bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gait Event Detection and Travel Distance Using Waist-Worn Accelerometers across a Range of Speeds: Automated Approach
Authors: Ramli Albara Ah , Liu Xin , Berndt Kelly , Chuah Chen-Nee , Goude Erica , Kaethler Lynea B. , Lopez Amanda , Nicorici Alina , Owens Corey , Rodriguez David , Wang Jane , Aranki Daniel , McDonald Craig M. , Henricson Erik K.
Published: February 2024

Estimation of temporospatial clinical features of gait (CFs), such as step count and length, step duration, step frequency, gait speed, and distance traveled, is an important component of community-based mobility evaluation using wearable accelerometers. However, accurate unsupervised computerized measurement of CFs of individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) who have progressive loss of ambulatory mobility is difficult due to differences in patterns and magnitudes of acceleration across their range of attainable gait velocities. This paper proposes a novel calibration method. It aims to detect steps, estimate stride lengths, and determine travel distance. The approach involves a combination of clinical observation, machine-learning-based step detection, and regression-based stride length prediction. The method demonstrates high accuracy in children with DMD and typically developing controls (TDs) regardless of the participant’s level of ability. Fifteen children with DMD and fifteen TDs underwent supervised clinical testing across a range of gait speeds using 10 m or 25 m run/walk (10 MRW, 25 MRW), 100 m run/walk (100 MRW), 6-min walk (6 MWT), and free-walk (FW) evaluations while wearing a mobile-phone-based accelerometer at the waist near the body’s center of mass. Following calibration by a trained clinical evaluator, CFs were extracted from the accelerometer data using a multi-step machine-learning-based process and the results were compared to ground-truth observation data. Model predictions vs. observed values for step counts, distance traveled, and step length showed a strong correlation (Pearson’s r = −0.9929 to 0.9986, p < 0.0001). The estimates demonstrated a mean (SD) percentage error of 1.49% (7.04%) for step counts, 1.18% (9.91%) for distance traveled, and 0.37% (7.52%) for step length compared to ground-truth observations for the combined 6 MWT, 100 MRW, and FW tasks. Our study findings indicate that a single waist-worn accelerometer calibrated to an individual’s stride characteristics using our methods accurately measures CFs and estimates travel distances across a common range of gait speeds in both DMD and TD peers.
Multi-Feature Automatic Extraction for Detecting Obstructive Sleep Apnea Based on Single-Lead Electrocardiography Signals
Authors: Zhou Yu , Kang Kyungtae
Published: February 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a prevalent sleep disorder, is intimately associated with various other diseases, particularly cardiovascular conditions. The conventional diagnostic method, nocturnal polysomnography (PSG), despite its widespread use, faces challenges due to its high cost and prolonged duration. Recent developments in electrocardiogram-based diagnostic techniques have opened new avenues for addressing these challenges, although they often require a deep understanding of feature engineering. In this study, we introduce an innovative method for OSA classification that combines a composite deep convolutional neural network model with a multimodal strategy for automatic feature extraction. This approach involves transforming the original dataset into scalogram images that reflect heart rate variability attributes and Gramian angular field matrix images that reveal temporal characteristics, aiming to enhance the diversity and richness of data features. The model comprises automatic feature extraction and feature enhancement components and has been trained and validated on the PhysioNet Apnea-ECG database. The experimental results demonstrate the model’s exceptional performance in diagnosing OSA, achieving an accuracy of 96.37%, a sensitivity of 94.67%, a specificity of 97.44%, and an AUC of 0.96. These outcomes underscore the potential of our proposed model as an efficient, accurate, and convenient tool for OSA diagnosis.
An Enhancement of Outdoor Location-Based Augmented Reality Anchor Precision through VSLAM and Google Street View
Authors: Brata Komang Candra , Funabiki Nobuo , Panduman Yohanes Yohanie Fridelin , Fajrianti Evianita Dewi
Published: February 2024

Outdoor Location-Based Augmented Reality (LAR) applications require precise positioning for seamless integrations of virtual content into immersive experiences. However, common solutions in outdoor LAR applications rely on traditional smartphone sensor fusion methods, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) and compasses, which often lack the accuracy needed for precise AR content alignments. In this paper, we introduce an innovative approach to enhance LAR anchor precision in outdoor environments. We leveraged Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (VSLAM) technology, in combination with innovative cloud-based methodologies, and harnessed the extensive visual reference database of Google Street View (GSV), to address the accuracy limitation problems. For the evaluation, 10 Point of Interest (POI) locations were used as anchor point coordinates in the experiments. We compared the accuracies between our approach and the common sensor fusion LAR solution comprehensively involving accuracy benchmarking and running load performance testing. The results demonstrate substantial enhancements in overall positioning accuracies compared to conventional GPS-based approaches for aligning AR anchor content in the real world.
Territorial Cooperation and Cross-Border Development: The Portuguese Dynamics
Authors: Chamusca Pedro
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation programmes between Spain and Portugal, focusing on their impact and outcomes in Portuguese regions. Drawing on a comprehensive analysis of the programmes, the study examines the socio-economic dynamics in border regions, including job creation, population trends, and investment patterns. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data analysis. We argue that the cross-border territorial cooperation between Spain and Portugal has played a significant role in fostering regional development and addressing common challenges. While the concerted efforts have shown positive results in terms of economic growth and employment, they have not been sufficient to reverse the regressive demographic trends. Thus, it is essential to strengthen cooperation mechanisms, invest in human capital, and foster innovation so that the two countries can work together to create sustainable and inclusive development across their shared border regions.
New Developments in Geopolitics: A Reassessment of Theories after 2023
Authors: Topalidis Georgios , Kartalis Nick , Velentzas John , Sidiropoulou Charalampia
Published: February 2024

