bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to Make Preserves: Turning Maine Wild Blueberries into Environmental Jam
Authors: Cannamela Danila , Gargano Lydia Ann
Published: July 2024

Abstract: A jar of jam is the product of a process of preservation that entails transformation. Moving from a staple pantry item, this article tackles the case study of Maine wild blueberries, to explore how preserving these berries involves a complex synergy between conservation and change—keeping the crop alive and maintaining Indigenous harvesting traditions while also efficiently processing this perishable fruit into more durable products such as frozen blueberries or blueberry preserves. Our analysis addresses the socioeconomic, affective, and cultural dynamics related to preserving and making preserves out of wild blueberries. The material and symbolic narratives attached to this fruit demonstrate how these berries entrap and are in turn trapped in the rigid laws of corporate farming, if conservation does not foster transformative practices that shift dominant approaches to (agri)culture. Ultimately, our interdisciplinary analysis of Maine wild blueberries highlights the potential for reimagining preservation as an opportunity to spur cross-cultural pollinations and to experiment with new “recipes” that can marry the flavors of tradition and innovation.
Non-invasive optical and laboratory hematologic biomarkers correlate in patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Quang Timothy , Mostashari Golnar , Berning Elise , Gopalan Bindu Parachalil , Lizarralde-Iragorri Maria A. , Lovins Dianna , Shet Arun S. , Tromberg Bruce J.
Published: July 2024

The goal of this study is to identify non-invasive optical hemodynamic biomarkers that can index laboratory hematology measurements in sickle cell disease (SCD). We acquired frequency-domain NIRS (FD-NIRS) and diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) data from the forearms and foreheads of 17 participants in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating effects of isoquercetin (IQ) on thromboinflammation in SCD. We observed multiple, significant correlations between optical and hematology biomarkers including cerebral tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) and hematocrit (HCT); oxyhemoglobin ([O2Hb]) recovery rate and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1); and blood flow index (BFI) reperfusion rate and coagulation index (CI). The potential of these non-invasive optical biomarkers for assessing vascular pathophysiology for the management of SCD warrants further exploration.
CNN-based approach for 3D artifact correction of intensity diffraction tomography images
Authors: Pierré William , Briard Matéo , Godefroy Guillaume , Desissaire Sylvia , Dhellemmes Magali , Llano Edgar Del , Loeuillet Corinne , Ray Pierre F. , Arnoult Christophe , Allier Cédric , Hervé Lionel , Paviolo Chiara
Published: July 2024

3D reconstructions after tomographic imaging often suffer from elongation artifacts due to the limited-angle acquisitions. Retrieving the original 3D shape is not an easy task, mainly due to the intrinsic morphological changes that biological objects undergo during their development. Here we present to the best of our knowledge a novel approach for correcting 3D artifacts after 3D reconstructions of intensity-only tomographic acquisitions. The method relies on a network architecture that combines a volumetric and a 3D finite object approach. The framework was applied to time-lapse images of a mouse preimplantation embryo developing from fertilization to the blastocyst stage, proving the correction of the axial elongation and the recovery of the spherical objects. This work paves the way for novel directions on a generalized non-supervised pipeline suited for different biological samples and imaging conditions.
Optical cavity characterization with a mode-matched heterodyne sensing scheme
Authors: Spector Aaron D. , Kozlowski Todd
Published: July 2024

We describe a technique for measuring the complex reflectivity of an optical cavity with a resonant local oscillator laser and an auxiliary probe laser, each coupled via opposite ends of the cavity. A heterodyne sensing scheme is then used to observe the phase and amplitude of the interference beat-note between the promptly reflected field and the cavity-transmitted field injected through the far mirror. Since the local oscillator laser must pass through the cavity before interfering with the probe laser these measurements are not only independent of the spatial coupling of either laser to the cavity, but also obtained at the in-situ position of the cavity eigenmode. This technique was demonstrated on a 19 m cavity to measure the individual transmissivities of each of the mirrors as well as the round-trip optical losses to an accuracy of several parts per million.
Real-time tracing and location for critical parts of moving objects with single-pixel detection
Authors: Gu Yunsong , Feng Shanguo , Wang Huahua , Xiao Hongyue , Zhang Changqi , Jiang Hongwei , Zhang Ze , Gao Lu
Published: July 2024

A scenario based on single-pixel input of recognizing and tracing the critical parts of the moving targets has been proposed. The one-dimensional single-pixel matrix is achieved by bucket measurement by making use of pre-training illumination suitable for the target datasets. The designed recognition network can export the real-time position coordinates of the key components of the moving targets through single-pixel detection. Compared with the general random illumination light field, the results of the pre-training illumination show significant improvement in both recognition efficiency and accuracy. The recognition efficiency can reach 100Hz in the experimental detection of moving model planes. It may have important application prospects in military target tracking and hyperspectral remote sensing.
Estimation of photon number distribution and derivative characteristics of photon-pair sources
Authors: Lee Sang Min
Published: July 2024

