bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Nanoparticles in Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Gogoi Bhoirob , Chowdhury Neehasri Kumar , Shyam Suprity , Choudhury Reshma , Sarma Hemen
Published: September 2023

The planet is dealing with a major problem of environmental pollution. Year
after year, this problem worsens, causing harm to our planet. To combat the major
environmental issues, various technologies have been developed over the years. The
use of nanomaterials in environmental management is becoming more common.
Nanomaterials are increasingly being used to clean the air, purify water, decontaminate
soil, and detect pollution. Nanotechnology has emerged as a technique for cleaning up
pollution and monitoring degradation of environmental sectors such as air, water and
soil. Hence nanotechnology can contribute to the sustainability of the environment.
This chapter discusses the use of nanomaterials in the monitoring of air pollutants,
organic contaminants and other environmental pollutants, as well as the various
methods involved in the production of nanoparticles.
Techniques in Prevention, Detection and Monitoring of Environmental Contaminants
Authors: Dhir Bhupinder
Published: September 2023

Pollution in various sectors of the environment has produced a threat to
human health and aquatic ecosystems. Biosensors play an important role in the
detection of toxicants such as heavy metals. Efforts have been made to develop
sensitive and efficient sensors for monitoring the presence of contaminants in the
environment using nanotechnology and bioengineering techniques. Biosensors, in
particular, help in monitoring the presence of pollutants in the environment, protecting
our environment. Enzyme, DNA, imuno and whole cell-based biosensors have been
developed and work depending on the reaction type, transduction signal, or analytical
performance. Advantages such as specificity, low cost, ease of use, and portability
establish biosensors as an efficient technique that can be used to detect the presence of
various inorganic and organic contaminants.
Models of Schooling and Children’s Rights
Authors: Synodi Evanthia
Published: September 2023

In this chapter, children’s rights as defined in the Convention on the rights of
the child are related to three models of schooling well known in the Western world.
These theoretical models are the traditional, authoritarian school, the school based on
traditional developmental psychology and the rights-based school. Aspects of these
three models, therefore, may coexist in early years settings in Scotland and Greece and
thus facilitate or hinder children from enjoying their rights.
The Perfect School for Wilson
Authors: Synodi Evanthia
Published: September 2023

In the second focus group session of this research, each group of children
read the beginning of a book called Whiffy Wilson, the wolf who wouldn’t go to school.
In this chapter, children’s perceptions of the perfect school for Wilson are presented.
Children in both countries suggested a school where play time would be allowed a lot
more than in their schools. Sugar-based foods were more popular in Scotland than in
Greece, which disagrees with children’s right to healthy nutrition (article 24). Children
in all groups from Scotland discussed learning in terms of the education they were
being offered, and they wanted help for Wilson or no lessons at all nor a teacher for
him. On the contrary, most of the groups in Greece did not talk about learning in
school. Friendships were important to children in Greece only, even though all children
in both countries discussed classroom rules that would enable positive relations with
other children.
IoT and Cloud-based Data Analytics for Real Life Applications and Challenges
Authors: Ahmad Sartaj
Published: September 2023

Due to the massive development in the field of Internet technology, data
communication and its processing make it easy for people to access and interact with
various physical devices around the world. It has led to many buzzwords, such as the
Internet of Things, cloud computing, data analysis, etc. It is important to understand the
relationship between them. Every day, many devices connect to the internet and share a
large amount of data that needs to be processed for future reference. Therefore, the
cloud concept plays a big role in storing such a large and fast operation. The use of this
type of data depends on the personal needs of the end user. Some users’ devices are the
sources of their communication. For some, user data is important to understand
customer behavior. For some users, how to manage massive data and devices are
important. Similarly, few users pay attention to data to improve their goods and
services. In this chapter, we focus on the Internet of Things, cloud computing, and data
mining, and try to find the connection between them in terms of users, services, and
applications. Furthermore, to get an insight into the data, this chapter consists of an
introduction, research methodology, and conclusion.
Blockchain Technologies and Smart Contracts in Smart Cities
Authors: Gupta Aditya , Malkani Parth , Krishnan Chitra , Thallam Neelesh , Verma Aman
Published: September 2023

Smart Cities are gaining attention due to the ever-increasing population. The
increasing population and expanding urbanization resulted in increased congestion and
numerous environmental problems. Due to COVID-19, more efficient urbanization
increased the need for smart cities. To address the societal and efficient urban
management challenges of these Smart Cities, advanced technologies like Blockchains
can play vital roles. Smart Contracts are blockchain-based applications. Smart contracts
are used to automate agreements without the involvement of a middleman. Smart
contracts are executed by a network of computers once predefined conditions are met.
The execution action can be in the form of the release of funds to parties, vehicle
registration, sending notifications, and issuing a ticket. The information on the
transactions completed is updated on the blockchain. This chapter provides insight into
how blockchain technology works for smart contracts, which deliver numerous services
in Smart cities ecosystems' in more reliable, data secured, and beneficial for the
population in Smart cities. The chapter will contribute to the planning of Smart cities
planners, developers, architects, and thinkers for using smart contracts to deliver
various services in the smart city’s governance.
Status of Microplastic Pollution in Natural Water Bodies
Authors: Prakash Sadguru
Published: September 2023

