, Indonesia, and Guyana, with forest ground point cloud data acquired via TLS. The experimental results demonstrated the superior performance of the SDF algorithm in estimating DBH. Compared with the Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) and Hough transform methods, the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) decreased by 28.1% and 47.8%, respectively. Particularly in estimating DBH for large trees, the SDF algorithm exhibited smaller errors, indicating a closer alignment between the estimated individual tree DBH values and those obtained from manual measurements. This study presented a more accurate DBH estimation algorithm, contributing to the exploration of improved forest carbon content estimation methods.
Optimal Configuration of Multi-Energy Storage in an Electric–Thermal–Hydrogen Integrated Energy System Considering Extreme Disaster Scenarios
Authors: Chen Zhe , Sun Zihan , Lin Da , Li Zhihao , Chen Jian
Published: March 2024

Extreme disasters have become increasingly common in recent years and pose significant dangers to the integrated energy system’s secure and dependable energy supply. As a vital part of an integrated energy system, the energy storage system can help with emergency rescue and recovery during major disasters. In addition, it can improve energy utilization rates and regulate fluctuations in renewable energy under normal conditions. In this study, the sizing scheme of multi-energy storage equipment in the electric–thermal–hydrogen integrated energy system is optimized; economic optimization in the regular operating scenario and resilience enhancement in extreme disaster scenarios are also considered. A refined model of multi-energy storage is constructed, and a two-layer capacity configuration optimization model is proposed. This model is further enhanced by the integration of a Markov two-state fault transmission model, which simulates equipment defects and improves system resilience. The optimization process is solved using the tabu chaotic quantum particle swarm optimization (TCQPSO) algorithm to provide reliable and accurate optimization results. The results indicate that addressing severe disaster situations in a capacity configuration fully leverages the reserve energy function of energy storage and enhances system resilience while maintaining economic efficiency; furthermore, adjusting the load loss penalty coefficients offers a more targeted approach to the balancing of the system economy and resilience. Thus, new algorithmic choices and planning strategies for future research on enhancing the resilience of integrated energy systems under extreme disaster scenarios are provided.
Barriers to Entrepreneurial Refugees’ Integration into Host Countries: A Case of Afghan Refugees
Authors: Tariq Habib , Ali Yousaf , Sabir Muhammad , Garai-Fodor Monika , Csiszárik-Kocsir Ágnes
Published: March 2024

Pakistan hosts over 1.4 million Afghan refugees and is facing extreme challenges in accomplishing the UN’s refugee pacts and 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The inflow and longer stay of refugees in the host country may affect the local population’s socio-economic conditions. However, not all refugees are a “burden” to the host economy. Some refugees can contribute positively to the local economy given the opportunity. This study investigates the leading hurdles to establishing businesses for refugees to provide a different perspective to policymakers and scholars in achieving refugee integration. Through a thematic analysis of interviews conducted with Afghan entrepreneurial refugees, this study identifies ten hurdles and five opportunities they face while conducting business in Pakistan. Fuzzy Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (FSWARA) prioritizes the central theme, i.e., a lack of policies, among other hurdles, by allocating weights. Hypotheses on hurdles and opportunities are built and tested through multiple regression analysis (MRA). All the hypotheses on hurdles and three on opportunities are accepted. This study highlights the importance of a comprehensive framework for entrepreneurial refugees for their smooth integration into Pakistani society. This study helps policymakers and scholars identify the main barriers for refugee entrepreneurs in Pakistan.
Ostomy Belt Use Improves Quality of Life in Patients with a Stoma
Authors: Karhu Elisa K. , Hernandez Alexandra E. , Restrepo Ana M. , Hui Vanessa W.
Published: March 2024

