bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical specifics of safeguarding materials from additional professional education pro-grammes as intellectual property objects
Authors: Zolotova Valeriya B.
Published: September 2023

The importance of the topic is due to the wide advancing and dissemination of additional professional education, the development and functioning of educational services market, which increases the educational content misuse’s risks and threats as an intellectual property object (IP rights). The purpose of the research is to identify and determine the theoretical features of additional professional education programs’ materials’ protection. Such tasks as basic categories identification, analysis of the court disputes’ current practice related to educational materials protection as intellectual property objects, as well as the measures definition established by law to protect the additional professional education programs’ educational content as intellectual property objects are defined. Through the study of empirical data, primarily expressed in the materials of judicial practice, an attempt is made to generalize and systematize additional professional education programs’ protection legal regulation theoretical issues as intellectual property objects in the field of education. It is concluded that training materials fall under the definition of a work, and taking into account their properties expressed in the means of visualization through, in most cases, presentations and video courses with the independence signs presence and self-sufficiency, additional professional education programs training materials are recognized as composite works.
Educação popular, cultura e democracia
Authors: Urban Samuel Penteado
Published: September 2023

Introdução/Objetivo: O presente texto busca refletir sobre o Instituto de Economia Fulidaidai-Slulu, compreendendo-o como uma universidade popular camponesa do Timor-Leste por meio da relação entre Educação Popular, cultura e democracia. Metodologia: Destaca-se que a presente reflexão apenas foi possível em função de minha experiência junto à construção do currículo dessa universidade camponesa, quando, em 2013, realizei atividades junto à Cooperação Brasileira no país leste-timorense, e num segundo momento, em 2017, quando atuei como docente do instituto como atividade do meu doutorado sanduíche junto a Universidade Nacional de Timor Lorosa’e. Resultados/Conclusão: Acerca dos resultados e conclusões, destaca-se que, não havendo uma desvinculação entre formação de mão de obra e formação humana, o instituto põe em prática a Educação Popular como expressão da cultura rebelde, atuando junto ao processo de conscientização dos camponeses, sendo que os próprios membros da União dos Agricultores de Ermera (UNAER) são também protagonistas desse processo educativo, atuando na disseminação e desenvolvimento de uma economia e de uma tecnologia ligada a outro modelo societário (democrático).
Дослідження дефектів друку гнучких паковань
Authors: Хмілярчук Ольга Іларіонівна , Чепурна Катерина Олександрівна , Сфікова Олександра Павлівна , Бондарина Велимир Віталійович
Published: September 2023

Досліджено сучасний стан технологій виготовлення гнучких паковань глибоким способом друку. Аналіз патентної інформації за останні десять років виявив сталий розвиток технологій забезпечення якості друку, нових матеріалів — фарб та плівок. Відповідно до отриманих результатів, основну кількість патентів зареєстровано в США, Японії та Китаї. Загальна кількість патентів, присвячених новим полімерним матеріалам для друку більш ніж в два рази більша за кількість патентів для фарб глибокого друку. Загалом, з отриманих даних можна зробити висновок, що дана область має багато не досліджених пунктів, а тому в ній є перспектива розвитку та простір для проведення різноманітних досліджень.
На виникнення браку, так само, як і на якість продукції впливають три основні чинники: виробничий; технологічний; сировинний. Також на виникнення браку може впливати ще один чинник — людський.
Як брак, що спричинений людським чинником, найчастіше зустрічається використання не тієї серії фарби, зловживання розчинниками, не проведення своєчасних змивань та очищення формних циліндрів та ракелів, не дотримання затверджених технологічних режимів (температура сушіння, тиск, швидкість, кількість нанесення клею тощо). За результатами друку гнучких паковань до видів браку, що викликаний виробничим чинником, можна віднести: недостатнє натягнення полотна, недостатнє суміщення, не досушування фарби. Як сировинний брак найчастіше зустрічається: провисання полотна, незакріплення фарби, непродруковування дрібного растру, мала інтенсивність фарби, недостатня активація матеріалу.
За результатами загального аналізу, можна виділити найпоширеніші дефекти друку гнучких паковань: непродруковування дрібного растра, різнотон (в одному нпкладі), несуміщення елементів дизайну, крап (непроклейка ламінатів), розшарування ламінатів, недостатня активація плівки, плями та бризки, підсихання фарби (неоднорідність нанесення фарбового шару), перелипання фарбового шару, «сходинки», смуги, тонування, нпродруковування/погане продруковування елементів дизайну.
За результатами аналізу браку при друкуванні тиражної продукції проаналізовано основні причини його виникнення та виділена першочергова. Відповідно до визначених видів дефектів запропоновано можливі шляхи усунення кожного з цих різновидів браку.
THE EFFECT OF THE TYPE AND CONTENT OF CARBONATES ON THE CHARACTERISTICS OF POROSITY OF CERAMIC MEMBRANES
Authors: Yanushevska Olena
Published: September 2023