The scope of this article is to make a synthesis of the theory of geopolitics with new trends and characteristics of the new global environment. Traditional geopolitical theories are established on the basis of sovereign states. The starting point of many theories is for sovereign states to compete for world hegemony, or to gain an advantage in competition with their opponents. Geopolitical research also mostly starts from the interests of the country. However, as global environmental changes, transnational crimes, terrorism, information security, and other non-traditional security threats have become common threats to human society, their impact also crosses borders and has global characteristics, which also means solving geopolitical issues. Thinking needs to change from a national perspective to a global perspective. On the other hand, as the international community pays more and more attention to human rights, the challenge of human rights to sovereignty has become an unavoidable reality in current international politics. With the progress of the times, the protection and respect of civil rights has become the basic consensus of the international community. Nowadays, the issue of virtual rights such as carbon emission rights have also been included in the geopolitics theory, creating a strong shift of paradigm towards a renewed theory.
Paramilitary Conflict in Colombia: A Case Study of Economic Causes of Conflict Recidivism
Authors: Prieto Bustos William Orlando , Manrique-Hernandez Johanna
Published: February 2024

Following the peace accord on 26 September 2016 between the Colombian government and the Colombian Revolutionary Armed Forces (FARC), significant structural issues persisted in Colombia, such as state fragility, land distribution challenges, and rural impoverishment, all of which jeopardized sustainable peace. Previous disarmament events indicated potential shifts in violence and recidivism rates among ex-combatants. This paper aims to determine the likelihood that, in the post-conflict era with FARC, these ex-combatants would rearm themselves into new criminal factions. Employing a methodology by Paul Collier, the study utilized logit, probit, and panel data models with both fixed and random effects to evaluate the recidivism risk at the municipal level. A 1% increase in per capita municipal income decreased conflict probability due to the increased opportunity cost of disrupting economic endeavors. Conversely, 1% increases in potential conflict benefits from tax revenue and natural resource proceeds raised the probability of conflict by 40% and 17%, respectively. Key results indicate that economic advancement, as measured by per capita income, reduced the duration of paramilitary presence, whereas revenue from taxes and natural resources extended it at the municipal level in Colombia.
Optimized Wind Environment in Campus Transitional Spaces: A Case Study of Kunming University of Science and Technology Office Building in Moderate Climate
Authors: Han Guodong , Guo Xiaoqiang , Tan Liangbin
Published: February 2024

In the post-epidemic era, there is a growing demand for health-oriented spaces. In moderate climate regions (where the outdoors is warmer in the summer and cooler in the winter, neither to an extreme), external spaces offer a greater potential to create healthy and comfortable environment compared to internal spaces, with extended utilization periods. Transition spaces, a distinctive type of external space, are prevalent in numerous campus architectural designs; however, their utilization remains relatively unexplored. The quality of the physical environment in transition spaces plays a pivotal role in influencing people’s decision to stay or leave. This study, utilizing the office building at Kunming University of Science and Technology (Chenggong Campus) as a case study, focuses on creating a conducive wind environment within the transition space. Employing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation, the study analyzes contributing factors and proposes optimization strategies. The findings aim to serve as a valuable reference for the design of the transition spaces on university campuses in moderate climate regions, aligning with the heightened emphasis on health-conscious spatial planning in the contemporary era.
Coupled Impacts of Soil Acidification and Climate Change on Future Crop Suitability in Ethiopia
Authors: Jimma Tamirat , Chemura Abel , Spillane Charles , Demissie Teferi , Abera Wuletawu , Ture Kassahun , Terefe Tadesse , Solomon Dawit , Gleixner Stephanie
Published: February 2024