The presence of microplastics in the environment has been declared as an
emerging pollutant because the production of plastic is increasing tremendously
throughout the world without proper management. Microplastics (MPs) are small
plastic particles (size <5mm) released directly from the use of cosmetic products, or
indirectly through the degradation of large plastic items under environmental
conditions. Nowadays, it is estimated that annually between 4 and 14 million tonnes of
plastic go into the seas and are hazardous to aquatic life. Fishes may ingest
microplastics either directly or from the prey containing these particles. MPs were
found between the stomach, gut, and intestine of the fish. These MPs accumulated in
the fish body which causes serious health issues leading to mortality of the fish. MPs
can cause various eco-toxicological effects on fish like behavioral change, cytotoxicity,
neurotoxicity effects, liver stress, etc.
Leveraging AI for Smart Cities in India
Authors: Singh Manisha
Published: September 2023

With the fast spread of connectivity via 5G and IoT (Internet of Things), the
Smart City Artificial Intelligence (AI) software industry is expected to reach a massive
value of $ 4.9 billion by 2025 globally [1]. In India, the AI market is slated to reach $
7.8 billion by 2025 at a CAGR of 20.2% as per an International Data Corporation
(IDC) report [2]. This chapter explains how AI can be used in the ambitious Smart
Cities Mission (SCM) announced by the Government of India in 2015 [3]. Beginning
with the conceptual understanding of the SCM, the chapter introduces AI as a useful
aid to urban planning thereby creating a safer and sustainable future for its citizens.
Applications of AI in Smart cities are then discussed followed by a brief discussion on
the prevailing best practices. Challenges in creating AI-enabled smart cities in India are
outlined followed by the conclusion which chalks out the road ahead for AI-enabled
smart cities in India
Biotoxins in the Mediterranean Sea: Lebanon as a Case Study
Authors: El Rahman Hassoun Abed , Ujević Ivana , Fakhri Milad , Roje-Busatto Romana , Mahfouz Céline , Jemaa Sharif , Nazlić Nikša
Published: September 2023

Marine biotoxins are naturally occurring chemicals produced by toxic algae.
They can be found in seawater and can accumulate in various marine organisms, such
as commercial seafood. When contaminated seafood is consumed, these biotoxins can
cause poisoning in humans, with varying health consequences depending on the type
and amount of toxins. The proliferation of biotoxin-producing algae in the marine
environment has dire socio-economic and environmental consequences due to the
contamination of water and seafood. Due to the number of factors related to human
pressures and climate change impacts, the frequency of marine biotoxins’ occurrence is
increasing significantly globally, and in regional seas such as the Mediterranean Sea. In
this chapter, we highlight Lebanon in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, where marine
biotoxins were recently studied. The results show for the first time the presence of
lipophilic toxins and cyclic imines in marine biota, with values for okadaic acid,
dinophysistoxin 1 and 2, pectenotoxin 1 and 2, yessotoxins and azaspiracids below the
detection limit (LOD). Levels above LOD were detected for domoic acid (DA),
gymnodimine (GYMb), and spirolides (SPXs) in some species/areas. Maximum levels
of DA, GYM, and SPXs (3.88 mg DA kg-1, 102.9 µg GYM kg-1, 15.07 µg SPX kg-1)
were found in the spiny oyster (Spondylus spinosus) in agreement with the occurrence
of Pseudo-nitzchia spp, Gymndinium spp, and Alexandrium spp. DA was below the EU
limit but above the lowest observed adverse effect level (0.9 μg g-1) for neurotoxicity
in humans and below the acute reference dose (30 µg kg-1 body weight), both
established by EFSA. Considering the lowest lethal dose (LD50) after administration of
GYM and SPXs to mice, it is unlikely that there is a health risk due to exposure to
these toxins from seafood consumption in Lebanon. Nevertheless, the chronic toxicity
of DA, GYMs, and SPXs remains unclear, and the effects of repeated consumption of contaminated seafood need to be investigated. Because biotoxins have
been detected in bivalves and commercial species, as well as other organisms in the
marine trophic chain, it is evident that species other than bivalves should be monitored,
and the spiny oyster (S. spinosus) may play the role of a sentinel species in biotoxin
studies. A regular monitoring program is needed to provide reliable, accurate estimates
of bloom toxicity and to investigate their potential impact on marine species and human
health in Lebanon.
Short-Term Bioassay Tests for Toxicity Effluents Estimation and Bio-Monitoring Uses in Aquatic Ecosystems
Authors: Karray Sahar , El Bour Monia
Published: September 2023

Bioassays are defined as the measurement of toxic responses upon exposure
to chemicals under controlled conditions in the laboratory using cultured organisms and
represent powerful tools for the assessment of environmental quality. These biological
tests were pointed out as the most common methods used to assess the environmental
risk, mainly in marine ecosystems besides biomarkers and biosensors. The list of
different toxicity bioassays is still increasing and a large battery of different aquatic
organisms is available for the measurement of organic and inorganic chemical toxicity.
The species selected for the available battery of bioassays differ taxonomically and
play different roles in aquatic ecosystems. Else, they have different routes of exposure
to bio-potential.
Although many bioassays provide information about the overall toxicity induced, new
test systems are developed and used for the determination of specific toxicity in a
number of biological pathways disrupted by contaminants.
Hereby, the list of bioassay tests used in aquatic ecosystems assessment is updated
besides specific toxicity pathways for almost invertebrate and vertebrate aquatic
species used to determine organic and inorganic pollutants effects.
Overview of Marine Plastic Pollution in the Moroccan Mediterranean
Authors: Mghili Bilal , Analla Mohamed , Aksissou Mustapha
Published: September 2023

