bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Debt Collection Model for Mass Receivables Based on Decision Rules—A Path to Efficiency and Sustainability
Authors: Jankowski Rafał , Paliński Andrzej
Published: July 2024

Debt collection companies buy overdue debts on the market in order to collect them and recover the highest possible amount of a debt. The pursuit of debt recovery by employees of collection agencies is a very demanding task. The aim of the article is to propose a rule-based model for managing the process of mass debt collection in a debt collection company, which will make the debt collection process more efficient. To achieve this, we have chosen a decision tree as a machine learning technique best suited for creating rules based on extensive data from the debt collection company. The classification accuracy of the decision tree, regardless of the possibility of acquiring rule-based knowledge, proved to be the highest among the tested machine learning methods, with an accuracy rate of 85.5%. Through experiments, we generated 16 stable rules to assist in the debt collection process. The proposed approach allows for the elimination of debts that are difficult to recover at the initial stage of the recovery process and to decide whether to pursue amicable debt collection or to escalate the debt recovery process to legal action. Our approach also enables the determination of specific actions during each stage of the proceedings. Abandoning certain actions or reducing their frequency will alleviate the burden on collection agency employees and help to avoid the typical burnout associated with this line of work. This is the path to making the organizational culture of a collection agency more sustainable. Our model also confirms the possibility of using data from debt collection companies to automatically generate procedural rules and automate the process of purchasing and collecting debts. However, this would require a larger set of attributes than what we currently possess.
Research Investigating the Influence of the Digital Economy on the High-Quality Advancement of New Urbanization in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Yang Peiqing , Zhang Yingjun , Yin Yaxin
Published: July 2024

The rapid development of the digital economy poses both opportunities and challenges for the process of new urbanization. This study utilizes inter-provincial panel data covering the period from 2012 to 2021 in the Yellow River Basin. It employs fixed-effect, mediation effect, and threshold effect models to examine how the digital economy affects the high-quality development of new urbanization in the area. Key findings of the study indicate that the digital economy has a positive impact on the high-quality development of new urbanization in the Yellow River Basin through its facilitation of industrial structure upgrading. The impact exhibits a non-linear “marginal effect,” transitioning from slower to faster growth rates. This paper aims to establish a basis for decision-making and policy formulation aimed at enhancing the high-quality development of the digital economy within the context of new urbanization in the Yellow River Basin.
Exploring the Intersection of Paleontology and Sustainability: Enhancing Scientific Literacy in Spanish Secondary School Students
Authors: Giner-Baixauli Alicia , Corbí Hugo , Mayoral Olga
Published: July 2024

This study aims to assess the knowledge of geology and sustainability among 14- and 15-year-old secondary school students in Spain and to evaluate the effectiveness of active experiential methodologies in improving academic performance in these subjects. Involving 132 students, we used pre-test and post-test questionnaires for data collection, with both control and experimental groups. Our findings showed that integrating Earth history, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and public speaking enhances scientific literacy by fostering problem-solving and interdisciplinary understanding. The study highlights the importance of integrating scientific methods, revealing a preference for experimental approaches over traditional methods among students; however, when the results are analyzed independently by topic, similar results are obtained with active and traditional teaching methodologies. Therefore, a holistic and flexible approach not only meets the requirements of modern curricula but also helps students address complex global challenges.
Three-Dimensional Modeling and Analysis of Ground Settlement Due to Twin Tunneling Using GIS
Authors: Yun Ji-seok , Kim Han-eol , Yoo Han-kyu
Published: July 2024

Ground settlement occurs because of the surrounding ground behavior during tunnel excavation. A high chance of its occurrence could cause the collapse of buildings; therefore, the accurate prediction and assessment of ground settlement are necessary when structures are concentrated in urban regions. This study leverages Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and 3D modeling to evaluate the effects of tunnel excavation on the ground settlement and damage of buildings along the Mandeok–Centum underground highway in Busan. It integrates the field topography with building data to simulate and visualize construction-induced interactions. Numerical analysis is used to assess the effects of the terrain elevation, building presence, excavation sequences, and lag distance between the twin tunnels on the settlement. The results indicate that high terrain elevation, dense building layouts, and shorter distances between tunnels increase settlement. Furthermore, this study deduces that bidirectional excavation causes a rapid increase in settlement compared with parallel excavation, which is evident from the variations in the inflection points during the excavation process. Finally, this study estimates the damage to buildings and ground settlements and visualizes risk maps using GIS, emphasizing the practicality of 3D modeling based on GIS.
Identifying Key Barriers to Green Transition Development in China’s Express Industry Based on the Fuzzy DEMATEL Method
Authors: Xu Xuan , Huang Yifan , Hu Bo , Li Chentao , Gong Kenan
Published: July 2024

