bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RECENT CHANGES IN THE SNOW COVER DURATION IN BULGARIA � PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Authors: Nikolov Dimitar , Dimitrov Cvetan , Evgeniev Radoslav
Published: December 2024

Snow cover is an indicator of the fluctuating climate, resulting from the change in the regime of winter precipitations and air temperatures. Our previous studies have revealed significant decreasing of the seasonal snow cover maxima and the precipitation amounts in the highest mountainous regions of Bulgaria, which is however not so strong at lower altitudes. Current research summarizes our last findings about one other characteristic of the snow cover � its duration. This is presented as annual number of days with snow cover with different heights. We have used 62 weather stations with altitudes ranging from 20 up to 2376 m a.s.l. Statistical analysis is performed in order to assess the variability and possible differences in the investigated characteristic from long-term data series for two main climatological periods 1961-90 and 1991-2020.
The general tendency for the whole country is a decreasing trend, more pronounced at the northwest and north parts of Bulgaria with some opposite exceptions with much smaller magnitude at some isolated places at northeast and south. Remarkable decreasing of the snow cover days in comparison with the period 1961-1990 has been encountered in the mountainous regions � in the regions of Koprivshtitza (Stara planina) and Cherni vrah (Vitosha Mountain) the decline is almost one month. We have investigated the mean annual number of snow cover days in three different height categories � all days with snow cover, and those above the limits 15 and 30 cm. Some of the results are presented graphically as maps of the current stage together with the deviation from the previous climatic periods.
This investigation is part of a project for investigation of the current variability of the snow cover and was funded by the Bulgarian National Science Fund in the call for young and post-doctoral researchers under contract number DM14/1.
STUDY ON THE INFLUENCE OF THE ENERGY INDUSTRY ON THE LEVEL OF POLLUTION OF WASTEWATER IN ROMANIA
Authors: Veresiu Silvia , Rus Madalina , Mereuta Elena , Amortila Valentin , Gingarasu Mihai
Published: December 2024

This research aims to conduct a detailed analysis of the necessity for generating electrical energy using conventional methods, simultaneously assessing the impact on water quality. Wastewater, originating from fluids used in industrial processes or households, contains various impurities and is discharged into the natural aquatic environment (such as rivers, lakes, or the Black Sea) or onto various lands, either with or without prior treatment.
The production and utilization of primary energy raw materials, such as coal, oil, natural gas, firewood, or the generation of energy through hydroelectric, nuclear, and unconventional sources, entail the need for water in associated technological processes. Consequently, wastewater becomes a potential source of pollution, even when subjected to treatment in a purification station or a complex of facilities developed or adapted to reduce pollutant concentrations.
This investigation was initiated with the objective of identifying the categories and methods of energy production that generate significant quantities of pollutants. The identification of a statistical correlation (Pearson coefficient) between primary fuels used in energy generation and the level of pollution in industrial waters suggests the imperative need to restrict or eliminate certain fuel sources in favor of environmental protection, as part of an effort to promote sustainable development.
The analysis was conducted over a period spanning from 2006 to 2022, encompassing the evaluation of various fuels, including coal, lignite, and others, which generate pollutants such as nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, mercury, etc. The information utilized in this analysis was sourced from official channels, specifically from the National Institute of Statistics in Romania.
ACHIEVING BIODIVERSITY NET GAIN THROUGH APPLICATION OF NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS
Authors: Vasilie Denis , Stevens Rodney , Bornmalm Lennart
Published: December 2024

Nature-based Solutions represent a set of powerful tools that are intended to reconcile often conflicting economic and nature conservation goals. Rapid infrastructure development threatens biodiversity globally. In this context application of Biodiversity Net Gain strategies start to gain traction. One possible approach to achieve the Net Gain outcomes is to apply Nature-based Solutions. It is, however, important to understand that application of the solutions does not guarantee biodiversity outcomes that could compensate for lost habitats and species beyond the specific situation in focus lost. Thus, in order to ensure that biodiversity Net Gain is achieved design and maintenance of Nature-based Solutions need to explicitly pursue this goal. This requires clear understanding of when the solutions can support biodiversity conservation. Given the wide variety of tools under the Natuure-based Solutions paradigm and the lack of clear guidelines on which factors determine positive biodiversity outcomes, tool application may be problematic. In order to address this problem, we critically evaluate relevant evidence and knowledge, and offer recommendations for conservation practitioners and policymakers.
ASPECTS RELATING TO THE STRUCTURE OF THE TEXTILE FRACTION CONTAINED IN MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE
Authors: Catalin Grosu Marian , Emilia Visileanu , Florentina Vladu Alina , Razvan-Victo Scarlat , Maria-Felici Dondea
Published: December 2024