The main issue considered in the work is the creation of a matrix for ceramic membranes, which would be distinguished by low cost and high porosity. In order to reduce the cost of ceramic membranes, a widespread approach was chosen, which is powerfully used by many researchers, namely the use of natural minerals - kaolin and saponite - as the main components of the matrix. Carbonates were used as pore generating agents to achieve the required porosity value. Three series of ceramic membranes (CM) differing in chemical composition were synthesized in the work: KP1, KP2, and KP3 series. The main composition of CM includes: kaolin, saponite, sodium silicate and carbonates. The effect of the type and amount of carbonates (CaCO3, NH4HCO3, (NH4)2CO3) as pore generating agents on the formation of the porous structure of the samples was studied. The type and content of carbonates varied in different samples from 8 wt% up to 40 wt%. The dry pressing method using pressure equivalent to 8 tons and 15 tons was used to form ceramic membranes. The main parameters by which the properties of ceramic membranes were evaluated: water absorption, total and open porosity. Standard methods were used to determine these parameters for synthesized samples. The chemical composition of the dry mixture of the ceramic membrane, for which the porosity is the maximum in the series of manufactured samples, was established. It was established that the addition of calcium carbonate components to the dry mixture increases the porosity of ceramic membranes and water absorption. The chemical composition of a ceramic membrane sample with the best indicators of total and open porosity in the KP2 series is given. The chemical and phase composition of samples of the KP2 series, as well as their structural and adsorption characteristics, were investigated by X-ray fluorescence and diffraction methods of analysis and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption-desorption. The effect of the addition of silicon carbide on the characteristics of the porosity of the samples was determined.
RATIONAL CONDITIONS OF PRODUCING THE ACTIVATED CARBON WITH WELL-DEVELOPED NANOPOROUS STRUCTURE FOR THE TREATMENT OF NATURAL AND WASTE WATERS
Authors: Klymenko Nataliia , Savchina Liudmyla , Kosogina Iryna , Vrubel Tetiana
Published: September 2023

Rational conditions for the activation of coal of a high stage of metamorphism (anthracite) have been determined, which allow the development of a nanoporous structure. Obtained activate carbon with nanoporous structure can be use for the treatment of natural and waste waters have been carried out. The structurally sorptive characteristics and granulometric size composition of obtained samples were determined. It was established that in order to obtain a sorbent with specified properties, it is necessary to introduce oxygen into the reacting mixture at the second stage of anthracite activation and control the activation time. The activation in the first stage was carried out with steam at a temperature of 750–800 °C, and in the second stage – with steam in the presence of air oxygen at 280–300 °C. The rational content of oxygen in the activating mixture is in the range of 2.7–4.4 %, while the specific surface area of activated carbon increases, which corresponds to nano-sized pores and, accordingly, the volume of the adsorption space of coal. The process led to the development of mesoporosity ~ 0.2–0.3 cm3/g, after which the microporous sample of activated carbon was impregnated with a surfactant solution. Thus, the rational conditions of activation are the duration of the process of 1.5 hours in the presence of 4.4 % oxygen in the activating mixture. It is shown that the largest values of the total specific surface area and the specific surface area of mesopores are achieved when using ionic surfactants with alkyl chain length n = 10–16 as modifiers. In particular, the use of sodium dodecyl sulfate СН3(СН2)11SO3Na as a modifier allows to obtain the largest value of the total surface Stot 1030 m2/g and the surface of mesopores Smе 334 m2/g. It was established that the activation of modified samples of activated carbon leads to a decrease in the size of granules.The content of fractions with a size of 1.0–2.0 mm and 0.5–1.0 mm is 80–85 %, which are rational for use for water purification from organic compounds.
Широкосмуговий акустооптичний амплітудний демодулятор
Authors: Гасанов Афиг Рашидович , Гасанов Руслан А. , Рустамов Асад Р. , Ахмедов Р. А. , Садихов М. В.
Published: September 2023

Обґрунтовано науково-практичну значущість синтезу демодуляторів у вирішенні задачі моніторингу невідомих радіовипромінювань. Особливості фотопружного ефекту обговорюються у контексті побудови амплітудного демодулятора. Побудовано математичну модель процесу формування сигналу на виході демодулятора. Аналіз цієї моделі показав, що вихідний сигнал є копією інформації, що міститься у радіосигналі на вході демодулятора. При цьому амплітудний демодулятор виконує функцію фільтра нижніх частот, який характеризується частотою зрізу. Запропоновано метод розрахунку частоти зрізу демодулятора на основі перехідної характеристики. Створено лабораторний зразок акустооптичного амплітудного демодулятора на основі комірки  Брегга з центральною частотою 80 МГц. Для перевірки встановлених положень проведено низку експериментальних досліджень. Розглянуто процеси демодуляції сигналів з амплітудною та імпульсною модуляцією. Експериментально доведено, що акустооптичний амплітудний демодулятор відтворює інформацію з достатньою для практики точністю. Наведено приклад визначення частоти зрізу акустооптичного амплітудного демодулятора за формою вихідного імпульсу.
The Impact of Financial Development on Inflation: Empirical Evidence from Kenya Using the ARDL Approach
Authors: Gachoki Emilio Munene
Published: September 2023