Ostomy formation is a vital component in the treatment of advanced gastrointestinal diseases, including colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. It usually involves externalizing a part of the colon or small bowel to the skin surface. Thus, the creation of an ostomy can often have a major negative impact on quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate whether the use of an ostomy belt could improve quality of life measures in stoma patients through a prospective interventional open-label study of 17–80-year-old English- and Spanish-speaking patients with stomas who were using an ostomy belt for 8 weeks. Changes in quality of life were assessed using the Stoma Quality of Life Scale questionnaire at baseline, at 4 weeks, and at 8 weeks post ostomy belt use. A total of 45 patients enrolled (20 female, mean age 48) in the study. The ostomy belt significantly improved quality of life scores from baseline to 4 weeks regarding overall life satisfaction (F(2, 76) = 14.77, p < 0.001) and in the domains of work/social function (F(2, 72) = 30.32, p < 0.001), sexuality/body image (F(2, 68) = 3.34, p = 0.04), and stoma function (F(2, 72) = 8.72, p < 0.001). These improvements were sustained at the 8-week follow-up. No significant differences were observed in the domains of financial impact and skin irritation. This study represents the first prospective interventional study that provides evidence for the simple low-cost intervention of ostomy support belt use in improving quality of life in patients with a stoma.
Symmetric-Type Multi-Step Difference Methods for Solving Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Argyros Ioannis K. , Shakhno Stepan , Regmi Samundra , Yarmola Halyna , Argyros Michael I.
Published: March 2024

Symmetric-type methods (STM) without derivatives have been used extensively to solve nonlinear equations in various spaces. In particular, multi-step STMs of a higher order of convergence are very useful. By freezing the divided differences in the methods and using a weight operator a method is generated using m steps (m a natural number) of convergence order 2 m. This method avoids a large increase in the number of operator evaluations. However, there are several problems with the conditions used to show the convergence: the existence of high order derivatives is assumed, which are not in the method; there are no a priori results for the error distances or information on the uniqueness of the solutions. Therefore, the earlier studies cannot guarantee the convergence of the method to solve nondifferentiable equations. However, the method may converge to the solution. Thus, the convergence conditions can be weakened. These problems arise since the convergence order is determined using the Taylor series which requires the existence of high-order derivatives which are not present in the method, and they may not even exist. These concerns are our motivation for authoring this article. Moreover, the novelty of this article is that all the aforementioned problems are addressed positively, and by using conditions only related to the divided differences in the method. Furthermore, a more challenging and important semi-local analysis of convergence is presented utilizing majorizing sequences in combination with the concept of the generalized continuity of the divided difference involved. The convergence is also extended from the Euclidean to the Banach space. We have chosen to demonstrate our technique in the present method. But it can be used in other studies using the Taylor series to show the convergence of the method. The applicability of other single- or multi-step methods using the inverses of linear operators with or without derivatives can also be extended with the same methodology along the same lines. Several examples are provided to test the theoretical results and validate the performance of the method.
Climate Change and the Future of Ski Tourism in Canada’s Western Mountains
Authors: Knowles Natalie L. B. , Scott Daniel , Steiger Robert
Published: March 2024

Winter, snow, and mountains, epitomized by the world-renowned Rocky Mountain range, are an integral part of Canada’s sport-culture identity and international tourism brand, yet the climate change risk posed to this important ski tourism region remains uncertain. This study used the ski operations model SkiSim 2.0 to analyze the climate risk for the region’s ski industry (26 ski areas in the province of Alberta and 40 in British Columbia) with advanced snowmaking, including changes in key performance metrics of ski season length, snowmaking requirements, holiday operations, and lift and terrain capacity. If Paris Climate Agreement targets are met, average seasons across all ski areas decline 14–18% by mid-century, while required snowmaking increases 108–161%. Regional average operational terrain declined only 4–9% in mid-century, as the largest ski areas were generally more climate resilient. More pronounced impacts are projected under late-century, high-emission scenarios and in low latitudes and coastal British Columbia regions. When compared with continental and international ski tourism markets, Western Canada has relatively lower climate change impacts, which could improve its competitiveness. The results inform further research on demand-side as well as the winter sport-tourism industry and destination-scale climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Bactericera cockerelli Picorna-like Virus and Three New Viruses Found Circulating in Populations of Potato/Tomato Psyllids (Bactericera cockerelli)
Authors: Dahan Jennifer , Orellana Gardenia E. , Wald Kaleigh B. , Wenninger Erik J. , Cooper W. Rodney , Karasev Alexander V.
Published: March 2024

