bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Foreign Language Book Borrowing Habits of University Instructors and Prospective Teachers (2012–2022)
Authors: Liu Jiexuan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Understanding the widespread adoption of foreign language books (FLBs) is imperative for language learners and educators, as it facilitates evaluating the efficacy and caliber of language resources. Using MARC-based bibliography analysis, the researcher uncovers publishing and subject information of popular FLBs and utilizes survival analysis to calculate the FLBs’ survival index. After conducting factor analysis, the researcher applies linear regression prediction and Bayesian estimation to determine the total number of FLBs borrowings and borrowers. The borrowing index of FLBs collected in the past five years surpasses that of books collected for more than five years, and staff members demonstrate higher borrowing activity compared to undergraduate students, postgraduate students, and other readers. Acceptance emerges as the most critical factor influencing the total number of FLBs borrowings and borrowers, while cultural dominance has a relatively minor impact, and personal background is found to be less negatively influential. The estimates of the total number of FLBs borrowings reveal that acceptance is restricted by cultural dominance, which in turn is limited by personal background. Similarly, the estimates of the total number of FLBs borrowers indicate that acceptance is constrained by personal background, which in turn is limited by cultural dominance.
Social Trust and Support Networks: A Regional Analysis of Italy
Authors: Arnone Massimo , Leogrande Angelo , Drago Carlo , Costantiello Alberto 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This research explores how regional socioeconomic variables affect the perception of social trust and support networks (PYCC) in Italian regions, and examines the implications for public policy designed to strengthen social cohesion. This study examines the variable "People You Can Count On" (PYCC) from the ISTAT-BES dataset, focusing on its distribution across Italian regions between 2013 and 2022. Using clustering through a k-Means algorithm optimized with the Silhouette coefficient and the Elbow method, three distinct clusters of regions emerged, highlighting significant differences in social support networks. An econometric model was employed to estimate the PYCC variable, factoring in socioeconomic indicators such as employment rates, income inequality, and social participation. The results indicate a complex interplay between socioeconomic conditions and social trust, with regions in the South and Islands showing increased community support, while many Northern regions experienced declines. The study suggests that areas with lower economic conditions often foster stronger social networks, driven by necessity. These findings underline the importance of targeted public policies aimed at fostering social cohesion, particularly in regions facing economic challenges. Policy implications include enhancing education, supporting small enterprises, and promoting social housing and welfare initiatives. Strengthening community participation and volunteering are also highlighted as critical strategies to build resilient support networks. Overall, the research provides valuable insights into the regional disparities of social trust and the role of socioeconomic factors in shaping community support across Italy.
JEL Classification: D6, D64, D9, J21, D63
Charting the Proteins of Oropouche Virus
Authors: Thomas Sunil 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The Oropouche virus (OROV) is responsible for the disease Oropouche fever, also known as sloth fever. This virus is currently endemic to the Americas and is transmitted primarily through midges and mosquitoes. Recently, an increase in cases has been noted among American and European tourists visiting Cuba, likely due to environmental changes that have led to a rise in midge populations. These climatic shifts have exacerbated the spread of the virus. OROV is classified as an enveloped virus with a tripartite genome, which consists of three distinct single-stranded, negative-sense RNA segments. Despite its growing significance, there are no vaccines available to protect against OROV, and human-to-human transmission has not been documented to date. However, the absence of effective diagnostics and preventive measures poses a significant public health challenge. This paper seeks to address this critical gap by providing a detailed analysis of the structure and epitopes of OROV's major proteins. By elucidating these molecular features, the study aims to lay the groundwork for the development of novel diagnostic tools and vaccines. Such advancements could play a crucial role in controlling the spread of OROV and reducing its impact on both human and animal populations.
Evaluation of effectiveness of Blue-Green Infrastructure for reduction of pluvial flooding under climate change and internal system failure conditions
Authors: Mugume Seith N. , Nakyanzi Lydia Patricia 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) has been proposed as a suitable adaptation measure that can enhance the resilience of existing urban drainage systems (UDSs). However, there are limited studies that have rigorously investigated the performance of BGI options considering future climate change and internal UDS failures. In this study, a coupled 1D–2D PCSWMM model was developed and applied to investigate the effectiveness of potential BGI options in the reduction of pluvial flooding using a case study of a ‘failed’ UDS in Kampala, Uganda. The study results suggest that climate change will increase the frequency of occurrence of extreme rainfall from 1 in 100 years to 1 in 10 years, thereby exacerbating the urban flooding challenge in Kampala City. The study results also ascertained that the use of spatially distributed infiltration trenches and bioretention cells at a catchment scale could lead to a modest reduction of the total flood volume and the average flood duration of at least 12.0% [9.8–14.0%] and 34.3%, respectively, when combined with improved UDS cleaning and maintenance. The findings point towards the need to implement BGI options in combination with improved asset management and investments in the expansion of grey UDSs to enhance global resilience to pluvial flooding under climate change.
Electrodialysis reversal (EDR) technology: a viable solution for addressing water quality challenges in the dry zone, Sri Lanka
Authors: Walawege Dushan Darshana , Wickramasingha Walebada Seethagalage Buddhika , Sandaruwan Ranepura Dewage Charuka , Udayanga Samitha , Perera Iddamalgoda Jayawardanage Judi Udari Nisansala , Nawalage Nawala Mudiyanselaya Semini Kushara , Dassanayake Dassanayake Mudiyanselage Jeewani Lakmali , Bellanthudawa Bellanthudawage Kushan Aravinda 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology (CKDu) affects rural Sri Lankan agricultural populations, with poor-quality ground and surface water suspected as the root cause. Hence, we conducted this study to explore the effectiveness of Electrodialysis Reversal (EDR) technology in treating water quality issues related to CKDu in dry zone of Sri Lanka. The EDR plant in Kahatagasdigiliya, Anuradhapura district, managed by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWS&DB) was selected. We measured both physical (colour, turbidity, pH) and chemical (electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, chloride, alkalinity, hardness, nitrate, nitrite, sulfate, fluoride, total phosphate, iron, manganese) parameters of the EDR process. The parameters of the permeate stage of the EDR plant were validated by comparison with data from SLS 614:2013, and removal efficiencies were assessed. The results revealed that all parameters consistently fell within the permissible limits in the permeate stage of the EDR plant. Turbidity (62.65%), sulfate and manganese (50%), colour (47.37%), fluoride (44.19%), and hardness (35.71%) showed high removal efficiencies in the EDR process. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of EDR technology in addressing water quality challenges, validating its potential for groundwater treatment and this contributes to the improvement of groundwater quality in CKDu-prevalent areas.
Analysis of flow regime classification in the Omo-Gibe River Basin: insights into fluid dynamics in Ethiopia
Authors: Bayana Darara Dabtara , Feyessa Fekadu Fufa , Demissie Tamene Adugna 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