This paper aims to discuss the relationship between financial development and inflation in Kenya using time series data between 1973 and 2021. The short- and long-run impact of financial development on inflation remains an important issue in the empirical and theoretical literature especially for country specific, but has yet to receive significant research consideration. For this purpose, the paper uses an ARDL analysis method, which is considered an advanced analytical model. Empirical findings confirmed that financial development has a significant long-run impact on inflation in Kenya. On the contrary, results confirmed that there is no significant short-run effect of financial development on inflation. In addition, there is significant long-run and short-run negative relationship between interest rate and inflation. The results indicate significant long-run Granger and ARDL causality from financial development to inflation. The main policy implications of the empirical results of this paper suggest supervision of financial sector must be directed in a way that would stimulate a stable and a moderate inflation rate. In particular, both financial institution and government should enhance the infrastructures of the financial market and promote the utilisation of financial services.
The Review of Human Activity Recognition Survey
Authors: Chatterjee Suvosree
Published: September 2023

Human Action Recognition is widely used in multiple

fields to recognize activities and extract spatial and temporal

information. This paper focuses on analyzing various methods as

well as provides extensive knowledge of the foundational concepts

of the HAR. A dataset is also very crucial for any research study

so we discussed the popular dataset and its features in this paper.
Mechanical Property Degradation of Entangled Metallic Wire Materials under Vibration Environment: Experiments and Prediction Models
Authors: Ma Yanhong , Liang Tianyu , Wang Yongfeng , Wang Zhizhou , Hong Jie
Published: September 2023

Entangled metallic wire material (EMWM) can be utilized as a novel elastic element in vibration isolation devices for mechanical actuators. This paper presents a vibration experiment aimed at investigating the degradation behavior of mechanical performance in EMWM under cyclic compressive environment. An electric vibration testing system, coupled with an isolation structure, is employed to apply compressive loads to the EMWM specimens. Through visual observations and quasi-static compression tests, the variations in geometric morphology and mechanical properties are studied, considering different relative densities and stress amplitudes. The results incidate a significant reduction in the compressed dimension of the specimens as the number of cycles increases, without any wire fractures or wear. Moreover, the mechanical properties exhibit an increasing secant modulus and a decreasing loss factor. These variations ultimately lead to a gradual deviation of the vibration characteristics of the isolation structure from its design state. To predict the mechanical property degradation of EMWM, prediction models are proposed, incorporating dimension, modulus and damping by fitting the obtained results. This research provides valuable experimental data and presents an effective method to determine the operational lifetime of vibration isolators utilizing EMWM.
Sexual Health and Psychological Well-Being of Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Arcos-Romero Ana Isabel , Calvillo Cristobal
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Psychological well-being (PWB) and female sexual health are two important areas for women’s quality of life and research, and they are closely related. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the existing literature to explore the association between PWB and sexual health in women. (2) Methods: This review was carried out following PRISMA. The inclusion criteria were studies with samples of adult women, that evaluated and associated sexual functioning and mental health. Scientific articles were identified on Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO (PsycInfo, PsycArticles, and Psicodoc), ProQuest, and PubMed. The search was limited to years between 2010 and 2023. (3) Results: 14 selected articles were analyzed, in which population samples and variables related to mental and sexual health were examined. 42.9% of the studies included clinical samples, 71.4% focused on anxiety and depression as main mental health variables, and 50% examined female sexual functioning as a sexual health variable. (4) Conclusions: This review provides more up-to-date information about valuable insights into the possible determinants of female sexual health. The association between PWB and female sexual health has been demonstrated.
Determination of Combustion Experimental Conditions of Different Pellets Based on Ostwald Diagrams in a Domestic Boiler
Authors: González Juan Félix , Álvarez Murillo Andrés , Díaz García Diego , Nogales-Delgado Sergio
Published: September 2023

Global energy scenario is becoming vital for the sustainable economic development of a region or country. Current changes in energy production, mainly due to scarcity and geopolitical factors, have proven the need for changes in energy mix towards a lower energy dependence. In that sense, a considerable amount of biomass waste is generated in many regions, because of agro-industrial activities, whose management could contribute to energy production. The aim of this work was to study the determination of combustion conditions in a biomass stove by using different raw materials as fuels, such as pine, poplar, and plum tree pellets. For that purpose, power, excess air, and biomass content were optimized, among other parameters, and fumes were analyzed with a Testo 335 analyzer, recording temperatures with temperature probes. As a conclusion, high yields were found for the optimized parameters of the studied biomass (ranging from 91.1 % for poplar pellet to 92.34 % for pine pellet), making these three biomass fuels suitable for combustion in the abovementioned stove. Also, increasing biomass flow by 25 % in the stove contributed to a higher efficiency of the process, especially in the case of plum tree pellets.
Relation of Crown Failure Load to Flexural Strength for Dental Polymers and a Fiber Reinforced Composite Resin
Authors: Alghazzawi Tariq F. F
Published: September 2023

