bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Features and Issues of Disaster Management Education Practices in Schools and Communities in Japan: Based on an Analysis of Activities of Organizations Participating in the “Disaster Management Education Challenge Plan” of the Cabinet Office
Authors: Kimura Reo ,   Editorial Office, Ikeda Masaki
Published: January 2024

In this study, we analyzed the disaster management education programs implemented by organizations included in the Disaster Management Education Challenge Plan, a program established to support disaster management education efforts in Japan. We examined the changes in these programs and identified the current state and issues in the promotion of disaster education in Japan by classifying the contents. The study methodology involved creating data sets of the program reports submitted from fiscal year (FY) 2004 to FY2021 by organizations admitted to the Disaster Management Education Challenge Plan, and evaluating them on scales of “fundamental skills of disaster management” and “factors regarding implementing the programs.” Analysis of the former found that there were few programs aimed at acquiring a scientific understanding of disasters as natural phenomena or learning about measures to prevent damage at normal times. Cluster analysis yielded eight clusters, based on which we discussed and proposed ways to implement the programs in order to improve the “fundamental skills of disaster management.” Similarly, analysis of the latter identified issues with regard to program logistics, such as securing financial resources and cultivating future successors. Cluster analysis yielded five clusters, based on which we discussed and proposed ways to effectively implement the programs.
Open-Door Events of the Sakurajima Volcano Observatory, Kyoto University in the Last Ten Years
Authors: Nakamichi Haruhisa ,   Editorial Office
Published: January 2024

Sakurajima Volcano Observatory, with a history exceeding 60 years, is recognized by researchers in Japan and overseas for conducting frontier research centering on Sakurajima, the most active volcano in Japan. It is owned by Kyoto University and represents the university in the surrounding communities. This paper reviews the open-door events, which have been conducted yearly for the last ten years as a part of a university-wide effort by Kyoto University. They make use of the facilities at Sakurajima Volcano Observatory, which aims to enhance the understanding of volcanoes among the general public in collaboration with geo-guides as “boundary workers.”
BESTMITTEL AND SILICA FUME EFFECT ON CONCRETE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH WITH SEAWATER CURING
Authors: Tandilino Frianto , Hutabarat Lolom Evalita , Simanjuntak Risma Masniari
Published: January 2024

The frequency of tidal floods caused by seawater threatens coastal buildings. This study aims to see how using seawater for concrete treatment affects the resulting compressive strength. This study used additives such as Bestmittel to expedite hardening and boost compressive strength, as well as silica fume to increase porosity and prevent concrete from becoming porous owing to chloride ion intrusion from seawater. The findings of concrete compressive strength tests were achieved through laboratory testing using cylindrical test objects measuring 150 mm in diameter and 300 mm in height. The test specimens were ordinary concrete with 0.6% bestmittel and a Silica Fume combination with varying percentages of 15%, 20%, and 25% substituting partial cement. Meanwhile, the concrete treatment employs both fresh water and seawater. Pressure tests were performed at 14 and 28 days. At 14 days, concrete with fresh water treatment and a bestmittel content of 0.6% and silica fume concentrations of 15%, 20%, and 25% have compressive strengths of 25.53 MPa, 27.11 MPa, and 26.04 MPa, respectively. Meanwhile, it was 26.34 MPa, 27.61 MPa, and 26.75 MPa after 28 days of concrete age. At 14 consecutive days of concrete age, concrete with seawater treatment had a reduced compressive strength. 19.66 MPa, 22.13 MPa, and 23.07 MPa, respectively. Meanwhile, at 28 days, the pressures were 20.53 MPa, 24.77 MPa, and 25.53 MPa. Using 6% bestmittel followed by 15-20% SF can boost the strength of the concrete and let it survive reduced compressive strength due to seawater infiltration.
DEVELOPMENT OF TIKTOK VIDEO BASED LEARNING MEDIA IN SOFTWARE APPLICATION SUBJECT FOR XII DPIB STUDENTS SMK ISLAM 1 BLITAR
Authors: Fanny Iga Widiastuti , Isnandar Isnandar , Aris Ichwanto Muhammad
Published: January 2024

This research is motivated by the lack of use of interactive learning media in software application and interior design subjects. This study aims to develop efficient and interactive tiktok video-based learning media in order to help students more easily understand the learning material delivered by the teacher. This research uses the Research and Development (RnD) development model and the ADDIE research method which consists of 5 stages, namely Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. To determine the feasibility of this learning media, a design validity test was conducted by media experts, material experts, and users (students). The results of the media expert validity test get a value with very feasible criteria, as well as the results of the material expert validation get a value with very feasible media result validation criteria, the results of small group trials on students get a value with a percentage of 91.54%, then on the other hand the results of large group trials on students get a value with a percentage of 86.79%. Thus, Tiktok Video-Based Learning Media for XII DPIB Students of SMK Islam 1 Blitar in Software Application and Interior Design Subjects can be said to be feasible to use as supporting material in learning.
ANALYZING TRANSFERABLE SKILLS OF VOCATIONAL STUDENTS TO ALIGN WITH INDUSTRY DEMANDS
Authors: Rahayu Sri , Meirawan Danny , Muktiarni Muktiarni , Ghinaya Zahra , Sabitri Zenita
Published: January 2024

