bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Chemicals on Compressive Strength of Concrete made with Pulverised High-Density Polyethylene as Admixtures
Authors: Anum Iorwuese , Williams Frank Ndanusa , Zakka Wyom Paul , Keftin Namala Amuga
Published: December 2024

The use of plastic materials as admixtures in cementitious matrices has spurred studies in concrete with great potentials for sustainable concrete production. This research seeks to explore the impact of chemicals on the compressive behaviour of concrete incorporating pulverised High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) that has been chemically treated with 20% hydrogen peroxide. Concrete cubes were cast in 150mm3 steel moulds and the pulverised and treated HDPE was incorporated in percentages (0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1%) by the weight of cement. Hydroplast-500 was utilised as superplasticiser while water - to- cement ratios of 0.4 and 0.36 were used for required workability, respectively for 25 and 50 grades concretes. The sample cubes were first cured in water for 28 days prior to being immersed in 10% concentration of tetraoxosulphate (vi) acid and 10% magnesium sulphate concentrations for 7, 28, and 90 days. The cubes were removed and properly rinsed in clean water before being tested for compressive strength. Mass loss and Strength Deterioration Factor (SDF) were then determined. Results obtained showed more deterioration of samples with increase in HDPE amount up to 76.69% when cured in acid for 90 days. However, it was observed that deterioration decreased up to 4.67% with the increase in HDPE content when cured in sulphate medium for 90 days. The study recommends the use of 1% HDPE by cement weight in the production of sustainable concrete for building and civil engineering infrastructure in sulphate-rich regions, while contributing to environmental sanitation.
When We Sit: Textile Electromyography Identifies Decreasing Muscle Activity and Implications for Metabolic Health
Authors: Brakenridge Christian J. , Lamberg Suvi , Rantalainen Timo , Finni Taija , Gao Ying , Dempsey Paddy C. , Wheeler Michael J. , Dunstan David W. , Healy Genevieve N. , Chastin Sebastien F. M. , Owen Neville , Pesola Arto J.
Published: December 2024

