bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of granular activated carbon adsorption on mitigating microfiltration membrane fouling by algal organic matter
Authors: Zhao Ziming , He Qingsheng , Fan Jingfu , Sun Wenjun , Ray Madhumita B.
Published: October 2023

Algal blooms can seriously affect the operation of water treatment processes including low-pressure (micro- and ultrafiltration) and high-pressure (nanofiltration and reverse osmosis) membranes mainly due to the accumulation of algae-derived organic matter (AOM). This study investigated the effect of granular activated carbon (GAC) pretreatment on PVDF microfiltration performance for the removal of AOM. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) solution of commercial humic acid, extra- and intracellular organic matter from two species of algae, and Cyanobacteria were used for the investigation of the fouling potential of the membrane. A comparison study of different DOM removal and fouling behaviors of microfiltration (MF) after GAC adsorption as pretreatment was evaluated under variable GAC dosage and solution pH. Almost 15–20% improvement in flux and decline in irreversible fouling occurred due to the pretreatment using 1.0 g/L of GAC for an hour. The intracellular material caused higher membrane fouling than humic acid due to the hydrophilic nature of the AOM. Membrane fouling and decline in flux increased with increasing pH in the range of 5.0–8.0. The comparison results might help to provide insights into the real challenge of dealing with the treatment of algal-laden water.
Addressing non-revenue water as a global problem and its interlinkages with sustainable development goals
Authors: AbuEltayef Hatem Taha , AbuAlhin Khaldoun S. , Alastal Khalil M.
Published: October 2023

By 2050, over 40% of the global population could face severe water stress. The 2030 Agenda explicitly integrates water resources, supply, and sanitation, emphasizing sustainability for present and future generations. Non-revenue water (NRW) creates a barrier to sustainability through energy, water loss, and money not collected through water bills. However, NRW is well recognized by water service providers, and a comprehensive solution is lacking. Addressing NRW is vital to sustainable operations and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This desk literature review investigates NRW's links with SDGs, highlighting global and local impacts, flameworking interconnections, and revealing economic, social, and environmental consequences. The study revealed that NRW not only aligns with various SDGs, particularly SDG 6 and SDG 13, but also has synergies with other goals related to energy and sustainable consumption. Reducing NRW can achieve more sustainable and resilient water systems, and contribute to the broader SDG. The cost of NRW extends beyond the financial implications for water utilities. It also encompasses the economic impacts on industries and businesses, which impacts exceeded water productivity, increased operational costs, and economic development constraints.
Impact of treatment chemicals on the morphology and molecular structure of microfibers and microplastic films in wastewater
Authors: Kaur Brar Prabhdeep , Dhir Amit , Örmeci Banu
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the impact of commonly used treatment chemicals on the morphology and molecular structure of microfibers (MFs) and microplastic films (MPFs) to determine whether significant changes could occur during wastewater treatment. MFs and MPFs were exposed to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2, pH 11), sodium hydroxide (NaOH, pH11), and hydrochloric acid (HCl, pH 3) at typical doses and exposure times used at wastewater treatment plants. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) were used to examine any morphological or chemical changes after the treatment. Morphological changes were observed in the form of cracks, and increased roughness was revealed in the SEM and 3-D surface images. The results showed that MFs were more resistant to surface degradation than MPFs. Moreover, intensity peaks of ATR-FTIR revealed some partial dislodgement of the bonds in both MFs and MPFs after chemical treatment, but the overall polymer structure remained intact. The changes that occur on the surface of MFs and MPFs during chemical treatment can impact their fate, removal, and transportation behavior both at the treatment plant and after discharge to the environment.
Bamboo charcoal fiber bundles loaded MOF-derived magnetic Co/CoO porous polyhedron for efficiently catalytic degradation of tetracyclines hydrochloride
Authors: Dai Lanling , Cui Ce , Yang Mengyuan , Jiang Shan , Lan Jianwu , Guo Ronghui
Published: October 2023

The health of living things and the ecosystem of the planet have both been negatively impacted by antibiotic residue in the water environment. There has been a lot of interest in the catalyst made of metal-carbon compounds from MOFs as a potential solution for activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to produce reactive oxygen species to catalyze the degradation of residual antibiotics. In this study, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF-67) on bamboo fiber bundles (BFB) were pyrolyzed to produce magnetic Co/CoO nanoparticles with porous polyhedrons mounted on bamboo charcoal fiber bundles (BCFB)(BCFB@PCo/CoO). Specific surface area of obtained BCFB@PCo/CoO with abundant active sites arrives at 302.41 m2/g. The catalytic degradation efficiency of Tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH), a target contaminant, could reach up to 99.94% within 15 minutes (PMS = 0.4g/L, Cat. = 0.2g/L). The effects of potential factors, including PMS dosage, interference ions, and temperature, on catalytic degradation efficiencies were investigated. Magnetic recovery and antimicrobial properties of the BCFB@PCo/CoO were also evaluated and the possible degradation pathways were explored. Catalytic mechanism explorations of BCFB@PCo/CoO/PMS system reveal MOF-derived magnetic Co/CoO nanoparticles embedded in BCFB promote the synergistic interaction of both radicals and non-radical pathways for catalytic degradation of TCH. The novel BCFB@PCo/CoO provides an alternative to deal with wastewater containing antibiotics.
Discriminación laboral de género en el sector turismo: un análisis para el caso peruano en el contexto de la COVID-19
Authors: Del Pozo Loayza Cesar Edinho , Guzmán Pacheco Esther
Published: October 2023