The rapid development of the world in the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) era has led to changes in various sectors, including the education sector. According to the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in August 2022, Vocational High Schools contribute the highest unemployment rate of 9.42% compared to other educational levels. Therefore, this research aims to analyze the level of Transferable Skills, which refers to skills that can be transferred and consistent in continuous learning, among Vocational High School students and their fulfillment of the needs of the working industry. The method used in this research is descriptive quantitative with a survey technique through a cross-sectional approach to gather information. The instruments used in this study consist of questionnaires distributed to vocational high school students in Indonesia who have undergone job training and supervisors in the industry where the students conducted their job training in various regions in Indonesia. The findings of this research indicate that, overall, the vocational high school students have a satisfactory level of Transferable Skills. However, there are still several aspects that need improvement. This research contributes significantly to understanding the level of transferable skills among vocational high school students and the needs of working industry in the VUCA era. The results of this study can serve as a basis for the development of more effective and relevant vocational education programs to prepare students to meet the demands of an increasingly complex and dynamic job market.
APROXIMACIÓN A LA GESTIÓN ECONÓMICA DEL INSTITUTO PROVINCIAL DE CÓRDOBA EN LA CRISIS FINISECULAR (1895-1902)
Authors: García Cano María Isabel
Published: January 2024

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo central conocer la situación económica del Instituto Provincial de Córdoba en los últimos años del siglo XIX, coincidentes con la crisis nacional de finales de dicho siglo. Para ello analizamos los ingresos y sobre todo los gastos del mismo desde el punto de vista cuantitativo y cualitativo, así como las relaciones económicas con el Colegio de La Asunción que era el internado anejo al Instituto
MEDINA MORALES DIEGO, El Oficio del Derecho (el pueblo, su participación en el Derecho y la actividad legislativa), Dykinson, Madrid, 2023, 169 págs
Authors: Sánchez Hidalgo Adolfo
Published: January 2024

recensión de la obra MEDINA MORALES DIEGO, El Oficio del Derecho (el pueblo, su participación en el Derecho y la actividad legislativa), Dykinson, Madrid, 2023, 169 págs
Reseña: Veroz-González, M. A. (2022). Traducción Especializada e Institucional. Aproximación teórica a los textos y a la traducción en el Parlamento Europeo. Editorial Sindéresis. 131 pp. ISBN: 978-84-19199-32-4
Authors: Tinedo Rodríguez Antonio Jesús
Published: January 2024

El monográfico publicado por Veroz-González (2022) supone un aporte esencial a los Estudios de Traducción e Interpretación (TeI, en adelante) al igual que a su didáctica específica. En un mundo conectado e intercultural, es fundamental prestar especial atención a aquellos aspectos que como ciudadanos y ciudadanas de Europa nos conciernen. Los textos de carácter institucional que se producen en el parlamento tienen unas características muy específicas y es por ello por lo que se pueden considerar como un lenguaje especializado, y por ello, requiere que su traducción se aborde desde el ámbito de la Traducción Especializada.
Verification of current LA abrasion test criterion for aggregate degradation in airfield asphalt pavements
Authors: Garcia Victor , Cox Benjamin
Published: January 2024

Low-quality mineral aggregates can potentially lead to production, construction, and long-term performance-related problems in asphalt concrete pavements. Therefore, effective qualification criteria for mineral aggregates are paramount. This study was performed to investigate the effectiveness of the Los Angeles abrasion (LAA) test to assess the abrasion resistance of coarse aggregates commonly used in airfield asphalt paving. The LAA test acceptance criteria currently specified by state departments of transportation were examined and compared to the current Department of Defense criterion. Additionally, recent experiences during a forensic evaluation to identify potential sources of excessive presence of foreign object debris on an airfield runway are also briefly discussed in this report. The LAA test and associated acceptance criterion in Unified Facilities Guide Specification (UFGS) 32 12 15.13 were evaluated by testing 24 aggregate sources from various US locations. Also, the Micro-Deval abrasion test was performed as a surrogate abrasion resistance test. Sufficient evidence was not found to suggest adjustments to current LAA test criterion or to recommend the use of an alternative abrasion test. The current UFGS specifications should be improved to provide a more thorough aggregate testing protocol and detailed guidelines regarding aggregate sampling and testing frequency during design and construction of asphalt pavements.
La «corporalidad vestida» en la filmografía de Pedro Almodóvar. Usos y discursos de la edad y la indumentaria en el cine queer
Authors: Navarro Gaviño Álvaro , Muñoz Torrecilla Néstor
Published: January 2024