Dental polymers are often advertised and selected for use in restorations based upon the flexural strength of prefabricated discs, which may not accurately reflect their performance in dental applications. The objectives of this study were, therefore, to determine whether the three-point bending (3PB) test for flexural strength would be predictive of the “crunch-the-crown” CTC test for the failure load. Three brands of polymers (Trilor, Juvora, and Pekkton) were fabricated into rectangular bars and fully contoured crowns (10 specimens of each polymer brand, 30 specimens of each shape). Bars were tested in 3PB to determine flexural strength, and crowns were CTC tested to determine failure load after luting to resin abutments. Statistical significance was evaluated by one-way ANOVA ( = 0.05) and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The fracture mechanisms were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the mean crown failure loads (Trilor [7,033 N] > Juvora [5,217 N] > Pekkton [3,023 N]) and mean flexural strengths of the bars (Trilor [468 MPa] > Juvora [197 MPa] = Pekkton [192 MPa]). There were no correlations between flexural strength and failure load. The mode of crown fracture was different between the polymers, and included deformation (Juvora), ductile-to-brittle fracture (Pekkton), and a combination of cracks and deformation (Trilor). The flexural strength was not correlated with the corresponding crown failure load. Dental practitioners should not rely on the value of flexural strength obtained from the three-point bending test, as advertised from the manufacturer, to predict the performance of polymeric crowns.
Women-Friendly Bike Infrastructures in Turin: Assessing Requirements for a Gender-Inclusive Bike System and Its Potential
Authors: Rosso Andrea , Melis Giulia , Pensa Stefano
Published: September 2023

Cities have witnessed a booming interest in cycling in recent years. However, the implementation of cycling networks rarely followed a strategy to make them more accessible to specific social groups, such as women. To address this gap in knowledge, this paper provides a holistic perspective of women’s cycling mobility. Specifically, the study’s goal is to look into the social and environmental implications of cycling for women in Turin, Italy. Hence, this paper provides insights for ensuring a woman-friendly cycling system in a city and ensuring women’s participation as vital stakeholders in promoting a bike-friendly identity. We clarify women’s perceptions of cycling and outline the requirements for more inclusive bike infrastructures. Thus, we identify strategies to improve women’s access to bike lanes and investigate the environmental benefits of reduced air pollution by such a bike system. All this information is intended to define a more socially inclusive and environmental-friendly transport system in Turin for everyone, as depicted in Goal 11 of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Численное моделирование эволюции криволинейного турбулентного следа под воздействием неблагоприятного градиента давления
Authors: Стабников Андрей Сергеевич , Stabnikov Andrey Sergeevich , Стрелец Михаил Хаимович , Strelets Mikhail Khaimovich , Травин Андрей Константинович , Travin Andrei Konstantinivich , Шур Михаил Львович , Shur Mikhail L'vovich
Published: September 2023

Представлены результаты численных экспериментов, направленных на получение
достоверных и детальных расчетных данных по осредненным и пульсационным характеристикам асимметричного криволинейного турбулентного следа за плоской
пластиной, подверженного воздействию неблагоприятного градиента давления.
Расчеты выполнены с использованием вихреразрешающего зонного RANS-IDDES
подхода к моделированию турбулентности для построенной авторами ранее конфигурации модельного следа. Надежность полученных результатов подтверждается сеточной независимостью полученного решения, а сравнение этих результатов с
соответствующими результатами расчетов, выполненных с использованием различных полуэмпирических RANS моделей, свидетельствует о недостаточной точности последних и о необходимости их дальнейшего усовершенствования.
Microbial activity in dust-contaminated Antarctic snow
Authors: Thurston Alison , Foley Karen , Rosten Shelby , Taylor Susan , Haehnel Robert , Barbato Robyn
Published: September 2023

During weather events, particles can accumulate on the snow near the Pegasus ice and Phoenix compacted-snow Runways at the US McMurdo Station in Antarctica. The deposited particles melt into the surface, initially forming steep-sided holes, which can widen into patches of weak and rotten snow and ice. These changes negatively impact the ice and snow runways and snow roads trafficked by vehicles. To understand the importance of microbes on this process, we examined deposited dust particles and their microbial communities in snow samples collected near the runways. Snow samples were analyzed at the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory where we performed a respiration study to measure the microbial activity during a simulated melt, isolated microorganisms, examined particle-size distribution, and performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We measured higher levels of carbon dioxide production from a sample containing more dust than from a sample containing less dust, a finding consistent with viable dust-associated microbial communities. Additionally, eleven microorganisms were isolated and cultured from snow samples containing dust particles. While wind patterns and satellite images suggest that the deposited particles originate from nearby Black Island, comparisons of the particle size and chemical composition were inconclusive.
Some trace functional inequalities for‎ ‎operator (p‎, ‎h)-convex functions
Authors: Rahpeyma Omid Pourbahri , Bakan Mehdi , Bodaghi Abasalt
Published: September 2023