Este artículo identifica procesos de discriminación laboral de género en el sector turismo peruano, analizando los determinantes de la brecha salarial entre hombres y mujeres en el contexto de la pandemia de COVID-19. Para ello, se utilizan la Encuesta Nacional de Hogares entre 2018 y 2021 y la metodología de descomposición de brechas salariales por cuantiles de Machado y Mata (2005), la cual incluye una corrección por sesgo de selección en la participación laboral de hombres y mujeres en el sector turismo (Buckinsky, 1998; Albrecht et al., 2009). La brecha salarial fue descompuesta en diferencias en las características laborales (educación, experiencia) y diferencias en los retornos de tales características. Los resultados muestran que la brecha salarial es desfavorable a las mujeres y es explicada principalmente por diferencias en los retornos, sobre todo en cuantiles más bajos de la distribución salarial. Los procesos de discriminación laboral contra las mujeres en turismo se habrían incrementado durante la pandemia, en particular el efecto piso pegajoso.
Cuidados y familias transnacionales. Miradas desde adultos mayores, madres y padres de emigrantes peruanos
Authors: Cavagnoud Robin , Carbajal Myrian , Stefoni Carolina , Ramírez Carolina
Published: October 2023

El artículo explora la organización de los cuidados transnacionales proporcionados a personas mayores en cuyos casos uno de sus hijos radica en el extranjero. A partir de entrevistas realizadas principalmente con madres mayores, se analizan la articulación entre los cuidados recibidos a nivel local y a distancia, las prácticas que brindan para cuidar a familiares, y sus actividades de autocuidado para mantenerse en una vejez «independiente». Los hallazgos confirman el rol central de las familias, en particular de las mujeres, para asegurar un régimen de bienestar a la población adulta mayor y mitigar los efectos de la desprotección social.
Marine Bacterial Viruses: The Inevitable Natural Antimicrobial Agents in the Marine Environment
Authors: Lindsey Anandababu Philomena Joy , Renitta Robinson Emilin , Murugan Sevanan
Published: October 2023

Antimicrobial property has been the reason for investigation in several
plants and microorganisms. The health issues and environmental hazards defined by
the extensive use of chemical antimicrobials have become a buried fact due to the
emergence of bio-based antimicrobial agents. Considering the impact of chemical
antimicrobials on the environment, many natural antimicrobial agents have been
formulated and recommended for application in food systems. Several food-borne
outbreaks are associated with the intake of marine foods and are highly linked with
harmful microbial pathogens. Marine bacterial pathogens have been extensively
reported for several outbreaks in the last few decades. Vibriosis is the most devastating
disease faced by marine organisms. The associated pathogens have also been
channelized to humans through seafood consumption. There also exist some deadly
bacterial pathogens in marine environments, which are responsible for huge economic
losses in seafood processing sectors. It is high time to mitigate this bacterial jeopardy.
The extended anthropogenic activity on the coastal lines has also increased the
virulence of these bacterial pathogens by inducing multidrug resistance. Based on
several reports in the pre and post-antibiotic era, phage therapy is revitalised to
overcome the limitations encountered in antibiotic therapy. Marine bacteriophages are
documented as abundantly available viruses in the marine environment. Their
ubiquitous and inevitable nature can be utilized to engage them as natural antimicrobial
agents from the marine environment and its allied sources. This chapter summarized
the feasibility of employing bacterial viruses from the marine environment as natural
antimicrobial agents with proper evidence from the past
Nanomedicine from Seaweed and its Sulfated Polysaccharide Mediated Silver Nanoparticles for Microbial Disease Control
Authors: Anjali Ravichandran , Palanisamy Subramanian , Muthamil Selvi Avudaiyan , Vinosha Manoharn , Manikandakrishnan Muthushanmugam , Rajasekar Periyannan , Mohandoss Sonaimuthu , You SangGuan , Marimuthu Prabhu Narayanasamy
Published: October 2023

Worldwide, aquaculture organisms are often infected by viruses, bacteria,
fungi, and parasites. These organisms are responsible for the high mortality, leading to
major financial loss in this industry. Controlling microbial diseases in aquaculture is
not that easy; it is much more difficult than prevention because it is a complex
environment. Farmers are using different strategies to overcome this issue; however,
recognizing new dietary supplements for preventing the disease is always helpful to
aquaculture farmers. More recently, the bioreduction of nanoparticles using seaweed
extract and its sulfated polysaccharides are fascinated because of the presence of
various bioactive properties. Also, it is well-accepted that the green chemistry approach
is a superior alternative to the synthesis of non-toxic nanoparticles. This chapter covers
the major microbial disease in aquaculture and its management, the application of
nanoparticles in aquaculture, the importance of seaweed and its sulfated
polysaccharide-mediated silver nanoparticles and its role in Vibriosis and WSSV
disease control in aquaculture. This chapter provides a superior understanding to the
researchers for formulating novel health supplements using seaweed and its sulfated
polysaccharides mediated nanoparticles to overcome bacterial and viral disease in
aquaculture.
Epidemiological Evidence for Influences of Non-genetic Transgenerational Inheritance on Child and Adolescent Development
Authors: Golding Jean , Iles-Caven Yasmin
Published: October 2023