Este artículo se presenta como una investigación de carácter retrospectivo que incluye un estudio de la edad y la indumentaria dentro del cine de Pedro Almodóvar en términos de producción de narrativas y representación disidentes. El objeto de estudio se aborda metodológicamente desde una aproximación cualitativa al concepto de «corporalidad vestida», así como un estudio cuantitativo de medición por acumulación de variables de la participación de Chus Lampreave en la filmografía del director. Se recogió una muestra inicial de ocho películas, entre las que destacan veinte apariciones en pantalla. Así pues, los resultados describen las variables analizadas por medio de las representaciones escénicas de Chus Lampreave, lo que plantea una progresiva incorporación de estrategias estéticas como el estilismo de indumentaria para plasmar la edad y el envejecimiento en sus personajes. El estudio se cierra con una discusión acerca de los discursos vinculados a estas representaciones, revelando que la mayoría de ellas se adhieren a los convencionalismos predominantes sobre la vejez presentes en el cine convencional. Esto sitúa la práctica investigada en un punto de encuentro entre las normas establecidas y otro ámbito que desafía esas mismas normas, configurando así una intersección en la que convergen intermitentemente corrientes normativas y disidentes en torno a la representación de la edad.
La colonización de la selva central del Perú: diversos actores entre los límites de la política y la fe
Authors: Aguirre Morales Jimmy
Published: January 2024

La presencia de la Peruvian Corporation, a través de laColonia del Perené, en la región de Junín, en pleno boomcafetalero —a mediados del siglo pasado—, en una zonabastante dinámica en términos de mercado, generó intensosconflictos por la posesión de los recursos naturalescon los nativos y demás colonos, además de otros actoresadventistas y guerrilleros que desarrollan su propio discursoe irán perfilando involuntariamente el surgimientode la Iglesia Asociación Evangélica de la Misión Israelitadel Nuevo Pacto Universal (Aeminpu), en la búsqueda dealgo que se les ofrecía y negaba casi siempre: la tierra prometida.
Role of Temperature on the Performance of In-Situ CO2 EOR
Authors: Hussain Sadam , Ahmed Zaheer , Zakir Mufaddal Murtaza , Iqbal Muneez , Wu Justin J. , Wu Xingru
Published: January 2024

As the temperature dramatically impacts many chemical reactions, the reservoir temperature is an essential parameter in selecting and designing chemical enhanced oil recovery (cEOR) methods. For the in-situ CO2-enhanced oil recovery (ICE), reservoir temperature directly impacts the hydrolysis rate of a CO2-generating chemical agent. Below a critical temperature, the CO2 releasing rate is too low to be effective for ICE. Furthermore, temperature affects the CO2 solubility in oil and water phases and the CO2 partition coefficient between them. When the reservoir temperature is high enough, optimizing the oil recovery and injection slug size of the CO2-generating agent is a problem to be studied in this paper.

In this study, urea was injected as a CO2-generating agent. Three light, medium, and heavy hydrocarbon components were used as oils in a synthetic homogeneous 3D quarter 5-spot sector model. The injection temperature was 80 °F (300K). In the reservoir, urea hydrolysis generates CO2, which partitions into oil and water. The urea reaction kinetics used in the study are based on 1D history-matched laboratory data from previous studies. The Arrhenius model was used to calculate the urea hydrolysis reaction rate. Additionally, the Gibbs free energy of the urea hydrolysis reaction was computed to determine the critical reservoir temperature above which the hydrolysis would be favorable and spontaneous. A sensitivity study was conducted to study the temperature effect on ICE performance with an objective function of maximum recovery with constraints of a limited urea mass.

Based on both Arrhenius and Gibbs models, it was observed that the urea hydrolysis reaction was prolonged, became negative, and was non-spontaneous at temperatures below 70°C (~340K). It was concluded from the kinetic analysis that the urea hydrolysis reaction would not produce any CO2, and synergetic mechanisms of oil swelling, viscosity reduction, and wettability alteration would not happen if the reservoir temperature is below 70°C. Also, increasing the reaction rate close to this critical temperature would require a catalyst, such as NaOH (Wang 2018 and Wang et al. 2019). The 3D sector model also showed that optimum oil recovery at ten wt% urea concentration would be at ~260 °F (400K); minimal impact on oil recovery was observed above this temperature. Also, an additional 4-5% recovery was obtained post-cold waterflooding. On top of that, almost 90% CO2 generated CO2 dissolved in oil, resulting in oil swelling, viscosity, and IFT reduction. Hence, to apply urea as a CO2-generating agent, one of the critical design parameters is that the reservoir temperature must be higher than 70 °C (343 K).

As a promising and innovative EOR technique, ICE will be first studied for performance optimization. The study results can be used in reservoir screening and economic evaluation for the ICE actual field applications.
Successful Analytical Modeling of a Complex Dry Gas Field to Identify Potential Infill Opportunities
Authors: Syed Rafiah , Ejaz Muhtashim , Azeem Abdul , Mehmood Saad , Amjad Muhammad , Sirati Muhammad Attar , Ashraf Zaid , Yousaf Haleem
Published: January 2024

The objective of the study is analytical modeling of a dry gas reservoir, with more than 30 drilled wells and 15+ years of production history, underlain by thick tight gas zone, that is highly compartmentalized (both structural and stratigraphic) and heterogenous (laterally and vertically).