Agricultural sustainability faces challenges in the changing climate, particularly for rain-fed systems like those in Ethiopia. This study examines the combined impacts of climate change and soil acidity on future crop potential, focusing on Ethiopia as a case study. The EcoCrop crop suitability model was parameterized and run for four key food crops in Ethiopia (teff, maize, barley and common wheat), under current and mid-century climate conditions. To assess the impacts of soil acidification on crop suitability, a simulation study was conducted by lowering the soil pH values by 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 and re-running the suitability model, comparing the changes in the area suitable for each crop. Our evaluation of the model, by comparing the modeled suitable areas with reference data, indicated that there was a good fit for all the four crops. Using default soil pH values, we project that there will be no significant changes in the suitability of maize, barley and wheat and an increase in the suitability of teff by the mid-century, as influenced by projected increases in rainfall in the country. Our results demonstrate a direct relationship between the lowering of soil pH and increasing losses in the area suitable for all crops, but especially for teff, barley and wheat. We conclude that soil acidification can have a strong impact on crop suitability in Ethiopia under climate change, and precautionary measures to avoid soil acidification should be a key element in the design of climate change adaptation strategies.
Methods for Risk Reduction: Training and Exercises to Pursue the Planned Evacuation
Authors: Russo Francesco , Rindone Corrado
Published: February 2024

Natural and anthropic disasters produce relevant economic and environmental losses at a global level. Many countries have adopted a risk management cycle to limit these losses. Agenda 2030 defined specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and relative targets dedicated to disaster risk reduction. Planned actions can pertain to the context “before” or “after” a disastrous event. The United Nations recommend a risk-informed approach for achieving the SDGs by working on anticipation and prevention. Planning with training and exercises, referring to transport systems in emergency conditions, can limit disaster impacts and strongly support the pursuit of sustainability. This research focuses on actions and methodologies for increasing preparedness levels “before” a disastrous event, to improve the capabilities of managers and people by increasing awareness of the effects of planned actions. Transport system models (TSMs) play an important role in simulating the evacuation of people to reduce theoretical risk, thereby reducing theoretical exposure. In this work, a method is presented that allows us to investigate how this theoretical reduction can become effective, through training and exercises. The paper proposes a general framework of training and exercises for risk reduction based on a given transportation planning model. The framework supports ex ante evaluations of exposure reduction produced by an evacuation plan. The obtained results show that the effectiveness of the planned actions increases with different levels of exercise implementation. The progressive implementation of exercises contributes to achieving the risk reductions estimated at the evacuation planning stage. The TSM in the mitigation phase is the basis for the development of specific quantitative evacuation plans, that must be implemented in the preparedness phase by means of training and exercises to test the planned actions in terms of reducing the exposure risk component. Some exercises implemented worldwide verify the proposed framework by means of some empirical evidence. The results and discussions reported in this paper can be useful for researchers, decisionmakers, and society by offering a contribution to the growing knowledge about risk and the potential actions and their relative effects on reducing it.
Response Study of Streamflow and Sediment Reduction in the Northeast Region of the Loess Plateau under Changing Environment
Authors: Wang Jinfeng , Li Min , Li Xiujuan , Wang Sheng , Li Qing , Li Ya , Zhang Lixing
Published: February 2024

The Sanggan River Basin in the loess hill and gully area is the primary water source for the establishment of the capital water conservation function area and the ecological environment support zone. Against the backdrop of global warming, population growth, and accelerated urbanization, water consumption in the Sanggan River Basin has persistently increased in recent years, leading to a series of issues, such as river pollution, surface streamflow reduction, groundwater over-exploitation, soil erosion, and decreased vegetation coverage. In this research, we employed the DMC approach, SWAT model, InVEST model, and CA-Markov model to quantitatively analyze the correlation between alterations in streamflow and sediment within this area and three influential factors: climate variations, LUCC, and other human interventions. Furthermore, we clarified the relative contributions of climate factor elements, land-use types, and human activities to streamflow and sediment in this region. The findings indicate a decline in the annual streamflow and sediment quantities observed within this region from 1960 to 2020, with reduction rates of 1.27 × 108 m3/10 a and 129.07 × 104 t/10 a, respectively, and an abrupt change year in 1983 and 1982. Compared to the annual streamflow, the annual sediment volume demonstrates more substantial variation. Based on the constructed model, three scenario simulation periods: P0 (1962–1981/1982), P1 (1983/1982–1999), and P2 (2000–2020) were set. Compared with P0, the respective contribution rates of climatic variation, land use, and other human intervention to streamflow (sediment volume) were 15.247% (19.601%), −0.03% (−1.349%), and 84.783% (81.748%) in P1. In P2, the contribution rates of these three factors on streamflow (sediment volume) were 9.160% (9.128%), 0.211% (3.053%), and 90.629% (84.818%), respectively. Through a quantitative analysis of climatic factors on streamflow and sediment, we found a positive correlation between precipitation and both streamflow and sediment. Additionally, there is an inverse relationship between temperature and streamflow, but streamflow will increase when temperature rises by 10%. Under three different future land-use scenarios, the variations in streamflow and sediment exhibited as ecological protection scenario < urban expansion scenario < natural development scenario. Changes in streamflow in this region are primarily caused by human intervention that alters the underlying surface. The increase in check dams and silted land could lead the runoff and sediment to decrease. Moreover, compared with the increase in industrial and agricultural water consumption, the increase in urban water consumption is the main factor for human water consumption.
The Effects of Coal Floor Brittleness on the Risk of Water Inrushes from Underlying Aquifers: A Numerical Study
Authors: Li Zhichao , Yang Zhuangzhuang , Wang Shuren , Ren Lianwei , Fang Jun
Published: February 2024