An investigation of viruses circulating in populations of field and laboratory potato/tomato psyllids (Bactericera cockerelli) was conducted using high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technology and conventional RT-PCR. Three new viruses were discovered: one from the family Tymoviridae and two from the family Solemoviridae. A tymo-like virus sequence represented a nearly complete 6843 nt genome of a virus named Bactericera cockerelli tymo-like virus (BcTLV) that spanned five open reading frames (ORFs) which encoded RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP), helicase, protease, methyltransferase, and a capsid protein. Phylogenetic analyses placed the RdRP of BcTLV inside a divergent lineage of the viruses from the family Tymoviridae found in insect and plant hosts in a sister clade to the genera Tymovirus, Marafivirus, and Maculavirus. Four solemo-like virus sequences were identified in the HTS outputs, representing two new viruses. One virus found only in field-collected psyllids and named Bactericera cockerelli solemo-like virus 1 (BcSLV-1) had a 5479 nt genome which spanned four ORFs encoding protease and RdRP. Three solemo-like sequences displayed 87.4–99.7% nucleotide sequence identity among themselves, representing variants or strains of the same virus named Bactericera cockerelli solemo-like virus 2 (BcSLV-2). The genome of BcSLV-2 spanned only two ORFs that encoded a protease and an RdRP. Phylogenetic analysis placed the RdRPs of BcSLV-1 and BcSLV-2 in two separate lineages as sister clades to viruses from the genus Sobemovirus found in plant hosts. All three new psyllid viruses were found circulating in psyllids collected from potato fields in southern Idaho along with a previously identified Bactericera cockerelli picorna-like virus. Any possible role of the three viruses in controlling populations of the field psyllids remains to be elucidated.
Improving Analytic Hierarchy Process inside the Analytic Group Decision-Making Approach Method with Two-Dimensional Cloud Model for Water Resource Pollution Risk Warning Evaluation: A Case Study in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Zhou Fulei , Li Zhijun , Gao Yu , Wang Haiqing , Wei Jiantao , Zhou Bo
Published: March 2024

This study proposes a water resource pollution risk warning evaluation method. Firstly, an evaluation system is constructed, consisting of 15 secondary indicators in four aspects: water quality, ecology, utilization protection, and water disasters. Then, an improved AGA-AHP method and coefficient of variation method are used to determine the weights of each indicator. Cloud models are employed to describe the characteristics of standard clouds and evaluation clouds, establishing a two-dimensional cloud model with risk probability and hazard level as variables. Taking a certain region in Shandong Province, China, as an example, the quantitative analysis results indicate that the water pollution risk level in the area is classified as Level IV, with particular attention needed for water quality and management indicators. Simultaneously, a series of measures such as source control, monitoring and early warning, emergency response, and public participation are proposed to further reduce the risk. The research findings demonstrate the following: (1) The establishment of a comprehensive indicator system for multidimensional assessment; (2) The combination of the AGA-AHP method and cloud model for quantitative analysis; (3) The practicality of the method validated through the case study; (4) Providing a basis for subsequent decision-making. This study provides new insights for water environmental risk management, but a further optimization of the model to enhance predictive capability is required when applied in practical scenarios. Nevertheless, the preliminary validation of this method’s application prospects in water resource risk monitoring has been achieved.
Sustainable Filters with Antimicrobial Action from Sugarcane Bagasse: A Novel Waste Utilization Approach
Authors: Hernández-López Rosa , López-Malo Aurelio , Navarro-Amador Ricardo , Ramírez-Corona Nelly
Published: March 2024

