bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Holistic Analysis of the Impact of Power Generation Plants in Mexico during Their Life Cycle
Authors: Ovalle Flores Diana L. , Peña Gallardo Rafael , Palacios Hernández Elvia R. , Soubervielle Montalvo Carlos , Ospino Castro Adalberto
Published: August 2024

This paper assesses the environmental, technical, economic, and social impacts of the main energy generation technologies currently used in Mexico. The study used a life-cycle assessment and a multi-criteria decision-making method. The Analytical Hierarchy Process was employed to assess the social, technical, and economic impacts, while the life-cycle assessment examined the environmental effects. This study innovates the way of analyzing power plants since it provides a classification of these technologies considering different aspects, and the rankings can be obtained for each criterion and in a holistic way. According to the study’s findings, photovoltaics and nuclear power plants are the most environmentally friendly options for Mexico. Considering the economic aspects, solar and wind energy are classified as the best technologies for the country. From a technical point of view, the best power plants are combined cycle and thermoelectric plants. The power plants most accepted by society are efficient cogeneration and turbo gas. Finally, the overall ranking from the experts’ perspective for the development of Mexico shows that the best technologies are combined cycle and hydroelectric, with 14% and 12% acceptance, respectively.
(Re)shaping the Tourists’ Imagined Identity of Mosuo towards Sustainable Ethnic Tourism Development in Southwest China
Authors: Feng Huichao , Xiao Jieling
Published: August 2024

Ethnic tourism development has emerged as a vital strategy in ethnic regions to drive local economic growth and improve the quality of life. However, numerous ethnic areas have undergone transformation to accommodate tourism and commercial advancement, with little regard for the conservation of their cultural values. Therefore, the aim of this study is to enhance the cultural tourism attributes and construct place identities from the tourists’ perspective. By conducting fieldwork in Zhaishi village of Yongning Township and Lige village near Lugu Lake, encompassing semi-structured interviews with professionals and questionnaires for tourists, we explore the relationship between the “imagined” and “perceived” identity from the tourists’ perspective and the constructed identity from the authorities’ perspective in two Mosuo villages in China. The findings suggest that the local government should focus on the (re)shaping of tourists’ imagined identity and perceived identities. The results of this study provide policy recommendations for the future development of tourism in the Mosuo region, thereby enriching the perspective of ethnic tourism research.
Performance Improvement of Wireless Power Transfer System for Sustainable EV Charging Using Dead-Time Integrated Pulse Density Modulation Approach
Authors: John Franklin , Komarasamy Pongiannan Rakkiya Goundar , Rajamanickam Narayanamoorthi , Vavra Lukas , Petrov Jan , Kral Vladimir
Published: August 2024

The recent developments in electric vehicle (EV) necessities the requirement of a human intervention free charging system for safe and reliable operation. Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology shows promising options to automate the charging process with user convenience. However, the operation of the WPT system is designed to operate at a high-frequency (HF) range, which requires proper control and modulation technique to improve the performance of power electronic modules. This paper proposes a dead-time (DT) integrated Pulse Density Modulation (PDM) technique to provide better control with minimal voltage and current ripples at the switches. The proposed technique is investigated using a LCC-LCL compensated WPT system, which predominantly affects the high-frequency voltage and current ripples. The performance analysis is studied at different density conditions to explore the impact of the integrated PDM approach. Moreover, the PDM technique gives better control over the power transfer at different levels of load requirement. The simulation and experimental analysis was performed for a 3.7 kW WPT prototype test system under different modes of operation of the high-frequency power converters. Both the simulated and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed PDM technique effectively enhances the efficiency of the HF inverter while significantly reducing output current ripples, power dissipation and improving the overall WPT system efficiency to 92%, and leading to a reduction in the power loss in the range of 10% to 20%. This leads to improved overall system control and performance.
Environmental Sustainability in OECD Nations: The Moderating Impact of Green Innovation on Urbanization and Green Growth
Authors: Chang Guanling , Yasin Iftikhar , Naqvi Syed Muhammad Muddassir Abbas
Published: August 2024

Rapid urbanization and economic growth in OECD member nations have intensified environmental challenges, notably the rise in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Despite significant research on urbanization and growth, there is little knowledge of how these factors interact with green innovation to affect CO2 emissions. This study addresses this gap by exploring the impacts of urbanization, green innovation, and green growth on CO2 emissions in OECD countries. Using panel data analysis from 1996 to 2022, this study employs a robust econometric approach, including the Breusch–Pagan and Pesaran tests for cross-sectional dependency, the CIPS unit root test, and cointegration tests by Kao and Westerlund. The results confirm the complex interrelations of the variables by revealing notable cross-sectional dependence and heterogeneity among them. Both the Driscoll–Kraay and System GMM estimations demonstrate that green growth (GreG) and green innovation (GrI) significantly reduce CO2 emanations, while urbanization (U) has a notable inverse effect. Renewable energy consumption (REnC) also contributes to lower pollution emanations, whereas energy consumption (EnC) and natural resource dependency (NrD) worsen environmental degradation. The study emphasizes the need for green economic policies and innovations to slow climate change, support sustainable growth, and improve environmental quality.
Decarbonizing Urban Mobility: A Methodology for Shifting Modal Shares to Achieve CO2 Reduction Targets
Authors: Ribeiro Paulo J. G. , Dias Gabriel , Mendes José F. G.
Published: August 2024