Karst water in coal floors is the most common hazard in the coal fields of North China. Water inrush disasters always occur due to reductions in the efficacy of a coal floor’s water resistance ability, and have brought huge casualties and losses. The floor damage zone during mining disturbance is crucial to the formation of the water inrush pathway and is considered to be closely related with floor rock brittleness. To investigate the effects of coal floor brittleness on the hazard of water inrushes from underlying aquifers, four groups of numerical simulations are conducted in this study based on a finite-element method. These numerical simulations especially concern the contrastive analysis of brittle rock’s properties regarding the failure characteristics of rock samples, fracture development in layered rocks, the damage zone of the floor during mining disturbance, and the hazard of water inrush from the floor during mining. The results show that brittle rock is easier to destroy in comparison with ductile rock. Brittle layers are more likely to develop denser natural fractures than ductile layers. The more brittle the floor rock is, the larger the depth of floor damage will be. The brittle floor is verified to induce water inrush from an underlying aquifer more easily than the ductile floor. This study revealed the relationship between the brittle property of coal floors and the depth of mining-induced floor damage zones, providing a reference for hazard evaluation of water inrush from coal floors and control measures.
Research on Radiation Monitoring Strategy for Spent Fuel Reprocessing Plant Based on Coordination of Nuclear Security Risk and Facility Importance Evaluation
Authors: Sun Meilan , Li Qingxin , Wei Cuiyue , Xu Shoulong , Zou Shuliang , Huang Youjun , Lei Yang
Published: February 2024

This paper examines a method and scheme for optimizing the allocation of nuclear radiation monitoring resources, based on the analysis of the risk of nuclear security events and the importance of facilities in a spent fuel reprocessing plant. By constructing a nuclear security radiation accident tree for a plant, the importance of different security events was calculated using fuzzy mathematics and expert scoring methods. The importance of each facility was determined by establishing a fuzzy comprehensive decision model, and a resource allocation scheme for nuclear radiation monitoring was proposed based on the importance level of facilities. The research findings demonstrated that the extraction process plant in the main process area, and the centralized control room in the front area of the plant, were of highest importance. Accordingly, three levels of nuclear radiation monitoring programs were established based on the importance of each facility. This study offers theoretical and technical support for the safety management and operation of a spent fuel reprocessing plant. Additionally, the analysis results can serve as a reference for allocating nuclear radiation monitoring resources in various facilities in a reasonable manner.
Advancements in AI-Based Information Technologies: Solutions for Quality and Security
Authors: Hovorushchenko Tetiana , Izonin Ivan , Kutucu Hakan
Published: February 2024

At the current stage of development and implementation of information technology in various areas of human activity, decisive changes are taking place, as there are powerful technical resources for the accumulation and processing of large amounts of information [...]
Kantowski–Sachs Model with a Running Cosmological Constant and Radiation
Authors: Oliveira Vinícius Guilherme , de Oliveira Neto Gil , Shapiro Ilya L.
Published: February 2024

The simplest anisotropic model of the early universe is the one with two conformal factors, which can be identified as the Kantowski–Sachs metric, or the reduced version of the Bianchi-I metric. To fit the existing observational data, it is important that the anisotropy is washed out in the early stage of the evolution. We explore the possible effects of the running cosmological constant on the dynamics of isotropy in the case of space filled by radiation.
Robust Approaches to the Quantitative Analysis of Genome Formula Variation in Multipartite and Segmented Viruses
Authors: Johnson Marcelle L. , Zwart Mark P.
Published: February 2024

When viruses have segmented genomes, the set of frequencies describing the abundance of segments is called the genome formula. The genome formula is often unbalanced and highly variable for both segmented and multipartite viruses. A growing number of studies are quantifying the genome formula to measure its effects on infection and to consider its ecological and evolutionary implications. Different approaches have been reported for analyzing genome formula data, including qualitative description, applying standard statistical tests such as ANOVA, and customized analyses. However, these approaches have different shortcomings, and test assumptions are often unmet, potentially leading to erroneous conclusions. Here, we address these challenges, leading to a threefold contribution. First, we propose a simple metric for analyzing genome formula variation: the genome formula distance. We describe the properties of this metric and provide a framework for understanding metric values. Second, we explain how this metric can be applied for different purposes, including testing for genome-formula differences and comparing observations to a reference genome formula value. Third, we re-analyze published data to illustrate the applications and weigh the evidence for previous conclusions. Our re-analysis of published datasets confirms many previous results but also provides evidence that the genome formula can be carried over from the inoculum to the virus population in a host. The simple procedures we propose contribute to the robust and accessible analysis of genome-formula data.
Mortality of Invasive Pneumococcal Disease following Introduction of the 13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine in Greenland
Authors: Alexandrova Nikolova Kristiana , Andersson Mikael , Slotved Hans-Christian , Koch Anders
Published: February 2024