Plastic debris has become the main component of marine litter in the
Moroccan Mediterranean due to the massive consumption of plastic and poor plastic
waste management. In Morocco, plastic pollution has been a subject of increasing
environmental concern in the last few years. This literature review was conducted to
collect current data on plastic pollution in the Moroccan Mediterranean, considering
the presence of marine debris as well as macroplastics and microplastics in different
compartments. Our study shows that, until now, very few studies have been carried out
and there is a lack of information, especially on the prevalence of plastic debris in the
water environment, sea floor, and aquatic animals. In general, plastic is the most
predominant waste on the beaches of the Moroccan Mediterranean, always contributing
to more than 50% of the total composition of the waste encountered. Based on the
records, tourism, recreational activities, and fishing are one of the main sources of
plastic accumulation in the Moroccan Mediterranean. This was due to a lack of
awareness among beach users. Awareness and behavior change is key to minimizing
plastic waste on Morocco's beaches and coasts. In addition, all aspects of waste
management must be improved. The beaches of the Moroccan Mediterranean have also
been contaminated by microplastics. A significant positive correlation was also
observed between human population density and industrial activity on microplastic
abundance. Microplastic has only been found in a few commercial fish species and sea
turtles, but more work will be needed in the future.
Potential Ecological Impacts of Rare Earth Elements in the Marine Environment: A Baseline for Future Research
Authors: Mandour Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Rare earth elements (REE) have become a strategic commodity of
contemporary economies due to their various uses in the technological, smart, and
renewable energy industries. The boom of their uses resulted in an increased influx to
the marine environment either as a result of mining or industrial discharges, or from the
disposal of solid wastes, atmospheric fallout for military tests of smart weapons, and
remobilization from the sediments. Although sediments are the main reservoir of REE
in the marine environment, and their auspicious normalization patterns are useful
geochemical tracers, it has been found that anthropogenic contributions influence
REE’s natural occurrence. This indeed has raised concerns about the potential
ecological impacts of REE on the marine biota and in turn on human health. The
chapter gives some insights into the sources and potential ecological impacts of REE
while revealing the need for future research and the knowledge gap about the REE and
their ecological impacts as a group and as individual elements, as well as some
potential solutions to the increased anthropogenic influx of REE to the marine
environment. The potential ecological impacts of REE influx to the marine
environment constitute both their bioavailability and their toxicity. Predicted ecological
impacts on the marine biota may be similar to other trace metals, sharing analogous
chemical characteristics. Nevertheless, whether LREE or HREE are more toxic is
debatable, and their physiological and cytological effects on different organisms are
still under investigation. This prompts the need for a new understanding of REE’s
ecological impacts by focusing on influx rates, ecotoxicity, and mitigation of ecological
impacts.
Analisis permainan tradisional dalam pelestarian budaya: Systematic literatur review
Authors: Rahesti Nonik , Irawan Fajar Awang , Chuang Long-Ren
Published: September 2023

Tujuan dalam penelitihan ini untuk mengevaluasi gerakan pada permainan tradisional Plinthengan. Metode yang digunakan dalam review research ini adalah kualitatif, dengan pendekatan systematic literatur review. Pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini mengacu pada Google Scholar, ResearchGate, dan beberapa jurnal artikel yang relevan lainnya. Sumber yang diperoleh mengacu pada tahun 2022 hingga yang tersedia paling awal tahun 2000. Kata kunci dalam penelitian ini yaitu permainan tradisional, pelestarian budaya, Plinthengan, dan analisis gerak. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa bermain Plinthengan dengan teknik yang benar akan menghasilkan tembakan yang akurat. Penelitian ini juga menemukan bahwa permainan tradisional Plinthengan memerlukan strategi dalam bermain seperti mencari gerakan paling efektif dan efisien menggunakan cara analisis biomekanika untuk menyempurnakan gerakan dan terhindar dari cidera. Keterbatasan dalam menyusun penelitian review research ini yaitu masih kurangnya sumber literasi mengenai permainan tradisional khususnya Plinthengan. Untuk penelitian selanjutnya, diharapkan dapat membahas terkait analisis gerakan Plinthengan dari aspek biomekanika. Analysis of traditional games in cultural preservation: Systematic literature review Abstract: This research aims to evaluate the movements in the traditional Plinthengan game. The method used in this review research is qualitative, with a systematic literature review approach. The data collection used in this study refers to Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and several other relevant journal articles. The sources obtained refer to 2022 until the earliest available in 2000. The keywords in this study are traditional games, cultural preservation, Plinthengan, and motion analysis. The results of this study show that playing the plinth with the correct technique will produce an accurate shot. This study also found that traditional Plinthengan games require playing strategies such as finding the most effective and efficient movements using biomechanical analysis to perfect movements and avoid injury. The limitation in compiling this research review research is that there is still a lack of literacy sources regarding traditional games, especially Plinthengan. For further research, it is expected to be able to discuss the analysis of Plinthengan motion from the biomechanical aspect.
KAOTİK PARÇACIK SÜRÜ OPTİMİZASYONU KULLANARAK EKONOMİK YÜK DAĞITIMI PROBLEMİNİN ÇÖZÜMÜ
Authors: EKE İbrahim , SAKA Mustafa , TEZCAN Suleyman Sungur
Published: September 2023