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB) is a waste product from Mexico’s sugar industry that is generally burned or discarded. It contains around 48% cellulose, representing a significant source of this component from industrial waste. Eugenol is found in clove oil; it has been used for its medicinal and antimicrobial benefits in the food and pharmaceutical industries. This study aims to develop a filtering material using sugarcane bagasse (SCB) and encapsulated eugenol as an antimicrobial agent. The study involves extracting cellulose from SCB using alkaline hydrolysis with ultrasound, followed by forming composite materials encapsulated in alginate with eugenol concentrations from 0 to 1% v/v. These materials were characterized and tested for antimicrobial efficacy. The findings indicate that the cellulose–eugenol–alginate composite displays high eugenol encapsulation efficiency and effective short-term release. In well-diffusion assays, the material showed inhibition halos up to 20.47 mm against S. aureus, suggesting its potential as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional antimicrobial agents in filter materials.
Support Mechanisms for Women during Menopause: Perspectives from Social and Professional Structures
Authors: Cowell Alexandra Cristina , Gilmour Adam , Atkinson Daniel
Published: March 2024

Approximately one billion women globally have undergone menopause, occurring at an age of around 51 years and typically between ages 45 and 54. As life expectancy increases, women are projected to spend at least one-third of their lives in postmenopause, emphasising the growing importance of menopause as a critical public health issue. In this context, this paper aims to offer updated insights into the increasing societal and political interest in menopause. It underscores the impact of support mechanisms encompassing familial, workplace, medical, technological, and government support on women’s attitudes and experiences around menopause. Furthermore, the study aims to identify key gaps in research, practice, or legislation concerning support systems for menopausal women and provide recommendations for enhancing familial, workplace, medical, technological, and government support.
Asistentes digitales en la experiencia del patrimonio cultural: Beacons en el Museo Naval de Madrid
Authors: Rosado García María Jesús , Argüelles Bustillo Ramón
Published: March 2024

La llegada de la informática móvil y las nuevas tecnologías permiten explorar su potencial para lograr interacciones naturales e inteligentes entre los usuarios y su entorno, así mismo, inteligente. En este trabajo, se examina y desarrolla un sistema de balizas Bluetooth de bajo consumo o “beacons”, para el posicionamiento en interiores, y particularmente para la gestión de las visitas al patrimonio cultural; con el estudio de caso del Museo Naval de Madrid. Su uso como asistente digital, permite ofrecer información relevante al usuario sobre su entorno cuando sea necesario. La App desarrollada “vCoolture” es un sistema de guía móvil para visitantes de museos que utiliza el teléfono inteligente que porta el usuario y se apoya en los “beacons” situados en el museo para facilitar la comunicación y por tanto la proactividad de los participantes. Así mismo se tiene la intención de que el sistema sea una herramienta pedagógica que, por ejemplo, ayude a los estudiantes poniendo a disposición cierta información para su uso docente por parte del profesorado. Se ha puesto de manifiesto cómo el desarrollo de este tipo de plataformas interactivas, facilitan al visitante una mejor experiencia y poder disfrutar, a través de dispositivos móviles, de cualquier contenido audio-visual en las visitas a museos y otros centros culturales, al mismo tiempo que ofrece una completísima retroalimentación para el propio museo.
Variability of small multirotor aircraft noise measurements
Authors: Konzel Nicolas Blaise , Greenwood Eric , given-names surname
Published: March 2024

Experimental procedures are developed to measure and characterize the variability of noise radiated by small multirotor aircraft during outdoor flight. These procedures were applied to characterize the noise of a Tarot X8 octocopter. Large (up to 10 dB) variations in A-weighted sound
pressure level (SPL) are observed between repeated measurements of the same flight conditions. However, the measured peak SPLs are found to be insensitive to changes in flight speed. This results in a reduction of sound exposure level with increasing flight speed. The A-weighted sound exposure
level varies by as much as 6 dB across repeated overflights. Variability in noise is assessed both across repeated runs of the same condition and within a run using an array of microphones parallel to the flight track. Variability is found to increase as the distance between the microphone
and aircraft increases. Variations within a run are significant (2.2 dB) and are similar to the variation in peak SPLs observed between runs (2.5 dB).
Evaluation of colostrum quality and passive transfer immunity in terms of heat stress and disease incidence in Holstein cattle in Central Anatolia
Authors: Kara Halime , Güven Mustafa
Published: March 2024