The European Green Pact launched a concerted strategy for a "circular", climate-neutral, resource-efficient, and resource-efficient economy. Yet globally, only about 20% of textiles are collected separately from the rest of the waste, with a truckload of textiles sent to incineration or landfill every second, and less than 1% of all textiles in the world are recycled into new textiles. In this context, the environmental impact (air, soil, water) due to the landfilling of these textile wastes is huge. In this regard, the paper addresses the issue of the post-consumer textile fraction (as the last chain link in the current linear economy) destined for municipal waste landfills, as textiles disposed of with mixed waste (TMW) in Romania. After sorting and sorting by category, the TMW textile fraction is analyzed in terms of clothing/non-clothing type, structure, and constituent fiber blend, respectively level of degradation, providing a view on the possibility of �downcycling� reuse.
DEVELOPMENT OF A GENERATOR OF GLUED LAMINATED TIMBER ELEMENTS SECTIONS USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Authors: Tapusi Daniela , Andronic Adrian , Tufan Naomi , Teodorescu Ioana , Erbasu Ruxandra
Published: December 2024

Within the current framework of approaching different directions of carbon emissions reduction policy, wood fits as an environmentally friendly building material with low production in terms of energy consumption. In this manner, timber combines its qualities such as high strength/weight ratio and rigidity/weight, low specific gravity, recovery/recycling that make it competitive with classic building materials with the demands of climate change green deal. One specific attention has to be given to the design and execution of civil structures in terms of geometric dimensioning of structures, which favors constant rectangular sections, easy to size.
This article proposes the initialization of a generator of optimized geometries for glued laminated timber (GLT) structural elements that can provide in a reasonable time through artificial intelligence different solutions. Otherwise, this would have required the use of topological optimization by the finite element method with long analysis times. From a scientific point of view, this approach has been applied only on small part elements in order to solve specific problems of the artificial intelligence-optimized design chain.
The results demonstrate the reduction of the amount of material, the improvement of production costs and the optimization of the mechanical behavior of the structural elements in glued laminated timber.
METHODS AND TOOLS FOR STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)
Authors: Zyder Vaclav , Hubacek Jaroslav , Grycz Ondrej , Raszka Lukas
Published: December 2024

The article deals with methods and tools for strategic environmental impact assessment (EIA) in the context of the CEVYKO project, whose facility capacity is 100,000 t/year of processed mixed, separated and bulky municipal waste. Only category O waste (other waste) will be processed. In the introduction, the basic principles and legal framework of EIA are presented, including their importance for sustainability and environmental protection. Subsequently, the specific methods used in the evaluation of projects with a high environmental impact, such as CEVYKO, are described, including risk analysis, impact modeling and evaluation of alternatives. The article also focuses on data collection and analysis tools that enable accurate predictions of environmental impacts and effective mitigation planning. In the conclusion, the results of the EIA for the CEVYKO project are discussed, including the identified key environmental impacts and proposed measures for their minimization. The study highlights the importance of a comprehensive and integrated approach to EIA, which includes all relevant aspects of waste management and contributes to sustainable development.
REGULATING CARBON INTENSITY IN FERROUS METALLURGY: NEW APPROACHES BASED ON THE PRINCIPLES OF BEST AVAILABLE TECHNIQUES
Authors: Dobrokhotova Maria , Skobelev Dmitry , Stepanova Maria
Published: December 2024

The article describes the approaches to development of an effective regulatory mechanism to manage carbon intensity of Russian resource-intensive industries. The authors focus their attention on the ferrous metallurgy industry as the top emitter of greenhouse gases (GHG) and the second-largest consumer of energy among Russian industrial sectors. Resource consumption wise this sector is well-studies and regulated by the Best Available Techniques (BAT). Establishing the interrelation between carbon intensity indicators and resource consumption metrics, as well as operating costs per unit of consumed resource, forms the basis for developing a comparative analysis (benchmarking) system. This system relies on specialised indicators outlined in the Reference Documents on the Best Available Techniques (BREF). The authors suggest using the BAT concept for devising an approach to ascertain the acceptable level of greenhouse gas emissions and incentivise modernisation through industry-specific indicative carbon intensity parameters in the sector. Such parameters are substantiated for the ferrous metallurgy of the Russian Federation. The article evaluates the anticipated economic impact for both the government and the ferrous metallurgy industry stemming from the adoption of the proposed approaches to regulating carbon intensity in the sector. The practical implementation of the proposed methodology is poised to mitigate the financial burdens associated with the introduction of Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAM) around various economies.
BLUE-GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE OF METROPOLITAN AREAS: CHANGES, TRENDS, ENVIRONMENTAL POTENTIAL
Authors: Biela Magdalena , Janczewska Natalia , Sierka Edyta , Matysik Magdalena , Woznica Andrzej
Published: December 2024

The blue-green infrastructure is a network of interconnected natural areas. Its development is particularly important for heavily urbanized areas, which are prevalent in metropolitan regions. Metropolises are densely populated urban areas. In the article focusing on the Gornoslasko-Zaglebiowska Metropolis (GZM), utilizing the Urban Atlas database, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing tools (Based on Sentinel 2 satellite imagery), an analysis of changes in blue-green infrastructure objects was conducted for the years 2006, 2012, 2018 and 2023. The results indicated a gradual decrease in green areas in favor of dense residential development (mainly in the center of GZM). However, the largest share of GZM areas (especially its outskirts) consists of forests, meadows and pastures. To a small extent, the share of urban greenery has increased in the subsequent years under study. The results showed that the methods used allow for an effective analysis of changes in land cover with blue-green infrastructure and the need to develop it for the purposes of increasing retention and reducing the negative effects of climate change.
UNIQUE ASPECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN GENERAL EDUCATION SCHOOLS OF ADJARA
Authors: Nakashidze Nunu , Geladze Darejan , Kiknadze Nino , Gvarishvili Nani , Rodinadze Shota
Published: December 2024