Our use of the term ‘Non-genetic transgenerational inheritance’ concerns the
influence of environmental exposure to one generation on phenotypes in later
generations in the absence of changes in the structure of the DNA. Although animal
experiments have shown that the phenomenon exists in plants and animals, many
scientists have expressed doubt as to whether this type of inheritance is detectable in
humans. In this chapter, we describe the observational epidemiological data that has
been published and evaluate the evidence for this type of inheritance. We mainly
concentrate on the environmental exposures concerning famine, cigarette smoke and
radiation, and chart the associations between pre-conception and prenatal exposures.
We describe associations between these exposures and outcomes for the offspring and
grandchildren. In general, we demonstrate frequent evidence of sex-specific differences
in the likelihood of particular phenotypes, depending on whether it is the maternal or
paternal ancestor who is exposed. We also show that the timing of the exposure is often
important regarding specific outcomes, with particular emphasis on the 4-5 years
before puberty for preconception exposures and the trimester of pregnancy for prenatal
exposures. The evidence for non-genetic transgenerational inheritance is increasing.
Interestingly, the consequences of exposures that are harmful to one generation often
have a beneficial effect on a subsequent generation. It is important that future
epidemiological studies are planned to collect information concerning previous and/or
subsequent generations so that transgenerational consequences of exposures, such as
medications or pesticides, can be charted.
Clinical Approaches to Genetic Epilepsies in Children
Authors: Mastrangelo Mario
Published: October 2023

A genetic etiology is determined in more than 30% of all diagnosed cases of
epilepsy with onset at the pediatric age. About 210 single disease-causing genes and
400 chromosomal imbalances are associated with epilepsy, and a presumed pathogenic
role has been suggested for about 7000 different genes.
Genetic epilepsies can be divided, according to the main correlated epileptogenic
mechanisms, into the following groups: a) channelopathies, b) transportopathies, c)
disorders of the intermediate metabolism, d) disorders of the neuronal cellular cycle
and signaling, e) disorders of synaptic vesicles trafficking and release, f) disorders
involving neuronal structural proteins, g) disorders of synaptic secreted proteins and h)
chromosomopathies and pathogenic copy number variants.
A careful diagnostic work-up should be focused on the exclusion of acquired causes of
seizures, the analysis of family history, the definition of seizure semiology and
epileptic syndromes, and the characterization of associated neurological and non-neurological manifestations.
Traditional genetic techniques (karyotype, array CGH, and Sanger sequencing) remain
useful for known epilepsy phenotypes (e.g. Dravet syndrome) and for various
syndromes including neurodevelopmental impairment.
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) includes different techniques (targeted gene panels
and whole genome sequencing) that allow a simultaneous sequencing of exons
belonging to a selected group of genes organized in panels or to the whole exome or
genome. Advantages of NGS include: a) the identification of new disease-causing genes
associated with epilepsy, b) an expansion of the known phenotypes associated with
previously discovered disease-causing genes, c) an improvement of genetic counseling,
d) a reduction of the times for the diagnosis, and e) a reduction of economic costs.
Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn
Authors: Ovali Fahri
Published: October 2023

Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN) is the most common respiratory
morbidity in term infants. In fetal life, the lungs are filled with fetal alveolar fluid,
which is secreted by the alveolar epithelium through chloride channels. In late gestation
and by the onset of labor, chloride-secreting channels switch to sodium-absorbing
channels, and alveolar fluid is cleared away, leaving space for air after birth. Disorders
that compromise the absorption of fetal lung fluid would end up in respiratory distress,
tachypnea and hypoxemia. Elective cesarean section is the major risk factor for TTN,
as well as other risk factors. Clinical features and chest radiograms are sufficient for the
diagnosis. The disease is usually benign and self-limiting, but in some cases,
respiratory support may be needed along with supportive treatment. The prognosis is
usually good but with an increased risk of asthma in childhood.
The legal concept of discrimination by association: where does it fit into the digital era?
Authors: Costa Maria Inês
Published: October 2023

Personal autonomy, a core human rights principle, refers to the ability to both design and conduct the course of one’s life through making choices from a range of valuable options. This plays a pivotal role in the realm of equality and non discrimination, which are relevant in the context of the European Union (EU). Through case law, the concept of discrimination by association has emerged as a crucial step in strengthening anti-discrimination, recognising that individuals who are not part of a protected group but who have a relationship with someone who is, or are in some way associated with them, may be treated unfavourably, thus requiring appropriate remedies. Currently, the field of non-discrimination increasingly warrants attention, due to the rapid advancement of technology, which harbours unique discriminatory potential. For instance, through data mining and the use of artificial intelligence tools for profiling and clustering, people may be grouped based on collective characteristics that may not accurately represent their individual features, resulting in differential treatment regardless of whether legally recognised vulnerable groups are involved. It therefore becomes crucial to question to what extent discrimination by association can effectively address this discriminatory power or whether new measures need to be developed to safeguard personal autonomy and prevent the proliferation of such phenomena in the current digital landscape.
Instrumento para la medición de capacidades en ciberdefensa
Authors: Chacón-Bareño Mariana , Cano-Ospina Valentina , García Briceño Ricardo
Published: October 2023