‎ ‎In this paper‎, ‎we present a theorem pertinent to singular value‎ inequalities for positive and compact operators on a Hilbert space‎. Moreover‎, ‎we obtain several trace inequalities for operator‎ (p,h)-convex functions‎.
Solar water splitting for hydrogen production using Zn electrodes: A green & sustainable approach
Authors: Singh Dhananjay , Singh Indresh , Arya Raj Kumar , Mishra Vinay , Singh Deepak , Alam Siraj , Giri Balendu Shekher
Published: September 2023

The global transition towards clean and sustainable energy sources has led to an increasing interest in green hydrogen production. This study presents a sustainable way to the development and assessment of a solar-assisted green hydrogen production. The basic objective of this study is to investigate the practicability and influence of utilizing solar radiation to drive the electrolysis process for green hydrogen generation. The system design combines photovoltaic solar panels to capture solar radiation and convert it into electrical energy. This energy is utilized to operate an electrolyzer with similar electrodes as zinc that facilitates the water-splitting reaction resulting in the production of hydrogen gas. The solar panel temperature along with global radiation has been monitored. The hydrogen production is analyzed at three different voltage values i.e. 11V, 12V, and 13V. After sixty minutes of operations, the maximum amount of hydrogen (2952 ml) is produced at 13V. Therefore, the fabricated electrolyzer was found stable and economic feasible throughout the tests for hydrogen production.
An artificial intelligence system for detecting the root canal morphology of the mandibular first premolar on panoramic radiographs
Authors: Fu Danli , Shi Kangjian , Wu Fuli , Zhu Fudong , Zhu Haihua
Published: September 2023

Background:
The internal root canal morphology of the mandibular first premolar can be quite diversified, which pose great challenge and can directly affect the outcome of endodontic therapy. The aim of this paper was to examine the diagnostic performance of a deep learning system to determine whether the mandibular first premolar has single root canal or not. Dental cone beam CT was used as the gold standard.
Methods:
CBCT and panoramic radiographs of 1630 mandibular first premolar from 815 patients were analyzed. The CBCT images of the roots were examined to determine whether the mandibular first premolar has single root canal or not. Image patches of the mandibular first premolars were segmented from panoramic radiographs. Then deep-learning network approaches were applied to the patched images. The performance of the deep-learning networks and the dentists were compared in terms of Precision (PR), Recall (RE), Accuracy (ACC), F1-score and Area Under Curve (AUC).
Results:
Using the ResNet-101(CBAM) system showed an accuracy of 85%, a positive predictive value of 81.4%%, and a negative predictive value of 82.35% in the determination of whether the mandibular first premolar has single root canal or not. There was a significant difference between the results of experienced dentists and those of less experienced dentists. There was no difference between the results of experienced dentists and those of the ResNet-101(CBAM). And the results of the ResNet-101(CBAM) are much better than the average of the dentists.
Conclusions:
The deep learning systems showed high levels of performance in differentiating whether the mandibular first premolar has single root canal or not based on panoramic radiographs. It is a promising artificial intelligence approach that may assist dentists in preoperative diagnosis.
Comparing efficacy of charged particle therapy with brachytherapy in treatment of uveal melanoma
Authors: Chou Yu-Bai , Tseng Yu-Hsuan , Hsu Chia-An
Published: September 2023

Background: Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary ocular tumor in adults. The most used eye-preserving treatments are charged particle therapy(CPT) and brachytherapy. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare efficacies and complications of these two radiotherapies.
Methods: We searched EMBASE, PubMed, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library from January 2012 to December 2022. Two independent reviewers identified controlled studies comparing outcomes of CPT versus brachytherapy. Case series that utilize either treatment modality were also reviewed.
Results: 150 studies met the eligibility criteria, including 2 randomized control trials, 5 controlled cohort studies, and 143 case series studies. We found significant reduction in local recurrence rate among patients treated with CPT compared to brachytherapy (Odds ratio[OR] 0.38, 95% Confidence interval [CI] 0.24-0.60, p<0.01). Analysis also showed a trend of increased risks of secondary glaucoma after CPT. No statistically significant differences were found in analyzing risks of mortality, enucleation, and cataract.
Conclusions: Our study suggested no difference in mortality, enucleation rate and cataract formation rate comparing the two treatments. Lower local recurrence rate and possibly higher secondary glaucoma incidence was noted among patients treated with CPT. Nevertheless, the overall level of evidence is limited, and further high-quality studies are necessary to provide a more definitive conclusion.
Effect of urbanization and water quality on microplastic distribution in Conceição Lagoon watershed, Brazil
Authors: de Castro Daniela Grijó , Silva Aurea Luiza Lemes da , Lopes Michelle das Neves , Freire Andrea Santarosa , Leite Nei Kavaguichi
Published: September 2023