Education is an ongoing process that enables individuals and society as a whole to reach their full potential by developing their abilities. It serves as a crucial prerequisite for sustainable development and the formation of public awareness. Environmental education, which begins in early childhood and continues throughout life, plays a vital role in fostering environmental literacy. Thus, assessing the state of environmental education among school-age students is of great importance.
Our research aimed to evaluate the ecological knowledge of students in public schools operating in various municipalities of the Adjara region, including Khulo, Keda, Khelvachauri, and the city of Batumi. A total of 72 students from primary, secondary, and high school levels, with 24 students from each level, participated in the study, representing eight public schools in the mentioned regions. The findings revealed that the level of ecological knowledge among schoolchildren in rural areas was higher compared to students in urban areas, while the ecological awareness of elementary school students in rural schools is higher than that of students of the corresponding level in city schools. This difference can be attributed to the fact that children living in rural areas have more exposure to nature, animals, and plants, and thus have more information about them, resulting in higher ecological awareness.
Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the levels of ecological knowledge between primary and secondary school students. It was determined that students at all levels were well-versed in environmental aspects such as water pollution, waste management, climate change, biodiversity, forest and soil conditions, and natural disasters. However, there was relatively less awareness about the ecological condition of the air, energy efficiency, and green economy.
SIMULATION OF URBAN HEATING SYSTEMS' RETROFITTING PROJECTS: FROM CONCEPT TO INSTRUMENT
Authors: Karnitis Girts , Gendelis Stanislavs , Pukis Maris , Sarma Ugis , Diebelis Edgars , Bicevskis Janis
Published: December 2024

Updated normative documents within the Fit for 55 legislative package envisage increased dynamics in achieving European Green Deal goals, which are obligatory for EU countries. This directly applies to over 65 million energy-inefficient buildings in EU27 urban areas as well as heat supply systems. However, unified funding for long-term renovation programs is not planned. To respond quickly to diverse financing options with distinct conditions and target variables, a costly and time-consuming elaboration of detailed renovation projects becomes ineffective.
The article outlines the functional algorithm developed for the innovation sandbox, which is intended for the simulation of various renovation/modernization options in the overall urban heating system including heated buildings, district heating network and heat sources. The aim is crafting the application/project that meets the specific conditions to the maximum and provides high performance-price ratio. The algorithm is founded on the previously developed methodological concept.
Created sandbox�s algorithm:
� encompasses the analysis of all components of the overall heating system;
� is applicable to the requirements of relevant projects and available funding options;
� offers a flexible pre-design assessment of the benefits to be achieved by the project;
� capable to consolidate many individual projects;
� provides objective and sufficiently precise results for the initial simulation and evaluation of project variations;
� does not necessitate specific knowledge in building physics and economics;
� utilizes a limited set of input indicators.
Through the sandbox, both central and local governments, as well as building owners, can effectively adapt to evolving funding and/or project tender rules.
COMPARISON OF SURFACE PLASMON RESONANCE RESPONSES FROM THREE DIFFERENT SENSOR STRUCTURES
Authors: Jursa Dominik , Lesnak Michal , Miskay Marek , Karla Barcova
Published: December 2024

This study presents a theoretical and experimental investigation of three distinct surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor configurations, evaluating their sensitivity and practical applications. The first configuration utilizes a commercially available SPR sensor, employing a coupling prism integrated with a thin gold layer in the well-established Kretschmann-Raether configuration for SPR excitation. The second configuration features an advanced design, incorporating a coupling prism combined with an optical multilayer structure and an additional magneto-optical layer, aimed at enhancing the sensor's response to magnetic fields and potentially broadening its application scope. The third configuration is a variation of the second, maintaining the optical multilayer but omitting the magneto-optical layer to assess its impact on sensor performance. Experimental results reveal that the third configuration exhibits the highest sensitivity among the three, making it a promising candidate for applications requiring precise detection capabilities.
THE POTENTIAL OF OLIVE POMACE BIOCHAR FOR METAL RETENTION
Authors: Mourao Paulo
Published: December 2024

This paper is a review of the potential of olive pomace, a by-product of the olive sector, as a precursor for the production of biochar. In general, it presents a panorama of this sector, which is so important worldwide and particularly in the Mediterranean region, the largest olive and olive oil producing area in the world, representing 90% of global production. We also address the problem of the large amount of waste (around 15 million tons/year), in the form of pomace, generated by this olive oil production industry, which has an impact on the environment and directly on the people living near the plants that process this by-product. Next, we explore the possibility of valorising this by-product, which in the quantities it is produced is even an environmental problem, by transforming it into biochar and revisit the main processes for producing this carbon material. We then focus on the potential for its application in metal retention (e.g. silver, arsenic), through the adsorption process, with a wide range of applications in areas ranging from mining to water treatment and environmental remediation, among others. This section presents the results that show the potential of valorising olive pomace by transforming it into a carbon material, biochar, with a developed porous structure and surface chemistry, which can be adjusted for its specific application in the retention or removal of metals present in liquid phase systems.
EVALUATION OF THE INITIAL VOLUME STABILITY OF CURRENT CEMENTS
Authors: Dohnalkova Bozena , Grosek Jiri , Zavre Tomas , Stanek Theodor
Published: December 2024