The evaluation of a photon-pair source employs characteristic metrics like the photon-pair generation rate, heralding efficiency, and second-order correlation function, all of which are determined by the photon number distribution of the source. The photon number distribution, however, can be altered due to spectral or spatial filtering and optical losses, leading to changes in the above characteristics. This paper theoretically describes the effects of different filterings, losses, and noise counts on the photon number distribution and related characteristics. From the theoretical description, an analytic expression for the effective mode number of the joint spectral density is also derived. Compared with previous methods for estimating the photon number distribution and characteristics, an improved methodology is introduced along with a suitable metric of accuracy for estimating the photon number distribution, focusing on photon-pair sources. We discuss the accuracy of the calculated characteristics from the estimated (or reconstructed) photon number distribution through repeated simulations and bootstrapped experimental data.
Modified Ross score and echocardiographic score in children with heart failure: a subgroup analysis
Authors: Setiyawan I Made Karma , Kartika Yantie Ni Putu Veny , Widnyana Anak Agung Ngurah Ketut Putra , Sidiartha I Gusti Lanang , Karyana Putu Gede , Arimbawa I Made
Published: July 2024

Background Over the past two decades, heart failure in children has increased in terms of symptom recognition and prevalence. The initial clinical manifestations of heart failure in children are non-specific. Therefore, diagnosis requires the support of echocardiography. The symptomatic severity of heart failure in children can be classified through a simple scoring system such as Ross score. The duration of heart disease, duration of therapy, and cardiac remodeling status may have clinical and anatomical effects on the disease.
Objective To analyze for a possible correlation between modified Ross score and echocardiographic score by subgroup analysis consisting of duration of heart disease, duration of therapy, and cardiac remodeling.
Methods This cross-sectional study included children aged 1 month - 18 years with heart failure who sought treatment at Prof.Dr. I.G.N.G Ngoerah Hospital, Denpasar from June 2019 to February 2020. Cardiac remodeling was defined as >20% increase in left ventricle internal end diastolic dimension (LVIDd) compared to normal values, ??based on body surface area. Spearman’s correlation test was used for statistical analysis.
Results A total of 30 subjects were analyzed in this study. The  median modified Ross score and echocardiography score were 3 points  (range 2-11) and 4 (range 2-6), respectively. The median durations of heart disease and preventive heart failure therapy were 2 years (range 7 days-15 years) and 1 year (range 7 days-15 years), respectively. The mean LVIDd was 4.3 (SD 1.4) cm. Twenty-one out of 30 subjects experienced a ? 20% increase of LVIDd from baseline. The modified Ross score and echocardiographic score had no significant correlation (r=0.18; P=0.33). However, the modified Ross score had significant correlations with duration of heart disease (r=-0.632; P<0.001) as well as duration of therapy (r=-0.584; P=0.001).  In addition, no correlation was found between echocardiographic score with heart disease and therapy duration (P>0.05). Echocardiography score and remodelling process was significantly correlated (r=0.64; P<0.001).
Conclusion There  is no correlation between modified Ross score and echocardiographic score. Duration of heart disease and duration of therapy are significantly negatively correlated with modified Ross scores. The remodelling process is positively correlated with echocardiographic score. Further research on acute symptomatic and validated echocardiographic scores are needed.
Efficacy of lactose-free formula in acute diarrheal management for children under 5 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Putri Ayu Maghfira Nida , Witarto Andro Pramana , Yofi Fadhil Abiyyu , Suasti Ni Made Adnya , Alawiyah Kania
Published: July 2024

Background  Acute diarrhea is the most common gastrointestinal disease in children under five years of age with high morbidity and mortality risk. The use of lactose-free formula in the management of children with acute diarrhea was said to accelerate the diarrheal resolution time.
Objective To determine the efficacy of lactose-free formula in managing acute diarrhea in pediatric patients by systematic review and meta-analysis. 
Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed, Proquest, Web of Science, and CINAHL Plus Database from November 1971 to July 11th, 2021. The study selection process was carried out under PRISMA 2020 guidelines based on several eligibility criteria. The quality of the included studies were further assessed using Modified Jadad Scores.  
Results Fifteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, involving a total of 1,390 children with acute diarrhea. Shorter recovery time (MD -0.21; 95%CI -0.50 to 0.08; P=0.16) was observed in patients receiving lactose-free formula than the control group. However, this finding was not statistically significant. The subgroup analysis showed that lactose-free formula significantly shortened the recovery time compared to oral rehydration solution (ORS) group (MD -0.70; 95%CI -0.98 to -0.41; P=0.00001). Furthermore, lactose-free formula also significantly reduced the amount of stool output (MD -0.61; 95%CI -0.86 to -0.36; P=0.00001) and the incidence of persistent diarrhea more than seven days (OR 0.22; 95%CI 0.10 to 0.51; P=0.0004) compared to the control group.
Conclusion Lactose-free formula as dietary management for acute diarrhea in children can reduce stool output and the incidence of persistent diarrhea for more than seven days. It also may shorten the recovery time compared to the administration of ORS alone.
Evaluation of performance of Indonesian Sepsis National Guidelines (PNPK) 2021 in diagnosing pediatric bacterial sepsis
Authors: Asiyani Lilis Siti , Rusmawatiningtyas Desy , Indrawanti Ratni Indrawanti , Arguni Eggi Arguni , Wibowo Tunjung Wibowo , Nurnaningsih Nurnaningsih Nurnaningsih
Published: July 2024