Urbanization in watersheds leads to the introduction of sources of microplastics and other pollutants in water bodies. However, the effect of urbanization on microplastic pollution and the relationship between microplastics and water quality are not well understood. We assessed the distribution of microplastics in tributaries urbanized, non-urbanized and in the receiving lagoon body of Conceição Lagoon watershed. The results show that urbanization significantly affects water quality but does not differentiate tributaries in terms of microplastic concentrations. Microplastic concentrations were lower in the receiving lagoon body compared with the tributaries, highlighting their importance in microplastic pollution in the studied lagoon. Microplastic concentration was correlated with low N:P ratios in the lagoon and associated with high levels of total phosphorus, which indicate the discharge of effluents. The correlations between microplastic concentration, water temperature, and dissolved oxygen in the lagoon were based on the temporal variations of these variables. Precipitation and wind velocity had influence on microplastic distribution in the watershed. Our findings underscore the importance of evaluating water quality parameters and meteorological variables to comprehend the microplastic distribution at small watersheds.
Estimating Litter production amount and quality for Eldar pine and umbrella Elm trees in historic city of Yazd
Authors: Kiani Bahman , Nasiri Samira , Azimzadeh Hamidreza , Tabandeh Afagh , Esmaeilpour Mohammad
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to estimate the quantity and quality of litter produced by pine and elm trees in the green space of historic city of Yazd. Litterbags were used to collect the leaves during a year. For each species, amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, sulfur, carbon, magnesium, and potassium levels was measured monthly. The results showed that the annual mean weight of all components of litter was 4056.56 g for pine and 4106.67 g for elm trees. The greatest fall of pine needles was recorded in September. The highest fall of elm leaves was measured in November. The specific leaf area of ​​elm and pine was calculated to be 169.38 and 29.96 cm2/g, respectively. The leaf area index for pine and elm was 0.91 and 7.99, respectively. The results showed no statistically significant difference between pine and elm trees in the leaf amount and total litter. The crown area of ​​pine and elm trees, exhibited a direct effect on the amount of total litter produced. There was a significant difference between the two species in organic matter percentage, whereas there was no significant difference between them in the carbon, calcium, and magnesium content. Elm had a significantly lower C/N than pine. The specific leaf area of elm was higher than pine and it is better in this index. Although pines are evergreen, they produce a lot of litter during one year. Considering the planting spacing, which is usually 3×3 or 5×5 meters, the litter production is estimated to be 1.622 to 4.507 ton.ha− 1 for eldar pine and 1.642 to 4.562 ton.ha− 1 for umbrella elm trees respectively. Our results point out the need to revise the mixing ratio of conifers in plantations to reduce the litter collecting costs by Yazd municipality and increase the soil productivity.
Evaluating the Link between Cord Gas Parameters and Apgar Scores in High-Risk Pregnancies: Insights from a One-Year Study in Qatar
Authors: Kurdi Bader , Nimeri Nuha , Alomar Sufwan , Greer Bill , Bakr Amani Abu , Almatar Yasir
Published: September 2023

This prospective cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the correlation between umbilical cord pH and Apgar scores in high-risk pregnant mothers, focusing on the neonatal outcomes at one and five minutes post-birth. Conducted from January to December 2015 at Women's Hospital Doha, Qatar, the study included 1,057 high-risk mother-fetal pairs who underwent vaginal deliveries. Key variables were analyzed using JMP (v8) statistics software, with a statistically significant p-value defined as < 0.05. Results indicated that low birth weight, smaller gestational age, and lower Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes significantly increased the risk of admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The study found a significant correlation between cord gas values and the 1-minute Apgar score; however, the 5-minute Apgar score was not significantly affected by cord gas values. In conclusion, cord blood gas analysis provides valuable information on fetal metabolic conditions at birth, with umbilical cord pH demonstrating a correlation with Apgar scores in high-risk pregnancies.
Valorization of Solid Residue from the Lateritic Nickel Ore Leaching Process for Ferronickel Production
Authors: Nurjaman Fajar , Sari Yuliana , Adhalia Dysa , Astuti Widi , Sumardi Slamet , Haryono Tri , Nulhakim Lukman , Petrus Himawan Tri Bayu Murti , Prasetya Agus
Published: September 2023

The hydrometallurgical process of nickel laterite leaves a residue that still contains valuable elements. Its utilization can improve overall process efficiency and reduce environmental damage. In this work, the recovery of nickel and iron from nickel residue resulting from the citric acid leach process has been carried out by using the reduction followed by a magnetic separation process (RMS). The effect of reductant and additive dosage, reduction temperature, and holding time on metal grade and recovery, phase transformation, and microstructure of ferronickel has been investigated clearly. The nickel residue was mixed with 5–20 wt% of sodium sulfate and 0.1 to 0.5 of stoichiometric anthracite coal as additive and reductant, respectively. It was agglomerated into pellets with a diameter of 10–15 mm. The reduction process of pellets was conducted at 950–1250°C for 15 to 75 minutes. The reduced pellets were ground and put into a magnetic separation unit using a 500 Gausses magnetic field to produce the magnetic ferronickel and the non-magnetic impurities. The optimum result obtained by reducing the pellet contains 10 wt% of sodium sulfate and 0.1 of stoichiometric coal at 1150°C for 60 minutes, producing ferronickel has 5.74% and 73.18% of nickel and iron grade with 97.79% and 32.99% of recovery, respectively.
Expiration Analysis of the International Space Station Formulary for Exploration Mission Planning
Authors: Buckland Daniel , Diaz Thomas , Ives Emma , Lazare Diana
Published: September 2023