In the context of the pressure to reduce the production of CO2 emissions in cement manufacturing, cement plants are significantly changing their product portfolios. Changes in the composition of cement products also lead to changes in their properties. This paper focuses on the monitoring and non-standard evaluation of initial volume stability. Several different types of currently used cements produced in various cement plants in the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 2022 and 2023 were tested using the �initial volume stability test�. The test results included in this article describe defects forming in the test samples at the initial stage of the cement setting and hardening. The test can be used to observe the possible differences in the properties of the same cement types from different sources, as well as the variability in the properties of one cement type within a production batch.
MARGINAL CONDITIONS FOR MEASURING THE LIGHT TRANSMISSION OF WINDOWS
Authors: Richtrova Dagmar , Prokopova Lenka , Bosova Daniela
Published: December 2024

Construction using 3D printer technology seems to be not just a passing trend and a growing number construction companies are approaching this new construction methodology. Although construction processes with printers are becoming standardized, it is also true that many other aspects must be considered in the design phase. Better this construction methodology becomes known, more architects and engineers will have to learn how to design these constructions, in the methods of statics, systems, etc. A very important point is the issue of thermal insulation. The designer must be able to ensure that these houses are correctly insulated, respecting all the canons required by the local laws because, like all constructions, this technology is also subject to obtaining the appropriate permits to be built. The research aims to provide an understanding of the correct thermal insulation methods so that the right standards can be ensured that are necessary and already in place for other types of construction.
Berberis vulgaris: A Natural Source of Berberine for Addressing Contemporary Health Concerns
Authors: Muszalska Aleksandra , Wiecanowska Julia
Published: December 2024

Berberis vulgaris (barberry) has gained renewed interest as a natural therapeutic agent due to its key bioactive compound, berberine. Traditionally used in medicine, berberine exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and lipid-lowering properties, making it a promising treatment for metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This review examines the morphology of Berberis vulgaris and highlights berberine's potential in improving glycemic control and reducing lipid levels, positioning it as a natural alternative to conventional therapies for modern health challenges. To explore these health benefits, we conducted a comprehensive literature review using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar.
Meum athamanticum - an interesting plant with multifunctional effects
Authors: Waśka Grażyna , Macionga Agata , Ziółkowska Paulina , Strzedulla Michalina , Szczyra Dariusz , Śnit Mirosław
Published: December 2024

Meum is a genus of the family Apiaceae and includes only one species - Meum athamanticum Jacq. It is a highly aromatic, perennial plant, which can be found in Poland in the Sudetes and the Beskid Mountains and in the Sejneńskie Lake District. Its leaves are arranged in umbels and the flowers are mostly white. It grows in moist to moderately moist, acidic or neutral soils in cool to moderately warm and humid environments. In the researches on the composition of Meum, among other following components were identified: cinnamic acid esters, phthalide derivatives, sterol derivatives, terpenes and aromatic hydrocarbons. Furthermore, there were noticed differences in composition depending on the month of sample collection. Due to the contained substances, Meum is widely used in medicine. It was used in the treatment of many afflictions, for example nephrolithiasis, already in antiquity. In addition to the diuretic effect on the kidneys, it also stimulates the regeneration of organs such as the liver and skin and exhibits antiviral, antiparasitic and antimycotic activity.
A method of articulating the decision maker's preferences based on examples of decisions made
Authors: Kwiatkowski Włodzimierz
Published: December 2024

The paper examines the problem of determining a decision-maker's preference model based on the decisions he makes. This is a fundamental issue in behavioral identification tasks or collaborative information filtering. Inferences about the decision-maker's preferences are made possible by a database containing the values of features accompanying the decisions made. The preference vector serves as the basic preference model, determining the weights of individual coordinates in the decision selection process. The proposed method of preference articulation allows for ordering decisions solely on the basis of the proposed model, without directly referring to the indicated pattern.
User screen monitor position - regulations and recommendations
Authors: Donigiewicz Antoni M.
Published: December 2024

The paper presents requirements and recommendations related to the placement of a display monitor in relation to the user at a stationary workstation. The requirements and selected recommendations available in the literature were compared. Based on the requirements and recommendations, conclusions were given specifying typical angles of viewing of the image on the monitor. Assuming the maximum viewing angle of the image on the monitor by the user, the minimum viewing distance of the monitor screen ensuring appropriate image viewing is specified. The minimum viewing distance of the screen depends, among other things, on the width of the rectangular monitor screen. It is proposed that it is practically easier to use the minimum viewing distance than the maximum viewing angle of the screen.
Unsupervised machine learning in financial anomaly detection: clustering algorithms vs. dedicated methods
Authors: Woźniak Radosław J.
Published: December 2024