Background Sepsis remains one of the causes of child morbidity and mortality worldwide. The reference standard diagnosis of sepsis is blood culture, but its false negative is relatively high. Therefore, a validated triage tool is needed for rapid
diagnosis. In Indonesia, diagnosis and management of pediatric sepsis are based on Indonesian Sepsis National Guidelines 2021.
Objective  To  evaluate  the  performance  of  Indonesian  Sepsis National Guidelines 2021 in diagnosing pediatric bacterial sepsis in PICU.
Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in the PICU unit of Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, using subject’s the medical records.   All patients with suspected bacterial infection who were admitted to the PICU, had complete evaluation of PELOD-2 score, and the blood culture results were included in this study. Sepsis was assessed with Indonesian Sepsis National Guidelines   2021. Performance analysis of the guidelines was conducted with SPSS version 25, by assessing sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and likelihood ratio.
Results Two hundred subjects were enrolled in this study, of whom   52.5%   were   males.
Most subjects aged under one year (40.5%), and the most common infection was respiratory system (49%). A total of 63.5% were referral cases, with the length of stay in the previous hospital more than 48 hours (69.7%). There were 77% of subjects had antibiotics treatment at the previous hospital. As for outcomes, 63.5% survived   and   36.5%   died.  The positivity rate of blood culture in this study was 19%. Performance evaluation of Sepsis Indonesian Sepsis National Guidelines 2021 revealed sensitivity 28.95%, specificity 87.65%, accuracy 76.5%, positive predictive value 35.48%, negative predictive value 84.02%, positive likelihood ratio 2.34 (95%CI 1.28 to 4.32) and negative likelihood ratio 0.81 (95%CI 0.7 to 0.94).
Conclusion Indonesian Sepsis National Guidelines 2021 (PNPK Sepsis 2021) has low sensitivity and high specificity in diagnosing bacterial sepsis.
Comparison between COVID-19 and DHF co-disease with COVID-19 alone in two pediatric sibling patients
Authors: Tatura Suryadi Nicolaas Napoleon
Published: July 2024

We report herein the difference between Corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19) and dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) co-infection compared with COVID-19 alone in two pediatric sibling patients. This case report highlights a 10-year-old boy with both COVID-19 and DHF who had less severe coagulation disorder than his sister with COVID-19 alone. In a patient with a dual infection, the presence of dengue antibodies may induce immunological protection against COVID-19. We found reports of milder symptoms in patients who had dengue prior to SARS- CoV-2 infection; however, the opposite occured when SARS-CoV-2 infection precedes dengue.
Does culture matter for consumer confidence?
Authors: Eratalay Mustafa Hakan , Kaasa Anneli
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we explore whether the diversity of consumer confidence indicators across different countries can be explained by diverse cultures in those countries. For this purpose, we consider the OECD consumer confidence indicators and macroeconomic indicators of 37 countries. In particular, we analyse the consumer confidence indicator levels in January of 2007 and 2009, that is before and during the financial crisis, and also in January of 2020 and 2021, which is before and during the Covid-19 crisis. For measuring culture, we use the two-dimensional models of Kaasa and Minkov (2022), Inglehart and Welzel (2021), Minkov and Kaasa (2022) and Beugelsdijk and Welzel (2018). We employ forward and backward stepwise regressions and principal components regressions for analysis. Our results show that in bad times consumer confidence is lower in cultures that are characterised by individualism (vs collectivism), responsibility (vs faith), secularism (vs traditionalism), and flexibility (vs monumentalism) compared to cultures characterised by the opposite. We have also found that the extent of the decline in consumer confidence during the crises, especially the Covid-19 crisis, was smaller in cultures characterised by freedom (vs concern), self-expression (vs survival), and joy (vs duty) than in countries on the opposite side of the spectrum. Finally, we conclude that culture has clearly been more relevant for the change in consumer confidence during the Covid-19 crisis, as opposed to the financial crisis.
The paradox of flexibility: Unraveling the impact of flexible work arrangements on affective commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kamp Lena-Marie , Tirrel Henning , Winnen Lothar
Published: July 2024