In most urban areas, mobility is predominantly reliant on automobiles, leading to significant negative environmental impacts, such as noise pollution, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. To meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement, urgent action is required to decarbonize the mobility sector. This necessitates the development of assessment and planning tools to create effective decarbonization scenarios. Urban mobility must evolve to reduce dependency on fossil fuels by increasing public transport options and promoting active modes of transportation. This research presents a methodology to estimate the modal share required to shift car users to active modes and public transport, thereby achieving future CO2 emission reduction targets in the road transport sector. A case study in Braga, Portugal, demonstrates that to meet the 2040 target of 59,150 tons of CO2, 63% of trips must be made using active modes (e.g., walking and cycling) and 32% by public transport.
Activating Solidarity-Economy Territories: Towards a ‘Differently-New’ Economic Approach: The Case of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region (Italy)
Authors: Piani Lucia , Curiazi Roberta
Published: August 2024

Since 2012, the University of Udine has been directly involved in research to study the Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) solidarity-economy sector, even collaborating to develop the first regional law on the solidarity economy (ESol). Recently, the university has implemented a project to profoundly investigate the practices that can be part of the Regional ESol tissue, based on the indications provided by the Regional Law 4/2017, to delimit and characterise them, know their distribution over the regional territory, and divide them by territorial areas (thinking about the activation of future economic-solidarity communities) and sectors (thinking about the activation of future economic-solidarity chains). After an initial qualitative analysis at the conceptual and values levels, and after building a database of regional ESol realities—useful for further qualitative–quantitative in-depth analysis in the future, too—we mapped and georeferenced the FVG ESol framework, obtaining indications on where to intervene to enhance ESol local supply chains as active laboratories for future bioregional territorial development, and to understand where the activation of local solidarity-based community assemblies is possible, to support local solidarity initiatives as the Regional Law states. The results show a regional picture rich in economic-solidarity realities spread throughout the territory with a wide variety of proposals but still struggling to concretely apply the tools provided by the Regional Law even though they are acting in the microsphere as cells of sustainable and solidarity-based “re-appropriation” and “re-inhabiting” of the territory. In this paper, we want to present the project results by discussing the size and characteristics of the regional solidarity-economic sector and the opportunity inherent in developing a different logic of “doing enterprise”, combining the need to produce wealth with maintaining, preserving, and enhancing our environment, cultivating an economical and productive culture distinct from the one still prevailing today, and making our territories “places of life”.
An Assessment of Sustainability of Dual-Purpose, Dairy and Beef Cattle Production Systems in the Cundinamarca Department (Colombia) Using the MESMIS Framework
Authors: Cruz Fabián , Pardo Dolly , Horcada Alberto , Mena Yolanda
Published: August 2024

The Cundinamarca Department is located in the Colombian Andean region, and features a variety of bovine production systems dedicated to milk, beef or dual-purpose production in cold, warm and temperate climate areas, respectively. This paper analyses the sustainability of a sample of 35 farms (12 dual-purpose, 13 milk production and 10 beef production) located in some of its municipal areas using MESMIS methodology, which evaluated indicators related to social, environmental and economic factors of the systems during 1 year, grouping them by their productivity, adaptability, equity, self-management and resilience. For productivity, adaptability and equity, the dairy systems scored higher than dual-purpose and beef systems, whereas for the indicators of self-management, stability and resilience, the dairy systems scored lowest, while dual-purpose systems were the best. The indicators of economic sustainability increased in proportion to the intensification of the production system, availability of agricultural machinery and added value, resulting in the best scores being obtained by the dairy system and the worst by the beef system. For social sustainability indicators, the best score was obtained by dual-purpose systems, with dairy systems scoring the lowest, while dairy systems scored highest for environmental indicators. The results could be used to endorse public policies to promote the generation of sustainable agricultural systems.
Can We Trust Them? FAST and DPA in Assessing Unstable Patients Following Blunt Abdominal Trauma
Authors: Quinn Rakesh , Hsu Jeremy , Pang Tony
Published: August 2024