The article presents the application of selected clustering algorithms for detecting anomalies in financial data compared to several dedicated algorithms for this problem. To apply clustering algorithms for anomaly detection, the Determine Abnormal Clusters Algorithm (DACA) was developed and implemented. This parameterized script (DACA) allows clusters containing anomalies to be automatically detected on the basis of defined distance measures. This kind of operation allows clustering algorithms to be quickly and efficiently adapted to anomaly detection. The prepared test environment has allowed for the comparison of selected clustering algorithms. K-Means, Hierarchical Cluster Analysis, K-Medoids, and anomaly detection: Stochastic Outlier Selection, Isolation Forest, Elliptic Envelope. The research has been carried out on real financial data, in particular on the income declared in the asset declarations of the targeted professional group. The experience of financial experts has been used to assess anomalies. Furthermore, the results have been evaluated according to a number of popular classification and clustering measures. The highest result for the investigated financial problem was provided by the K-Medoids algorithm in combination with the DACA script. It is worthwhile to conduct future research on the introduced solutions as an ensemble method.
Transthoracic Echocardiography findings in patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis in Kurdistan region
Authors:   MBChB, Trainee of Kurdistan Higher Council of Medical Specialties, Department of Rheumatology, Rizgary Teaching Hospital, Erbil -Iraq., Abdulwahab Elaf Kamal , Albustany Dashty Abbas ,   MBChB, Consultant Rheumatologist & Internist, Assistant professor in Medicine, Department of medicine, College of medicine, Hawler Medical University, MBCHB, DIM, FICMS (Medicine), FRCP (UK-London).
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affecting axial and non-axial joints leads to a loss of mobility and function over time. The aim of this study is to evaluate the cardiac involvement using transthoracic echocardiography.

Methods: A case-control research study took place at Rizgary Teaching Hospital Rheumatology Department between January 2022 and March 2023. Inclusion criteria involved those patients diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis based on the Assessment of Spondylarthritis International Society criteria for axial spondylarthritis. Transthoracic echocardiography (vivid machine) had been performed for all the participants and parameters such as right and left ventricle dimension, aortic root dimension, left atrium dimension, interventricular septum thickness in diastole and ejection fraction had been documented.

Results: This study revealed that transthoracic echocardiography findings of patients with ankylosing spondylitis with diastolic dysfunction in 12%, mitral regurgitation in 8%, mitral prolapse in 10% and 2% of each of anteroseptal hypokinesia, dilated aortic root and aortic regurgitation. The study demonstrated a significant increase in right ventricular, aortic, and left atrium dimensions in patients with ankylosing spondylitis with a p value of 0.0001, 0.001 and 0.001 respectively. In terms of ejection fraction; this study showed a significant decrease in ejection fraction in cases of ankylosing spondylitis with a mean of 64.3% with a p value of 0.004.

Conclusion: Tricuspid regurgitation and a drop in ejection fraction are the two significant findings among patients with ankylosing spondylitis.
Ratios of neutrophils to lymphocytes and platelets to lymphocytes in ankylosing spondylitis with disease activity relationship
Authors:   MBChB, Student Trainee of Kurdistan Higher Council of Medical Specialties, Department of Rheumatology, Rizgary Teaching Hospital, Erbil -Iraq, Ahmad Shahla Taha , Media Shwan Kader ,   PhD, Assistant professor in rheumatology and medical rehabilitation/HMU. Program director of KHCMs rheumatology, Rizgary Teaching Hospital, Erbil -Iraq.
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Ankylosing spondylitis impacts the fibers and synovial tissues of the sacroiliac and spinal joint and is most noticeable commencement occurs in males. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between ratios of neutrophils to lymphocytes and platelets to lymphocytes in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

Methods: This was a case control study performed at Rheumatology units of Erbil and Rizgari teaching hospitals between January 2022 and March 2023. Inclusion criteria involved patients with ankylosing spondylitis based on the criteria developed by Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index score. Neutrophil / lymphocyte and platelet / lymphocyte ratio has been calculated manually from the laboratory results.

Results: Disease activity evaluated based on Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index Score. Patients with active disease had higher Neutrophil / lymphocyte ratio than inactive and control group with a value of 2.27 ± 0.34, 2.03 ± 0.58, and 1.92 ± 0.93 for the three groups respectively; this difference was statistically significant. The same correlation was found in terms of platelet to lymphocyte ratio with values of 149.92 ± 31.13 for active group and 126.88± 58.38 and 129.74 ± 63.16 for inactive and control group respectively. There was a weak negative and not significant correlation between both Neutrophil / lymphocyte and platelet / lymphocyte ratio and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index Score.