Before the incorporation of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) into the childhood vaccination regimen in Greenland in 2010, Inuit populations experienced a substantial prevalence of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). The PCV13 introduction has been shown to markedly reduce the incidence of IPD. This current study estimated the impact of PCV13 introduction on IPD mortality in Greenland. This was a nationwide register-based study using all available data on IPD cases 1995–2020 in Greenland. Thirty-one-day IPD case fatality rates (CFR), and all-cause and mortality rates associated with IPD during the period before the introduction of PCV13 (January 1995 to September 2010) were compared with those observed in the post-PCV13 era (September 2010 to October 2020). Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) expressed differences in mortality by sex, age, region, ethnicity, comorbidity, and serotype. IPD CFR decreased with 24.5% from the pre- to the post-PCV13 period. SMR in IPD patients decreased by 57% (95% CI, 36–75%), and a reduction occurred in all age groups. While SMR in IPD persons ≥60 years remained virtually unchanged, there were no IPD-related deaths in persons ≤39 years in the post-PCV13 period. In conclusion, IPD-related mortality has decreased in Greenland following PCV13 introduction in 2010 in the country.
Non-Lethal Assessment of Land Use Change Effects in Water and Soil of Algerian Riparian Areas along the Medjerda River through the Biosentinel Bufo spinosus Daudin
Authors: Napoletano Pasquale , Guezgouz Noureddine , Benradia Imen , Benredjem Sarra , Parisi Costantino , Guerriero Giulia , De Marco Anna
Published: February 2024

The land use change can negatively impact ecosystems, enriching water and soil with heavy metals (HMs). The fragile riparian areas along the Medjerda River of Northern Algeria are particularly affected by this phenomenon, and biological tools able to combine information about both matrices can be preferred in their monitoring. This research aimed to evaluate the suitability of the spiny toad (Bufo spinosus D.) as a biomonitor for assessing the impact of three different land uses (agricultural (AGR), urban (URB), and industrial (IND) managements) on soil and water for Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn by using the non-lethal skin biopsy. The IND land use, followed by URB, mostly impacted soils for Cu and Pb, whereas management was not able to influence water differently despite worrying Pb levels. The cluster analysis allows to show that toad responds like soil in terms of land use and like water for HMs, as it is possibly related to the metal–chemical affinity. Although the single skin analyses do not display any difference among the managements, the bioaccumulation factor (BF > 1) shows that B. spinosus absorbs more HMs from water; skin accumulates Fe and Zn regardless of the land use, probably for both natural and anthropogenic assimilation and Pb and Cu for URB and IND, as it is related to their ionic forms and human impact.
Evaluating Groundwater Metal and Arsenic Content in Piatra, North-West of Romania
Authors: Dippong Thomas , Mihali Cristina , Avram Alexandra
Published: February 2024

The present study introduces a monitoring initiative focused on the quality of groundwater in the Piatra locality, situated in the North-West region of Romania. This paper employs an evaluation of 21 physico-chemical parameters, encompassing factors such as electrical conductivity, pH, chemical oxygen demand, turbidity, total hardness, NH4+, NO3−, Cl−, PO43−, Li, Na, K, Ca, Mg, Ba, Sr, Al, Fe, Mn, Sn, and Ti. Additionally, it examines five heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) and arsenic in water sourced from six distinct private wells. Each well, with its characteristics, serves as a unique drinking water source. The assessment encompassed the evaluation of pollution levels, quality status, and risk factors for all drinking water sources, utilizing pollution, quality, and risk indices. The aim of this study was to establish the level of toxicity in water, assess its impact on human health, and disseminate information to the public about the appropriate utilization of individual water sources. The results indicated a general contamination with chloride, ammonium, manganese, chromium, and iron. Human health risk assessment indices revealed that the consumption of studied waters presented non-carcinogenic risks associated with Cr for adults and with Cr, As, Pb, and Cu for children for some of the groundwater sources. The water quality index (WQI) categorizes the samples as possessing excellent and good quality. This research represents one of the initial endeavors to assess the groundwater source quality in connection with the potential human health risks posed by the metals studied within the protected area of the Tisa River Basin.
Application and Parameter Optimization of Electro-Kinetic Geosynthetics Electrodes Based on the Wild Horse Optimizer in Horizontal Electric Field Sludge Dewatering
Authors: Shen Yuyang , Wang Sisi , Yan Chenling , Wang Jiazhuo , Wang Chen , Zhang Chunyang , Kou Yingying , Yuan Donghai
Published: February 2024