The diagnosis of intra-abdominal exsanguination in hemodynamically unstable blunt trauma patients is almost universally determined by Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST). However, FAST has been reported to have poor sensitivity and is therefore associated with false-negative examinations. Our institutional practice includes diagnostic peritoneal aspirate (DPA) following two negative FASTs to address the poor sensitivity. We hypothesized that serial FAST alone would be able to exclude clinically significant abdominal bleeding in an unstable blunt trauma patient. A retrospective cohort study was conducted between 2018 and 2020 at a major tertiary trauma referral hospital, including all blunt trauma patients who were hemodynamically unstable. Two groups were analyzed: 1. “FAST+”: those who had a positive FAST scan and proceeded to a trauma laparotomy, and 2. “DPA”: those who had serial negative FAST scans and proceeded to DPA. Of the 12 patients in the FAST+ group, 92% correctly identified the abdomen as the source of instability. Of the seventeen patients in the DPA group, only two (12%) had positive DPA. Both patients underwent laparotomies, but neither identified an abdominal source of hemodynamic instability. The most common cause of hemodynamic instability in the DPA group was pelvic bleeding from major pelvic ring disruption. The sensitivity and specificity of the serial FAST exam for clinically significant abdominal bleeding were 100% and 94%, respectively. These data suggests that two sequential negative FAST scans are adequate for excluding intra-abdominal bleeding as the source of instability, with further investigation with DPA not identifying any clinically significant sources of intra-abdominal bleeding.
Seismic Vulnerability Analysis of Concrete-Filled Steel Tube Tied Arch Bridges Using Symmetrically Arranged High-Damping Rubber Bearings
Authors: Zhang Qingxi , Wang Xiangyang , Huang Jiangshuai
Published: August 2024

High-damping rubber bearings play an essential role in isolated bridges. They can prolong the natural vibration period of a bridge and reduce its seismic response. In order to quantitatively study the isolation performance of high-damping rubber bearings, this paper investigates a concrete-filled steel tube-tied arch bridge as the research object and uses symmetrically arranged high-damping rubber bearings for isolation reconstruction. Nonlinear finite element analysis models for isolated and non-isolated bridges are built based on the structural properties of the actual bridge. Based on the structural deformation failure criterion, a bridge damage evaluation index system is established, the damage index of each component is defined, and a quantitative analysis of different damage states is carried out. Based on the incremental dynamic analysis method, the seismic vulnerability curves of bridge components and systems are established. By comparing the seismic vulnerability curves of the bridge before and after isolation, the isolation effect of the high-damping rubber bearings is quantitatively evaluated. The results of the analysis show that the high-damping rubber bearings have a significant isolation effect on the bridge structure and the effect is symmetrically distributed along the longitudinal symmetry plane of the bridge. After adopting the isolation measures, the exceedance probability of damage of each component of the bridge is reduced to varying degrees. Among them, the isolation effect on piers and arch ribs is the most significant, up to more than 90%. At the same time, the exceedance probability of damage of the bearing itself is less reduced. This result is also consistent with the original intention of the design of the isolation bearing; that is, through the energy dissipation of the isolation bearing, the seismic response of other components of the bridge is reduced.
Enhancing Symmetry and Memory in the Fractional Economic Growing Quantity (FEGQ) Model
Authors: Ouhmid Azedine , El Moutaouakil Karim , Belhabib Fatima , Patriciu Alina-Mihaela
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we present a novel approach to inventory management modeling, specifically tailored for growing items. We extend traditional economic growth quantity (EGQ) models by introducing the fractional economic growing quantity (FEGQ) model. This new approach improves the model’s symmetry and dynamic responsiveness, providing a more precise representation of the changing nature of inventory items. Additionally, the use of fractional derivatives allows our model to incorporate the memory effect, introducing a new dynamic concept in inventory management. This advancement enables us to select the optimal business policy to maximize profit. We adopt the fractional derivative in terms of Caputo derivative sense to model the inventory level associated with the items. To analytically solve the (FEGQ) model, we use the Laplacian transform to obtain an algebraic equation. As for the logistic function, known for its symmetrical S-shaped curve, it closely mirrors real-life growth patterns and is defined using fractional calculus. We apply an iterative approximation method, specifically the Adomian decomposition method, to solve the fractional logistic function. Through a sensitivity analysis, we delve for the first time into the discussion of the initial weights, which have a massive impact on the total profit level. The provided numerical data indicate that the firm began with a favorable policy. In the following years, several misguided practices were implemented that led to a decrease in profitability. The healing process began once again by selecting more effective strategies.
Computational Analysis of the Comprehensive Lifetime Performance Index for Exponentiated Fréchet Lifetime Distribution Products with Multi-Components
Authors: Wu Shu-Fei , Yeh Hsueh-Chien
Published: August 2024

The lifetime performance index is commonly used in the manufacturing industry to evaluate the performance of the capabilities of the production process. For products with multiple components, the comprehensive lifetime performance index, which is a monotonically increasing function of the overall process yield, is used to relate to each individual lifetime performance index. For products where the lifetime of the ith component follows an exponentiated Fréchet lifetime distribution, we examine the maximum likelihood estimators for both the comprehensive and individual lifetime performance indices based on the progressive type I interval-censored samples, deriving their asymptotic distributions. By specifying the target level for the comprehensive lifetime performance index, we can set the desired level for individual indices. A testing procedure, using the maximum likelihood estimator as the test statistic, was developed to determine if the comprehensive lifetime performance index meets the target. Given that the lifetime distribution is asymmetric, this study pertains to asymmetrical probability distributions and their applications across diverse fields. We illustrate the power analysis of this testing procedure with figures and summarize key findings. Finally, we demonstrate the application of this testing algorithm with a practical example involving two components to verify if the overall production process achieves the assigned target level.
MIRA: Multi-Joint Imitation with Recurrent Adaptation for Robot-Assisted Rehabilitation
Authors: Ashary Ali , Mishra Ruchik , Rayguru Madan M. , Popa Dan O.
Published: August 2024