The multi tank material balance model is created to address the major uncertainties within the compartments such as Fault Transmissibility, Aquifer Strength, Early Water Influx, Tight Gas Support, and its quantification by the integration of all the geological, fluid, rock, pressure, and the production data. Some of the structurally up-dip wells are watered out however down-dip wells continue to produce gas at reasonable rates with complete stability in the reservoir pressure.

The model has been history matched with multiple scenarios and showed that the pressure recharging observed in a certain compartment is from an additional GIIP feeding into the compartment through the underlying tighter zone rather than laterally from the other compartments. A weak aquifer encroachment in the same compartment is from an adjacent compartment having moderate water drive through fault breach.

Compartments are history matched with adequate pressure and Water Gas Ratio (WGR) by manipulating productivity indices for individual wells, modifying aquifer strength, inter-compartment transmissibility, pseudo relative permeability curves and impact of tight gas recharging. The quantitative estimation of minimum connected GIIP is performed by balancing the support through encroaching aquifer and tight gas recharging.

The scope included the estimation of the minimum connected Gas Initially in Place (GIIP), ascertain aquifer strength and direction as well as pressure recharging within the different compartments using pressure and production data. The study assisted in capturing the communication between the compartments and evaluation of remaining potential of the field. The results would then be used in subsequent numerical modelling with the possibility of increasing overall recovery from the field.
Drilling Engineering
Authors: Lake Larry W. , Mitchell Robert F.
Published: January 2024

Drilling technology has evolved substantially over the years, from slide rules and hand calculations to advanced computer science and numerical analysis. Volume II: Drilling Engineering , the first drilling content to be included in the Petroleum Engineering Handbook , is intended to provide a snapshot of the drilling state of the art at the beginning of the 21st century.
Reservoir Engineering and Petrophysics
Authors: Lake Larry W. , Holstein Edward D.
Published: January 2024

Volume V: Reservoir Engineering and Petrophysics is an essential reference for reservoir engineers. Learn how to acquire and interpret data that describe reservoir rock and fluid properties; understand and predict fluid flow in the reservoir; estimate reserves and calculate project economics; simulate reservoir performance; and measure the effectiveness of a reservoir management system.
Lactobacillus acidophilus CICC 6075 Attenuates HFD-induced Obesity by Improving Gut Microbiota Composition and Histidine Biosynthesis
Authors: Zhuang Yun , Yang Shuai , Yang Dan , Gu Xiqun , Wang Yi , Chen Yang , Wang Zhenzhen , Chen Renjin
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the potential anti-obesity efficacy of Lactobacillus acidophilus CICC 6075. The study analyzed metagenomic data from 120 obese and 100 non-obese individuals and found that the abundance of Lactobacillus acidophiluswas significantly higher in normal-weight individuals. High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice were treated with L. acidophilus via daily oral gavage for 12 weeks. After the experiment, the obesity phenotype was assessed, and the fecal 16S rRNA gene sequence was analyzed. Administration of L. acidophilus attenuated excessive weight gain and fat accumulation and maintained the intestinal barrier in HFD-induced obese mice. Sequencing results showed that HFD hindered α and β diversity while reducing the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and norank_f_Muribaculaceaeand significantly increasing the relative abundance of Ilebacterium. L. acidophilus reversed these results and reduced the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Supplementation of L. acidophilusenhanced histidine biosynthesis, inhibited the NF-κB pathway, and significantly reduced the expression levels of inflammatory factors in adipose tissue. These results indicate that L. acidophilus CICC 6075 can significantly improve intestinal microbiota function, promote histidine synthesis, reduce systemic inflammation, and thereby inhibit obesity progression. This suggests that L. acidophilus CICC 6075 may be a good candidate probiotic for preventing obesity.
Molecular Similarities Between Trypanosoma Cruzi Microtubule Associated Proteins, Mammalian Interferons, and TRIM Genes
Authors: Pan Alfred , Winkler Martin
Published: January 2024

This study identifies DNA sequence similarities between T. cruzi Genbank M21331, coding for Antigen 36, and genes in two families coding for innate immunity proteins: TRIM genes, and Interferon (INF) genes. From the bioinformatics analysis, TRIM37 and TRIM40 showed 18% and 9.7% identity, respectively, to M21331, and four other TRIM genes had identities greater than 5%. When human IFNα, IFN-β, and IFN-γ genes were compared to M12331, the percent identities were 13.6%, 12.6%, and 17.9%, respectively. To determine the minimum number of gene homologues of Antigen 36 (Ag36), a BLAST-p search was conducted with it versus the T. cruzi genome. The BLAST-p revealed that the Ag36 gene of T. cruzi had 14 homologous genes sequences (MAP genes with 100% amino acid sequence identity to M21331). To partially extend these findings to other non-human genes, a study of comparable TRIM21 region sequences among mammalian species showed that the relationship between the sequences were also present in canine, shrew, ferret, bat, feline, armadillo, and aardvark species. The function of this MAP gene family of T. cruzi genes having similarity to human innate immune genes is not known but may be related to the resistance of T. cruzi to the host innate immune system during its intracellular infection.
Discovery of a unique Ni2+-dependent heterohexameric metformin hydrolase
Authors: Zhou Ning-Yi , Li Tao , Xu Zhi-Jing , Zhang Shu-Ting , Xu Jia , Pan Piao-Piao
Published: January 2024