Este artículo tiene como intención desarrollar un instrumento de comparación que contribuya a la medición de las capacidades militares en ciberdefensa de los Estados. Para ello, se aborda teóricamente el concepto de capacidades militares y su relación con el ciberpoder; se aplica una metodología descriptiva; se revisan documentos institucionales centrados en describir los principales elementos que integran las cibercapacidades desde la experiencia de diversos organismos internacionales y Estados que abanderan este sector, y, finalmente, se brindan algunas conclusiones frente al instrumento propuesto.
Pengaruh Moderasi Risiko Bisnis pada Hubungan Struktur Kepemilikan, Struktur Aset, dan Kebijakan Dividen terhadap Kebijakan Hutang
Authors: Saputri Nio Setya , Agustina Linda
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThis study aims to empirically examine the factors that debt policy in property real estate sector companies listed on the IDX in 2019-2021. The sample was selected by purposive sampling method and as many as 114 units of analysis that met the specified criteria. The results show that asset structure has a positive effect on debt policy, and business risk is able to moderate asset structure and dividend policy. Meanwhile, managerial ownership, institutional ownership, and dividend policy have no effect on debt policy, and business risk cannot moderate the effect of managerial ownership and institutional ownership. The company's management is expected to pay attention to every external funding decision in the form of debt in order to have an ideal debt ratio for the company.Keywords: Managerial Ownership, Institutional Ownership, Asset Structure, Dividend Policy, Debt Policy, Bussiness RiskABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji secara empiris faktor yang memengaruhi kebijakan hutang pada perusahaan sektor property real estate yang terdaftar di BEI tahun 2019-2021. Sampel dipilih dengan metode purposive sampling dan sebanyak 114 unit analisis yang memenuhi kriteria yang ditetapkan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa struktur aset berpengaruh positif terhadap kebijakan hutang, serta risiko bisnis mampu memoderasi struktur aset dan kebijakan dividen. Sementara itu, kepemilikan manajerial, kepemilikan institusional, dan kebijakan dividen tidak berpengaruh terhadap kebijakan hutang, serta risiko bisnis tidak dapat memoderasi pengaruh kepemilikan manajerial dan kepemilikan institusional. Manajemen perusahaan diharapkan dapat memperhatikan setiap keputusan pendanaan eksternal berupa hutang guna memiliki rasio hutang yang ideal bagi perusahaan.Kata Kunci: Kepemilikan Manajerial, Kepemilikan Institusional, Struktur Aset, Kebijakan Dividen, Kebijakan Hutang, Risiko Bisnis
Pengelolaan Modal Kerja, Literasi Keuangan dan Performa UMKM di Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Hamzah Ruth Samantha , Gozali Efva Octavina Donata , Efriandy Iwan , Gusmiati Dhea Maura
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThe study examines the influence of WCM and financial literacy on the performance of online Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). In addition, this study employs financial literacy as a moderating variable. The study was conducted using a questionnaire and obtained 117 samples of MSMEs in Palembang. The method uses cross-sectional multiple regression analysis. The results revealed that WCM has no effect on financial performance of MSMEs during Covid-19 pandemic, whilst financial literacy has a significant effect on financial performance. However, financial literacy is not able to strengthen the relationship between WCM and financial performance. The study concludes that financial literacy variables have a significant influence on financial performance. However, financial literacy is not able to moderate the relationship between WCM and financial performance. Financial literacy is a concept of information or knowledge regarding financial that forms the basis of performance capability of a company, in this case is MSMEs.Keywords: Working Capital, WCM, Financial Literacy, Financial Performance, MSMEsABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendapatkan bukti secara empiris mengenai pengaruh antara WCM dan literasi keuangan terhadap kinerja usaha mikro, kecil dan menengah (UMKM) yang sudah terdigitalisasi. Selain itu, penelitian ini menambahkan variabel literasi keuangan sebagai variabel moderasi terhadap kinerja keuangan UMKM. Penelitian dilakukan dengan menggunakan kuesioner yang melibatkan 117 sampel UMKM di Palembang. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan analisis regresi berganda cross sectional. Hasil penelitian mengungkapkan bahwa WCM tidak berpengaruh terhadap kinerja keuangan UMKM pada masa pandemi Covid-19, sedangkan literasi keuangan berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kinerja keuangan. Akan tetapi, literasi keuangan tidak mampu memperkuat hubungan WCM terhadap kinerja keuangan. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa variabel literasi keuangan memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap kinerja keuangan. Namun, literasi keuangan tidak mampu untuk memoderasi hubungan antara WCM terhadap kinerja keuangan. Literasi keuangan merupakan sebuah konsep yang berbentuk informasi ataupun suatu pengetahuan yang dapat menjadi dasar dari kemampuan suatu kinerja suatu perusahaan yang dalam hal ini adalah UMKM.Kata Kunci: Modal Kerja, WMC, Literasi Keuangan, Kinerja Keuangan, UMKM
Pengaruh GCG, Struktur Modal, dan Leverage terhadap Kinerja Keuangan Perusahaan Tambang
Authors: Islami Dian , Wulandari Anis
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study is to understand anythings that can affect the financial performance of oil and gas companies on the IDX for the 2015-2020 period. This study uses six independent variables, namely the Good Corporate Governance variable, which is proxied through the independent board of commissioners, managerial ownership, institutional ownership, and audit committee, as well as capital structure and leverage variables. The sample was determined through a purposive sampling technique, so nine companies matched the criteria. The quantitative method is taken by processing secondary data. The data analysis technique used is multiple linear regression analysis. This study obtained the results that independent board of commissioners, managerial ownership, institutional ownership, capital structure, and leverage have an impact on financial performance. Different results were obtained by the audit committee that had no impact on financial performance.Keywords: Independent Board of Commissioners, Managerial Ownership, Institutional Ownership, Audit Committee, Capital Structure, Leverage, Financial PerformanceABSTRAKTujuan studi ini adalah untuk memahami hal-hal yang dapat mempengaruhi kinerja keuangan pada perusahaan minyak dan gas bumi di BEI periode 2015-2020. Penelitian ini menggunakan enam variabel independen, yaitu variabel Good Corporate Governance yang diproksikan melalui dewan komisaris independen, kepemilikan manajerial, kepemilikan institusional dan komite audit, serta variabel  struktur modal dan leverage. Sampel ditentukan melalui teknik purposive sampling, sehingga didapatkan sembilan perusahaan yang sesuai dengan kriteria. Metode kuantitatif diambil dengan mengolah data sekunder. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan yaitu analisis regresi linier berganda. Penelitian ini memperoleh hasil bahwa dewan komisaris independen, kepemilikan manajerial, kepemilikan institusional, struktur modal dan leverage berdampak dengan kinerja keuangan. Hasil berbeda diperoleh komite audit bahwa tidak berdampak dengan kinerja keuangan.Kata Kunci: Dewan Komisaris Independen, Kepemilikan Manajerial, Kepemilikan Institusional, Komite Audit, Struktur Modal, Leverage, Kinerja Keuangan
Predictors of Mental Health Literacy in a Sample of Health Care Major Students: Pilot Evaluation Study
Authors: Tohme Pia , Abi Fadel Nour , Yaktine Nour , Abi-Habib Rudy
Published: October 2023