This work proposes a modular learning framework (MIRA) for rehabilitation robots based on a new deep recurrent neural network (RNN) that achieves adaptive multi-joint motion imitation. The RNN is fed with the fundamental frequencies as well as the ranges of the joint trajectories, in order to predict the future joint trajectories of the robot. The proposed framework also uses a Segment Online Dynamic Time Warping (SODTW) algorithm to quantify the closeness between the robot and patient motion. The SODTW cost decides the amount of modification needed in the inputs to our deep RNN network, which in turn adapts the robot movements. By keeping the prediction mechanism (RNN) and adaptation mechanism (SODTW) separate, the framework achieves modularity, flexibility, and scalability. We tried both Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) RNN architectures within our proposed framework. Experiments involved a group of 15 human subjects performing a range of motion tasks in conjunction with our social robot, Zeno. Comparative analysis of the results demonstrated the superior performance of the LSTM RNN across multiple task variations, highlighting its enhanced capability for adaptive motion imitation.
Enhanced Diagnostic Accuracy of Pulmonary Embolism: Integrating Low-Dose CT with V/Q SPECT
Authors: Lasloom Munassar Dakkam , Abuzaid Mohamed
Published: August 2024

Objective: This study aimed to retrospectively assess the benefits of combining low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) with ventilation/perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (V/Q SPECT) for the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE). Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 92 patients with suspected PE who underwent V/Q SPECT with ldCT (V/Q SPECT CT) between January 2020 and December 2022 at King Khalid Hospital Najran. Data were collected using the hospital’s picture archiving and communication system. Scans were categorized on the basis of perfusion defects, matched or mismatched ventilation, and CT findings. The specificity of V/Q SPECT CT was compared with that of Q SPECT CT. Results: This study included 92 patients (54 females and 38 males; median age, 53 years). The results demonstrated that V/Q SPECT CT had higher specificity (93%) than V/Q SPECT alone (88%). If CT had been used as a ventilation substitute, 21% of patients would have been reported to be positive for PE (8% false-positive), yielding a specificity of 60% for Q SPECT CT. These findings align with the existing literature, although discrepancies in specificity values were noted due to the different study designs and sample sizes. Conclusion: This study highlights the enhanced specificity of V/Q SPECT CT compared to V/Q SPECT and Q SPECT CT alone. Including low-dose CT improves diagnostic accuracy by reducing false positives and providing detailed anatomical information. V/Q SPECT CT offers superior specificity in diagnosing PE compared with V/Q SPECT alone, supporting its use in clinical practice.
Monitoring the Efficacy of Tafamidis in ATTR Cardiac Amyloidosis by MRI-ECV: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kato Shingo , Azuma Mai , Horita Nobuyuki , Utsunomiya Daisuke
Published: August 2024

Background: The usefulness of monitoring treatment effect of tafamidis using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) extracellular volume fraction (ECV) has been reported. Objective: we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the usefulness of this method. Methods: Data from 246 ATTR-CMs from six studies were extracted and included in the analysis. An inverse variance meta-analysis using a random effects model was performed to evaluate the change in MRI-ECV before and after tafamidis treatment. The analysis was also performed by classifying the patients into ATTR-CM types (wild-type or hereditary). Results: ECV change before and after tafamidis treatment was 0.33% (95% CI: −1.83–2.49, I2 = 0%, p = 0.76 for heterogeneity) in the treatment group and 4.23% (95% CI: 0.44–8.02, I2 = 0%, p = 0.18 for heterogeneity) in the non-treatment group. The change in ECV before and after treatment was not significant in the treated group (p = 0.76), but there was a significant increase in the non-treated group (p = 0.03). There was no difference in the change in ECV between wild-type (95% CI: −2.65–3.40) and hereditary-type (95% CI: −9.28–4.28) (p = 0.45). Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis suggest that MRI-ECV measurement is a useful imaging method for noninvasively evaluating the efficacy of tafamidis treatment for ATTR-CM.
Effect of Bioactive Ingredients on Urinary Excretion of Aflatoxin B1 and Ochratoxin A in Rats, as Measured by Liquid Chromatography with Fluorescence Detection
Authors: Vila-Donat Pilar , Sánchez Dora , Cimbalo Alessandra , Mañes Jordi , Manyes Lara
Published: August 2024