The biguanide drug metformin is prescribed worldwide as a first-line blood glucose-lowering medication for type 2 diabetes, leading to its presence in the environment around the world. Despite mounting evidence indicating that metabolic interactions of metformin with environmental or intestinal microbes affect ecological and human health, little is known about the fate of metformin by microbial catabolism. Here, we characterized a Ni2+-dependent bacterial enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of metformin to form guanylurea and dimethylamine. The metformin hydrolase MetCaCb is a heterohexamer with an uneven α2β4 stoichiometry. Both subunits are from the arginase protein family, members of which are typically homomultimers. Either subunit alone is catalytically inactive, but together they work as an active enzyme highly specific for metformin. The crystal structure of the MetCaCb complex clearly shows the coordination of the binuclear metal cluster only in MetCa, following a geometry typical for arginase family enzymes. A unique pseudoenzyme MetCb, which evolved without a binuclear metal cluster, contributes to hydrolase activity as a protein binder of its active cognate. An in-silico search and functional assay led to the discovery of a group of MetCaCb-like protein pairs exhibiting metformin hydrolase activity in the environment. Our findings not only establish the genetic and biochemical foundation for metformin catabolism but also provide new insights into the adaption of the ancient arginase family proteins toward newly occurred substrate.
Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin（CAPEOX） combined with Sintilimab plus bevacizumab biosimilar（IBI305）for first-line treatment of advanced gastric or esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma: study protocol of a single-arm, phase Ib/II trial
Authors: Dai Ruihong , Zhang Pengfei , Cheng Mo , Bi Feng , Zhou Jitao , Liu Ming
Published: January 2024

Gastric cancer is the fifth most diagnosed cancer in the world and the third leading cause of cancer-related death. For patients with advanced gastric cancer, systemic treatment combined with immune immune check point Inhibitors is the first choice. However, the median survival time after first-line chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer is about 15 months, and treatment still faces bottlenecks. Bevacizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits the binding of human VEGF to its receptor. Although AVAGAST did not reach its primary objective, chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab in the AVAGAST study significantly improved the median progression-free survival (mPFS) and objective response rate (ORR) in the first-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer. The combination of chemotherapy with immunotherapy has become the standard treatment for gastric cancer. Furthermore, immunotherapy and bevacizumab have a synergistic effect; hence, whether the addition of bevacizumab to chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy can bring clinical benefits to gastric cancer patients needs to be explored.
Methods and analysis
This was a single-arm, open-label, prospective Phase 1b/II clinical study involving a total of 57 cases. In Phase 1b, patients with advanced or metastatic stomach adenocarcinoma or esophagogastric junction received CAPEOX (Oxaliplatin and capecitabine) along with sintilimab (200 mg intravenously every 3 weeks) and bevacizumab (7.5, 10, or 15 mg/kg intravenously every 3 weeks) in a 3+3 dose escalation Phase to determine the maximum tolerated dose and dose-limiting toxicities. In Phase 2, patients with advanced gastric or esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma received CAPEOX plus sintilizumab and bevacizumab. The primary objectives were dose-limiting toxicities (Phase 1b) and ORR (Phase 2). Secondary objectives include PFS, overall survival, disease control rate, duration of response, adverse effects, quality of life, and safety.
Ethics and Communication
This trial was approved by the Ethics Committee of West China Hospital. The final results of this trial will be published in a peer-reviewed journal upon completion.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05640609. Registration date: December 23, 2022
A multi-objective optimization method for community detection using a novel heuristic search
Authors: Moradi Mehdi , Mohammadi Kamyar , Moradi Parham
Published: January 2024