The “green transformation of the express” delivery industry in this study primarily refers to the adoption of green energy and environmentally friendly technologies in express delivery packaging, transportation, and recycling systems. This transformation can significantly enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions in the express system, promoting the sustainable development of the entire industry. However, the progress of green transformation in China’s express delivery industry has been impeded by various barriers. To address this, we propose a barrier analysis framework based on the Fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) methodology to explore key obstacles to green transformation in the express industry. Our research aims to answer three main questions: (1) What are the key barriers to green transformation in China’s express delivery industry? (2) How do these barriers interact and influence each other? (3) What strategic measures can be implemented to overcome these barriers? We first compile a list of barriers, innovatively proposing two new ones: “inadequate green standards in the express industry” and “suboptimal green packaging technology”. Considering the ambiguity in expert input and the complex interactions among barriers, we employ fuzzy DEMATEL within an Interval Type 2 Fuzzy Sets (IT2FSs) environment to investigate the significance and causality of these barriers. This approach distinguishes our study from previous research by providing a more nuanced understanding of barrier interactions in the specific context of China’s express delivery industry. Based on our analysis, we identify eight critical barriers and propose corresponding strategic measures.
Analysis of Urban Expansion and Heat-Island Effect of Hefei Based on ENVI
Authors: Meng Junlei , Gao Yang
Published: July 2024

Urbanization is one of the most significant features of current social progress. Using Landsat TM/OLI images from 1995, 2005, and 2018, the land-use change, vegetation coverage, and land surface temperature retrieval of Hefei are studied, and the driving force of Hefei’s expansion is analyzed. The influence of urban expansion and vegetation coverage on the intensity of the urban heat-island effect is discussed. As the city develops, various factors, such as natural conditions, economic growth, demographic changes, and policy decisions, are driving the expansion of construction land in Hefei. The overall performance shows expansion to the southwest of the main urban area, the surface temperature rises as the city expands, and the area of the heat-island effect also increases, showing the trend of multi-center distribution. There is a clear negative correlation between land surface temperature and vegetation coverage. Therefore, increasing the city’s green infrastructure can effectively alleviate the severe heat-island effect.
Thermal Energy Storage in Energy Communities: A Perspective Overview through a Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Brunelli Luca , Borri Emiliano , Pisello Anna Laura , Nicolini Andrea , Mateu Carles , Cabeza Luisa F.
Published: July 2024

The climate and energy crisis requires immediate countermeasures. Renewable energy communities (RECs) are capable of enhancing the consumption of renewable energy, involving citizens with a leading role in the energy transition process. The main objective of a REC is to maximize the consumption of renewable energy by reducing the mismatch between energy supply and demand. This is possible through the use of strategies and technologies including energy storage systems. Among these, the use of thermal energy storage (TES) is an efficient strategy due to the lower investment required compared to other storage technologies, like electric batteries. This study aims to define the role of TES in RECs, through a bibliometric analysis, in order to highlight research trends and possible gaps. This study shows that the existing literature on TES does not present terms related to RECs, thus presenting a research gap. On the other hand, RESs address the topic of energy storage in the literature, without focusing on TES in particular but considering the general aspect of the topic. Therefore, this leaves open a possibility for the development of research on TES as a possible technology applied to a REC to maximize the renewable energy sharing.
Molecular Characteristics of Aberrant Gene Mutations and Expression Profiles Induced by Benzo(a)pyrene in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Cao Xinyi , Zhu Ying , Cheng Shujun , Zhang Kunxiao , Wang Hui , Ba Qian
Published: July 2024

Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) is a prevalent food and environmental carcinogen. Chronic low-dose BaP exposure can promote the migratory and invasive capacities of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, yet its intricate molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Utilizing the established BaP-exposed HCC cell model, we analyzed the gene expression alteration, exosomal RNA cargo, and genetic variants induced by BaP through transcriptomic and whole-genome sequencing. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant dysregulation in genes and pathways associated with tumor metastasis, particularly those involved in steroidal lipid metabolism and cell migration. BaP exposure enriched PI3K-AKT, mTOR, and NF-κB signaling pathways and disrupted genes implicated in cellular secretory processes, suggesting the potential involvement of exosomes in metastasis. Exosome analysis depicted the RNA profiling in exosomes of HCC cells altered by BaP, and the exosomal circRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction network was constructed. Finally, whole-genome sequencing delineated BaP-induced gene mutations and genomic instability in HCC cells. In summary, prolonged low-dose BaP exposure induces intricate molecular alterations in gene mutation and expression profiles in HCC cells, notably those secreted in exosomes, which may potentially remodel the tumor microenvironment and foster HCC metastasis. Our findings offer new insights into the molecular underpinnings of BaP-induced HCC metastasis, thereby advancing the comprehensive understanding of BaP toxicity.
Straw Biochar and Graphite Oxide Enhanced External Pressure Ultrafiltration for Leaded Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Yang Fan , Pei Liang , Wang Zhenggang , Duo Jia
Published: July 2024