The effects of heat stress on colostrum quality, passive transfer failure, and disease incidence were investigated in a large population in order to prevent calf morality and yield losses in Holstein cows and calves. There was a statistically significant correlation between colostrum quality and the daily temperature humidity index, 7-day average temperature stress, and average temperature humidity indexes experienced by the cows during the dry period (P<0.001). It was observed that passive transfer failure occurred in 21% of the calves. There was a significant positive correlation (P<0.05) between the relative humidity and the temperature and humidity index values of the day of birth and the calf serum brix value. A negative and significant correlation was observed between Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) and serum brix value (r = -10, P<0.01). It was observed that the passive transfer success and diarrhea and pneumonia that were overcome in the first 365-day period showed a negative correlation (P<0.01). As a result, it has been observed that the heat stress experienced by cows and calves affects colostrum quality and passive transfer success, which also affects development and protection from diseases.
FEASIBILITY EVALUATION OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT RENTAL INVESTMENT IN SOUTH KALIMANTAN
Authors: Purwantoro Almuntofa , Wibowo Guswiem , Lendra Lendra
Published: March 2024

Development in the construction sector in Indonesia is one of the reasons investment is why heavy equipment has increased, but in 2020 Indonesia's economic growth contracted by 2.07 due to Covid-19. Economic growth in Indonesia in 2020 affected heavy equipment rental companies, especially in South Kalimantan. To assess the feasibility of investments that have been carried out in this study, one of them relies on the analysis of the investment break-even point and its sensitivity. The evaluation aims to determine the feasibility of the business that has been implemented. Based on Break Even Point that occurred at 2.46 years at that time revenue amounted to Rp. 98,784,716,825. The results of the sensitivity analysis stated that the assumption of fixed income and expenditure costs increased by 50% resulting in an NPV of Rp. 67,126,506,911 declared feasible, the break-even point obtained at 4.50 years or 4 years 163 days of income of Rp. 67,126,506,911. Revenue decreased by 50% and fixed expenses resulted in an NPV of -Rp. 24,104,127,174 declared unfeasible, the break-even point did not find results because the company still suffered losses until 2026. Revenue fell by 50% and income increased by 50% resulting in NPV -Rp. 100,720,629,289 declared unfeasible, the break-even point did not find results because the company was still experiencing losses until 2026.EVALUASI KELAYAKAN INVESTASI PENYEWAAN ALAT BERAT DI KALIMANTAN SELATANPembangunan di bidang konstruksi di Indonesia menjadi salah satu alasan investasi mengapa peralatan alat berat mengalami peningkatan namun pada tahun 2020 pertumbuhan ekonomi Indonesia mengalami kontraksi sebesar 2,07 akibat covid-19. Pertumbuhan ekonomi di Indonesia pada tahun 2020 berimbas perusahaan penyewaan alat berat khususnya di Kalimantan Selatan. Untuk menilai kelayakan investasi yang telah dilaksanakan dalam penelitian ini salah satunya bergantung pada analisis break even point inventasi dan sensitivitasnya. Evaluasi tersebut dimaksud bertujuan untuk mengetahui kelayakan usaha yang telah di laksanakan. Berdasarkan Break Even Point terjadi pada 2,46 Tahun pada saat itu pendapatan sebesar Rp. 98.784.716.825. Hasil analisis sensitivitas menyatakan bahwa asumsi pemasukan tetap dan biaya pengeluaran naik 50% menghasilkan NPV yaitu Rp. 67.126.506.911 dinyatakan layak, titik impas mendapatkan pada 4,50 tahun atau 4 tahun 163 hari pendapatan sebesar Rp. 67.126.506.911. Pemasukan turun 50% dan biaya pengeluaran tetap menghasilkan NPV yaitu -Rp. 24.104.127.174 dinyatakan tidak layak, titik impas tidak menemukan hasil karena perusahaan masih mengalami kerugian sampai tahun 2026. Pemasukan turun 50% dan pemasukan naik 50% menghasilkan NPV -Rp. 100.720.629.289 dinyatakan tidak layak, titik impas tidak menemukan hasil karena perusahaan masih mengalami kerugian sampai tahun 2026.