Background

The numerous mental health awareness campaigns during the COVID-19 pandemic have shifted our understanding and perception of mental health.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to evaluate predictors of mental health literacy (MHL), that is, one’s knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders. We evaluate whether digital health literacy, empathy, and mentalizing contribute to MHL.

Methods

Our sample consisted of 89 health care major students, aged between 17 and 32 years, studying at a university in Lebanon. The Mental Health Literacy Scale for Healthcare Students (MHLS-HS), the eHealth Literacy Questionnaire (eHLQ), the Basic Empathy Scale (BES), and the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire-8 (RFQ-8) were used.

Results

Multiple regression analyses revealed that the Engagement in Own Health subscale of digital health literacy constituted a predictor of MHL. While empathy and mentalizing did not directly predict MHL, they were found to predict components of MHL.

Conclusions

This is the first study to evaluate digital health literacy, empathy, and mentalizing as predictors of MHL in Lebanon, a country where mental health is still considered taboo. Moreover, this pilot study is the first to provide some support for the predictive role of some digital health literacy subscales on MHL in light of the rise of the digital era following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Think Aloud Testing of a Smartphone App for Lifestyle Change Among Persons at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Usability Study
Authors: Lunde Pernille , Skoglund Gyri , Olsen Cecilie Fromholt , Hilde Gunvor , Bong Way Kiat , Nilsson Birgitta Blakstad
Published: October 2023

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and is considered a global epidemic. Despite the growing evidence on the effectiveness of mobile health interventions in the management of DM2, the evidence on the effect of mobile health interventions in prevention of DM2 is sparse. Therefore, we have developed an app aiming to promote initiation of behavioral change and adherence to healthy behavior. Before commencing a small-scale randomized controlled trial to assess the feasibility of using an app for initiation and adherence of healthy behavior in people at risk of DM2, testing the usability of the app in the target population is warranted.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the usability of an app among people at risk of DM2.

Methods

A qualitative study with the use of a think aloud (TA) procedure was conducted from April to November 2022. The TA procedure consisted of 10 problem-solving tasks and a semistructured interview which was carried out after the tasks. These interviews served to gain more in-depth knowledge of the users experience of the problem-solving tasks. The TA-sessions and the postactivity interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, and the data were coded and analyzed following the principles of thematic analysis.

Results

In total, 7 people at risk of DM2 with a median age of 66 (range 41-75) years participated in this study. The analysis resulted in the following themes: (1) user interface design; and (2) suggestions for improvements of the functionality of the app.