In order to solve the problem of the low treatment efficiency of wastewater containing heavy metals in mining areas, straw biochar and graphene oxide enhanced external pressure ultrafiltration (SGU) was used to treat wastewater containing high concentrations of Pb2+. The operation parameters such as pH and temperature were optimized, and the removal efficiency of CODCr, NH3-N, turbidity and Pb2+ via SGU, straw biochar ultrafiltration (SU), ultrafiltration (UF), and conventional treatment (CT) were systematically investigated. The results showed that the pH and temperature of polluted water were 4.8–5.2 and 21–30 °C, respectively, the average removal rates of CODCr, NH3-N, turbidity and Pb2+ by SGU reached 91%, 97%, 98% and 95%, respectively, and the removal effect was better than that of other processes. In addition, under the backwash conditions of clean water, weak acid, and weak alkali, the membrane flux recovered 65%, 88%, and 89% of the new membrane, respectively. This study provides scientific and theoretical support for the advanced treatment of polluted water in mining areas.
Unraveling the Tourism–Environment–Equity Nexus: A Neighborhood-Scale Analysis of Texas Urban Centers
Authors: Mansourihanis Omid , Zaroujtaghi Ayda , Hemmati Moein , Maghsoodi Tilaki Mohammad Javad , Alipour Mahdi
Published: July 2024

This study explores the complex interplay between air pollution, the socioeconomic conditions, and the tourism density within Texas’s urban landscapes, focusing on Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. Despite extensive research on environmental justice and urban tourism separately, few studies have integrated these fields to examine how tourism development intersects with environmental and socioeconomic disparities at a neighborhood level. This research addresses this gap by employing advanced geospatial analyses and multi-criteria decision analysis to reveal the pronounced clustering of stressed communities on urban peripheries, often removed from tourism’s economic benefits. The study uniquely quantifies the spatial mismatches between tourist hotspots and areas of environmental stress, a dimension often overlooked in the environmental justice literature. Local spatial statistics and cumulative impact analysis uncover statistically significant correlations between high poverty levels and elevated air pollution in specific locales. The results show varying patterns across cities, with Austin presenting the lowest inequality levels and San Antonio exhibiting significant disparities. This granular, neighborhood-centric approach provides novel insights into the tourism–environment–equity nexus, addressing the lack of comprehensive studies linking these factors in rapidly growing Texan metropolitan areas. The findings underscore the critical need for targeted policy interventions and neighborhood-specific approaches in diagnosing urban environmental disparities and crafting equitable urban development policies that consider tourism’s impact on local communities.
Toward the Development of a Pan-Lyssavirus Vaccine
Authors: Ben Hamed Sabrine , Myers Jacob F. , Chandwani Anisha , Wirblich Christoph , Kurup Drishya , Paran Nir , Schnell Matthias J.
Published: July 2024

In addition to the rabies virus (RABV), 16 more lyssavirus species have been identified worldwide, causing a disease similar to RABV. Non-rabies-related human deaths have been described, but the number of cases is unknown, and the potential of such lyssaviruses causing human disease is unpredictable. The current rabies vaccine does not protect against divergent lyssaviruses such as Mokola virus (MOKV) or Lagos bat virus (LBV). Thus, a more broad pan-lyssavirus vaccine is needed. Here, we evaluate a novel lyssavirus vaccine with an attenuated RABV vector harboring a chimeric RABV glycoprotein (G) in which the antigenic site I of MOKV replaces the authentic site of rabies virus (RABVG-cAS1). The recombinant vaccine was utilized to immunize mice and analyze the immune response compared to homologous vaccines. Our findings indicate that the vaccine RABVG-cAS1 was immunogenic and induced high antibody titers against both RABVG and MOKVG. Challenge studies with different lyssaviruses showed that replacing a single antigenic site of RABV G with the corresponding site of MOKV G provides a significant improvement over the homologous RABV vaccine and protects against RABV, Irkut virus (IRKV), and MOKV. This strategy of epitope chimerization paves the way towards a pan-lyssavirus vaccine to safely combat the diseases caused by these viruses.
Genetic and Pathogenic Analysis of a Novel Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Strain Isolated in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim Dae-Min , Moon Sung-Hyun , Kim Seung-Chai , Cho Ho-Seong , Tark Dongseob
Published: July 2024

Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED), caused by the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), emerges annually in several Asian countries. Its major symptoms include watery diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, and dehydration. PED outbreaks incur significant economic losses. The efficacy of vaccines is limited by viral mutations and insufficient intestinal mucosal immunity. Therefore, new vaccines against these recent variants are urgently needed. Herein, we isolated and genetically characterized a novel Korean PEDV strain using NGS. Comparative genomic analysis demonstrated that the CKK1-1 strain belonged to genogroup 2. The isolated strain was cultured in sodium-glycochenodeoxycholic acid for 180 passages. Typically, PEDV isolation and passage require proteases, such as trypsin. However, the CKK1-1 strain adapted to this atypical culture condition, achieving a high titer of 8.83 ± 0.14 log TCID50/mL. In vitro biological analysis revealed no cell syncytium formation without trypsin; however, a cell-lysis-type cytopathic effect was noted. Notably, pathogenicity evaluation showed that CKK1-1 p0 exhibited naturally weakened virulence in five-day-old piglets, while piglets administered with CKK1-1 p180 exhibited 100% survival and reduced clinical symptoms. Collectively, our data demonstrate that this Korean PEDV strain, attenuated through atypical culture conditions with Na-glycochenodeoxycholic acid, has potential as a vaccine candidate, providing valuable insights into the genetic variation in and pathogenicity of PEDV.
The Economic Burden of Non-Typhoidal Salmonella and Invasive Non-Typhoidal Salmonella Infection: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Kim Sol , Kang Hyolim , Excler Jean-Louis , Kim Jerome H. , Lee Jung-Seok
Published: July 2024