This study systematically compared the performance of five corrosion-resistant electrode materials for electro-dewatering. Through a comprehensive analysis of dewatering efficiency, energy consumption, and corrosion resistance, conductive plastic composite electrodes (EKG) were selected as the optimal electrode material for experimentation. Additionally, the impact of electric field strength and electrode spacing on the efficiency and energy consumption of electro-dewatering (EDW) was investigated. The results showed that the increase in electric field intensity could improve the solid content and dewatering efficiency of the sediments, but the corresponding energy consumption also increased. The increased spacing of the plates reduced the dehydration effect and increased the energy consumption. By employing the Wild Horse Optimization algorithm, empirical and multifactorial response models for the dewatering solidification process were established, aimed at predicting the dewatering performance and energy consumption. The study concludes that for the remediation of heavy metals, the electric field strength should not exceed 10 V/cm to avoid excessive heavy metal migration and potential adverse chemical reactions.
Effects of Clay Minerals on Enzyme Activity as a Potential Biosensor of Soil Pollution in Alice Township
Authors: Maphuhla Nontobeko Gloria , Oyedeji Opeoluwa Oyehan
Published: February 2024

Inadequate waste management and illegal trash dumping continue to be the leading causes of severe environmental pollution. Human exposure to harmful heavy metals has emerged as a serious health concern on the continent. Some people in Alice, a small town, grow their food in home gardens. They use animal manure and compost derived from soil obtained from landfills to enhance the fertility of the garden soil. Heavy metal heaps in garbage disposals are constantly present, releasing dangerous amounts of metal into the environment. The harmful effects of heavy metals on plants lead to unsanitary conditions and environmental problems. Animals and people who consume these vegetables may also be at risk for health problems. Assessing the soil’s enzyme activity can potentially lessen the negative effects of the accumulated pollutants and improve the soil’s overall health and quality. Soil enzymes are biologically active components that have a catalytic impact and are released from root exudates, crop residues, and animal remains. The activity of enzymes serves as an excellent bioindicator of soil cleanliness and quality because they are sensitive to heavy metals. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to quantify the mineral elements in soil using 40 kV parallel beam optics, 30 mA, and CuKα radiation. Meanwhile, the activity of the enzyme was essayed in different coupled substrates. Thirteen (13) clay minerals were found, including Talc 2M, Kaolinite 2M, and Chlorite Lawsonite Muscovite 2M1. The detected trace elements have high concentration levels that exceed the World Health Organization’s (WHO) allowed levels. The identified elements affected the enzyme activity at different levels. The Mn, Al, Si, V, Ti, and Ca negatively affect soil enzyme activity, specifically invertase (INV). However, the amount of Mg, K, Fe, and Zn showed a slightly positive effect on the same enzyme (INV). According to this view, these elements come from several sources, each with a particular impact on soil contamination and enzyme activity. High levels of heavy metals in this study may be due to improper waste disposal, limited recycling opportunities, lack of public awareness, and inadequate enforcement of waste management regulations. It is essential to employ Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, correct disposal techniques, suitable agricultural methods, preventive regulations, and efficient waste management to mitigate the negative effects of heavy metals on the environment.
Socially Haunted? Exploring Young People’s Views on Education and Marginalization
Authors: Robinson Lee , Clark Jill
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the views of a group of young men aged 16–18, studying towards a Level 1 diploma in music in the North East area of England. It uses the conceptualization of “social haunting” to focus our discussions about how Level 1 learners articulated their experiences in the context of their learning journeys and perceived marginalization. The research took place at a large Further Education (FE) college and included a series of five “research encounters” with the group of Level 1 learners. These encounters included a range of activities, resulting in a variety of data being collected, including several activity worksheets, structured and unstructured focus group interviews, and questionnaires. This paper focusses on the outcomes of a single research activity that focused on exploring the topic of marginalization. We present a discussion on social haunting as one of the emerging findings from this research encounter, outlining how the reality of the social and cultural legacy of the UK’s industrial past can shape today’s youth and their futures. We will talk about the young men’s views of marginalization, their school-to-work transitions, the formation of masculinity in post-industrial communities and the role of Further Education in it. The paper concludes by discussing some insights for practice and future research.
Teste para avaliação do ouvido relativo por meio de tríades em primeira inversão: um estudo psicométrico
Authors: Germano Nayana Di Giuseppe , Cogo-Moreira Hugo , Rinaldi Arthur , Bortz Graziela
Published: February 2024

Relative Pitch (RP) is a basic auditory skill related to the ability to perceive melodic and har-monic interval relationships. However, there are few studies that sought to extract empirical information about the recognition of triads to measure OR in volunteers with considerable musical training. This paper aims to propose a test to measure OR ability through the specific task of recognizing First Inversion Triads. A total of 783 undergraduate-level music students volunteered for this research, which consisted of a battery of ten stimuli in varying timbres and registers. Data analysis was performed based on Item Response Theory, with discrimina-tion and difficulty of each item, Model Fit Information and Ability Histogram. Results showed that the test shows a good fit and has the potential for validation in its entirety. Thus, the test can be used by other researchers to measure OR ability in this specific task.
Goodbye Zimbabwe: Place naming as a cultural arena for symbolic resistance and spatial (in)justice in secessionist politics
Authors: Mamvura Zvinashe
Published: February 2024