Effective medications will be required to maintain human health for long-duration space operations. Previous studies have explored the stability and potency of several of the medications used on the International Space Station (ISS). This study is the first comprehensive analysis of the expected terrestrial shelf-lives of the entire 2023 ISS formulary using 4 international registries. Of the 106 medications in the ISS formulary, shelf-life data was found in at least 1 of the registries for 91 (86%) medications. Of these 91 medications, 54 have an estimated terrestrial shelf-life of ≤ 36 months when stored in their original packaging. 14 will expire in less than 24 months. The results of this study provide operational insight to supplying a pharmacy for an exploration mission, optimize therapeutic outcomes, and prevent diseases associated with extended spaceflight operations. Ultimately, those responsible for the health of spaceflight crews will have to find ways to extend the expiration of medications to the complete mission duration or accept the elevated risk associated with administration of an expired medication.
Exploring risk factors of pelvic organ prolapse at eastern of Democratic Republic of Congo: A case-control study
Authors: Ilunga-Mbaya¹ Eloge , Mukwege² Denis , de Tayrac⁴ Renaud , Mbungaᶟ Branly , Maroyi² Raha , Ntankwinja Mukanire , Dieudonne Sengeyi Mushengezi Amani
Published: September 2023

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse is a common debilitating condition worldwide. Despite treatment, its recurrence can reach up to 30%.
It has multiple risk factors, some of which are particular for a low-resource settings. The identification these factors would help to devise risk models allowing the development of prevention policies. The objective of this study was to explore risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse in a population in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Methods: This was an unmatched case-control study conducted between January 2021 and January 2022. The sample size was estimated to be a total of 434 women (217 with prolapse as cases and 217 without prolapse as controls). Data comparisons were made using the Chi-Square and Student T tests.Binary and multivariate logistic regressions were used to determine associated factors. A p<0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Variables identified as definitive predictors of pelvic organ prolapse included low BMI (p=0.004, aOR 2.991 IC 1.419-6.307), home birth (p<0,001 aOR 6.102, IC 3.526-10.561 ), family history of POP (p=0.023, aOR 2.085, IC 1.107-3.924), history of episiotomy (p=0, aOR 3.504, IC 2.031-6.048), height ≤ 150 cm (p<0,001 aOR 5.328, IC 2.942-9.648) and history of giving birth to a macrosomic baby (p=0.018, aOR 1.929, IC 1.121-3.321).
Conclusions: This study identified that Body Mass Index and birth-related factors are definitive predictors of pelvic organ prolapse in a low-resource setting. These factors are potentially modifiable and should be targetted in any future pelvic organ prolapse prevention policy. Additionally, there seems to be a genetic predisposition for prolapse, which warrants further assessment in specifically designed large scale studies.
Environmental and Structural Factors Associated with Bacterial Diversity in Household Dust Across the Arizona-Sonora Border
Authors: Benton Lauren , Lopez-Galvez Nicolas , Herman Chloe , Caporaso Greg , Cope Emily , Rosales Cecilia , Gameros Mercedes , Lothrop Nathan , Martínez Fernando , Wright Anne , Carr Tara , Beamer Paloma
Published: September 2023

We previously reported that asthma prevalence was higher in the United States (US) compared to Mexico (MX) (25.8% vs 8.4%). This investigation assessed differences in microbial dust composition in relation to demographic and housing characteristics on both sides of the US-MX Border. Forty homes were recruited in the US and MX. Home visits collected floor dust and documented occupants’ demographics, asthma prevalence, and housing structure and use characteristics. US households were more likely to have inhabitants who reported asthma when compared with MX households (30% vs 5%) and had significantly different flooring types. The percentage of households on paved roads, with flushing toilets, with piped water and with air conditioning was higher in the US, while dust load was higher in MX. Significant differences exist between countries in the microbial composition of the floor dust. Dust from US homes was enriched with Geodermatophilus, whereas dust from Mexican homes was enriched with Alishewanella and Chryseomicrobium. A predictive metagenomics analysis identified 68 significantly differentially abundant functional pathways between US and MX. This study documented multiple structural, environmental, and demographic differences between homes in the US and MX that may contribute to significantly different microbial composition of dust observed in these two countries.
Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to abdominal masses in a country with limited resources
Authors: Adama Saïdou , Balaraba Mohamed Lamine Abani Aïchatou , Aliou Zabeirou Oudou , Daouda Bako Inoussa , Kadi Ide , Hama Younssa , Lassey James Didier , SANI Rachid
Published: September 2023