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) infection and invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella (iNTS) infection cause a significant global health and economic burden. This systematic review aims to investigate the reported economic burden of NTS and iNTS infection, identify research gaps, and suggest future research directions. Data from PubMed and Embase databases up to April 2022 were reviewed, and articles were screened based on predefined criteria. Cost data were extracted, categorized into direct medical costs (DMCs), direct non-medical costs (DNMCs), and indirect costs (ICs), and converted into US dollars (year 2022). Data primarily originated from high-income countries (37 out of 38), with limited representation from Africa and resource-limited settings. For inpatients, DMCs were the primary cost driver for both NTS and iNTS illnesses, with estimates ranging from USD 545.9 (Taiwan, a region of China) to USD 21,179.8 (Türkiye) for NTS and from USD 1973.1 (Taiwan, a region of China) to USD 32,507.5 (United States of America) for iNTS per case. DNMCs and ICs varied widely across studies. Although study quality improved over time, methodological differences persisted. This review underscores the lack of economic data on NTS and iNTS in resource-limited settings. It also highlights the need for economic burden data in resource-limited settings and a standardized approach to generate global datasets, which is critical for informing policy decisions, especially regarding future vaccines.
Stakeholders’ Perceptions on the Implementation of the HPV Vaccine School-Entry Requirement in Puerto Rico during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Vázquez-Otero Coralia , Medina-Laabes Diana T. , Pérez-Guzmán Derick , Díaz-Miranda Olga L. , Mercado-Andino Alondra K. , Escabí-Wojna Erika I. , Colón-López Vivian
Published: July 2024

This study explored the implementation of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine school-entry requirement in Puerto Rico during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted 26 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders and community-based organizations from August 2021 to March 2022. The interview guide was developed using the 2009 Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). The interviews were recorded and transcribed in Spanish. Data were analyzed using applied thematic techniques. These themes included the following: (i) Intervention characteristics: Participants noted that the school-entry requirement was effective in increasing vaccination uptake prior to the pandemic. Issues with the immunization registry were noted; (ii) Outer setting: External influences, access barriers, and an increase in HPV vaccine exemptions since the implementation of the COVID-19 vaccine were discussed; (iii) Inner setting: Communication within organizations and HPV vaccination efforts improved as the pandemic progressed; (iv) Characteristics of individuals: Most agreed with the school-entry requirement, including exemptions; and (v) Process: Results showed the need to reinforce the population’s education about HPV and the vaccine. Implementation of the policy was challenging during the early stages of the pandemic due to measures enacted to stop the spread of COVID-19 and focus on the COVID-19 vaccine. Efforts to increase HPV vaccine should focus on increasing HPV vaccine education and creating collaborations.
Clinical and Diagnostic Findings in Dogs Infected with Trichuris vulpis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Cervone Mario , Hugonnard Marine , Bourdoiseau Gilles , Chabanne Luc , Krafft Emilie , Cadoré Jean-Luc
Published: July 2024