This article explores how secessionists in Zimbabwe deploy place naming to subvert, contest, and resist state-consecrated versions of national identity, belonging and citizenship. Zimbabwe has two super-tribes, Shona and Ndebele. Ethnicity is exceedingly entrenched in Zimbabwean politics. This has resulted in the conflation of ethnic and political identities. Since the formative years of African nationalism in the 1960s, the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) has been aligned with the Shona ethnic identity, while the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) assumed a Ndebele identity. Ethnicity continued to cause tensions in the Zimbabwean political landscape. This has generated disgruntlement among the ethnic groups from the Ndebele-speaking regions. It eventually resulted in the formation of organisations and political groups advocating for the secession of the Ndebele-speaking areas from the rest of the country. Theoretically, the study deploys the tenets of critical toponomastics to explore how secessionists appropriate place naming in their quest for self-determination. It uses data gathered through semi-structured interviews with the choreographers of secession and cultural and language committees for the different ethnolinguistic groups from Matabeleland and parts of the Midlands. Preliminary findings indicate that secessionists use place names in the symbolic construction of Mthwakazi, an imagined autonomous state.
Place names as indicators of traditional forest management in seminatural landscapes. The case of Cameros (La Rioja, Spain)
Authors: López-Leiva César , Tort i Donada Joan
Published: February 2024

Former grazing landscapes, shaped through almost a millennium in the mountains of La Rioja (Spain), have evolved into a mosaic of forests and shrublands once the outstanding transhumance activities collapsed in the mid-20th century due to population decrease. Likewise, agricultural lands were abandoned in a process of ‘rural exodus’ from the countryside to towns within the framework of industrialization and urban sprawl in Spain since the 1960s. However, some place names still indicate these earlier activities, such as the use of fire as a technique for pasture renewal, communal forest thickets [dehesas] temporarily excluded from livestock raising, sustainable management of forests resources (wood, fuel, charcoal), agricultural crops etc. even if nowadays the earlier land uses and covers have changed into recently spread forests. We present a typical selection of examples that show the importance of toponymy in conceiving and explaining the cultural heritage of past seminatural landscapes, particularly of those whose main aspect today is secondary wilderness.
Two groups of place names preserving Hungarian cultural heritage
Authors: Mikesy Gábor
Published: February 2024

The Hungarians migrated to the Pannonian Basin at the end of the first millennium, and their society changed relatively quickly from a pagan nomadic society to a settled Christian and feudal society. The peopling of the new homeland and the settlement resulted in creations of a mass of geographical names. Later transformations coincided with a number of language changes. Geographical names can perform their primary function – the clear identification of places – with relative formal stability. This property makes them suitable for preserving reminiscences of times long past. It was an important revelation of Hungarian onomastics that chronological layers can be established on the basis of the morphological features of geographical names. A unique feature of early Hungarian place naming in the region is that elements of certain groups of proper names (for ethnicities, tribes, persons, servants, etc.) could become place names without suffixation or any grammatical transformation. This paper focuses on two groups of names that have a significant cultural heritage: early Hungarian personal names and names of certain occupations. The vast majority of the examples discussed cannot be explained from today's Hungarian language. Both groups also provide significant additions to the interethnic relations and immigrations of the era.
Strategi Pemasaran Toko "Septia Tani" di Desa Talawaan Kecamatan Talawaan Kabupaten Minahasa Utara
Authors: Pratama Rair Andhika , Porajouw Oktavianus , Ngangi Charles Reijnaldo
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze the marketing strategy at the Septia Tani Store in Talawaan Village, Talawaan District, North Minahasa Regency. The sample in this study was the Owner or owner of the "Septia Tani" Shop in Talawaan Village, Talawaan District, North Minahasa Regency. The sampling method is carried out by purposive sampling method or intentionally, because the "Septia Tani" Shop is relatively more advanced than other agricultural stores in Talawaan District. The analysis method used is SWOT analysis (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat). Data management is used with SWOT analysis and is processed through internal and external factors. Then carry out the preparation of the strategy using the SWOT matrix. Based on the results of the study, the marketing strategy of Toko Septia Tani is in the first quadrant. Toko Septia Tani is in a very advantageous position in maximizing business growth with a strategy of taking advantage of market opportunities and internal strength.
Analisis Pendapatan Usahatani Jagung Manis (Zea mays L. Saccharata) Di Perkebunan Wawo Kota Tomohon
Authors: Wowiling Marisni Nofia , Memah Melsje Yellie , Talumingan Celcius
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze the income of sweet corn farming in Wawo Plantation, Tomohon City. The research was conducted for 3 months starting from March to May 2023. The research was conducted in Wawo Plantation, Tomohon City, North Sulawesi Province. The data used were collected from primary data through surveys and direct interviews with farmers and using questionnaires, and secondary data obtained from previously documented data, both in the form of data from the Tomohon City BPP office and sources obtained from the internet. Sampling using simple random sampling method, which was taken from Sweet Corn farmers in Wawo Plantation Tomohon City as many as 51 farmers. The research data were analyzed using descriptive quantitative analysis method to determine the total cost, revenue and income. The income of sweet corn farming in Wawo Plantation, Tomohon City was Rp13,107,131 per farmer per growing season and Rp7,461,444 per hectare per growing season where this amount was obtained from the total revenue of Rp18,900,000 per farmer per growing season and Rp10,444,000 per hectare per growing season minus the total cost of Rp5,792,869 per farmer per growing season and Rp2,982,556 per hectare per growing season from this amount of income shows sweet corn farming is profitable.
Noise properties in the Coulomb blockade region of FinFETs
Authors: Tanamoto Tetsufumi , Ono Keiji , Deguchi Jun , Wadatsumi Junji , Fujimoto Ryuichi
Published: February 2024