The study investigates flow regime in the Omo-Gibe River Basin to address hydrological complexity caused by precipitation and catchment features. Despite employing various methodologies, daily flow data highlight the need for a more comprehensive understanding of flow variability. The study aims to scrutinize flow regime classification, emphasizing the challenges posed by the basin's unique hydrological dynamics, with the ultimate goal of improving water management practices in the region. Using XLSTAT (Excel statistics software), the average base flow index (60.66%), zero flow index (0.25%), coefficient of variation (1.56%), and flashiness index (0.276%) were determined to be the primary hydrological indices that contributed to streamflow characterization. Finally, flow regime classification was described as non-perennial (13%) or perennial (87%) using the shape of the flow duration curve and this hydrological index. However, the magnitude of extreme flow events was judged depending on flow duration curve and calibrated by the flashiness index computed in the study. The study's findings serve as an input for streamflow regionalization and the foundation for future research on the ecology and hydrology of Ethiopia's river basins as well as the management of the water resources throughout the Omo-Gibe River Basin.
In vitro Antileishmanial Activity and In silico Molecular Modeling Studies of Novel Analogs of Dermaseptins S4 and B2
Authors: Haddad Houda , da Franca Rodrigues Klinger Antonio , Othman Houcemeddine , Veras Leiz Maria Costa , Rodrigues Raiza Raianne Luz , Ouahchi Ines , Ouni Bouraoui , Zaϊri Amira 
Published: September 2024