Conclusion: Potential indicators of the activity of ankylosing spondylitis include the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and the platelet to lymphocyte ratio.
The Utility of Hypochromic Markers in the Detection of Latent Iron Deficiency in Women in their First Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors:   MBChB, Sulaiman Haliz Salman ,   Senior House Office, Department of Hematology, Azadi Teaching hospital, Duhok, Iraq, Ahmed Firdous Hussein ,   MBChB; FIBMS; Hematology Specialist, Department of Hematology, Azadi Teaching Hospital, Duhok, Iraq, Al-Allawi Nasir ,   MBChB, MSC, PhD, FRCPath; Professor of Hematology, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Duhok, Duhok, Iraq
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: While iron deficiency anemia is a documented common problem in pregnancy, there is limited information on latent iron deficiency. Accordingly, we aimed to determine the frequency of the latter in the first trimester of pregnancy and assess the utility of new hypochromic markers in screening for it.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 100 pregnant women in their first trimester attending the Maternity Hospital in the period between January and March 2023. Inclusion criteria included hemoglobin >11.0 g/dl, and no iron supplements. Serum ferritin was used to classify patients into latent iron deficiency or iron replete state. While a hematology analyzer was used to determine the new hypochromic markers: namely %Hypo-He, Ret-He, % Hyper-He, RBC-He.

Results: The mean age of enrollees was 29.3 (SD 5.5) years and included 38% with latent iron deficiency (hemoglobin > 11 g/dl and S. ferritin ? 30 ng/ml). The latter group had significantly lower hemoglobin (P=0.03), and %Hypo-He (P<0.001) than iron replete women. While neither MCV, MCH, reticulocyte counts, Ret-He, or RBC-He were different. Furthermore, %Hypo-He was significantly negatively correlated with serum ferritin (P<0.001) and had a fair discriminating power between latent iron deficiency and iron replete status.

Conclusion: High prevalence of latent iron deficiency was documented among pregnant women in their first trimester; Furthermore, %Hypo-He was a better red cell index to screen for it. Because of its high frequency and anticipated impact on fetal and maternal health, routine screening for latent iron deficiency in pregnancy may be warranted.
Incidence of dysphotopsia following uneventful cataract surgery [phacoemulsification] in patients implanted with different types of monofocal intraocular lenses
Authors:   MBChB CABMS(Oph.), Consultant ophthalmologist, Department of surgery, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimania, Abdulmajeed Khalid Saeed , Abdalla Mohammed Nidham ,   MBChB, KHCMS candidate, Dr. Aso eye hospital, Sulaimania city, Hassan Tara Mahmood ,   MBChB SMSB(Oph.) Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimania
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Pseudophakic dysphotopsia is one of the major causes of patient dissatisfaction after cataract surgery. Our aim was to assess the incidence of dysphotopsia after phacoemulsification with implantation of three types of monofocal intraocular lenses.

Methods: This prospective clinical study which contained 200 eyes from 195 patients was done at Dr. Aso eye hospital in Sulaimania city between June 2022 to June 2023. Those 200 eyes (participants) were divided into three different groups according to their IOL types were followed-up for 6 months to estimate the incidence and symptoms of dysphotopsia.

Results: overall incidence of dysphotopsia was (22%). 34 cases (17%) reported their symptoms in the first three weeks of follow-up. This figure decreased to (4% and 1%) after 3 and 6 months, respectively. The most common phenomenon noted was temporal shadow/darkness; declared by 34.09% of patients who reported dysphotopsia. Optical phenomena occurred more frequently in patients with Acryfold lens group. The great majority of the patients (94.5%) were satisfied with their post-operative visual function. Both, overall incidence of dysphotopsia and its higher rate in the 1st group (Acryfold) were statistically significant values (p= 0.0399 and 0.0418), respectively. Conversely, there was no statistically significant difference between Rayner and Acrysof lenses in terms of dysphotopsia occurrence (p-value= 0.053).

Conclusion: Although monofocal intraocular lenses showed significant rates of dysphotopsia, they were still associated with high patient satisfaction level because majority of the symptoms were mild and went away with time.
Pre-operative Disc Volume Measurement as a Predictor for Sufficient Intra-operative Excision in Lumbar Open Fenestration Discectomies
Authors:   MBChB Orthopedic Surgery, KHCMS trainee, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shar Teaching Hospital, Sulaimaniyah, Republic of Iraq, Sharif Lawand Ahmed , Saeed Areewan MS ,   MBChB FICMS (Orthopedic), Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, Assistant Professor at Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimaniyah, Republic of Iraq, Raoof Shwan Fikrat ,   MBChB H.D (Radiologist), Department of Radiology, Shar Hospital, Sulaymaniyah, the Republic of Iraq.
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: A study was implemented by assessing pre-operative disc volume and compare it to resected disc volume intra-operatively to minimize complications. The purpose of this study is to determine whether preoperative measurement of disc volume by magnetic resonance imaging could estimate the amount of disc need to be removed intraoperatively.

Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between 2021 and 2023, in which 44 patients were involved, the volume of the herniated disc. The height, width, and length of prolapsed disc were multiplied together and by 0.523, measured on magnetic resonance imaging machine, intraoperatively the resected disc was placed in the sterile syringe for measurement.

Results: Out of 44 patients, 23 of them were males, and 21 were females. The mean age was 41.4 years. The most common level of involvement was the L4-L5 levels. The size of the herniated disc preoperatively ranged from 0.70 cc to 3.70, among them 72.7% of patients had a measurement between 1.0 cc and 2.0. Intraoperatively, the size of resected disc ranged from 1.0 cc to 4.2, 63.6% of them had volume exceeding 2.0 cc. Our data showed that neither the volume of the herniated disc nor the volume of the resected disc has any correlation to the age, gender and the level of disc involved.