Conclusions

Overall, the participants were satisfied with the usability of the app. Through the TA-sessions, real time perspective on the appeal, relevance, and utility of the app were gained. Only minor changes to the functionality of the prototype app were reported as necessary to improve the usability of the app. Points of guidance from the participants in this study have been adopted and incorporated into the final design of the app now being assessed for feasibility in a small-scale randomized controlled trial.
Predicting the Rental Values of Houses in Bangalore City Using the Linear Regression Approach
Authors: Jaiswal Ujjwal , Kumar Ayush , Das Deeptanil , Chakraborty Aryan , Sahana Aditya Vikram , Ghosh Debmitra , Mishra Nirbhoy
Published: October 2023

Abstract: In recent years, Karnataka, one of the hotspots for real estate development, has seen an increase in demand from prospective home buyers and investors and is expected to witness further boom in the sector by 2020. What things should a potential home buyer consider before purchasing a home? Location, property size, proximity to offices, schools, parks, restaurants, hospitals or the stereotypical white picket fence? And the most important factor — price? Now with the lingering impact of COVID-19, enforcement of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) and lack of confidence in developers in the city, apartments sold in India fell by 3 percent in 2019. In fact, property prices in Bengaluru fell by nearly 5 percent in the second half of 2019, according to a study published by real estate consultancy Knight Frank. Buying a house, especially in a city like Bengaluru, is a tricky decision. While the main factors are usually the same for all metros, there are more to consider for Silicon Valley in India. With the help of the millennial crowd, vibrant culture, great climate and plenty of job opportunities, finding out the price of a house in Bengaluru is difficult. This post reflects an effort to solve the mentioned problems. In this paper, the authors have tried to develop such a system which in turn will provide a very accurate prediction of house prices in Bengaluru city. The authors have tried to create a user-friendly interface design that will allow users to choose options according to their requirements and get an estimated house price according to their needs.
Systemic approach to imaging of acute abdominal surgical infection: a prospective study
Authors: Klimova N. V. , Gaus A. A. , Gaus I. A.
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION: The relevance of this work is due to the complexity of the treatment of severe acute surgical, especially destructive, infections of the abdominal cavity. The basis for improving results is the improvement of early radiological diagnosis of these diseases.

OBJECTIVE: Of this study was to systematize the approaches in the radiodiagnosis of acute abdominal surgical infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study analyzed the results of studies of 300 observations (men — 182, women — 128) aged 36 to 72 years who were treated at the Budgetary Institution «Surgut Regional Clinical Hospital» in the period from 2019 to 2022. The mean age of the patients was 49.2 years (59.7 years for men and 51 years for women). In the course of the study, a comparative analysis of the results of various methods of radiological examination in acute abdominal surgical infection was carried out, and key aspects of the radiodiagnosis algorithm were presented.

Statistics. Statistical processing and systematization of these methods of radiation diagnostics was carried out with the calculation of sensitivity and specificity. The description of categorical variables was carried out using absolute values and a fraction of the whole — n (%). The results of calculating the indicators did not reveal significant differences in the group of men and women examined.

RESULTS: At the initial stage of diagnosis, two main X-ray morphological syndromes of acute abdominal surgical infection were identified: a widespread inflammatory process (peritonitis and pancreatic necrosis) and a delimited inflammatory process (abscesses of various localizations). Based on the syndromic approach, not only the nosological diagnosis of this pathology wassubsequently carried out, but also approaches to the tactics of surgical treatment of patients were determined.

DISCUSSION: The choice of the method of radiation examination of these patients, justified by the leading clinical and radiological syndrome, leads to early diagnosis and treatment of acute abdominal surgical infection.
Scintigraphic signs of kidney injuries of I–IV degrees of severity and their compliance with the OIS/OI AAST classification: observational study
Authors: Chiglinczev K. A. , Zyryanov A. V. , Chiglinczev A. Yu. , Druzhkov M. A. , Makaryan A. A.
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION: Mechanical effects on the kidney result in parenchymal disruption, haemorrhage formation, classified by OIS/OI AAST. Scintigraphy with 99Tc-DMSA can determine the presence, prevalence of areas of ischaemia and implications for renal function.

OBJECTIVE: By radiopharmaceutical accumulation, to assess the function of the injured kidney and to establish the consistency of the scintigraphic images with the radiological findings of the OIS/OI AAST classification.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Scintigraphy with 99Tc-DMSA was performed in the immediate posttraumatic period in 196 patients who had Grade I–IV organ damage according to the OIS/OI AAST classification. The shape, size, and contours of the kidneys were visually evaluated. Based on the calculation of the uniformity and intensity of the indicator inclusion in the parenchyma the relative (total) kidney function was established. The degree and localisation of kidney damage were revealed on the basis of primary ultrasound and MSCT results.

RESULTS: In the acute period of injury, Grade I–II were characterised by diffuse irregular distribution of 99Tc-DMSA (from 75.0 to 100% of cases), but with increasing area and volume of injury, focal scintigraphic symptoms appeared (up to 25.0% of cases).In Grade III–IV, localised or extended focal deformation of the image contour and reduction of the overall kidney function prevailed. Comparative evaluation of CT findings with visual scintigraphy data demonstrated symmetry of visual information with sufficient accessibility, perceptibility, accuracy and correlated with OIS/OI AAST classification.