Güç sistemlerinde enerji üretim maliyetlerinin azaltılması amacıyla gerçekleştirilen çalışmalar her geçen gün artmaktadır. Bu nedenle günümüzdeki güç sistemleri için ekonomik yük dağıtımı önemli bir konudur. Ekonomik yük dağıtımı (EYD), güç sistemlerinin minimum maliyet ile çalıştırılabilmesi için her bir üretim ünitesinin ne kadar güç üretmesi gerektiğinin belirlenmesinin planlanmasıdır. Elektrik üretim birimleri arasında ekonomik yük dağıtımı yapılması, ucuz elektrik üretmeye yardımcı olması açısından oldukça önemlidir. Sezgisel optimizasyon yöntemleri birçok mühendislik probleminde olduğu gibi ekonomik yük dağıtımı için de kullanılmaktadır. Problemin kısıtları ve karmaşıklığına göre optimizasyon yöntemlerinin performansı da değişmektedir. Bu çalışmada, Kaotik Parçacık Sürü Optimizasyonu (CPSO) ile ekonomik yük dağıtımı probleminin çözümü amaçlanmıştır. CPSO, 6 üretim ünitesine sahip bir test sistemine uygulanmıştır. İletim hattı kayıplarının dâhil edildiği ve edilmediği durumlar ayrı ayrı analiz edilmiştir. CPSO ile elde edilen sonuçlar, literatürde yer alan Yapay Arı Kolonisi (YAK) ve Diferansiyel Gelişim Optimizasyonu (DGO) metotları ile karşılaştırılmıştır. Elde edilen sonuçlar, önerilen yöntemin ekonomik yük dağıtımı problemlerinde kullanılabilirliğini ve etkinliği göstermiştir.
FOTOKİMYASAL İLERİ OKSİDASYON PROSESLERİ İLE FLOROKİNOLON GRUBU ANTİBİYOTİKLERİN GİDERİM VERİMLERİNİN ARAŞTIRILMASI VE TOKSİSİTELERİNİN DEĞERLENDİRMESİ
Authors: Gülcan Hande , Dilsizoğlu-akyol Nergis , Akarsu Ceyhun , Olmez-hanci Tugba
Published: September 2023

Son yıllarda, ileri oksidasyon prosesleri, ilaç etken maddelerinin su ve atıksulardan uzaklaştırılmasında umut verici yöntemler olarak öne çıkmaktadır. Bu deneysel çalışmada, siprofloksasinin etkin bir şekilde arıtımını sağlamak amacıyla sülfat radikali bazlı fotokimyasal ileri oksidasyon prosesleri olan persülfat/UV-C (PS/UV-C) ve persülfat/UV-A (PS/UV-A) yöntemlerinin uygulanabilirliği araştırılmıştır. PS/UV-C prosesinde, 0,05 mM PS dozunda ve 120 dakikalık reaksiyon süresinde %98 giderim verimi elde edilirken, 0,1 mM ve 0,25 mM dozlarında, %100 giderim verimi 60 dakikalık süre içerisinde sağlanmıştır. PS/UV-A prosesi ise, tüm PS konsantrasyonları için %88 ile %92 aralığında giderim verimleri göstermiştir. Optimum koşullar altında su matrisinin proses verimine olan etkisini değerlendirmek amacıyla, yüzeysel su örneklerinde siprofloksasin giderim verimi araştırılmıştır. Elde edilen sonuçlar, yüzeysel su örneklerinin kullanıldığı durumlarda siprofloksasinin tamamen giderilmesi için gereken sürenin sentetik numunelerin arıtımı için gerekli süreye kıyasla yüksek olduğunu ortaya koymuştur. Ayrıca, deneyler başlangıç pH değerinin proses verimi üzerinde önemli bir etkisi olmadığı göstermiştir. Toksisite analizleri, Aliivibrio fischeri üzerinde herhangi bir inhibisyon etkisi olmadığını göstermiştir. Bu bulgular, PS/UV-C prosesinin siprofloksasin gibi ilaç etken maddelerinin arıtımı için umut vadeden bir yöntem olduğunu göstermektedir.
Generalized Normal Distribution Optimization Algorithm for Economic Dispatch with Renewable Resources Integration
Authors: Hoque Sadmanul , Rashidul Islam Md. , Shafiullah Md , Adnan Saymun , Samiul Azam Md
Published: September 2023

In an electric power system operation, the main goal of economic dispatch (ED) is to schedule the power outputs of committed generating units efficiently. This involves consideration of relevant system equality and inequality constraints to meet the required power demand at the lowest possible operational cost. This is a challenging optimization problem for power system operators that can be dealt with efficient meta-heuristic algorithms. This article uses a recent meta-heuristic approach named the generalized normal distribution optimization (GNDO) algorithm to achieve near-optimal solutions. The efficacy of the proposed GNDO algorithm is validated through experimentation on three distinct test power system networks: one with three thermal units, the second one with six thermal-unit, and the third one with ten thermal units. The algorithm's performance is also assessed on a power network with renewable energy sources. All analyses of the four test cases are conducted on the MATLAB/SIMULINK platform. Finally, this article also compares the obtained results with other literature-reported strategies, genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), whale optimization algorithm (WOA), flower pollination algorithm (FPA), and bald eagle search (BES) algorithm. It is evident from the simulated cases that the employed GNDO algorithm exhibits superior performance for two cases and competitive performance for the remaining cases in achieving the lowest operation costs and power losses.
Nature and City Sounds Influence Physiological and Psychological Markers in College Students
Authors: DiPietro Domenic John , Bidart Maria Gabriela
Published: September 2023