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) are highly toxic mycotoxins present in food and feed, posing serious health risks to humans and animals. This study aimed to validate an efficient and cost-effective analytical method for quantifying AFB1 and OTA in rat urine using immunoaffinity column extraction and liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (IAC-LC-FD). Additionally, the study evaluated the effect of incorporating fermented whey and pumpkin into the feed on the urinary excretion of these mycotoxins. The limits of detection and quantification were determined to be 0.1 µg/kg and 0.3 µg/kg, respectively, for both mycotoxins in feed, and 0.2 ng/mL and 0.6 ng/mL, respectively, in urine. The method demonstrated robust recovery rates ranging from 74% to 119% for both AFB1 and OTA in both matrices. In feed samples, the levels of AFB1 and OTA ranged from 4.3 to 5.2 µg/g and from 5.4 to 8.8 µg/g, respectively. This validated method was successfully applied to analyze 116 urine samples from rats collected during the fourth week of an in vivo trial. The results indicated that the addition of fermented whey and pumpkin to the feed influenced mycotoxin excretion in urine, with variations observed based on the sex of the rats, type of mycotoxin, and exposure dosage.
Hot Stars, Young Stellar Populations and Dust with Swift/UVOT
Authors: Siegel Michael H. , Gronwall Caryl
Published: August 2024

In this review, we highlight the contributions made by the Swift/UVOT instrument to the understanding of the ultraviolet (UV) attenuation and extinction properties of interstellar dust and provide insight into hot stars and young stellar populations. The study of these two fields is interconnected: UV-bright objects can only be understood if the effects of foreground dust are accounted for, but foreground dust can only be accounted for by studying the properties of UV-bright objects. Decades worth of work have established that the effects of dust on background starlight vary in the ultraviolet, with proposed extinction laws having a wide variety of slopes and a strong “bump” spectroscopic feature at 2175 Å. We show that UVOT is uniquely suited to probe variations in the UV extinction law, specifically because of the uvm2 filter that is centered on the bump and the telescope’s ability to resolve nearby stellar populations. When used in combination with optical and infrared imaging, UVOT can provide strong constraints on variations in the extinction law, both from galaxy to galaxy and within individual galaxies, as well as the properties of young stellar populations. Surveys of UVOT have included the Milky Way, the galaxies of the Local Group, the Local Volume Legacy Survey (LVLS) and two deep fields. All of these are being utilized to provide the most detailed information yet about the UV dust attenuation law and the connection of its variation to underlying physical processes as well as the UV properties of hot stars and young stellar populations.
Weak Deflection Angle by the Einstein–Cartan Traversable Wormhole Using Gauss–Bonnet Theorem with Time Delay
Authors: Sarkar Susmita , Sarkar Nayan , Dutta Abhisek , Rahaman Farook
Published: August 2024

In this article, we estimate the gravitational deflection angles of light in the spacetime of Einstein–Cartan wormholes supported by normal matter or phantom energy utilizing the Gauss–Bonnet theorem. The obtained deflection angles are examined in relation to the wormhole throat radius r0 and the equation of state parameter ω across four scenarios, and it has been seen that the larger throat radii r0 result in higher deflection angles. Moreover, the wormholes filled with phantom energy exhibit greater deflection angles compared to those filled with normal matter. The reported deflection angles are influenced by dark matter and Maxwell’s fish eye matter: Dark matter, as well as Maxwell’s fish eye matter, increases the deflection angles. The deflection angle is also estimated using the Keeton and Petters method, which is proportional to wormhole throat r0 and inversely proportional to the impact parameter b. Additionally, a comparative study is performed on the deflection angles obtained from four different scenarios. Finally, analytical results for time delay due to Einstein–Cartan wormholes are estimated for the four ω cases which are decreasing for increasing values of rc.
The Design of a Strategic Platform for the Smart Supervision of Public Expenditure for Colombia in the Context of Society 5.0
Authors: Restrepo-Carmona Jaime A. , Zuluaga Juan C. , Flórez Diego A. , Gómez Mario S. , Londoño Laura , Gómez Gabriela , Villamil Rosse M. , Morales Olguer , Hurtado Ángela M. , Escobar Carlos A. , Sierra-Pérez Julián , Vásquez Rafael E.
Published: August 2024

The overarching vision of Society 5.0 seeks to integrate technology to enhance quality of life and address social issues, with the primary goal of creating human-centered communities, which nowadays represent the inhabitants of smart cities. In this context, this work addresses the design of a modular strategic platform for the smart supervision of public expenditure, to be used by the Directorate of Information, Analysis, and Immediate Reaction (DIARI) of the General Comptroller of the Republic (CGR) of Colombia as a significant contribution towards the country’s transition into Society 5.0. The design was performed by conducting a detailed literature review on fiscal control; performing a comprehensive analysis of the legal, organizational, and technological aspects of the country and the CGR; and developing six functional modules focused on topics such as continuous learning, strategic decision making, distinctive value, strategic achievements, capacity building, and organization, within a three-year implementation plan, through a participatory approach. This plan aims to integrate the platform to enable real-time monitoring, early detection of irregularities, and increased transparency in the management of data and public resources; since the start of the operation of the strategic platform in 2024, the DIARI increased the number of alerts generated by 29% over a three-month period with respect to the year 2023. The strategic platform for the DIARI of the CGR is useful for smart cities and the transition into Society 5.0 since it ensures efficient public expenditure management, enhancing transparency and citizen empowerment through modern technologies, data analytics, and active participation in governance processes.
Novel Pestiviruses Detected in Cattle Interfere with Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Diagnostics
Authors: Köster Judith , Schneider Karla , Höper Dirk , Salditt Andreas , Beer Martin , Miller Thomas , Wernike Kerstin
Published: August 2024