DISCUSSION: Scintigram interpretation involves the interaction of two components: visual perception and subject-specific knowledge of human anatomical structures. This significantly differentiates it from clinicians’ conventional conception of the diagnostic process. Semiotics in the images included diffuse and focal changes, the basis of which is a disorder of haemocirculation with impaired uptake of radiopharmaceutical in the kidney parenchyma. For Grade I–II, hypoactive areas indicating the absence of significant damage are typical. Grade III–IV are characterised by localised areas due to reduced volume of functioning parenchyma.

CONCLUSION: Scintigraphy in blunt kidney trauma demonstrates haemocirculatory abnormalities in the organ and a decrease in the amount of functioning parenchyma. Comparison of radionuclide images with computer imaging has a high degree of identity. The type of scintigrams allows grading them according to the OIS/OI AAST degree systematisation, which standardises the interpretation of radiological findings to improve the objectivity and quality of the study reports. Assessment of overall renal function makes it possible to predict the rehabilitative outlook of the injured kidney and the need for correction.
Инженерно-сейсмометрический мониторинг для расчета конструкций, прогноза сейсмостойкости и обеспечения сохранности гражданских объектов при эксплуатации
Authors: Гурьев Владимир , Дорофеев Владимир , Булыкин Владислав
Published: October 2023

Обобщены опыт и технологии, полученные при развитии экспериментальных методов исследования сейсмических воздействий на строительные конструкции и интерпретации данных инженерно-сейсмометрического мониторинга гражданских объектов.Рассмотрены методы оценки сейсмических воздействий на строительные объекты, вопросы, связанные с выявлением резерва сейсмостойкости конструкций с помощью инженерно-сейсмометрического мониторинга эксплуатируемых объектов, а также решение обратных задач для расчётных моделей сейсмостойкости строительных конструкций.Особое внимание уделено перспективам развития цифровых технологий контроля динамических параметров конструкций при сейсмических нагрузках. Предложена структура единой цифровой системы эксплуатационного инженерно-сейсмометрического мониторинга гражданских объектов для прогноза сейсмостойкости и обеспечения сохранности городской застройки на сейсмически активных урбанизированных территориях Российской Федерации.
Численное моделирование снеговых нагрузок. Особенности и перспективы развития методики
Authors: Бритиков Никита , Белостоцкий Александр
Published: October 2023

Разработка методологии численного моделирования снеговой нагрузки сегодня является одной из важнейших задач строительной отрасли. Анализ мировых строительных норм и регламентов показывает, что ограниченного набора покрытий и схем распределения коэффициента формы μ недостаточно для обоснованного определения снеговой нагрузки, особенно на большепролётные и уникальные здания и сооружения. Применяющиеся на практике методы физического моделирования также обладают рядом существенных недостатков. В то же время современный уровень развития программных комплексов вычислительной аэрогидродинамики и большое число математических моделей снегонакопления позволяет моделировать снеговую нагрузку численно. Так, представленная в настоящей статье методика позволяет выполнять расчёт снеговой нагрузки на покрытиях зданий и сооружений в стационарной и нестационарной постановках. Нестационарная постановка даёт возможность наблюдать локальное изменение толщины снегового покрова во времени, однако является весьма ресурсоёмкой для расчёта снеговой нагрузки на покрытие в целом. Указанные недостатки решает моделирование в стационарной постановке, при котором основные уравнения модели  негонакопления решаются на «больших» временах. Полученные картины снегоотложений в сочетании с рекомендациями нормативных документов позволяют задать значение расчётного коэффициента формы μ для всех зон покрытия. На основе разработанной методики на базе НОЦ КМ им. А.Б. Золотова и Учебно-научно производственная лаборатория аэроакустических исследований строительных конструкций (УНПЛ ААИСК) НИУ МГСУ прорабатывается единая, комплексная расчётно-экспериментальная методология моделирования снеговых нагрузок, объединяющая преимущества физического и численного моделирования. Синтез двух подходов позволяет наиболее ёмко и разносторонне изучить процесс снегонакопления на покрытиях зданий и сооружений.
SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM: PRE-REVOLUTIONARY AND SOVIET ARCHITECTURE AS MEDIA IN THE PERCEPTION OF NEW GENERA-TIONS OF YOUTH
Authors:   Saratov National Research State University, SUSLOV I.V.
Published: October 2023