Trichuris vulpis is a parasite of the large intestine of canids and has a global distribution. Despite its well-established epidemiology, the question of its pathogenicity in dogs remains debated. It has been suggested that younger age and concurrent infection with Ancylostoma caninum may be responsible for more severe clinical presentations. This retrospective study aimed to describe the clinical and diagnostic features of T. vulpis-infected dogs and to compare these findings with dogs infected with both T. vulpis and other intestinal parasites (poly-infected dogs). Forty-five dogs were included, with twenty-five being solely infected by T. vulpis and twenty poly-infected dogs. Only weight loss was more frequent (p = 0.006) in poly-infected dogs compared to T. vulpis mono-infected dogs. No significant differences were observed in laboratory abnormalities between mono-infected and poly-infected dogs. Only diarrhea was more frequent (p = 0.007) in younger dogs compared to adults. The egg shedding pattern was significantly higher (p = 0.04) among adult dogs compared to young ones, and there was a significant positive correlation between egg shedding and age (r = 0.41; p = 0.005). These findings suggest that T. vulpis might be responsible for both clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities in dogs, irrespective of the host’s age and the presence of other intestinal parasites.
Study of the Influence of Non-Genetic Factors on the Growth and Development Traits and Cashmere Production Traits of Inner Mongolia White Cashmere Goats (Erlangshan Type)
Authors: Shi Yue , Qi Yunpeng , Liu Yan , Rong Youjun , Ao Xiaofang , Zhang Mingzhu , Xia Qincheng , Zhang Yanjun , Wang Ruijun
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of non-genetic factors on the growth and development performance of Inner Mongolia white cashmere goats (Erlanghan type), such as birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), 6-month weight (6 WT), 12-month weight (12 WT), body height (BH), and body length (BL), and wool production performance, such as cashmere fineness (CF), cashmere thickness (CT), and cashmere yield (CY). The research objects were 4654 kids produced by 45 buck goats and 2269 doe goats in the Erlang Mountain Ranch of Beiping Textile Co., Ltd., Inner Mongolia, from 2020 to 2023. Based on the generalized linear model, ANOVA was used to analyze the effects of non-genetic factors, such as birth year (Y), birth month (M), sex (S), birth type (T), birth herd (H), assay flock (F), age at measurement (MA), and the age of doe goats at lambing (DLA), on growth and development traits and cashmere traits. The results show that the birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), 6-month weight (6 WT), 12-month weight (12 WT), body length (BL), body height (BH), chest depth (CD), chest width (CW), chest circumference (CC), cannon circumference (CNC), wool length (WL), and cashmere yield (CY) of buck goats were significantly higher than those of doe goats (p < 0.01), and the fineness of the cashmere produced by doe goats was significantly finer than that produced by buck goats (p < 0.01). The birth weight, weaning weight, and 6-month weight of single kids were significantly higher than those of multiple kids (p < 0.01), but the effect on the 12-month weight was not significant (p > 0.05). The age of doe goats at lambing had significant effects on birth weight, weaning weight, and 6-month weight (p < 0.01). Assay flock and age at measurement had significant effects on cashmere fineness, cashmere thickness, and cashmere yield (p < 0.01). This study will provide a basis for the scientific breeding and management of cashmere goats and lay a foundation for the setting of fixed effects in the genetic evaluation model of Inner Mongolia white cashmere goats (Erlangshan type).
Incompetence of Vector Capacity of Rhipicephalus bursa to Transmit Babesia aktasi following Feeding on Clinically Infected Goat with High Level of Parasitemia
Authors: Ulucesme Mehmet Can , Ozubek Sezayi , Aktas Munir
Published: July 2024

A recent molecular survey revealed a high prevalence of Babesia aktasi in indigenous goats from the Mediterranean region of Türkiye, coinciding with heavy Rhipicephalus bursa infestations. This geographical overlap has raised the possibility that R. bursa may serve as a vector for the parasite. To evaluate the potential of R. bursa to serve as a vector for the parasite, an experimental study was conducted in indigenous goats. An immune-suppressed donor goat was intravenously injected with 15 mL of the cryopreserved B. aktasi stabilate, resulting in severe clinical babesiosis and parasitemia. Subsequently, R. bursa larvae and adults derived from Babesia-free laboratory colonies were allowed to feed on the infected donor goat. After oviposition, engorged female carcasses, representative engorged nymphs, unfed larvae, and adult pools were used for DNA extraction and PCR analysis. No PCR positivity was detected in any of the DNA samples, except for those with engorged female carcasses and nymphs. Three immune-suppressed recipient goats were infested with the unfed immature and mature ticks consuming the blood of a donor infected with B. aktasi. No clinical or parasitological findings were encountered in the recipient for 40 days post-infestation. These findings indicated that R. bursa was not a competent vector for B. aktasi.
Rat-Tail Models for Studying Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome: A Comparison between Living and Cadaver Rat Tails
Authors: Warren Christopher M. , Xu Xueyan S. , Jackson Mark , McKinney Walter G. , Wu John Z. , Welcome Daniel E. , Waugh Stacey , Chapman Phillip , Sinsel Erik W. , Service Samantha , Krajnak Kristine , Dong Ren G.
Published: July 2024

Over-exposure of the hand-arm system to intense vibration and force over time may cause degeneration of the vascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems in the fingers. A novel animal model using rat tails has been developed to understand the health effects on human fingers exposed to vibration and force when operating powered hand tools or workpieces. The biodynamic responses, such as vibration stress, strain, and power absorption density, of the rat tails can be used to help evaluate the health effects related to vibration and force and to establish a dose-effect relationship. While the biodynamic responses of cadaver rat tails have been investigated, the objective of the current study was to determine whether the biodynamic responses of living rat tails are different from those of cadaver rat tails, and whether the biodynamic responses of both living and cadaver tails change with exposure duration. To make direct comparisons, the responses of both cadaver and living rat tails were examined on four different testing stations. The transfer function of each tail under a given contact force (2 N) was measured at each frequency in the one-third octave bands from 20 to 1000 Hz, and used to calculate the mechanical system parameters of the tails. The transfer functions were also measured at different exposure durations to determine the time dependency of the response. Differences were observed in the vibration biodynamic responses between living and cadaver tails, but the general trends were similar. The biodynamic responses of both cadaver and living rat tails varied with exposure duration.
Food System Governance in the Cambodian Mekong Delta: Food Production, Food Security, Migration, and Indebtedness
Authors: Sithirith Mak , Sao Sok , de Silva Sanjiv , Kong Heng
Published: July 2024