Due to technological progress and the COVID-19 pandemic, flexible work arrangements (FWA) have spread enormously. Thus, many companies offer different forms of flexible work now. The aim of the study is to analyze the consequences for employees' affective commitment brought on by FWA. In order to effectively establish FWA, support is needed from the manager. Transformational leadership can be seen as a supportive and facilitating leadership style in this context. In addition, FWA change the way people work together, especially in terms of informal communication. Therefore, informal communication and transformational leadership were analyzed as possible mediators or moderators. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used on a sample of 224 German employees. The study results indicated that FWA are statistically significantly negatively associated with affective commitment. The role of informal communication as a mediator as well as the role of transformational leadership as a moderator were not confirmed. This study examined the impact of FWA on affective commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, as existing research findings had been inconsistent regarding the direction of that relationship to date. Moreover, this is the first study examining the effects of informal communication and transformational leadership in this research stream.
Shadow economy and financial stability from the perspective of finance digitalization
Authors: Bozhenko Victoria , Boyko Anton , Vondráček Martin , Karácsony Péter
Published: July 2024

Digital financial technologies create a basis for forming new concepts for studying the prerequisites for the emergence of the shadow economy, the search for mechanisms to counteract illicit financial flows, and ensuring financial stability in the country. The article aims to assess the degree of connections between the shadow economy, financial stability and finance digitalization using the principles of cognitive modelling. The empirical study proved that the current status of development of digital finance and financial strength in Ukraine is sufficient for a significant reduction of shadow operations in the economy, namely to the level of 14.43% of GDP, which is 55.8% less compared to the average annual value for the period 2005-2021 years. It is advisable to implement a set of measures aimed at increasing the volume of the cashless economy; reducing non-performing loans; optimization of banking infrastructure; encouraging citizens to use online banking; reduction in the level of fictitious direct investments.
The role of sustainable investment practices in maintaining efficient working capital management
Authors: Habib Ashfaq , Anwar Shaista , Hussain Waleed , Fenyves Veronika
Published: July 2024

This study provides a theoretical argument supported by empirical evidence regarding the impact of sustainable investment practices on the working capital management of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The study utilizes panel data on SMEs from 2014 to 2022. Cluster regression methodology is employed to assess the influence of sustainable investment practices on a firm’s working capital, with green finance (GF) as a moderating variable. Results revealed that a firm’s sustainable investment practices significantly and negatively affect its working capital. Additionally, the study identified GF as a moderator in the relation between sustainability and working capital. The findings indicated that firms actively engaging in sustainable investment practices are more efficient in managing working capital for their business operations’ long-term sustainability.
Digital innovation in family businesses in the post-pandemic period: A case study
Authors: Tutar Hasan , Nam Selçuk , Korpysa Jaroslaw , Drotár István
Published: July 2024

Businesses must develop appropriate organizational structures and working models to reduce costs and increase profitability. Under the conditions of rapid change, innovation and creativity are critical for business success. Traditional hierarchical and rigid organizational structures are unsuitable for the flexible working conditions of the post-pandemic period and need to be revised to adapt to newly created requirements. This study aims to answer the fundamental question of the importance of digital innovation for businesses in the post-pandemic period. A qualitative research method was the basis for this case study. Data were collected from 15 family business managers operating in Sakarya (Turkey) through semi-structured interviews. The collected data were analyzed using the qualitative content analysis technique in the MAXQDA program. According to research findings, developing new organizational structures and business models based on digital innovation is necessary to ensure sustainability and cope with uncertainty in family businesses. This also supports the notion that organizational structures should adhere to organic and flexible arrangements and move away from rigid and mechanical systems.
Illicit practices: Experience of developed countries
Authors: Yarovenko Hanna , Vasilyeva Tetyana , Ustinovichius Leonas , Remsei Sandor
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to finding the answer to two research questions. What illegal practices are most significant for clusters of developed countries formed by similarities in trends in corruption, shadow economy, money laundering, and crime rates? What social, economic, regulatory, and digital factors most influence them in each group? The pair correlation coefficients for illicit practices indicators confirm the presence of tight and statistically significant relationships in their trends for 36 developed countries. The agglomerative clustering and canonical analysis results identified that tackling the shadow economy is crucial for Estonia, Slovenia, and Lithuania; corruption for Portugal, Hungary, Cyprus, etc.; the shadow sector and crime levels for Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden, and New Zealand; corruption, money laundering, and crime for Canada, Germany, the USA, etc.; four illegal practices for Italy, Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania. The canonical analysis revealed that social and regulatory factors influence the trends of illicit practices in developed countries more than economic and digital ones. Network analysis showed their single moderate influence in most cases. Edge evidence probability analysis confirmed a high probability of a relationship between some pairs of social, economic, regulatory, digital and illegal indicators. However, Bayesian network analysis showed a low likelihood of mutual influence of single factors, confirming the importance of the group influence.
Forecasting state diagrams two-component salt systems
Authors: Afanaseva Olga S. , Egorova Galina F. , Afanaseva Elena A.
Published: July 2024