Since the start of the mandatory nationwide bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) eradication program in Germany in 2011, the number of persistently infected (PI) animals has decreased considerably, resulting in a continuous decrease in seroprevalence. The increasingly BVD-naive cattle population could facilitate spillover infections with non-BVDV ruminant pestiviruses. Here, we report two cases in which novel pestiviruses were isolated from cattle; in both cases, the whole genome sequence showed the highest level of identity to strain “Pestivirus reindeer-1”. Both novel viruses gave positive results in BVDV diagnostic test systems, confirming that cross-reactivity is an important issue in pestivirus diagnostics. In the first case, the pestivirus was probably transmitted from sheep kept with the affected cattle, suggesting that the co-housing of small ruminants and cattle is a risk factor. The source of infection could not be determined in the second case. The occurrence of these two cases in independent cattle holdings within a relatively short time frame suggests that it would be useful to determine the presence of pestiviruses in small ruminants or even wild ruminants to better assess risk factors, especially for BVDV-free populations.
Treatment of Plantar Warts with a Nitric-Zinc Complex Solution: A Review of 72 Cases
Authors: Garcia-Oreja Sara , Alvaro-Afonso Francisco Javier , Vigara-Aranda Paula , Paramio-Rodriguez Guillermo , Leon-Herce Diego , Lazaro-Martinez Jose Luis
Published: August 2024

Background: There are multiple conservative treatment options for plantar warts, but none have proven to be universally effective. Nitric acid is often used empirically by podiatrists in the treatment of plantar warts. A novel medical device or topical solution of nitric–zinc complex solution (NZCS) could potentially offer an effective and safe alternative for the targeted treatment of plantar warts. Objective: To observe the rate of complete healing of NZCS in a series of plantar wart cases and to establish the minimum number of product applications and time needed for healing. This will help standardize and protocolize its use. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted involving 72 patients who exhibited symptoms of plantar warts. These patients underwent chemical treatment using a nitric–zinc complex. Results: The cure rate with NZCS was 59.2%. The average number of NZCS applications was 5.9 ± 3.0 and the mean duration of treatment was 9.4 ± 7.1 weeks. A recurrence rate of 6.7% was observed. Conclusions: The topical solution of the nitric–zinc complex is an effective treatment for plantar warts, which can be considered a first-line treatment option in the general population.
Polyolefin-Based Cladding Panels from Discarded Fishing Ropes: A Sustainable Solution for Managing Fishing Gear Waste in Isolated Islands
Authors: Belmokhtar Zakariae , Sanchez-Diaz Simon , Cousin Patrice , Elkoun Saïd , Robert Mathieu
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the potential for recycling fishing rope waste from the Magdalen Islands, Canada, into sustainable wall cladding panels, addressing both environmental concerns and waste management challenges. A comprehensive characterization of the fishing ropes was conducted using various analytical techniques to assess their suitability for recycling. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) identified polyethylene (PE) and isotactic polypropylene (iPP) as the main polymers present in the ropes, with a composition of approximately 25% PE and 75% PP. The effects of photodegradation were evaluated through carbonyl index analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), tensile testing, and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The results showed reduced crystallinity, a 20% decrease in tensile strength, and lower molecular weights due to environmental exposure in comparison with unused ropes. However, melt flow rate (MFR) measurements aligned with virgin HDPE and PP values used in rope manufacturing, indicating suitable processability for recycling. Panels produced from recycled fishing ropes exhibited lower flexural and impact properties compared to commercial alternatives due to the presence of mineral contaminants and voids in the panels as revealed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the potential repurposing of fishing rope waste, contributing to the development of sustainable waste management strategies for coastal communities.
DEMOCRACY AS A GOAL AND POST-TRUTH AS A TOOL: THE COHERENCE DILEMMA
Authors: Hotsaliuk Alla
Published: August 2024

The research objective. Understanding the expediency of using post-truth "under the auspices" of democracy and "for the needs" of democracy takes priority.
The statement of basic material. The services of the post-truth toolkit are used by all modern socio-political regimes, regardless of their place in the report card on democratic ranks, and the reason for this phenomenon is because the post-truth toolkit in many applied aspects has such a level of effectiveness that it is difficult for democratic norms and procedures to compete with. However, post-truth is unable to provide high-quality information advantages, and therefore in the vast majority of cases it leads to a loss both in the information support of the war and in the war as a whole.
MAIN DIRECTIONS AND STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS OF CIVIC EDUCATION
Authors: Prytula Olexandr
Published: August 2024