Despite the government’s active promotion of rice production, a significant portion of the population still faces food insecurity. While existing literature often highlights the success of achieving rice surplus, few studies delve into the connections between rice surplus and food security, and critically analyze why food security is persistent. In addressing this issue, the study investigates the underlying causes of food insecurity amidst the government’s efforts to increase rice production. The study entails a comprehensive review of existing literature and an examination of food security in three provinces in the Cambodian Mekong Delta. It concludes that while rice intensification has led to increased rice production available for consumption, challenges persist in terms of access to and utilization of rice for food consumption. These challenges are attributed to increased production costs with minimal profit margins, indebtedness, migration, land grabs, water conflicts, and lack of institutional integration in food systems, compounded by the effects of climate change and environmental degradation. As a result, a farming household with one hectare of farmland cannot produce enough rice for food consumption. Consequently, young people opt to sell off their land to settle debts and seek employment opportunities in urban and overseas areas.
Mercury Concentrations in Dust from Dry Gas Cleaning of Sinter Plant and Technical Removal Options
Authors: Hledik Claudia , Zeng Yilan , Plattner Tobias , Fuerhacker Maria
Published: July 2024

Mercury (Hg) is a naturally occurring element and has been released through human activities over an extended period. The major source is the steel industry, especially sinter plants. During a sintering process, high amounts of dust and gaseous emission are produced. These gases contain high loads of SOx and NOX as well as toxic pollutants, such as heavy metals like Hg. These toxic pollutants are removed by adsorbing to solids, collected as by-products and deposited as hazardous waste. The by-products contain a high amount of salt, resulting in a high water solubility. In this study, to ultimately reduce the waste amount in landfills, leachates of the by-products have been produced. The dissolved Hg concentration and its distribution across different charges were determined. Hg concentrations between 3793 and 12,566 µg L−1 were measured in the leachates. The objective was to lower the Hg concentration in leachates by chemical precipitation with sodium sulfide (Na2S) or an organic sulfide followed by filtration. Both reagents precipitate Hg with removal rates of up to 99.6% for the organic sulfide and 99.9% for Na2S, respectively. The dose of the precipitator as well as the initial Hg concentration affected the removal rate. In addition to Hg, other relevant heavy metals have to be included in the calculation of the amount of precipitator as well. Between relevant heavy metals including Hg and sulfide, the ratio should be more than 1.5. The novelty of this study is the measurement and treatment of Hg in wastewater with a high ionic strength. The high salt concentrations did not influence the efficiency of the removal methods. An adjustment of the precipitator dose for each sample is necessary, because an overdose potentially leads to the re-dissolving of Hg. It could be shown that the emission limit of 0.005 mg L−1 could be reached especially by precipitation with Na2S.
LithoSFR Model for Mapping Groundwater Potential Zones Using Remote Sensing and GIS
Authors: Shaban Amin , Farhat Nasser , El-Hage Mhamad , Fadel Batoul , Sheib Ali , Bitar Alaa , Darwish Doha
Published: July 2024

Groundwater is a significant source of water supply, especially with depleted and quality-deteriorated surface water. The number of drilled boreholes for groundwater has been increased, but erroneous results often occur while selecting sites for digging boreholes. This makes it necessary to follow a science-based method indicating potential zones for groundwater storage. The LithoSFR Model is a systematic approach we built to create an indicative map with various categories for potential groundwater sites. It is based mainly on retrieved geospatial data from satellite images and from available thematic maps, plus borehole data. The geospatial data were systematically manipulated in a GIS with multi-criteria applications. The novelty of this model includes the empirical calculation of the level each controlling factor (i.e., weights and rates), as well as the LithoSFR Model, adopting new factors in its design. This study was applied on a representative Mediterranean region, i.e., Lebanon. Results showed that 44% of the studied region is characterized by a very high to high potentiality for groundwater storage, mainly in areas with fractured and karstified carbonate rocks. The obtained results from the produced map were compared with datasets which were surveyed from representative boreholes to identify the discharge in the dug boreholes, and then to compare them with the potential zones in the produced map The reliability of the produced map exceeded 87%, making it a significant tool to identify potential zones for groundwater investment.
Surfactant-Modified Bolivian Natural Zeolite for the Adsorption of Cr (VI) from Water
Authors: Velarde Lisbania , Escalera Edwin , Akhtar Farid
Published: July 2024

The present study reports the surfactant modification of Bolivian natural zeolite with hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HTDMA-Br) for the adsorption of hexavalent chromium Cr (VI) anions from water. The surfactant-modified natural zeolite was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to analyze the effect of its modification with HTDMA-Br and to verify its charge on the zeolite surface. We report a maximum adsorption capacity of 17 mg/g of Cr (VI) anions, surpassing the findings of some of the previous investigations on surfactant-modified natural zeolites of different geological origins. The analysis of the equilibrium data described the Cr (VI) anions adsorption by Langmuir isotherm and the pseudo second-order kinetic model. In addition, thermodynamics revealed an exothermic adsorption. Furthermore, anion exchange, electrostatic attraction, and chemical reduction were indicated to be dominating sorption mechanisms by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) characterization techniques.
Características de la Diabetes del adulto de inicio juvenil y su diagnóstico en el laboratorio
Authors: Orbe Muñoz Laura Cristina , Bigoni Ordóñez Gabriele Davide
Published: July 2024