Conclusion: Preoperative measurement of lumbar disc herniation with a magnetic resonance image do not predict the disc volume that needs to be removed during surgery.
BOX E PRAÇA DE MANUTENÇÃO ENXUTA: EQUIPAMENTOS DE MINA MOVEIS TRANSPORTE E CARGA NA MANUTENÇÃO PREVENTIVA
Authors: Silva Filho Luiz Jose da , Santos Sandra Rufino
Published: December 2024

Considerando o Sistema Lean Toyota a base para o modelo conceitual e visual para a estratégica da manutenção de equipamentos de móveis de mineração, este artigo teve como objetivo, sobre a ótica para o desenvolvimento e implementação do projeto “Box e Praça de Manutenção Enxuta: Equipamentos de Mina Moveis Transporte e Carga na Manutenção Preventiva.”, discutir uma pesquisa-ação, utilizando ferramentas Lean na manutenção de equipamentos moveis de mineração da frota de Transporte e Carga, com o foco na redução de desperdícios e busca da excelência, atendendo os níveis de desempenho exigidos dos ativos de mina nas operações da Mineração do Corredor Norte. O estudo estabeleceu as diretrizes técnicas dos processos de planejamento e controle de manutenção dos Ativos de equipamento de Mina, usando os conceitos Lean para otimização de processos na padronização de Box e Praça de Manutenção Enxuta, reduzir o tempo médio de reparos e aumentar do tempo médio entre Falhas, melhorar o desempenho e na confiabilidade da frota Transporte e Carga, a fim de evitar e mitigar acidentes pessoais e materiais, gerando resultados sustentáveis aos processos operacionais dos ativos.
O DESEMPENHO NA GESTÃO CONTÁBIL PÚBLICA COM A IMPLANTAÇÃO DO SISTEMA INTEGRADO DE GESTÃO DAS FINANÇAS PÚBLICAS DO ESTADO DO ESPÍRITO SANTO
Authors: Euzebio Adrieli Ramos , Amaral Maria da Penha Rodrigues
Published: December 2024

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar o impacto da implantação do Sistema Integrado de Gestão das Finanças Públicas (SIGEFES) no desempenho da gestão contábil pública e na promoção da transparência no estado do Espírito Santo. Para isso, foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica, abordando conceitos fundamentais sobre gestão pública, contabilidade governamental e a importância da tecnologia na modernização administrativa. O SIGEFES foi implementado como uma solução integrada para otimizar processos contábeis, garantir maior eficiência no controle financeiro e fortalecer o acesso à informação pública. Os resultados indicam que o sistema trouxe avanços significativos na padronização e agilidade dos processos, contribuindo para uma maior transparência e accountability. Contudo, desafios relacionados à capacitação dos servidores e à adaptação às novas tecnologias ainda precisam ser superados. Este estudo busca contribuir para o debate sobre o papel dos sistemas integrados na gestão pública, destacando os benefícios e os obstáculos enfrentados na busca por uma administração mais eficiente e transparente.
INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL E CONTABILIDADE: ANÁLISE DO ESTADO DA ARTE MEDIANTE LEVANTAMENTO BIBLIOMÉTRICO
Authors: Barbieri Willian José , Gasperin Giovani
Published: December 2024

A sociedade atual está imersa na globalização, impulsionada pelo avanço tecnológico, que torna os processos mais rápidos e eficazes. Como resultado, profissões, incluindo a contabilidade, devem se adaptar às novas demandas do mercado. A era digital trouxe inovações significativas para os contadores, como o armazenamento digital de documentos, reduzindo a burocracia. Os contadores precisam aprimorar continuamente suas habilidades, com o domínio das tecnologias digitais sendo essencial, integrando-se às áreas de administração, economia, direito e sociologia. Para tanto, a pesquisa levantou como principal questionamento, qual o estado dar artes das pesquisas sobre a inteligência artificial e a contabilidade? Para responder essa questão, levantou-se como objetivo a avaliação dos estudos sobre a inteligência artificial na contabilidade, realizando um levantamento através do método Proknow-C (Knowlwdge Development Process), método que permite a seleção de artigos utilizando as palavras-chaves e seleciona o banco de dados, assim como os artigos alinhados ao tema principal, com a identificação de achados relevantes da amostra ora selecionada, este método possibilitou o uma seleção de artigos para o portifólio bibliográfico, este portifólio, refletem o estado da arte sobre o tema Contabilidade a Inteligência artificial, que favoreceram a análise da literatura. O estudo apresenta grande importância para o campo da contabilidade, a tecnológica está presente no cotidiano do profissional e, os avanços cada vez mais acelerado exige do profissional qualificação e atualização.
TRATAMENTO E ORGANIZAÇÃO DOS DADOS DAS ESTAÇÕES METEOROLÓGICAS SOLARIMÉTRICA E DAVIS NO LAVAT/COENE/ INPE
Authors: Gadelha Renan da Silva , Martins Maria Paulete Pereira , Silva Francisco Raimundo da
Published: December 2024