Background:
Leishmaniasis is responsible for approximately 65,000 annual deaths.
Various Leishmania species are the predominant cause of visceral, cutaneous, or mucocutaneous
leishmaniasis, affecting millions worldwide. The lack of a vaccine, emergence of resistance, and
undesirable side effects caused by antileishmanial medications have prompted researchers to
look for novel therapeutic approaches to treat this disease. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) offer
an alternative for promoting the discovery of new drugs.

Methods:
In this study, we detail the synthesis process and investigate the antileishmanial activity
against Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis for peptides belonging to the dermaseptin (DS)
family and their synthetic analogs. The MTT assay was performed to investigate the cytotoxicity
of these peptides on the murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. Subsequently, we performed
molecular modeling analysis to explore the structure-function correlation of the derivatives interacting
with the parasitic membrane.

Results:
All examined derivatives displayed concentration-dependent antileishmanial effect at
low concentrations. Their effectiveness varied according to the peptide's proprieties. Notably,
peptides with higher levels of charge demonstrated the most pronounced activities. Cytotoxicity
assays showed that all the tested peptides were not cytotoxic compared to the tested conventional
drug. The structure-function relationships demonstrated that the charged N-terminus could be
responsible for the antileishmanial effect observed on promastigotes.

Conclusion:
Collectively, these results propose that dermaseptins (DS) might offer potential as
promising candidates for the development of effective antileishmanial therapies.
Assessing Seminal Plasma Malondialdehyde Acid as a Diagnostic Tool for Male Infertility: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Kumar Naina , Deepthi KN , Padugupati Suhasini , Ghose Seetesh 
Published: September 2024

Aim:
The aim of this study was to assess the role of seminal Malondialdehyde Acid (MDA)
in the diagnosis of male infertility.

Background:
Both male and female infertility is increasing all over the world.

Objective:
The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of seminal MDA levels on various
semen parameters of healthy fertile men and men with infertility, and to know the efficacy of seminal
MDA in the diagnosis of male infertility.

Methods:
This case-control study was carried out at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
of a tertiary care center in rural Southern India over a period of two years. The study included
90 infertile men (≥21-50 years) having some pathology in semen reports as cases and 90 fertile
men (having biological children) with normal semen reports as controls. Biochemical tests for
MDA were performed using Human MDA Assay kits on 180 cryopreserved semen samples following
the standard protocol. Results of seminal MDA levels were assessed among cases and controls
and correlated with different semen parameters.

Results:
The mean±SD age for cases was 30.10 ± 4.75 years, and for controls, it was 29.79 ± 5.08
years. Of all the cases, 44 (48.9%) had asthenozoospermia, 22 (24.4%) had oligoasthenozoospermia,
14(15.6%) had oligozoospermia, and 10 (11.1%) had azoospermia. A statistically substantial
variance was observed in mean values of MDA (1.03 ± 0.31 mmol/mL vs. 0.60 ± 0.14 mmol/mL;
p =0.001) between fertile men and men with abnormal semen reports. A negative association was
observed between semen MDA levels with sperm motility, concentration, and normal morphology
in 180 participants. The sensitivity of MDA for male infertility prediction was 86.67% at 76.67%
specificity, 78.79% positive predictive value, and 78.79% negative predictive value.