Objective: Report the diagnostic and therapeutic approach for the management of abdominal masses in the General Surgery Department of the Reference General Hospital (RGH) of Niamey.
Materials and methods: This were a retro-prospective and preliminary study of 2 years 3 months on patients operated for abdominal mass in the general surgery department of the RGH. Palpable mass and/or imaging size (40 mm) were the criteria for inclusion.
Results: Abdominal masses accounted for 6.7% (n=53) of other pathologies. The average age of patients was 41.26 years, standard deviation 14.2 and a female predominance in 75.5% (n=40) with a sex ratio of 0.32. The abdominal mass was clinically palpable in 75.5% (n=40). The abdominal pelvic ultrasound was performed in all patients and in 75.5% (n=40) it had specified the origin of the mass. The injected abdominal-pelvic scanner, performed in 52.8% of patients (n=28) and 89.3% (n=25), had specified the pre-operative diagnosis. The most common etiologies were uterine myomas in 35.8% (n=19). In 7.5% (n=4) the diagnosis was not accurate in pre-operative despite both imaging, and these patients had benefited from an exploratory laparotomy. Surgery was the initial therapeutic gesture for all patients and coelioscopy was 22.6% (n=12). Post-operative complications were 7.5% (n=11). The death rate was 5.6% of cases (n=3).
Conclusion: Imaging remains important in the etiological research of abdominal masses. The definitive treatment remains surgical; mortality would be related to the malignant nature and the large volume of the mass.
“It Takes a Village”: Reflections from participants after a Hispanic community-based health promotion program
Authors: Korom Bethany , Malloy Meghan , Remmers Caroline , Welsch Elizabeth , Cevilla Mari , Alamillo-Roman Zecilia , Torres Daniela , Dione Kelly , Nelson David
Published: September 2023

Background.
Physical activity (PA) among Hispanic and other minority adolescents in the U.S. lag behind White, non-Hispanic adolescents. Previous studies have examined the beneficial impact of culturally informed, community-based health programs within the Hispanic community on PA levels. There is a need for longer term follow up to determine the impact on family and individual habits over time. Our study aims to explore the aspects of a two-year PA and nutrition program, Families Inspired Together 4 Youth Empowered to Succeed (FIT4YES), that continue to influence family health habits and child development.
Methods.
Community-based focus groups were held in Milwaukee, WI with Hispanic parent participants of the FIT4YES program three years after program conclusion. A semi-structured guide of open-ended questions was used to facilitate the discussion of the lasting impact of FIT4YES. Each group was audio recorded, transcribed, and translated from Spanish when necessary. Four student researchers utilized a grounded theory qualitative approach to identify overarching themes.
Results.
Three focus groups with 16 total parents (N = 16) spoke about the program. Three overarching themes emerged from the transcripts indicating that cultural exposure, relationships, and self-growth were necessary for families to sustain the healthy behaviors promoted in FIT4YES. Specifically, parents discussed increased comfort levels with their children participating in school sports, the impact of shared experiences with community members, and continued skills initially taught and practiced during active programming.
Conclusions.
Our group adapted our previously published model to a “post-program” state that incorporated the major themes and sub-themes with levels of the social-ecological model. Although the FIT4YES program ended, multiple ideals instilled by the program continued, we believe, due to the common themes illustrated by our model. This study utilized a community check-in approach to gain insight into the long-term impacts of the FIT4YES program. We propose three recommendations for consideration in the creation of community-based health programs: utilize dynamic, culturally appropriate components based on the intended community; understand the strength of the program as a whole is dependent on the strength of each individual component; and incorporate an anchor institution for consistency and trust within the community.
Association between admission heart rate and in-hospital mortality in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and respiratory failure: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhou Ruoqing , Pan Dianzhu
Published: September 2023

Background: Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) combined with respiratory failure (RF) is a chronic respiratory disease that seriously endangers human health. This study aimed to specifically evaluate the relationship between admission heart rate (AHR) and in-hospital mortality in patients with combined AECOPD and RF to better inform clinical treatment.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 397 patients admitted to a Chinese hospital between January 2021 and March 2023. The primary outcome measure was all-cause in-hospital mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI), and curve fitting and threshold effect were performed to address nonlinear relationships.
Results: In total, 397 patients with AECOPD/RF were screened. The mean (± SD) age of the study cohort was 72.6 ± 9.5 years, approximately 49.4% was female, and the overall in-hospital mortality rate was 5%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and smooth curve fitting revealed a nonlinear association between AHR and in-hospital mortality in the study population, with 100 beats/min representing the inflection point. Left of the inflection point, the effect size (OR) was 0.882 (95% CI 0.742–1.049; p = 0.1561). On the right side, each 1 beat/min increase in AHR resulted in an effect size (OR) of 1.1 (95% CI 1.016–1.19; p = 0.0185).
Conclusions: Results of the present study demonstrated a nonlinear relationship between AHR and in-hospital mortality in patients with AECOPD/RF. When AHR was < 100 beats/min, it was not statistically significant; however, AHR > 100 beats/min was a predictor of potential mortality, which increased by 10% for every 1 beat/min increase in AHR.