Fin FETs (FinFETs) are a promising candidate for the platform of Si quantum computers. The noise properties of commercial FinFETs were experimentally investigated at temperatures below 10 K. The drain current showed Coulomb oscillation, indicating that the FinFET channel became a single quantum dot. Moreover, the noise in the drain current was analyzed, and the basic properties of commercial FinFETs in the low-temperature region were discussed.
Managing neuropathic pain through hypnosis among diabetics
Authors: Kubra Kaneez , Rafiq Muhammad , Adnan Muhammad
Published: February 2024

Background & Objective: The global prevalence of diabetes is increasing with a variety of physiological, psychosomatic, and psychological manifestations. Literature review is evident in favor of modern psychological therapies, including hypnosis with circle therapy, which has been proven effective for the management of many such problems. We aimed to assess the effects of hypnosis on neuropathic pain management among diabetics, for this purpose, a manualized intervention plan was developed comprising hypnosis suggestions using circle therapy. Methodology: In this study, 20 diabetics (Type-1 and Type-2) ages 40−60 y, were selected through a non-probability purposive sampling technique. One group pre-test/post-test experimental research design was used. A demographic questionnaire, and Douleur Neuropathic pain rating scale (DN-4), was used for pre- and post-assessment of the patients. Results: Data obtained were analyzed through SPSS-21, t-test was used for the analysis of the results. Pre- and post-session assessment was done. After pre-assessment two hypnosis sessions along with circle therapy were administered to the patient. After the application of therapy, post-assessment was done, and it was seen that the hypnosis along with circle therapy had significant (P < 0.05) effect for diabetic neuropathic pain management among diabetics. Conclusion: From the current study and the literature review, it is concluded that diabetic neuropathic pain is manageable through hypnosis and circle therapy. Hypnosis and circle therapy is an effective technique for psychological pain management as it is a brief and less costly technique that can be applied without any side effects. It showed short-term effects but can be prolonged with multiple sessions of circle therapy. Abbreviations: DM - Diabetes Mellitus; DN-4 - Douleur Neuropathic Scale-4; DPN – Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. Keywords: Neuropathic Pain; Diabetes Mellitus; Hypnosis; Circle Therapy Citation: Kubra K, Rafiq M, Adnan M. Managing neuropathic pain through hypnosis among diabetics. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2023;27(3):338−342; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v27i3.1720 Received: December 16, 2021; Reviewed: January 20, 2022; Accepted: February 13, 2023
Comparison of the effects of epidural analgesia and local infiltrative analgesia methods on pain control and stress response in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Çelik Hale Kefeli , Güzel Nizamettin
Published: February 2024

Background: We compared the effects of epidural analgesia (EA) and local infiltrative analgesia (LIA) on pain control and stress response in the postoperative period in patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty.

Methodology: The patients were divided into two groups as those who were administered EA (Group EA; n = 25) and those who were administered LIA (Group LIA; n = 26). Pain at rest and during movement at the incision site was evaluated in both groups with NRS. In order to evaluate the stress response; cortisol, insulin, ACTH and glucose levels in serum were measured.

Results: All 51 patients included in the study were female, with a mean age of 63.4 ± 7.16 y and a body mass index of 32.4 ± 4.77 kg/m2 . There was no difference between the two groups in terms of NRS values, whether at rest or in moving. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of serum cortisol, insulin, ACTH, and glucose levels.

Conclusion: It was determined that both EA and LIA are similar effect in pain control at rest and movement, and both methods are effective in controlling the postoperative stress response in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty.

Abbreviations: ACTH-Adrenocorticotropic hormone; EA-epidural analgesia; LIA-local infiltrative analgesia; NRS-numeric rating scale; TKA-Total knee arthroplasty

Key words: arthroplasty, epidural analgesia, local anesthesia, pain, stress response

Citation: Çelik HK, Güzel N. Comparison of the effects of epidural analgesia and local infiltrative analgesia methods on pain control and stress response in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2023;27(3):379−388; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v27i3.2241

Received: Feb 12, 2023; Reviewed: March 11, 2023; Accepted: April 12, 2023