Identifying structural patterns of complex networks is crucial to the study of community detection. The study of complex networks has recently been facilitated by several evolutionary methods. The main challenges of using evolutionary-based methods are their lower accuracies and their limitations in handling large networks. The evolutionary-based approaches treat most of these methods as single-objective tasks. Investigating a problem with multiple objectives can lead to a more precise identification of the community structure in a network. This is because each objective can capture distinct properties or aspects of the network, resulting in a more comprehensive understanding of its structure. In our paper, we introduce MOGGA+, which is a combination of a multi-objective genetic algorithm and local search strategies, aimed at tackling these issues. The local search strategy is primarily employed to accelerate convergence and enhance the precision of method. The solutions in MOCGA+ are represented using a vector-based method. The number of communities does not need to be known before the search begins because the utilization of this representation type diminishes the exploration range. Through experiments conducted on both LFR and real-world networks, the suggested method has demonstrated the ability to identify communities with higher accuracy while requiring fewer generations.
Geographic Restrictions for COVID-19 Stimulus Spending and Public Health Outcomes: Evidence from Big Data in Seoul, South Korea
Authors: Lee Kwan Ok , Lee Hyojung , Lee Jieun
Published: January 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the stimulus payments program has proven to be an effective means of boosting economic activity. Despite the plausible link between these programs and public health outcomes, however, there has been little research on this subject. Our study examines whether the unique policy design restricting geographic locations for COVID-19 stimulus spending could mitigate the spread of the virus. We utilize weekly mobile phone-based mobility data, credit card transaction data, and official COVID-19 cases at a detailed geographic level in Seoul, South Korea. Event-study and difference-in-differences models examined the effects of stimulus payment programs on human mobility and consumer spending patterns. Using the coefficients derived from the model estimating the relationship between COVID-19 infections and commuting inflows, we conduct counterfactual simulations to investigate the role of a geographic restriction in mitigating the potential side effects on public health. The event-study results confirmed a significant increase in people’s mobility in Seoul after the disbursement of stimulus payments as stimulus benefits started to translate into increased economic activities. Yet, an additional difference-in-differences analysis based on the card transaction data indicates that a significant share of stimulus transactions was made in the recipients’ own neighbourhood. Our simulation testing the differences between policy scenarios with and without geographic restrictions in possible COVID-19 cases indicates that geographic restrictions reduce possible COVID-19 cases by 6.5% compared to the counterfactual scenario (without geographic restrictions). Our findings highlight the importance of geographic restrictions as a policy component in addressing the potential side effects of the stimulus program.
Thermal properties of ASR products
Authors: Honorio Tulio , Razki Syrine , Bourdot Alexandra , Benboudjema Farid
Published: January 2024

Thermal and themo-mechanical properties of alkali-silica reaction (ASR) products are poorly studied.
The existent property data refers to theoretical considerations and do not account for the fact that ASR products can be crystalline, nanocrystalline and potentially amorphous.
Here, the thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and coefficient of thermal expansion of crystalline structures (based on Na- and K-shlykovite), nanocrystalline structure (based on defective K-shlykovite structures), and amorphous ASR product are calculated using molecular simulations.
Semi-classical estimates of the thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and standard molar entropy are provided.
The anisotropy of thermal conductivity and thermal expansion is quantified.
Nanoacoustics parameters (sound velocities, phonon free path and relaxation time) are calculated.
These results contribute to completing property data for ASR products.
Factors for a clinical prediction score to determine complication development after cellulitis diagnosis in adult patients
Authors: Tienpratarn Welawat , Yuksen Chaiyaporn , Pauly Joseph Daniel , Vu Diana , Benbourenane Anisa Noiwong , Sangskul Nuttamon
Published: January 2024

Background Cellulitis is defined as a bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue that can cause multiple complications, such as sepsis and necrotizing fasciitis. In extreme cases, it may lead to multiorgan failure and death. We sought to analyze the clinical factors that contribute to the development of complicated disease, including demographics, clinical presentation, initial vital signs, and laboratory studies.
Methods Our study is a retrospective cohort study carried out in a university-based tertiary care hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. All adult patients who presented with cellulitis from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022, were evaluated for eligibility and inclusion in this study. All related variables for both outcomes, septicemia and necrotizing fasciitis, were gathered from electronic medical records and analyzed.
Results Of the 1,560 visits to this hospital, 47 cases reported at least one complication, with septicemia noted in 27 visits (6.68%) and necrotizing fasciitis in 20 visits (1.27%). From the multivariable logistic regression analysis, six variables emerge as predictors of cellulitis complications. These are: Age≥ 65 years, Body Mass Index ≥ 30 kg/m2, diabetes mellitus, body temperature ≥ 37.3°C, systolic blood pressure < 100 mmHg, and involvement of lower extremities. The predictive score was developed from these factors and was named the Ramathibodi Necrotizing Fasciitis/Septicemia (RAMA-NFS) Prediction Score. Our predictive score has an accuracy of 82.3% (95% CI 0.77-0.88). Patients in the high-risk group (RAMA NFS score > 6) have a likelihood ratio of 3.7 times to develop complications of cellulitis.
Conclusion In our study, the RAMA-NFS Prediction Score predicts complications in adult patients who present with cellulitis. External validation of this predictive score is still needed for further practical application.
Cholesterol homeostasis and oxidative stress-related novel plasma biomarkers for MSA patients
Authors: Lin Shau-Ping , Wang Hsiang-Hsuan Lin , Huang Jing-Wen , Kuo Mingche , Tsai Yi-Tzang , Lu Chia-Chen , Chen Yan-Hong , Phoa Frederick Kin Hing , Kung Pin-Jui , Lin Yan-Han , Chu Yung-Tsai , Ju Yan-Ru , Shen Tang-Long , Hong Chien-Tai , Ochiya Takahiro , Ueda Koji , Wu Ruey-Meei
Published: January 2024