The research objective is to determine the features of directions and structural elements of civic education of the individual.
The statement of basic materials. The article deals with the main directions and structural elements of civic education – achieving physical perfection, strengthening the will and spirit, forming moral and ethical qualities. Need-motivational function, value-normative function, aesthetic function, moral function are distinguished among others as the most necessary for the development of the spiritual sphere of a person in the frame of physical education. The spiritual and moral basis of modern civic education is analyzed, which should be based on cognitive, regulatory and behavioral norms, which include developing the skills to reason, analyze, ask questions and look for answers, think critically and consider the problem comprehensively. The above mentioned skills are formed by means of mental education aimed at the development of the pupils’ intellectual powers, their thinking, and the transfer of the mental work culture. The process of formation and development of critical thinking is considered as one of the innovative pedagogical technologies, which enables the transition of traditional education, which is focused on the acquisition of knowledge, to a new type of humanistic and innovative education, which is focused on the transformation of acquired knowledge, abilities and skills into subject competencies.
EDUCATION TO IMPROVE THE STATUS OF WOMEN IN MODERN SOCIETY: THE CHINESE CASE
Authors: Na Zhan
Published: August 2024

The statement of basic materials: This article is dedicated to studying the development of women’s education in China, from the time when very few women could receive education to the popularization of women’s education today. Analyzing the educational status of contemporary Chinese women and discovering its shortcomings requires us to continuously improve the educational environment for women in the process of educational development.
Conclusions: Women's education in China originated in the late 19th century and had a significant impact on breaking free from the shackles of outmoded ideas and breaking down unequal gender perspectives. Nowadays, women's education in China continues to develop steadily, and the gender gap has been basically eliminated in the field of elementary education. The gender ratio of compulsory education and high school education is basically the same as that of the birth population, and gender education has basically achieved data equality. However, behind the prosperity of women's education, there are also some risks that cannot be ignored. Therefore, developing women's education remains a long-term and arduous task that requires unremitting efforts from all countries.
Long-Term Morbidity and Mortality of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Patients Receiving Maintenance Dialysis: A Multicenter Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Bota Sarah E. , McArthur Eric , Naylor Kyla L. , Blake Peter G. , Yau Kevin , Hladunewich Michelle A. , Levin Adeera , Oliver Matthew J.
Published: August 2024

Key Points

The rates of long-term mortality, reinfection, cardiovascular outcomes, and hospitalization were high among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors on maintenance dialysis.

Several risk factors, including intensive care unit admission related to COVID-19 and reinfection, were found to have a prolonged effect on survival.

This study shows that the burden of COVID-19 remains high after the period of acute infection in the population receiving maintenance dialysis.

Background

Many questions remain about the population receiving maintenance dialysis who survived coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Previous literature has focused on outcomes associated with the initial severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, but it may underestimate the effect of disease. This study describes the long-term morbidity and mortality among patients receiving maintenance dialysis in Ontario, Canada, who survived SARS-CoV-2 infection and the risk factors associated with long-term mortality.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cohort study of patients receiving maintenance dialysis in Ontario, Canada, who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and survived 30 days between March 14, 2020, and December 1, 2021 (pre-Omicron), with follow-up until September 30, 2022. Our primary outcome was all-cause mortality while our secondary outcomes included reinfection, composite of cardiovascular (CV)–related death or hospitalization, all-cause hospitalization, and admission to long-term care or complex continuing care. We also examined risk factors associated with long-term mortality using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

We included 798 COVID-19 survivors receiving maintenance dialysis. After the first 30 days of infection, death occurred at a rate of 15.0 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 12.9 to 17.5) over a median follow-up of 1.4 years (interquartile range, 1.1–1.7) with a nadir of death at approximately 0.5 years. Reinfection, composite CV death or hospitalization, and all-cause hospitalization occurred at a rate (95% CI) of 15.9 (13.6 to 18.5), 17.4 (14.9 to 20.4), and 73.1 (66.6 to 80.2) per 100 person-years, respectively. In addition to traditional predictors of mortality, intensive care unit admission for COVID-19 had a prolonged effect on survival (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.6 to 4.3). Reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 among 30-day survivors increased all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.4 to 3.3).

Conclusions

The burden of COVID-19 persists beyond the period of acute infection in the population receiving maintenance dialysis in Ontario with high rates of death, reinfection, all-cause hospitalization, and CV disease among COVID-19 survivors.
INFLUENCE OF TECHNOLOGICAL METHODS ON YIELD OF MILLET IN THE SOUTHERN FOREST-STEPPE OF WESTERN SIBERIA
Authors: Юшкевич Леонид Витальевич , Чибис Валерий Викторович
Published: August 2024