Worldwide, human population growth has led to a higher demand for urbanization. While this development is in accordance with our gregarious lifestyles, our availability and contact with nature has consequentially been minimized. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether sounds from nature versus urban environments affect vital signs (i.e., heart rate and respiration rate) and mood states of female college students. Emotional states were assessed using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) questionnaire. While nature sounds included a mixture of birdsongs and water sounds, urban sounds included traffic, construction, and sirens. Following a within-subject design, each participant listened to a 7-minute segment of nature sounds and a 7-minute segment of city sounds in a randomized order. Sounds were played through each participant’s own headphones and devices at a conversational volume of approximately 70 decibels. All dependent variables were recorded before and after listening to each type of sound. This study was performed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic (April-August 2020). To comply with health and safety guidelines, each participant met with the experimenter through a WebEx virtual conference, and variables were self-recorded by each of the participants. Exposure to 7-minutes of sounds from a natural environment resulted in statistically significant decreases in both respiration rate and negative affect schedule score when compared to the same time exposure to urban sounds. Furthermore, participants had a significantly higher preference for natural over urban environments according to a survey performed prior to listening to both types of sounds. Future research could help to better understand causes for variability in human responses to sound stimuli.
Development of an Electronic Health Record Self-Referral Tool for Lung Cancer Screening: One-Group Posttest Study (Preprint)
Authors: Stang Garrett S , Tanner Nichole T , Hatch Ashley , Godbolt Jakarri , Toll Benjamin A , Rojewski Alana M
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Approximately 14 million individuals in the United States are eligible for lung cancer screening (LCS), but only 5.8% completed screening in 2021. Given the low uptake despite the potential great health benefit of LCS, interventions aimed at increasing uptake are warranted. The use of a patient-facing electronic health record (EHR) patient portal direct messaging tool offers a new opportunity to both engage eligible patients in preventative screening and provide a unique referral pathway for tobacco treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to develop and pilot an EHR patient-facing self-referral tool for an established LCS program in an academic medical center.

METHODS

Guided by constructs of the Health Belief Model associated with LCS uptake (eg, knowledge and self-efficacy), formative development of an EHR-delivered engagement message, infographic, and self-referring survey was conducted. The survey submits eligible self-reported patient information to a scheduler for the LCS program. The materials were pretested using an interviewer-administered mixed methods survey captured through venue-day-time sampling in 5 network-affiliated pulmonology clinics. Materials were then integrated into the secure patient messaging feature in the EHR system. Next, a one-group posttest quality improvement pilot test was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 17 individuals presenting for lung screening shared-decision visits completed the pretest survey. More than half were newly referred for LCS (n=10, 60%), and the remaining were returning patients. When asked if they would use a self-referring tool through their EHR messaging portal, 94% (n=16) reported yes. In it, 15 participants provided oral feedback that led to refinement in the tool and infographic prior to pilot-testing. When the initial application of the tool was sent to a convenience sample of 150 random patients, 13% (n=20) opened the self-referring survey. Of the 20 who completed the pilot survey, 45% (n=9) were eligible for LCS based on self-reported smoking data. A total of 3 self-referring individuals scheduled an LCS.

CONCLUSIONS

Pretest and initial application data suggest this tool is a positive stimulus to trigger the decision-making process to engage in a self-referral process to LCS among eligible patients. This self-referral tool may increase the number of patients engaging in LCS and could also be used to aid in self-referral to other preventative health screenings. This tool has implications for clinical practice. Tobacco treatment clinical services or health care systems should consider using EHR messaging for LCS self-referral. This approach may be cost-effective to improve LCS engagement and uptake. Additional referral pathways could be built into this EHR tool to not only refer patients who currently smoke to LCS but also simultaneously trigger a referral to clinical tobacco treatment.
The association between leisure time physical activity and long-term outcomes after cardiovascular diseases: a dose-response meta-analysis and a cohort study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhong Wen , Wang Lu , Sun Xin , Wang Shiqi , Cheng Hongxin , Zhang Qing , He Chengqi , Wei Quan
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether a dose-response relationship exists between LTPA (leisure time physical activity) and outcomes in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

OBJECTIVE

To identify the optimal volumes of physical activity to produce specific beneficial outcomes and to figure out the dose-response relationship between LTPA volumes and outcomes after CVD.

METHODS

We performed the meta-analysis and systematic review by searching PubMed, Embase databases, and Cochrane Library up to March 2023 to retrieve relevant studies. On the other hand, we also conducted a cohort study and retrieved the data from the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) database.