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is an atypical parkinsonism that mimics the clinical manifestation of Parkinson’s disease (PD) but is characterized by distinct pathological hallmarks and poor medication response. Identifying reliable biomarkers for MSA facilitates differential diagnosis and promotes targeted treatments. Here, we profiled plasma-derived extracellular vesicle (EV) proteomics in patients with MSA or PD and healthy controls (HC), based on liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS). A modified linear programming system termed Biomedical Oriented Logistic Dantzig (BOLD) Selector was implemented for the identification of the EV proteins that were significantly associated with MSA through an oversaturated proteomic dataset comprising 1272 entries. As a result, the top-ranked EV protein candidates incorporated into our constructed logistic regression formula for differentiating MSA patients with HC were LCAT, CRKL, Kallistatin and CSE1L, and APOE, ALDH4A1, ABCC4, and kallistatin for separating MSA from typical PD patients. These EV proteins are most strongly attributed to “cholesterol transport” by gene ontology analysis. The other major biological processes highlighted for these candidates include modulators for oxidative stress, inflammation, and demyelination processes. Innovative therapeutic approaches targeting these candidates aiming at regulating cholesterol balance, reducing oxidative stress, and alleviating glial inflammation hold promise for neuroprotection against the lethal neurodegenerative disorders.
Association between antidepressant use and delirium in older adults: an analysis of the World Health Organization’s global pharmacovigilance database
Authors: Minoc Elise-Marie , Villain Cédric , Benbrika Soumia , Chrétien Basile , Descatoire Pablo , Heraudeau Marie , Sassier Marion , Pierre Mélissa , Martinaud Olivier , Dolladille Charles , Lelong-Boulouard Véronique
Published: January 2024

Background
Psychoactive drugs frequently cause delirium adverse events in older adults. However, few data on the relationship between antidepressants and delirium are available. Here, we investigated the association between antidepressant prescription and pharmacovigilance reports of delirium in older adults.
Methods
Using the World Health Organization’s VigiBase® global pharmacovigilance database from 1967 to 2022, we performed a disproportionality analysis in order to probe the putative associations between each antidepressant class (non-selective monoamine reuptake inhibitors (NSMRIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), alpha-2-adrenergic receptor antagonists, and other antidepressants) and reports of delirium in people aged 65 or over. We calculated the reporting odds ratios (r-OR) and their 95% confidence interval ([95%CI]) with logistic regression models before and after adjustment for confounding factors. Secondary analyses were performed for each drug and within each class by age group (65–74, and 75 and over). We also studied the reports of concomitant delirium and hyponatremia.
Results
Our main analysis included 87,524 cases of delirium. After adjustment for confounders, a significant association was found between delirium and all antidepressant classes other than SNRIs. Intraclass disparities were found for the association between the most frequently prescribed antidepressants and reports of delirium. An elevated risk of reports of concomitant delirium and hyponatremia was found for SSRIs (4.46 [4.01–4.96]), SNRIs (1.25 [1.07–1.46]), MAOIs (1.72 [1.41–2.09]), and the “other antidepressants” class (1.47 [1.30–1.65]).
Conclusions
There was a significant association between reports of delirium and antidepressant classes (other than SNRIs). However, this association varied from one drug to another within a given antidepressant class. Moreover, this association could not always be explained by antidepressant-induced hyponatremia.
Durability Characteristics of Geopolymer Concrete Produced Using Gold Ore Tailings Along with Recycled Coarse Aggregates
Authors: Lokesha Eshwarayya Bolluru , Aruna Mangalpady , Reddy Sandi Kumar
Published: January 2024

The gold ore tailings (GOTs) are one of the major waste in the mining sector. The disposal of these tailings could be the problem to human health and major environmental concern from several years. Hence, the attempt should be made for effective utilization of industrial waste in the construction industry in different forms. In this research work, the GOTs were used as an alternative material to the river sand (RS) in the production of geopolymer concrete (GPC). The developed GPC samples were tested to know the durability characteristics, such as resistance to sulphates and chlorides. The sulphate attack test was conducted by immersing the conventional concrete (CC) and GPC samples in 5% magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) solution for a period of 28 days, 56 days, 90 days, 180 days, 270 days, and 365 days. In this test, the GPC samples showed the reduction in compressive strength and weight, which is slightly more when compared to CC samples, for 270 and 365 days of exposure condition. The rapid chloride penetration test (RCPT) was also conducted to know the chloride ion penetration in which GPC samples exhibited less chloride penetration when compared to CC samples. Further, the toxic characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) analysis showed that the GOTs has very high concentration of hazardous metals, such as arsenic (As), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and mercury (Hg). But the concentration of cyanide (CN−) was minimum in GOTs. In this regard, geopolymerization would be a better method for immobilizing the hazardous metals present in GOTs.
Pharmacological management of acute agitation in psychiatric patients: an umbrella review
Authors: Uribe Erasmo Saucedo , Bravo-Rodríguez Cynthia Alejandra , Navarrete-Juárez Miguel Emanuel , Medrano-Juarez Samantha Berenice , Lucio Rodrigo Huereca , Rojas-Guzman Kevin Eduardo , Lozano-Carrillo Luis Carlos
Published: January 2024