The article proposes a method for forecasting and approximate calculating the two-component systems characteristics state diagrams. The results for 200 salt systems with a common cation and 100 with a common anion systems statistical analysis of fase diagrams are presented. In this paper, the authors propose to consider two signs of the eutectic points presence in binary systems and a method for approximate calculation the eutectic point temperature and concentration values. The first criterion for the presence or absence of eutectic points in the system is determined using specific, isobaric heat capacities of the components. The second criterion is based on the well-known fact that entropy values difference for components of eutectic systems are greater than entropy differences for components of systems with continuous series of solid solutions. A method for approximate calculating the temperatures values and the composition of two-component salt systems eutectic points, in which there is no intermediate chemical interaction between the components, is given. A comparative analysis of the calculations results according to the methodology proposed by the authors and the eutectics thermodynamic characteristics values obtained using the Schroeder-Le Chatelier equation is carried out. The adequacy of the proposed model for the analysis and determination of the thermodynamic characteristics of two-component salt systems is confirmed by the calculations results of the eutectics composition and temperatures of 120 two-component systems with average errors, which amounted to 6% in concentrations and 7% in temperatures. Based on the proposed approximation procedure, a calculation program in the Pascal language was created in the Delphi visual environment with a user interface. One of the advantages of this environment is that the executable modules of programs created in it do not require equipping the computer with additional software, except for the presence of an operating system.
System analysis of structured complex for oil wastes recycling system
Authors: Derevyanov Мaksim Yu.
Published: July 2024

A new approach to the system analysis of a structured complex of recycling (CR) of oil waste (OW) is proposed based on the Data Envelopment Analysis method, which allows solving the problem of choosing optimal processing technologies according to heterogeneous criteria of resource potential, environmental safety, resource and energy saving, and integrated efficiency. New classifications are presented: OW by sources of formation in the oil and gas industry and methods of recycling OW. An analysis of the systemic problems accompanying the technological processes of processing non-carbon dioxide has been carried out, which confirm the need to consider non-carbon dioxide storage facilities and technologies for their processing within a single system, consisting of two subsystems of disposal and processing. The system-wide properties of the OW CR and the interrelations of its main elements are analyzed, the presence of stable connections between the elements of the system and integrative qualities are revealed. A methodology for system analysis and optimization of the OW CR has been developed, consisting of 10 consecutive stages and including the development of databases and special software, multifactor analysis and optimization, the use of artificial neural networks to increase the speed of calculations, and the development of an information support system for making scientifically based management decisions. The results of testing the methodology for analyzing the CR, consisting of 90 OW storage facilities and 14 processing technologies located within one region, are shown. The results of solving two problems of optimizing the non-carbon dioxide processing system according to the criterion of maximum comprehensive efficiency, taking into account constant and variable scale effects, were obtained. The proposed approach can be extended to other regions of the Russian Federation with a developed oil and gas industry, where there is a need to take urgent measures to eliminate waste storage facilities and improve the environmental situation.
Consolidation Settlement by Observational and Conventional Methods Utilizing Results of Test Embankments from Algeria
Authors: Mohamed Aymen Dali
Published: July 2024

The aim of this work is to predict the ultimate primary settlements of a highway embankments using four different methods. These methods include the Terzaghi, Asoaka, Chunlin and hyperbolic methods. Field data from three monitored test embankments in Algeria was used to assess the performance of each method in predicting ultimate primary settlements. Results indicated that the Terzaghi method, relying on laboratory-determined coefficient of consolidation, notably underestimated the intermediate settlement and overestimated the time required to achieve a 90% consolidation in comparison to the other methods. This underscores a significant limitation in solely employing laboratory data. Conversely, the Asaoka, Chunlin and hyperbolic methods, incorporating field measurements, provided more accurate predictions of both settlement and coefficient of consolidation. This study underscores the importance of employing field-based methods to obtain accurate coefficient of consolidation values, thereby enhancing the reliability of consolidation-settlement predictions for the engineering design of highway embankments. Keywords: Initial settlement, secondary settlement, Consolidation settlement, Test embankments.
Towards Sustainable Transportation in Baghdad: Identifying Critical Roads and Strategically Locating Weighing Stations
Authors: Ghanbari Milad ,   Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Published: July 2024