Conclusion:
MDA has been found to be a promising biomarker for predicting male infertility.
However, large sample sizes and prospective cohort studies are required to further confirm its predictive
accuracy across various populations.
Electro-sustainable Synthesis: Rapid and Efficient Production of Benzothiazole Derivatives through Electrochemical Means for Sustainable Chemistry
Authors: Patel Manoj Kumar , Shivhare Km Neha , Jaiswal Manish Kumar , Tiwari Saurabh Kumar , Prakash Ved , Pal Singh Rana Krishna , Siddiqui Ibadur Rahman 
Published: September 2024

Background:
We generally focused on an environmentally green synthesis and we used to
replace toxic methods, hazardous reaction conditions from the greener methods such as electro-organic
synthesis, use of visible light as an energy source, natural and biodegradable green catalysts etc.

Objective:
Synthesis of biologically-active benzothiazole derivatives via eco-compatible method is
the objective of our research article.

Methods:
Electrochemical method where electro-organic synthesis was carried out in an undivided
cell at room temperature in the presence of lithium perchlorate as a supporting electrolyte and electricity
was also utilized here instead of a chemical substance with a simple graphite-iron electrode
combination.

Results:
The generation of 2-substituted benzothiazoles was achieved through the amalgamation of
bis(2- aminophenyl)disulfides with aromatic aldehydes under the influence of the electrodes. Products
were obtained here with the satisfactory to excellent yields with the range of 64% - 91%.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, for the synthesis of benzothiazole derivatives, a different aqueous phase,
facile, simple and dexterous method that is free from any type of hazardous catalyst was reported.
This protocol represents a novel synthetic concept and an eco-compatible pathway along with green
chemistry expertise like usage of the nontoxic solvent with effortless work-up procedure.
Analisis Kualitas Air Minum di Daerah Lingsar Kabupaten Lombok Barat yang Sesuai dengan Baku Mutu Air Minum Menggunakan Parameter Fisika dan Kimia
Authors: Wati Fidia , Meiliyadi Lalu Ahmad Didik , Bahtiar Bahtiar 
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kualitas air minum di daerah Lingsar Kabupaten Lombok Barat yang sesuai dengan baku mutu air minum yang dilakukan dengan uji parameter fisika dan kimia. Penelitian ini dilakukan karena mengingat bahwa air merupakan kebutuhan bagi semua makhluk hidup terutama manusia yaitu untuk minum, memasak, mandi, mencuci dll, oleh karena itu penting untuk kita mengetahui kualitas air yang kita pakai setiap hari terutama air yang sering dikonsumsi. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode eksperimen dengan menganalisis parameter fisika (suhu, ph, konduktivitas dan TDS) dan parameter kimia kandungan logam berat seperti (Mn, Fe dan Cu). Hasil penelitian yang dilakukan menunjukkan bahwa uji parameter fisika untuk rata-rata suhu maksimum yaitu 26,7 pada mata air pancor bawaq dan untuk nilai minimum sebesar 24,9 , pada mata air sarasute, untuk rata-rata pH maksimum sebesar 6,75 pada mata air sarasute dan pH minimum 6,59 pada mata air pancor bawaq, untuk rata-rata TDS maksimum sebesar 288 mg/L pada mata air pancor siwaq dan TDS minimum sebesar 76,67 mg/L pada mata air sarasute, dan untuk rata-rata maksimum konduktivitas sebesar 204 S/cm pada mata air pancor bawaq dan konduktivitas minimum sebesar 153,76 S/cm pada mata air sarasute. Sedangkan Hasil uji parameter kimia logam berat yaitu untuk mangan (Mn) pada mata air sarasute tidak terdeteksi, pada mata air pancor bawaq nilai Mn sebesar 0,0054 ppm dan nilai Mn pada mata air pancor siwaq sebesar 0,0060 ppm, untuk kandungan besi dan Tembaga (Cu) pada ketiga mata air tersebut tidak terdeteksi. Oleh karena itu kualitas air minum didaerah lingsar masih aman untuk dikonsumsi baik jika dilihat berdasarkan parameter fisika dan kimiamya karena tidak melebihi batas ambang atau masih berada pada batas ambang yang sudah ditentukan oleh PERMENKES RI Nomor 492/Menkes/Per/IV/2010.
Medical Students’ Acceptance of Tailored e–Mental Health Apps to Foster Their Mental Health: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Grüneberg Catharina , Bäuerle Alexander , Karunakaran Sophia , Darici Dogus , Dörrie Nora , Teufel Martin , Benson Sven , Robitzsch Anita 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite the high prevalence of mental health problems among medical students and physicians, help-seeking remains low. Digital mental health approaches offer beneficial opportunities to increase well-being, for example, via mobile apps.