RESULTS

A Total of 28 studies with 276,985 patients were included for meta-analysis. The dose-response curve for the risk of outcomes, suggests higher volumes of LTPA were associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality. The highly active, moderately active, and lowly active categories also had a 31%, 28%, and 27% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared with the inactive group. Furthermore, the cohort study included 2208 participants, which showed that the all-cause mortality decreased with the increase of LTPA, showing a nonlinear relationship (p for nonlinearity < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed the reduction of all-cause mortality in the vigorous group (HR 0.60, 95% CI [0.37, 0.96]) and strenuous group (HR 0.53, 95% CI [0.37, 0.76]) compared with the inactive group. A similar trend was observed in cardiovascular mortality and non-cardiovascular mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher LTPA may have higher clinical benefits for patients with CVD.
¿Quiénes reciben remesas? Factores asociados con la recepción de remesas en México, 2018
Authors: Pardo-Montaño Ana Melisa , Dávila-Cervantes Claudio Alberto
Published: September 2023

Las remesas constituyen una importante fuente de ingresos para los hogares mexicanos, y su uso tiene una alta relación con las características al interior de los hogares que las reciben. El objetivo fue estudiar las características sociodemográficas de los jefes de hogar y de los hogares receptores de remesas, tanto internacionales como internas. Se elaboró un análisis de regresión logística para identificar qué características de los hogares se asocian con la recepción de remesas; y un análisis de correspondencias múltiples para estudiar la relación entre dichas características. La recepción de remesas se da en un alto porcentaje en hogares con jefes de hogar mujeres, en edades productivas que pertenecen a la población económicamente inactiva, adultos mayores, con bajos niveles de escolaridad y, en hogares en zonas rurales, con personas mayores de 65 años, y hogares ampliados receptores de beneficios del gobierno.
Synophis lasallei (NICÉFORO-MARIA, 1950) (SQUAMATA: COLUBRIDAE): NEW RECORD AND FILLING A DISTRIBUTION GAP IN THE CORDILLERA ORIENTAL OF COLOMBIA
Authors: Caicedo-Martínez Luis Santiago
Published: September 2023

Synophis is a genus of neotropical snakes distributed in Colombia, Ecuador, and Perú that remains poorly studied due to the cryptic habits of the species. S. lasallei is a small snake with disperse records on both slopes of the Cordillera Oriental in Colombia and recently has been found in the Cordillera Central. During a herpetology survey conducted in the western slope of the Cordillera Oriental, department of Huila, Colombia, I found an individual of S. lasallei inside a rotten log and the individual was preserved. This record fills a geographic gap of 401 km in the distribution of the species along the western slope of the aforementioned Cordillera. According to this report this species might be distributed along the entire extension of the Cordillera Oriental and Central but has not been extensively reported because it cryptic habits. Moreover, this report contributes to a better comprehension on the distribution of one little known snake.
RANGE EXPANSION IN THE GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION OF Xenodon angustirostris PETERS, 1864: A NEW LOCALITY FOR THE COLOMBIAN CARIBBEAN ECOREGION
Authors: Angarita-Sierra Teddy , Manco Jaraba Dino Carmelo
Published: September 2023

The false mapaná or false Fer-de-Lance snakes of the genus Xenodon are cryptic, opisthoglyphous, oviparous snakes, rare and poorly represented in biological collections. Hence, the breadth of their distribution ranges is not well delimited. Herein, we extend the geographic distribution range of Xenodon angustirostris based on the discovery of a specimen from the western slope of the Serranía del Perijá, department of La Guajira, Colombia. This new record represents the northernmost locality for the species distribution, adds a new ecosystem and habitat to those previously reported, and provide new evidence that fed the discussion about hypothetical biogeographic units stated for the Colombian Caribbean.
Abronia matudai (ANGUIDAE: GERRHONOTINAE) (HARTWEG & TIHEN, 1946)
Authors: Del Cid-Baquiax Jimena , Castillo-Obregón Francisco , Ariano-Sánchez Daniel
Published: September 2023

The distribution note represents a range extension of 60 km SW of the known distribution of Abronia matudai and represents the first record of the species for the Atitlán volcano in the department of Suchitepéquez, Guatemala.
FIRST OSTEOMYELITIS RECORDS IN NESTING FEMALE TURTLES OF Lepidochelys olivacea (ESCHOLTZ 1829) AT LA ESCOBILLA SANCTUARY, OAXACA, MEXICO
Authors: Buenrostro-Silva Alejandra , García Grajales Jesus , Sánchez-Nava Petra , Ruíz-Gómez María de Lourdes
Published: September 2023

We provide the first records of osteomyelitis in shell of nesting female turtles of Lepidochelys olivacea at La Escobilla Sanctuary, Mexico. Osteomyelitis is an infectious and inflammatory disease of the bone, characterized by necrosis and destruction of bone tissue. Until now, there no exist records of this infectious disease of bone in olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) in tropical waters.
PISCIVORÍA DE Staurotypus triporcatus (TORTUGA TRES LOMOS) SOBRE Pterygoplichthys pardalis (PEZ DIABLO), UN PEZ INVASOR EN EL SUR DE QUINTANA ROO, MEXICO/NORTE DE ORANGE WALK, BELIZE
Authors: Gonzalez Sanchez Victor Hugo , Aguilar-Rosales Jethro E. , Lara-Sánchez Lizbeth E.
Published: September 2023

La tortuga de tres lomos (Staurotypus triporcatus) es un habitante frecuente de los sistemas de corrientes lentas de agua dulce en varias regiones de Centroamérica, incluido México, Guatemala y Belice (Orange Walk). Es principalmente una especie durofaga, es decir, que se alimenta de organismos duros o con caparazón, por lo que su dieta generalmente consiste en invertebrados acuáticos, especialmente moluscos y ocasionalmente presenta hábitos piscívoros. En este texto, documentamos un caso de piscivoría de la tortuga tres lomos sobre ejemplares de pez diablo (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) y discutimos las posibles implicaciones ecológicas de esta conducta
USO DEL HÁBITAT POR Agalychnis Annae (ANURA: HYLIDAE) EN UN ESPACIO VERDE URBANO EN COSTA RICA.
Authors: Arguedas Porras Viviana , Mora José Manuel , Barquero Marco
Published: September 2023