La Diabetes del adulto de inicio juvenil, es un subtipo hereditario poco común que se manifiesta a una edad temprana, relacionado con mutaciones en genes específicos que principalmente afectan la función de las células beta pancreática. Un diagnóstico preciso es fundamental para un tratamiento efectivo, aunque puede ser desafiante debido a la variabilidad en sus características clínicas y moleculares. Esta revisión analiza la evidencia disponible sobre estas características y los métodos de diagnóstico utilizados en laboratorio. Se realizó una búsqueda exhaustiva en bases de datos científicas, seleccionando estudios relevantes según criterios específicos. Se analizaron características clínicas, hallazgos moleculares y métodos de diagnóstico, utilizando tablas, gráficos y síntesis narrativas. Se identificaron mutaciones genéticas asociadas con MODY, así como biomarcadores útiles en el laboratorio clínico. Además, se describieron métodos de diagnóstico molecular, incluyendo la secuenciación de próxima generación (NGS). Esta revisión resalta la importancia del diagnóstico preciso de MODY, subrayando la diversidad de sus características biológicas y moleculares, y la necesidad de una investigación más profunda para mejorar su identificación y manejo clínico.
Análisis de Factores Maternos que Afectan la Lactancia Materna Exclusiva en Ecuador
Authors: Oleas Nieto Katherine
Published: July 2024

La lactancia materna exclusiva (LME) ha sido considerada por varios organismos internacionales como la solución para combatir la desnutrición infantil, la cual es considerada como un problema de salud pública. Bajo este contexto, la presente investigación busca encontrar cuáles son los determinantes de la LME en el Ecuador, y mostrar cómo influye el nivel educativo de la madre sobre la duración de la lactancia materna exclusiva. Para cumplir dicho objetivo se emplea un modelo probabilístico obteniendo como resultado que el nivel de instrucción de la madre, la etnia, el quintil de ingresos, el género del recién del bebé y la edad de la madre juegan un papel importante sobre la duración de la lactancia materna en el Ecuador. En el caso del nivel de instrucción se encuentra que las mujeres con una educación superior tienen menos probabilidad de dar LME, por seis meses o más, que las madres sin un nivel de educación.
The Nexus Between Quality Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Sawu Michael Rudolfus
Published: July 2024

This research aims to analyze the development of quality tourism and the resulting impacts in order to provide social and economic justice in the tourist village.This research provides a critical perspective on the development of quality tourism and its associated impacts linked to sustainable development goals. This study adopts a qualitative research paradigm with a phenomenological approach. Data analysis techniques employed include: observation, in-depth interviews, and literature review.This research found that the impact generated from the development of quality tourism is still minimal. When researchers connect it with sustainable development goals, it can be understood that every aspect, including social, economic, environmental, and cultural, needs improvement. The local community has not yet massively benefited from tourism to improve their standard of living.
GAIT- AND BALANCE-RELATED FACTORS AFFECTING PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN WITH UNILATERAL CEREBRAL PALSY
Authors: Çelik Halil İbrahim , Kemer Seda Nur
Published: July 2024

Although gait and balance impairments are prevalent in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP), their effects on participation are not completely elucidated. This study aims to explore factors affecting participation in children with UCP, particularly those related to gait and balance. This descriptive relation-seeker study was completed with 40 children with UCP at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I and II (50% female; median age = 11 (7-12)years). "The Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66)", "The Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS)", "The Timed Up and Go test (TUG) and The Functional Mobility Scale (FMS)", and "The BTS G-Walk Spatiotemporal Gait Analysis System" were used to evaluate the gross motor function, balance, functional mobility, and quantitative gait parameters, respectively. "The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM)" was employed to evaluate participation. Variables affecting the COPM scores were analyzed by multivariate regression analysis.The factors affecting the COPM-performance score were cadence (B = 79.859, p = 0.001) and FMS (B = 0.352, p<0.001). These variables explained about 45% of thevariation in the COPM-performance score (R2adj = 0.445). The factors affecting the COPM-satisfaction score were cadence (B = 0.188, p=0.044) and stride length of the more affected side (B = 0.137, p=0.008), which explained 26% of thevariation in the COPM-satisfaction score (R2adj =0 .260).The factors affecting participation in children with UCP were cadence, stride length of the more affected side, and functional mobility. We recommend that rehabilitation specialists consider these factors, as they may be beneficial in designing rehabilitation interventions that effectively promote participation in children with UCP.
ANALYSIS OF VOLATILE COMPOUNDS OF ALCEA CALVERTII BOISS. AND ITS ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTICHOLINESTERASE, AND ANTITYROSINASE POTENCY
Authors: Sener Sıla Özlem , Kanbolat Şeyda , Ulaş Çolak Nevin , Badem Merve , Aliyazıcıoğlu Rezzan , Özgen Ufuk , Alpay Karaoğlu Şengül , Kandemir Ali
Published: July 2024