В настоящее время потребности перерабатывающей промышленности в Западной Сибири удовлетворяются в зерне проса только на 20%. Изучение технологических приёмов (способов посева и норм высева) при возделывании проса проведено в южной лесостепи Омской области (ОПХ «Сосновское» СибМИС) в 2-факторном полевом опыте. Опыт закладывался отдельными (4) блоками. Повторность 4-кратная, размещение последовательное. Способ посева и норма высева проса оказывали существенное влияние на глубину заделки семян, полевую всхожесть, состояние в агрофитоценозе и продуктивность культуры. При посеве проса дисковыми сеялками на заданную глубину (3 - 5 см) располагается 79 - 89 % высеянных семян, при посеве стерневыми сеялками (СЗС - 2,1, СКП - 2,1) - около 60%. С повышением нормы высева проса с 2,0 до 5,0 млн биомасса снопа с 1 м возросла на 43 - 58 %, культуры - на 71 - 94 %, а биомасса сорняков снижалась в 1,9 - 2,7 раза. При оптимальной норме высева проса (4,0 млн всхожих зерен на гектар) преимущество по урожайности имеет способ посева СКП-2,1 - 2,10 т/га, с превышением над другими вариантами - на 6-12 %. Высокая полевая всхожесть была отмечена у растений, высеянных сеялкой СКП-2,1, на 63,2 % больше, чем в посевах СЗС-2,1. Полученные результаты свидетельствуют о возможности применения изученных технологических приемов возделывания проса для повышения урожайности этой культуры в хозяйствах региона.

Now the needs of processing industry for Western Siberia are satisfied in millet grain only for 20%. Studying of processing methods of cultivation of millet (ways and norm of seeding) is carried out in the southern forest-steppe of the Omsk region to the 2nd factorial field experiment. Experience was put by separate (4) blocks. The frequency is 4-fold, placement serial The way of crops and norm of seeding of a millet has significant effect on depth of seal of seeds, field viability, a state in agrophytocenosis and efficiency of culture. At crops of a millet disk seeders on the given depth (3 - 5 cm) 79 - 89% of the sowed seeds are located, at crops by stubble seeder (SZS - 2.1, SKP - 2.1) about 60%. With increase in norm of seeding of a millet from 2.0 to 5.0 million biomass of plants with 1 sq. m increased by 43 - 58%, cultures - for 71 - 94%, and biomass of weeds decreased by 1.9 - 2.7 times. At optimum norm of seeding of a millet (4.0 million viable grains on hectare) on productivity the way of crops SKP-2.1 - 2.10 t/hectare, with excess over other options for 6-12%. The high field viability was noted at the plants sowed by the SKP seeder - 2.1 for 63.2% it is more, than in crops of SZS - 2.1. The received results testify to a possibility of application of the studied processing methods of millet cultivation increase in productivity of this culture in farms of the region.
A Study Of The Pr & Marketing Tactics Used In The Gaming Industry.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Hurley David
Published: August 2024

"The gaming industry in Ireland has changed greatly in the last 20 years. The way in which we communicate has also changed greatly in this time due to technological advancements. This advanced technology has greatly changed the way in which the gaming industry works, as there has been a massive increase in popularity in recent years thanks to the advent of online gaming. This study aims to examine and gain an understanding of the public relations and marketing tactics being promoted by both game developers and the organisations that supply them. It also assesses the overall impact the gaming industry has had on Ireland. For the purpose of this study, qualitative research was carried out by way of four semi-structured interviews with gaming organisations and two online interviews with experts well versed in the gaming industry. The findings of the research conclude that gaming continues to be more popular than ever before in Ireland, and that it is essential to have a PR and marketing team in the background during the promotion of new products in the launch process. Recommendations are also offered for the future, in order for PR professionals and marketers to capitalise on the current gaming industry boom. There are a wide variety of options available to the PR and marketing department, none of which are necessarily right or wrong — the important thing is coming up with innovative ideas in order to capture the interest of potential customers."
A Comparative Study Of How Social Media And Web 2.0 Tools, Such As Facebook, Twitter And Viral Marketing, Can Be Used By Small Businesses, To Integrate A Business Strategy Of Augmenting The Company Profile And Awareness With Their Publics
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Foley Robyn
Published: August 2024

The object of this dissertation was to explore the public relations techniques implemented by small businesses located in Cork.
Quantum Engineering Of Laser-cooled Atoms: Experiments And Theory
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Deasy Kieran
Published: August 2024

"In this thesis, laser cooling and trapping techniques are implemented to forrn a cold atom cloud of 85Rb atoms in a magneto-optical trap (Mon configuration. The system produces an atom cloud of~ 1.5 mm in diameter, containing ~ 108 atoms and an average temperature in the sub-Doppler range. Tapered optical fibres (TOFs) are also detailed here, including their guiding properties and the process used for their fabrication. Many possible applications for TOFs have been proposed and one such application is investigated, i.e. the use of TOFs as highly sensitive atom probes. The research results contained within this thesis describe two techniques whereby TOFs can be used as probes. By overlapping the TOF and a cold atom cloud spontaneously emitted photons from the trapped atoms are coupled into the guided mode of the TOF. This then allows characteristics of the cold atom cloud, such as the cloud profile, loading time, lifetime and temperature to be determined. The second technique uses light guided by, but external to, the fibre, i.e. within the evanescent field, to probe the surrounding environment, which may be a cold atom cloud or a background vapour. The work presented also describes a theoretical basis for quantum state preparation using multi-level-atom optics, allowing for the creation of spatial superposition states in which one has perfect control over the population distribution and also the phase relation."