La información sobre el uso del hábitat de varios hílidos, como Agalychnis annae, es limitada. Esta especie se reproduce en estanques y requiere la presencia de plantas cerca de pequeños cuerpos de agua para una reproducción exitosa. El objetivo de esta investigación fue examinar los aspectos básicos del uso del hábitat por parte de Agalychnis annae. Estudiamos una población de esta especie en la laguna natural del Zoológico Nacional Simón Bolívar, San José, Costa Rica. Encontramos que los individuos prefieren diferentes tipos de perchas según la categoría de sexo/edad, observándose un mayor número de hembras adultas y juveniles en las hojas y más machos adultos en los tallos. La ubicación en el sustrato, así como la altura a la que se posaron los individuos de cada categoría de sexo/edad, fue similar. Encontramos una mayor proporción de individuos tanto juveniles como adultos en dos gramíneas (Cyperus involucratus y Coix lacryma-jobi). Encontramos masas de huevos en siete especies de plantas, pero la mayoría ubicadas en Coix lacryma-jobi y un bambú (Rhipidocladum racemiflorum). Es posible que Agalychnis annae elija la vegetación para la oviposición en función de su estructura en vez de su abundancia. De manera similar, el hallazgo de que las hembras prefieren las hojas a los tallos para poner huevos puede explicarse por el área de superficie y el soporte que ofrece una hoja en comparación con un tallo. Estos hallazgos proporcionan información valiosa sobre las preferencias de hábitat y el comportamiento reproductivo de Agalychnis annae, y pueden contribuir a futuras estrategias de manejo y conservación para esta especie.
Optimizing Urban Street Lighting: A Smart Approach using IOT
Authors: Gaikwad Prof. Vijay , Kanase Omkar , Bardekar Vincent , Joshi Malhar , Kotangle Mallaika , Jadhav Mansi
Published: September 2023

Abstract: This project presents a street light detection system using Arduino, LED, LDR (Light Dependent Resistor), IR (Infrared) sensors, resistors, and a breadboard. The aim of the project is to automate street lighting based on the ambient light conditions, thereby optimizing energy consumption and enhancing safety. The system utilizes LDRs to measure the ambient light intensity and IR sensors to detect the presence of vehicles or pedestrians. The Arduino microcontroller processes the sensor inputs and controls the operation of the streetlights accordingly. The system incorporates a breadboard for easy prototyping and connectivity. Upon detecting low ambient light levels and the absence of vehicles or pedestrians, the Arduino triggers the LED street lights to turn on. Conversely, when the ambient light levels are high or a vehicle or pedestrian is detected, the Arduino instructs the LEDs to turn off, conserving energy and reducing light pollution. To ensure accurate light detection, appropriate resistors are used to calibrate the LDRs and IR sensors. This allows for precise measurement and detection thresholds, enhancing the reliability of the system.
Deficiencia de hierro y desarrollo psicomotor infantil en una zona rural de Chota, Perú 2022
Authors: Rodrigo-Barboza Sandi Analí , Bustamante-Tapia Yuleysi , Oblitas Gonzales Anibal
Published: September 2023

Introducción: la deficiencia de hierro y las alteraciones en el desarrollo psicomotor son dos problemas de salud pública que causan una alta morbimortalidad infantil alrededor del mundo. Los estudios apuntan a que esto se relaciona con los factores sociales, económicos, culturales y sanitarios en los que el niño y su familia vive. Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre anemia ferropénica y desarrollo psicomotor en niños de 2 a 4 años atendidos en el Puesto de Salud de Cuyumalca, Chota. Materiales y métodos: Estudio relacional, transversal, desarrollado con 48 niños a quienes se les realizó un dosaje de hemoglobina con hemoglobinómetro portátil y se les aplicó el Test de Desarrollo Psicomotor. Resultados: El 31,2% de niños presentaron algún tipo de anemia, siendo la anemia moderada la más frecuente (16,7%); en promedio 10,9% evidenciaron alguna alteración en el desarrollo psicomotor en coordinación (6,3%), lenguaje (8,4%), motricidad (16,7%) y desarrollo global (12,5%). El 4,2% de niños con riesgo para el desarrollo presentaron anemia leve o moderada en las tres áreas evaluadas, al igual que en el desarrollo global. Conclusión: No existe relación estadística significativa entre anemia ferropénica y desarrollo psicomotor para las áreas de coordinación, lenguaje y motricidad; además del desarrollo global.
Implementasi Metode STIFIn dalam Proses Menghafal Al-Quran Santri Remaja di Ma’had Tahfiz Baitul Quran Aceh Besar
Authors: Iqramullah Iqramullah
Published: September 2023