The research aimed to analyze the volatile compounds by using SPME-GC-MS and to detect anticholinesterase, antityrosinase, and antimicrobial potential of metanol extract of Alceacalvertii Boiss., an endemic species for Türkiye. The inhibitory effects of tyrosinase, acetylcholinesterase, and butyrylcholinesterase of the plant were determined by spectroscopic technique and the plant’s antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar diffusion method. A total of 18 volatile compounds were specified belonging to terpenes classes. o-cymene (10.60%) and sesquicineole (15.55%) were detected as major volatile components of the species by the SPME-GC-MS technique. Meaningful antimicrobial activity was observed on Candida tropicalis, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of the plant was determined 60.12 ± 1.75 μg/mL as a result of tyrosinase assay. IC50 value was found 111.54 ± 1.75 μg/mL, according to butyrylcholinesterase inhibition studies. Considering all the findings, it has been determined that the plant includes diverse volatile compounds and showed promising antimicrobial, tyrosinase inhibitory, and moderate butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory effects so Alceacalvertii may be the up-and-coming source of natural medicine for microbial and dermatological diseases although limited to its effects for Alzheimer's disease.
PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF IMPACTED MESIODENS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADJACENT TEETH
Authors: Yar Merve , Türker Nurşat , Göller Bulut Duygu , Yaman Deniz
Published: July 2024

In the present retrospective study, it was aimed to analyze the physiological effects of impacted mesiodens on adjacent teeth with dental and chronological age determination in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). In the study, 68 CBCT images were examined. Two groups were formed, including 34 individuals with mesiodens (mesiodens group) and 34 without mesiodens (control group).Dental age and chronological age were compared in both groups. Demirjian's method was utilized to determine the dental age. The position and location of mesiodens were categorized. Statistical analysis was performed withSPSS software version 18.0(Chicago, IL, USA). Median diastema was seen in 16 cases (47.10%) in the mesiodens group. The mesiodens was most commonly impacted in the palatal (76.50%, n=26) and vertical (n= 19, 55.90%) position. There were significant differences between the incisor tooth development scores of the groups (p= 0.047 and p= 0.030, respectively). While the prevalence of H score of bilateral incisors in the control group (88.20% for both incisors) was higher than that of the mesiodens group (58.20% for both incisors), the G score was higher in the mesiodens group (20.60% and 23.50%) than in the control group (2.90% for both teeth). Mesiodens can delay root development of adjacent teeth.For this reason, extraction of these teeth may be considered in the early period to avoid affecting adjacent teeth and anatomical structures. It may also cause erroneous calculations in dental age determination. This situation should be taken into account in terms of forensic dentistry.
Combining Gut Microbiota Modulation and Enzymatic-Triggered Colonic Delivery by Prebiotic Nanoparticles Improves Mouse Colitis Therapy
Authors: Li Hui , Cheng Yu , Cui Luwen , Yang Zizhen , Wang Jingyi , Zhang Zixuan , Chen Kaiwei , Zhao Cheng , He Ningning , Li Shangyong
Published: July 2024

The efficacy of ulcerative colitis (UC) therapy is closely connected to the composition of gut microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract. Prebiotic-based nanoparticles (NPs) provide a more precise approach to alleviate UC via modulating gut microbiota dysbiosis. The present study develops an efficient prebiotic-based colon-targeted drug delivery system (PCDDS) by using prebiotic pectin (Pcn) and chitosan (Csn) polysaccharides as a prebiotic shell, with the anti-inflammatory drug sulfasalazine (SAS) loaded into a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) core to construct SAS@PLGA-Csn-Pcn NPs. Then, we examine its characterization, cellular uptake, and in vivo therapeutic efficacy. The results of our study indicate that the Pcn/Csn shell confers efficient pH-sensitivity properties. The gut microbiota-secreted pectinase serves as the trigger agent for Pcn/Csn shell degradation, and the resulting Pcn oligosaccharides possess a substantial prebiotic property. Meanwhile, the formed PCDDSs exhibit robust biodistribution and accumulation in the colon tissue, rapid cellular uptake, efficient in vivo therapeutic efficacy, and modulation of gut microbiota dysbiosis in a mouse colitis model. Collectively, our synthetic PCDDSs demonstrate a promising and synergistic strategy for UC therapy.
EVALUATION OF IT GOVERNANCE BASED ON SPBE USING COBIT 2019 AND ISO/IEC 38500:2015
Authors: Arta Perdana Bagus Gede , Muhammad Alva Hendi , Nasiri Asro
Published: July 2024

SPBE is a mandatory IT Governance framework implemented by all government agencies in Indonesia. Since its implementation in 2018, the national average maturity level remains very low, with the main obstacle being in the fundamental domain of IT Governance, as identified during the 2022 evaluations. An evaluation was conducted on government agencies facing similar challenges using COBIT 2019 as the framework, providing the best practices and widely used standards for IT Governance. This was combined with the principles of ISO/IEC 38500:2015, an international standard for IT Governance. Maturity level measurements were taken to assess the current conditions of the agencies and provide improvement recommendations linked to indicators in the SPBE maturity level evaluation guidelines. The improvement recommendations provided were able to enhance maturity levels holistically, not only in the IT Governance domain but across the entire management processes and product services of the agencies, aiming to achieve sustainable benefits and objectives.