Natal, capital do Rio Grande do Norte é uma cidade com altos índices de radiação ultravioleta, devido à sua baixa latitude e proximidade do oceano. Perante essa situação é importante realizar o monitoramento das variáveis ambientais para aquisição e disponibilização de dados. Assim, o Laboratório de Variáveis Ambientais Tropicais (LAVAT) da Coordenação Espacial do Nordeste (COENE) do Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE) realiza regularmente a coleta de dados de radiação solar, precipitação, velocidade e direção do vento, umidade, ponto de orvalho, coluna total de ozônio, entre outras variáveis. O objetivo deste trabalho é a disponibilização dos dados coletados em ordem cronológica, utilizando como ferramentas de trabalho, “nuvens” on-line, web sites, códigos desenvolvidos através de linguagem de programação e compartilhamento de arquivos. Dessa forma, é possível ter acesso remotamente, criar dashboards, gráficos, análises temporais, estudar o comportamento das variáveis ambientais e fornecer bases de dados para a eloboração de estudos do perfil climatológico da cidade.
EFEITOS DA AUTO LIBERAÇÃO MIOFASCIAL EM ATLETAS DE FUTSAL MASCULINO
Authors: Pauli Samara Luiza , Costa Wilson Alexandre Cabral
Published: December 2024

O futsal é um esporte coletivo, de grande demanda física e fisiológica, com amplos movimentos, mudanças de direções, força, explosão e potência muscular. A utilização da auto liberação miofascial (ALM) visa melhorar o desempenho físico ao aprimorar a performance de músculos e fáscias. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar os efeitos da ALM sobre a flexibilidade muscular e desempenho em atletas de futsal masculino. A pesquisa, de caráter quanti-qualitativa e exploratório, envolveu 6 atletas de futsal amador masculino, sub 20 de Foz do Iguaçu selecionados intencionalmente, onde foi aplicado o protocolo de ALM antes da pratica esportiva, executado por um período de 60 dias, durantes os treinos, com 14 atendimentos e 2 jogos oficiais durante o tempo de coleta. Realizado avaliação Functional Movement Screen (FMS) e de flexibilidade utilizando o flexímetro, e conseguinte aplicação de um protocolo de auto liberação miofascial, em cada atleta, no meio do estudo realizado avaliação de flexibilidade antes do protocolo e no término do treino, no final do estudo os atletas foram reavaliados, também aplicado questionário qualitativo de desempenho ao final de 2 jogos oficiais. A análise pelo FMS não mostrou alterações relevantes, pois está mais relacionado ao controle motor e equilíbrio, do que flexibilidade. As mudanças de flexibilidade variaram, com alguns atletas ganhando em flexão e abdução de quadril, enquanto outros tiveram pequenas reduções. A ALM contribui de forma aguda para o aumento da flexibilidade, ADM, propriocepção, reduz o estresse e promove o bem-estar geral, favorecendo o desempenho atlético e emocional.
ESTRATÉGIAS DE GERENCIAMENTO MAIS EFETIVOS NA ENFERMAGEM: CLIMA ORGANIZACIONAL POSITIVO
Authors: Lucatelli Camille Gomes , Gomes Luis Eduardo Miani , Silva Débora Luiza da , Masson Valeria Aparecida , Pietro Luciana , Rossignolo Simone Camargo de Oliveira
Published: December 2024

Introdução: O clima organizacional na enfermagem é essencial para a qualidade do atendimento e a satisfação da equipe. Este estudo investiga como diferentes estilos de gerenciamento podem influenciar positivamente esse ambiente. Objetivo: O objetivo é identificar estratégias de gerenciamento que promovam um clima organizacional saudável na equipe de enfermagem. Método: A metodologia deste estudo consiste em uma revisão integrativa da literatura, com o objetivo de identificar estratégias de gerenciamento na enfermagem que promovam um clima organizacional positivo. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados BDENF, LILACS, MEDLINE e SciELO, abrangendo artigos publicados entre 2016 e 2023. A estratégia PICO foi utilizada para formular a pergunta de pesquisa. Após a análise de títulos e resumos, 11 artigos foram selecionados para leitura completa, permitindo a identificação de pontos relevantes para o assunto. Os dados foram organizados em um fluxograma, facilitando a visualização das informações coletadas. Resultados: Os resultados da pesquisa destacam que o empoderamento da equipe e a comunicação eficaz são cruciais para melhorar o ambiente de trabalho em enfermagem. A análise dos artigos selecionados revelou que estilos de liderança que promovem a participação da equipe são mais eficazes na criação de um clima organizacional positivo. As categorias identificadas incluem liderança inspiradora, coordenação, empoderamento, foco na qualidade da assistência e comunicação. As práticas gerenciais que valorizam a equipe melhoram a qualidade do atendimento e promovem o bem-estar dos profissionais, contribuindo para um ambiente de trabalho saudável e sustentável. Considerações Finais: O estudo conclui que práticas de gerenciamento que valorizam a equipe de enfermagem são cruciais para a qualidade do atendimento e o bem-estar dos profissionais. Recomenda-se a continuidade de pesquisas sobre o impacto dessas estratégias na saúde mental da equipe.