The STIFIn method is one of the learning methods whose learning process focuses on a child's genetics, in its implementation this method offers a quick memorization solution that is done starting before the memorization process. The purpose of this research itself is to see how the implementation, impact and opportunities and challenges of the implementation of STIFIn methods in the process of memorizing the Qur'an. This research uses a qualitative approach and the research subjects of Headmaster, Tahfizh Teacher and Students Of Ma'had Tahfizh Baitul Quran Aceh Besar. Data collection is done by observation, interview and documentation. The results showed that, to apply the STIFIn method in the process of memorizing the most established students first carried out finger print, preparing tools and means and explaining the technical in memorization, after feeling ready to enter the implementation of the method in the classroom. The resulting impact through the implementation of this method is the increasing memories of students and students motivated in memorizing the Qur'an. In its application there are opportunities and challenges, among the opportunities generated is the cooperation with the Director of STIFIn Aceh and the assistance of outside experts who contribute to the implementation of this method. The challenges include relatively expensive administrative processes, self-adjustment and tools (media) as well as inadequate means.
Replicating the Bright-Light Therapy of Seasonal Affective Disorder through Dual-Gate Dielectric Synaptic Transistors: An Exploration of Neuromorphic Computing Approaches
Authors: Lee Jaehee , Lim Jung Wook
Published: September 2023

We fabricate a synaptic device employing a TiO2 channel highly
responsive to optical stimuli and incorporating a dual-gate dielectric,
one of which facilitates charge trapping at the interface. Unlike
conventional synaptic transistors responding to only a single type of
stimulus such as optical or electrical stimulation, our device stands
out by simulating synaptic behavior by integrating both optical and
electrical stimuli. These distinctive attributes enable us to elicit
excitatory postsynaptic current via optical and inhibitory postsynaptic
currents through electrical stimulation. Notably, the lifetime of the
optical synaptic behaviors was approximately 12 times longer than that
of the electrical stimulation. Additionally, employing the paired-pulse
facilitation index, distinct time constants are computed corresponding
to the rapid and slow phases, mirroring a pattern akin to that observed
in a bio-synapse. We establish a nonlinearity factor v = 7.21×10-4
through short-term plasticity to long-term plasticity transition,
demonstrating remarkable linearity. We achieve 2048 analog states
characterized by exceptional linearity. Finally, we replicate human
depression, known as seasonal affective disorder, by employing
electrical stimulation to emulate feelings of melancholy. Subsequently,
we replicate light therapy for seasonal affective disorder by
incorporating light stimulation. This outcome signifies a promising
pathway for future investigations into emulating human brain activity.
THz Detection by HBT Justified by Nonlinear Analytical Modeling and TCAD Simulation
Authors: Abdelbaset Hassan M. , Elkhatib Tamer A. , Ibrahim Nihal Y. , Rafat Nadia H.
Published: September 2023

Transistor operation beyond cutoff frequency as THz signal rectifiers
has attracted increasing attention, lately. As a result, further
development of different models has been carried out of the
rectification and detection of this THz signal within different
transistor structures. The common theory for THz detection by FETs is
based on the well-known plasma wave model. However, recently reported
THz rectification in HBT devices challenged this plasma wave model, as
it may not apply to the THz detection and rectification within HBTs. We
propose a simple nonlinear analytical model for describing the induced
THz rectified signals in HBTs. This nonlinear analytical model is not
only applicable to HBTs but also to FETs. Our proposed model is
primarily based on the Taylor series expansion of the device’s
multivariable, nonlinear static I-V characteristics function. We
validate our proposed analytical model by performing TCAD simulations
for a typical SiGe HBT structure for both unbiased and biased collector
operation modes. The results of the simulations demonstrate good
agreement with the suggested nonlinear analytical model. Furthermore, we
present a parametric study to investigate the contribution of effective
device parameters such as base length, base width, base doping, emitter
doping, and collector doping on the behavior of the HBT as a THz
rectifier. The findings of this study shed light on the effects of these
parameters and their role in shaping the performance of the HBT as a THz
rectifier.
How territoriality and sociality influence the habitat selection and movement of a large carnivore
Authors: Hansen Katherine , Ranc Nathan , Morgan John , Jordan Neil , McNutt J. Weldon , Wilson Alan , Wilmers Christopher
Published: September 2023

1. While territoriality is one of the key mechanisms influencing
carnivore space use, most studies quantify resource selection and
movement in the absence of conspecific influence or territorial
structure without inference on resource selection processes. 2. Our
analysis incorporated intra-specific competition in a resource selection
framework, via territorial data of conspecifics, to investigate
mechanisms of territoriality and to better understand the role of
neighboring packs on African wild dog habitat selection. We fit
integrated step selection functions to 3-hour GPS data from 12 collared
wild dog packs in the Okavango Delta, and estimated selection
coefficients using a conditional Poisson likelihood with random effects.
3. Packs selected for the outline of their neighbors’ 30-day boundary
(defined as their 90% kernel density estimate), and for the outline of
their own 90-day core (defined as their 50% kernel density estimate).
Neighbors’ 30-day boundary had a greater influence on resource selection
than any habitat feature. Habitat selection differed when they were
within versus beyond their neighbors’ 30-day boundary. 4. Pack size,
pack age, pup presence, and seasonality all mediated how packs responded
to neighbors, and seasonal dynamics altered the strength of residency.
While newly-formed packs and packs with pups avoided their neighbors’
boundary, older packs and those without pups selected for it. Packs also
selected for the boundary of larger neighboring packs more strongly than
that of smaller ones. 5. Social structure within packs has implications
for how they interact with conspecifics, and therefore how they are
distributed across the landscape. Future research should continue to
investigate how territorial processes are mediated by social dynamics
and, in turn, how territorial structure mediates resource selection and
movement. These results could inform the development of a human-wildlife
conflict (HWC) mitigation tool by co-opting the mechanisms of
conspecific interactions to manage space use of endangered carnivores.