Overloaded vehicle traffic accelerates road degradation, leading to early failures and high maintenance expenses. Identifying critical roads in areas like Baghdad, Iraq, is crucial for effective maintenance planning. Road maintenance involves systematic management to uphold road quality and functionality. However, the absence of weighing stations and awareness about critical roads in Baghdad exacerbated maintenance costs. This study aims to present a robust framework for identifying critical roads that necessitate weighing stations and subsequently determining the optimal locations for these stations in Baghdad. Through statistical analysis of responses collected from 61 road maintenance engineers, 22 influential factors for road criticality and weighing station location were identified. Some key factors emerged as crucial in identifying critical roads, including truck traffic volume, maintenance and construction costs, geopolitical importance and lane count. Furthermore, significant considerations for weighing station placement were identified, such as proximity to industrial hubs and drainage structures. Validation of the model through case studies affirmed its efficacy. Policy implications include the need for feasibility studies before weighing station implementation, data-driven decision-making, road criticality assessment and strategic weighing station placement. This research contributes to improved road management practices, aiding in decision-making for transportation infrastructure enhancement in developing countries like Iraq. Keywords: Weighing stations, Road maintenance, Critical roads, Locating the station weight in motion.
Effect of Ferrocement with Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Connection on Concrete Beams under Torsional Impact
Authors: Taha Roula ,   Al Baath University, Syria.
Published: July 2024

Improvements of reinforced concrete beams against the impact of torsional forces are among the most researched issues in construction studies. In this paper, repairing and strengthening reinforced concrete beams using ferrocement laminates attached onto the surface of the beams and exposed to torsion were reviewed. This study aims to reveal the efficacy of the wrapping sides of ferrocement laminates. Previous experimental studies were conducted by using SBR as a slurry for strengthening beams by ferrocement from two-and three-side wrapping. Alternatively, the influence of using SBR as an ingredient of the mortar on the performance of the strengthened beams under torsion was discussed. The results showed that ferrocement is a practical alternative strengthening component for rehabilitating and repairing reinforced concrete beams. It was demonstrated that three-side wrapping improves the torsional behaviour in comparison with two-side wrapping. Also, the SBR preserved the required joining until failure for all the strengthened beams. Keywords: Ferrocement, Torsion, Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR), Strengthening, Beams.
Reliability Analysis of Hillslopes under Different Rainfall Patterns
Authors: S. Chatra Adarsh ,   Basaveshwar Engineering College, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India
Published: July 2024

Rainfall-induced slope failures and landslides pose significant hazards worldwide, impacting various regions, including the Kurumbadi area of Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India. Despite the region's vulnerability to such disasters, limited research has addressed the uncertainties surrounding soil parameters, particularly in the context of slope-stability analysis. The present study aims to fill this gap by conducting reliability analysis to assess the stability of hillslopes under different rainfall patterns. It specifically investigates how variations in soil compaction, including medium dense and loose soils, influence slope stability under both advanced and recorded rainfall patterns in the Kurumbadi area. Utilizing data from numerical analyses using Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua (FLAC), the study conducts comprehensive reliability analysis with Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and First-order Reliability Method (FORM), to evaluate slope stability. The findings reveal that advanced rainfall patterns significantly increase the likelihood of slope failure, highlighting the region's increased vulnerability to intense rainfall events. These insights contribute valuable knowledge to the assessment of slope instability across varying rainfall intensities and durations. Furthermore, the findings support the development of proactive measures, such as early-warning systems based on predefined threshold values, to mitigate the risks associated with rainfall-induced slope failures. Keywords: Rainfall patterns, Slope failures, Nilgiris, Probability of failure, Reliability.
Determining the Dilatancy of Gravels Using a Large-size Direct Shear Test
Authors: Stacho Jakub ,   Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava 810 05, Slovakia
Published: July 2024

The peak shear strength of dense coarse-grained soils is defined by the angle of the shear strength, the initial shear strength, and the angle of dilatancy. This paper mainly focuses on determining the angle of dilatancy. This parameter has been investigated by many researchers on sands or sand-gravel mixtures. The study aims to determine the dilatancy angle of various types of gravel soils using a large-size direct shear test. The results demonstrated that the dilatancy angle decreases with an increase in the normal stress. The gravels tested were separated into 8 groups based on the type of gravel, the fraction, and the shape of the grains. The relation between the dilatancy angle and the normal stress was correlated using a power function for each gravel group. The results also showed that simplified assumptions of the dilatancy angle, which are usually applied in the design of geotechnical structures, can lead to a determination of a higher value of the dilatancy angle than that determined by laboratory measurement. A simple correlation is presented, which allows for determining the angle of dilatancy from the peak and the critical angle of the shear strength in a given normal stress range. Keywords: Angle of dilatancy, Angle of shear strength, Shear strength, Coarse-grained soil, Gravel, Direct shear test.
Mapping of Bandung Cultural Heritage Through The Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) Approach
Authors: Izzati Husna , Adishakti Laretna Trisnantari
Published: July 2024