Background
the main characteristics present in patients with psychomotor agitation include restlessness, excessive motor activity, irritability, heightened responsiveness to internal and external stimuli, and unstable clinical condition. This umbrella review evaluates the efficacy and safety of pharmacological interventions for patients with psychiatric disorders presenting psychomotor agitation, aged 18 years or older. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify umbrella reviews that met the inclusion criteria of our study, and none were found that specifically investigated the efficacy and safety of pharmacological interventions for agitated psychiatric patients with both psychological and behavioral symptoms. The primary objective is to determine the efficacy and safety of pharmacological interventions for managing agitated psychiatric patients in both inpatient and emergency department settings. Secondary objectives include assessing the safety and efficacy of pharmacological interventions by specific diagnosis, including psychotic disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.
Method
a comprehensive literature search for published and unpublished meta-analyses and systematic reviews assessing the efficacy and safety of pharmacological treatment for agitation in psychiatric inpatients and emergency department patients was conducted across various databases (PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PSYCINFO). Included reviews comprised those that incorporated randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or non-randomized controlled trials (NRCTs) comparing the efficacy and safety of pharmacological interventions for agitated psychiatric patients (with both psychological and behavioral symptoms).
Results
a total of 20 meta-analyses and systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria for this umbrella review. The results are presented by grouping medications into drug classes, providing information on the most used dosage, median dose, average dose, and dose range for each medication. Furthermore, medications most frequently used for specific psychiatric diagnoses, such as psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and substance use disorders, are also highlighted.
Conclusion
this umbrella review offers a comprehensive overview of the pharmacological management of agitation in patients with psychiatric disorders. Among the most frequently used medications in the reviewed studies were haloperidol, olanzapine, and lorazepam. The findings underscore the importance of tailored treatment approaches and the need for further research to refine the management of agitation in psychiatric settings.
Identification of a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactome associated with Parkinson’s Disease progression
Authors: Leier André , Shrestha Lisa
Published: January 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) constitute a distinctive subclass of RNAs characterized by their covalently closed loop structure, playing regulatory roles in fundamental cellular processes. Due to their increased stability and ubiquitous expression in major tissues and organs, circular RNAs have been widely studied as potential molecular targets in various diseases, including in Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. However, a comprehensive understanding of the precise involvement of circRNAs in the progression of PD has been lacking. In this study, we have utilized large-scale, longitudinal, and deep RNA-seq data from two independent cohorts, namely the Parkinson’s Progression Marker Initiative (PPMI) and the Parkinson’s Disease Biomarker Program (PDBP), to characterize circRNA expression in patients of early PD stage. We identified 12 circRNAs that were found differentially expressed in PD patients over time. Additionally, we were able to map a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network with potential downstream miRNA-mRNA targets and, with the help of co-expression analysis, to identify genes associated with PD progression. Our findings provide compelling evidence for a dysregulated circRNA interactome as an indicator of disease progression. Changes in the expression of some of this interactome’s key molecules, including circRNAs, miRNAs, and gene targets, are significantly associated with PD hallmarks, pathways, and/or changes in UPDRS III scores in PD patients.
Exploring knowledge, attitude, and practices of the Malawian rural communities towards antimicrobial use and resistance prevention
Authors: Ndawala Maria , Pajogo Masuzgo , Mula Chimwemwe , Musaya Janelisa
Published: January 2024

Background: The unnecessary use of antibiotics and concomitant rapid growth of antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a widely acknowledged threat to global health, development, and sustainability. While the underlying cause of ABR is undoubtedly the overall volume of antibiotic use in general, irrational antibiotic use, which is influenced by several interrelated factors, is a major contributory factor . There are few published articles in Africa on this topic, although the number of such articles appear to have been increasing recently. The patients may have certain knowledge and attitudes on antibiotic use but these have not been ascertained in Malawi . This study explored the knowledge, attitude and practices of Malawian rural Communities on antibiotic use and resistance prevention.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted (n=350) among community members of T/A Namkumba. Simple random sampling was used to select participants and a structured questionnaire was used to interview the respondents.
Results: Female participants made up 71.4% of the total and the mean age was 25.8 (SD±13.34). From all participants, (99.1%) reported having ever heard of the antibiotics, and the most common antibiotics were Cotrimoxazole (82%), Amoxicillin (79.8%), and Metronidazole (50.9%). Cough and flue were the most prominent indication for taking antibiotics representing 41.5% and 21.6% respectively. The results also showed that the majority of the participants had a positive attitude towards appropriate antibiotic use, with 82.9% remembering to take and complete prescribed antibiotics. However, about 18% did not finish the last course of the antibiotic which were prescribed. We used Ordered Logistic Regression to determine the association between knowledge, attitude and practices of the study participants. A statistically significant association was declared at a p-value < 0.05.
Conclusion: There is massive and in appropriate use of first-line antibiotics as people were taking antibiotics for conditions which were self- limiting like flue. However, people trust the hospital for their antibiotics and all the information related to their use. Despite this, a good number of participants got their medicines from a pharmacy without physician consultation and some did not finish their last course as prescribed hence putting the bacteria at risk of developing resistance.