There are three historical stages in the urban development of many large and medium sized cities of Russia: pre-revolutionary, So-viet and post-Soviet, with characteristic principles of urban planning and iconic architectural objects symbolizing certain values. Pur-pose: to study the peculiarities of the emo-tional perception of the Soviet, pre-Soviet and post-Soviet components of urban space by the youth of the Russian regional center in the 2020s. Research methodology: reasoning in the spirit of M. McLuhan, we consider architecture as media or intermediary between a person and the world of meanings. The analysis of mental maps will allow you to recreate the imaginary structure of urban space, identify individual components of this structure and determine their symbolic significance (including emotional) in the eyes of citizens. As a result of the study of mental maps, the trend of devaluation of the symbol-ic value of the old merchant building area has been determined. Once (in the pre-revolutionary period), the prestigious district is now poorly represented on the mental maps of young people. In the eyes of modern youth, the historical center of the city loses its importance and ceases to fit into the im-age of the future. The symbolic significance of such objects-symbols of the Soviet urban space, as the monument to Lenin, the build-ings of the regional and city administration, the Opera and Ballet Theater is also falling. Modern youth mental maps of Saratov also lack Soviet industrial giants and revolutionary monuments. However, such architectural objects built in Soviet times as, for example, the Bridge and Victory Park on Sokolova Gora are still the main landmarks on the pe-riphery of the city. Financing: this work is supported by the grants the Russian Science Foundation, RSF № 22-18-00153.
Facile microwave-assisted synthesis of Ce-doped Bi2O3 for efficient asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Tao Xin , Wei Mingqi , Yu Lianghao , zhuang Bocheng , Zhang Linlin , Zhu Ruilin , Zhao Guangzhen , Han Lu , Zhu Yuanyuan , Jin Huile , Zhu Guang
Published: October 2023

Bi2O3 (BT) is considered a fascinating anode material for asymmetric
supercapacitors (ASCs) due to its high theoretical capacity, but the low
conductivity limits further applications. With this in mind,
cerium-doped Bi2O3 (Ce−BT) nanoflower spheres were synthesized by a
facile and rapid microwave-assisted solvothermal method for ASCs anode
materials. It is found that the morphology of BT could be controlled by
Ce doping from stacked nanosheets to well-dispersed nanoflowers spheres
and producing abundant amorphous regions, thus expediting the ion
transport rate. Consequently, When the added Bi to Ce molar ratio is
40:1 (Ce-BT-40), it exhibited a specific capacitance of 721 F g−1 at 0.5
A g−1. Additionally, when fabricating ASCs with as-prepared Ce−BT−40 and
CeNiCo-LDH, an energy density of 59.1 Wh kg−1 is provided at a power
density of 652 W kg−1. This work not only reveals the mechanism of the
effect of Ce doping on the electrochemical properties of BTs but also
proposes a rapid synthesis method of Ce−BTs by microwave-assisted
solvent method, which provides new insights for building advanced ASCs
with high energy density and low cost.
TL-GNN: Android Malware Detection Using Transfer Learning
Authors: Raza Ali , Qaisar Zahid Hussain , Aslam Naeem , Faheem Muhammad , Ashraf Muhammad Waqar , Chaudhry Muhammad Naman
Published: October 2023

Malware growth has accelerated due to the widespread use of Android
applications. Android smartphone attacks have increased due to the
widespread use of these devices. While deep learning models offer high
efficiency and accuracy, training them on large and complex data sets is
computationally expensive. Hence, a method that effectively detects new
malware variants at a low computational cost is required. A transfer
learning method to detect Android malware is proposed in this research.
Because of transferring known features from a source model that has been
trained to a target model, the transfer learning approach reduces the
need for new training data and minimizes the need for huge amounts of
computational power. We performed many experiments on 1.2 million
Android application samples for performance evaluation. In addition, we
evaluated how well our framework performed in comparison to traditional
deep learning and standard machine learning models. In comparison to
state-of-the-art Android malware detection methods, the proposed
framework offers improved classification accuracy of 98.87%, a
precision of 99.55%, recall of 97.30%, f1 measure of 99.42%, and a
quicker detection rate of 5.14 ms by utilizing the transfer learning
strategy.
Effect of grain size on patterns and drivers of plant species richness on a sub-Antarctic island
Authors: Tsamba Joshua , Roux Peter le , Pertierra Luis , Kuhlase Bongekile , Greve Michelle
Published: October 2023

Environmental and biotic factors drive species richness patterns, but
the nature of this relationship can vary with sampling grain.
Understanding the scale-dependent effects of these factors is crucial
for interpreting species richness patterns in ecosystems experiencing
rapid environmental change. We investigated the effects of local
environmental drivers on plant species richness at small (1 x 1 m) and
large (3 x 3 m) sampling grains, and the factors correlated with
differences in richness between the two grains, on a sub-Antarctic
island. Broadly, richness was higher in warmer (i.e., lower altitude,
north-facing) and wetter (i.e., higher topographic wetness index, lower
distance from drainage line) sites, and in more topographically
heterogenous (i.e., steeper slopes) sites. Additionally, there was some
evidence of competition with a keystone plant limiting species richness,
though this was only evident at low elevations. However, the effects of
several drivers on richness depended on spatial grain. Differences in
species richness between large and small grain sizes were more
pronounced at low elevations, indicating that there is more
compositional heterogeneity at low altitudes at both grains. Richness
was positively related to northness at large grain size but not at small
grain size, suggesting that higher northness increases local turnover at
a grain size > 1 m2. On the other hand, TWI boosted
richness at small but not large grains, implying that competition
limited coexistence at low TWI, and that higher TWI only resulted in
more species coexisting at a grain of 1 m2, while having no effect on
richness at large grains. Our study therefore highlights that drivers of
plant species richness can vary with sampling grain, suggesting that
environmental effects on local species turnover affect richness patterns
at different grains. Assessing how the influence of such drivers differ
with grain size provides insight into local patterns of species
assemblage.