Bandung is the capital city of West Java Province and is also included in Cekungan Bandung Area. The term Cekungan Bandung refers to its geomorphological condition in the form of a basin surrounded by hills and mountains. Bandung which is located in the highlands, has attracted the Dutch Colonials to develop plantations (e.g. quinine, coffee, tea) and also as a resort town. The progress of the colonial economy has brought Bandung city to become a famous tourist destination in the Dutch East Indies (i.e. Indonesia), with its rapidly growing European culture and architecture, making Bandung known as Europa in de Tropen. In the early 20th century Bandung city was planned as the replacement Capital of Batavia, with the construction of central government buildings along with the European settlements which were thick with a mixture of tropical architecture and European architecture styles which are still commonly found in this city. This study uses the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) method which consists of seven stages, the process of identifying and mapping the layers of the heritage landscape of Bandung is the initial stage of HUL. The aim of this research is to obtain a complete perspective of natural, cultural, and human resources as the elements that form the Bandung Cultural Heritage, which can be used to study the next stages of HUL.
Spatial Configuration & Management Street Vendors in Public Space
Authors: Sandhika Rendy Rian , Sholihah Arif Budi , Yuli Nensi Golda
Published: July 2024

Street vendors contribute to meeting people's needs, but not by their presence in public spaces. This dynamic is important, and attention is paid to street vendors' spatial configuration and management in public spaces. This study aims to learn more about the spatial configuration & management of street vendors in public spaces. The method used is a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), with a search and analysis related to the spatial configuration and management of street vendors in public spaces in 35 journals in the last 10 years. This process shows that the spatial configuration and management of street vendors influence the dynamics of public spaces, creating diverse economic and social activities. So, the existence of a spatial configuration, and comprehensive management of street vendors in public spaces will minimize management problems in public spaces. This contribution provides knowledge for sustainable urban planning and the development of policies that consider spatial configurations to accommodate the management of street vendors in public spaces.
Intermuscular adipose tissue accumulation is associated with higher tissue sodium in healthy individuals
Authors: Ertuglu Lale A. , Sahinoz Melis , Alsouqi Aseel , Deger Serpil Muge , Guide Andrew , Pike Mindy , Robinson‐Cohen Cassianne , Akwo Elvis , Pridmore Michael , Crescenzi Rachelle , Madhur Meena S. , Kirabo Annet , Harrison David G. , Luft Friedrich C. , Titze Jens , Ikizler T. Alp , Gamboa Jorge L.
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

High tissue sodium accumulation and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) are associated with aging, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. In this study, we aim to investigate whether high lower‐extremity tissue sodium accumulation relates to IMAT quantity and whether systemic inflammatory mediators and adipocytokines contribute to such association.

Methods

Tissue sodium content and IMAT accumulation (percentage of IMAT area to muscle area) were measured in 83 healthy individuals using sodium imaging (23Na‐MRI) and proton (1H‐MRI) imaging of the calf. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by glucose disposal rate (GDR) measured with the hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp.

Results

Median (interquartile range) muscle and skin sodium contents were 16.6 (14.9, 19.0) and 12.6 (10.9, 16.7) mmol/L, respectively. Median IMAT was 3.69 (2.80, 5.37) %. In models adjusted for age, sex, BMI, GDR, adiponectin, and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, increasing tissue sodium content was significantly associated with higher IMAT quantity (p = 0.018 and 0.032 for muscle and skin tissue sodium, respectively). In subgroup analysis stratified by sex, skin sodium was significantly associated with IMAT only among men. In interaction analysis, the association between skin sodium and IMAT was greater with increasing levels of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and interleukin‐6 (p for interaction = 0.022 and 0.006, respectively).

Conclusions

Leg muscle and skin sodium are associated with IMAT quantity among healthy individuals. The relationship between skin sodium and IMAT may be mediated by systemic inflammation.
Assessing the participation of local stakeholders in REDD+ relevant forest subsidies in Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: Ávalos-Rodríguez M.L. , Špirić J. , Mccall M.K. , Alvarado J.J.
Published: July 2024

Forestry subsidies are one of the multiple pathways to finance REDD+ at the national level. The legal and political scope of forestry subsidies can be understood from a governmental perspective and a social perspective by linking the legal provisions that indicate the reach of
government institutions, the actors involved in designing rules, and the local actors who implement these rules. This research contributes to the discussion on the scope of forestry subsidies in the fulfillment of REDD+ objectives. The objectives of this study were to analyze the type,
design and distribution of forest subsidies (2011‐2021) relevant to REDD+ in the Mexican state of Jalisco and to assess how the distribution of subsidies is perceived by local actors in the study area. The main findings suggest that the main actors receiving forestry subsidies
were ejidos, followed by individuals and collective landowners such as civil associations of forest. And through the intervention of other actors, greater participation in forestry subsidies can be achieved.
Application of the Taguchi method and RSM for process parameter optimization in AWSJ machining of CFRP composite-based orthopedic implants
Authors: Kodandappa Ramesha , Nagaraja Santhosh , Chowdappa Manjunatha Matnahalli , Krishnappa Manjunath , Poornima Gubbi Shivarathri , Ammarullah Muhammad Imam
Published: July 2024