Objective
This study aimed to assess the acceptance, and its underlying predictors, of tailored e–mental health apps among medical students by focusing on stress management and the promotion of personal skills.

Methods
From November 2022 to July 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted with 245 medical students at the University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany. Sociodemographic, mental health, and eHealth-related data were assessed. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) was applied. Differences in acceptance were examined and a multiple hierarchical regression analysis was conducted.

Results
The general acceptance of tailored e–mental health apps among medical students was high (mean 3.72, SD 0.92). Students with a job besides medical school reported higher acceptance (t107.3=–2.16; P=.03; Padj=.027; Cohen d=4.13) as well as students with higher loads of anxiety symptoms (t92.4=2.36; P=.02; Padj=.03; Cohen d=0.35). The t values were estimated using a 2-tailed t test. Regression analysis revealed that acceptance was significantly predicted by anxiety symptoms (β=.11; P=.045), depressive symptoms (β=–.11; P=.05), internet anxiety (β=–.12; P=.01), digital overload (β=.1; P=.03), and the 3 UTAUT core predictors—performance expectancy (β=.24; P<.001), effort expectancy (β=.26; P<.001), and social influence (β=.43; P<.001).

Conclusions
The high acceptance of e–mental health apps among medical students and its predictors lay a valuable basis for the development and implementation of tailored e–mental health apps within medical education to foster their mental health. More research using validated measures is needed to replicate our findings and to further investigate medical students’ specific needs and demands regarding the framework of tailored e–mental health apps.
Developing a Mood and Menstrual Tracking App for People With Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: User-Centered Design Study
Authors: Apsey Chloe , Di Florio Arianna , Stawarz Katarzyna 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
People with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) experience a range of symptoms that increase and decline as a result of the natural hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle. For the diagnosis of PMDD, symptom severity needs to be recorded daily for at least two symptomatic cycles. In recent years, the rise in interest in Femtech (tools and technology developed to address women’s health issues) has resulted in a large quantity of “period-tracking apps” being developed and downloaded. However, there is not currently a menstrual and mood tracking app that has the full capabilities to accurately capture the symptoms of PMDD to aid with diagnosis.

Objective
This study aimed to collect feedback and insights from potential users (ie, people with lived experience of PMDD or severe premenstrual syndrome) to inform the development of a prototype app that could support prospective mood monitoring of PMDD symptoms for research, and to support diagnosis.

Methods
We conducted two user-centered design studies. Study 1 consisted of 4 interviews with individual participants who had taken part in our previous web-based mood tracking study for PMDD. During the interviews, participants were encouraged to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the existing web-based mood tracking system. Study 2 consisted of 2 workshops with a total of 8 participants, in which participants were asked to discuss the needs and desirable features they would like in a PMDD-specific tracking app. Interviews and workshops were recorded, and the transcripts were analyzed inductively following a thematic approach.

Results
A total of four themes were identified from the interviews and workshops with potential users: (1) ease of use as a key consideration for users with PMDD; (2) avoiding a reductionist approach for a broad range of symptoms; (3) recognizing the importance of correct language; and (4) integrating features for the users’ benefits. These suggestions align with the current understanding of the implications of PMDD symptoms on daily activities and with findings from previous research on encouraging long-term engagement with apps.

Conclusions
To meet the needs of potential users with PMDD or suspected PMDD, there needs to be a special consideration to how their symptoms impact the way they might interact with the app. In order for users to want to interact with the app daily, particularly during the days where they may not have symptoms to track, the app needs to be simple yet engaging. In addition, if the app provides insights and feedback that can benefit the well-being of the users, it is suggested that this could ensure prolonged use.