Abrasive water suspension jet (AWSJ) machining on carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite-based orthopedic implants yielded insightful results based on experimental data and subsequent statistical validations. Underwater AWSJ cutting consistently outperformed free air cutting, with numerical findings demonstrating its superiority. For instance, at #100 abrasive size and 5 mm standoff distance (SOD), the material removal rate (MRR) peaked at 2.44 g/min with a kerf width of 0.89 mm and a surface roughness (SR) of 9.25 µm. Notably, the increase in abrasive size correlated with higher MRR values, such as achieving 2.15 g/min at #120 grit and 3 mm SOD. Furthermore, optimization techniques like the Taguchi method and response surface methodology (RSM) were applied to refine machining parameters. These methodologies enhanced MRR, exemplified by achieving 2.10 g/min with #120 abrasive size and 5 mm SOD in underwater cutting conditions. The research explored the impact of key process parameters, namely, the speed, feed, and SOD on the MRR, kerf width, and SR in both free air cutting and underwater cutting conditions, which is one of the novel research endeavors in the domain of abrasive jet machining of composites.
Humor in Chinese Traditions of Thought, Part One: Systematic Reflections in View of Ancient Confucian and Daoist Applications of Humor
Authors: Bartosch David
Published: July 2024

I argue that most of the pre-modern Chinese schools of thought contain elements of humor that can be analyzed in a differentiated and systematic manner. This article provides the first of two parts of this investigation. As a preparatory part, its scope is outlined on the basis of a traditional ideograph that represents the basic Chinese schools of thought as a whole. This is followed by an introduction to the present analytical framework. It is shown that it is compatible with the most basic ancient and modern concepts in the Chinese philosophy of humor. Based on this, the investigation turns to the Analects. It is shown that Confucius uses elaborate forms of humor as an allusive manner of teaching. Afterwards, the parallel Confucian refusal of comical entertainment and mass humor is discussed. A comparative discussion of evolved forms of humor in Confucian contexts and the Daoist classic Zhuangzi provides the transition to the more specific perspectives in the narrative of “Huzi, the Face Changer.” This is followed by a further in-depth comparison of Confucius and Zhuangzi’s high-level transformative humor. This leads to the discussion of the shielding function of humor as alluded to in the Daoist story of Hundun in the Zhuangzi.
Solid fuel use and low birth weight: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: He Jie , Zhong Kangkang , Yang Rui , Wen Chuanting , Liu Shubo , Yang Yiping , Zhong Qi
Published: July 2024

Solid fuel use is increasingly linked to low birth weight (LBW), but conclusions were inconsistent. We aimed to summarize the association between solid fuel use and LBW. Twenty-one studies that met the inclusion criteria were identified through PubMed, Qvid Medline, and Web of Science databases. The final search occurred on March 20, 2024. Summary relative effect and 95 % confidence intervals were estimated with a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate possible sources of heterogeneity and to test the stability of the results. Nineteen studies evaluated the association between solid fuel use in pregnant woman and LBW (1.188 for solid fuels: 1.055 to 1.322). No significant heterogeneity was identified among the included studies (p=0.010, Tau2=0.02, I2=48.1 %). Subgroup analysis found positive correlations for Asia, data years prior to 2014, and rural studies (1.245 for Asia: 1.077 to 1.412; Tau2=0.03, I2=56.0 %; 1.243 for data years prior to 2014: 1.062 to 1.424; Tau2=0.04, I2=60.98 %; 1.514 for rural: 1.258 to 1.771; Tau2=0.00, I2=0.0 %). Our meta-analysis showed that solid fuel use in pregnant women had an impact on LBW. Measures and policies are also needed to promote energy conversion and to limit and reduce the use of solid fuels.
On the spectrum of tridiagonal matrices with two-periodic main diagonal
Authors: Dyachenko Alexander , Tyaglov Mikhail
Published: July 2024

We find the spectrum and eigenvectors of an arbitrary irreducible complex tridiagonal matrix with two-periodic main diagonal. This is expressed in terms of the spectrum and eigenvectors of the matrix with the same sub- and superdiagonals and zero main diagonal. Our result generalises some recent results where the latter matrix stemmed from certain discrete orthogonal polynomials including specific cases of the classical Krawtchouk and Hahn polynomials.
Linguistic typology in action: how to know more
Authors: Aikhenvald Alexandra Y.
Published: July 2024

Linguistic typology is an all-embracing discipline central for inductively-based cross-linguistic generalizations, supported by language facts. Firsthand investigation of previously undescribed languages from regions known for their linguistic diversity helps expand our knowledge about the nature of language and the parameters of cross-linguistic variation. We explore the options of marking commands in a non-main clause and the issue of associative non-singular number in Yalaku and in Manambu (from Papua New Guinea), before turning to nominal aspect and non-propositional evidentiality (exemplified with Tariana and Jarawara, from Brazilian Amazonia). Previously undescribed languages help typologists expand and test our analytic frameworks