Prolonged sitting is ubiquitous and increases risk of diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. A suspected mechanism behind the adverse cardiometabolic effects of prolonged sitting is high prevalence of muscle inactivity. Understanding muscle activity when we sit may be crucial for developing effective interventions. Using fabric-embedded wearable electrodes (electromyography; EMG), the activity of muscles can be directly examined when we sit. We examined muscle activity during 7,684 sitting bouts in daily living using EMG shorts in 84 adults from three separate cohorts (46% female; mean age (SD): 43.7yr (18.7yr). When we sit, thigh muscle activity decreases, but sitting bouts that are preceded by more-intense and longer-duration physical activity show more sustained persistence of muscle activity. More frequent and intense interruptions to sitting result in 5 extra minutes of muscle activity per hour of sitting time. These findings provide new insights into the metabolic health risks of prolonged sitting and suggest practical ways to counteract them.
Differences in Cancer-related Crowdfunding between Transgender or Gender Diverse and Cisgender LGBTQ+ Cancer Campaigns: A Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Turner Cindy A , Waters Austin R , Ghazal Lauren V , Poquadeck Matt , Killela Mary , Cloyes Kristin G , Rains Stephen A , Kirchhoff Anne C , Warner Echo L
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus (LGBTQ+) cancer survivors are at risk of financial hardship due to multilevel factors amplified by anti-LGBTQ+ stigma. Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) cancer survivors may experience greater financial hardship than cisgender lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals, but data on LGBTQ+ individuals is often reported in aggregate. We describe differences in crowdfunding experiences between TGD and LGB cancer crowdfunding campaigns to address this gap in TGD cancer-related financial hardship literature.
Methods: We used a mixed methods approach to evaluate LGBTQ+ cancer crowdfunding campaigns from GoFundMe’s website, coded as TGD or LGB. Campaign data (amount raised, funding goal, etc.) were compared using summary statistics and independent t-tests. Qualitative content analysis described campaign text. Quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated by theme.
Results: A total of N=538 LGBTQ+ cancer campaigns were included, of which 175 (32.5%) were TGD campaigns, 295 (54.8%) were LGB, and 68 (12.6%) used broad LGBTQ+ language and could not be classified into one category. TGD campaigns raised 61% of funds raised by LGB campaigns ($7,782 [$5,842 - $9,723] vs $12,724 [$10,525 - $14,924], p<0.0001). TGD campaigns had more mentions of perceived stigma in healthcare spaces and fewer mentions of caregiver support.
Conclusions: TGD cancer campaigns earned significantly less money than LGB campaigns, suggesting that TGD cancer survivors may face more challenges in using community-based financial support mechanisms to mitigate financial hardship. Structural stigma and transphobia may be impacting the amount of funds raised by TGD cancer survivors through crowdfunding.
Impact of COVID-19 on healthcare programs in Zimbabwe
Authors: Midzi Nicolas , Haruzivishe Clara , Gonese Elizabeth , Sembuche Senga , Mutsaka Masceline Jennifer , Ayebare Rodgers , Muwonge Tonny , Nakasendwa Suzan , Mateta Carl , Madanhire Tafadzwa , Chaibva Cynthia Nombulelo , Gwatiringa Calleta , Mutsaka Kudzai Elizabeth , Phiri Isaac , Abdulaziz Mohammed , Kabwe Patrice Chanda , Dube-Mawerewere Virgininia , Tajudeen Raji , Fallah Mosoka Papa , Dobbie Munyaradzi
Published: December 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare services. Understanding similar epidemic-related disruptions on a broader scope in our local setting is critical for effective planning of essential services.
Objective: The study was to analyse the impact of Coronavirus disease(COVID-19) on healthcare programmes in Zimbabwe.
Methods: A mixed-methods design compared healthcare service delivery trends from the Ministry of Health and Child-Care before and during the pandemic. It employed two methods of data-collection: Key-informant-interviews (KII) and secondary-data analysis from the Zimbabwe District Health Information Systems 2(DHIS2). Purposive sampling obtained key informants for interviews whilst 18 healthcare-service-indicators were identified from the national database. Statistical analysis consisted of an interrupted-time-series analysis of those indicators preceded by visualization to appreciate trend change. An inductive approach was used to code and identify basic themes which were then triangulated against DHIS2 findings.
Results: The study revealed that COVID-19 had a negative impact on health service delivery; increasing disruptions of critical healthcare services, maternal and child health, reproductive health issues, and other specialist services were prominent. The rise in maternal and child mortality cases and caesarean sections could be directly linked to the decline in service delivery during the pandemic. Mitigation strategies that were introduced during the pandemic included use of community-based services, outreach services, capacity building and de-congestion of public services.
Conclusions: The pandemic disrupted healthcare delivery, causing service usage decline due to lockdowns. Response strategies included community services, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement. Future readiness requires epidemic plans, enhanced resources, multisectoral approach, workforce training, and public education.
Socioeconomic Factors Predictive of Access Delays in Oncology
Authors: Chen Allen
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To identify demographic and socioeconomic factors predictive of access delays in patients referred for radiation oncology services.
Methods and Materials: A prospective data registry of consecutive patients referred for initial consultation from October 2018 to April 2022 was reviewed. To evaluate access, the number of business days from referral to consultation was calculated. Demographic characteristics recorded included age, gender, race, language preference, and insurance status. Zip code data linked to a patient’s residential address was used to classify socioeconomic status (SES) based on publicly available data on median household income. Descriptive statistics were presented to identify factors predictive of delays in the time from referral to consultation.
Results: A total of 9,241 consecutive patients were referred and logged into the database during the 4-year period, of which 5,321 were scheduled, registered, and seen in the outpatient setting. Delays in access were associated with low SES and Black race (p<0.05, for both). Three hundred and seventeen of the 1,203 patients (26%) in the lowest SES quartile had their appointments scheduled greater than 21 days from the time of referral compared to 482 of the 4,118 patients (12%) in the non-lowest quartile SES group (p<0.001). Black patients were significantly less likely to have their appointments within 5 days compared to non-Black patients (17% versus 24%, p=0.01). On multivariate analysis, the only variable independently associated with higher odds of appointment delays was SES (low-SES quartile versus non-low-SES quartile (OR= 3.98, 95% CI [2.01-7.92], p<0.001).
Conclusions: SES factors related to geographical zip code predict for access delays in radiation oncology care. Targeted interventions are urgently warranted for low SES groups residing in underserved communities.
Paget’s disease of nipple with synchronous contralateral invasive ductal carcinoma in a 36-year-old female: An isolated or genetic coexistence !
Authors: Raj Saurabh , Halder Anindya , Mallik Dhiraj , Kannaujiya Vijay , Pal Banyeswar , Saha Bishal , Mahaldar Rudrakshi , Anjum Shafayat , Mandal Subinay , Vinesh B , Chopra Shreya , Das Niru
Published: December 2024

Mammary Paget’s disease (MPD) is a rare eczematoid lesion of nipple and adjacent areola. It was first described by Sir James Paget, a pathologist and surgeon, in 1874. Similar disease process may also involve external genitals, perineum, perianal region of both sexes and termed as extra mammary Paget’s disease. Early clinical recognition is difficult as it mimics other inflammatory breast lesions. Definitive diagnosis by histopathological examination is necessary to rule out any underlying invasive breast cancer at the same time. Management varies from wide local excision, lumpectomy, mastectomy or modified radical mastectomy followed by reconstruction depending on the extent of lesion and invasiveness. Evidence of invasive breast carcinoma in ipsilateral breast is rare and in contralateral breast is rarest in literatures worldwide. Here, we are presenting one such rare case of a 36year old lady with a history of eczematous lesion in right nipple with invasive ductal carcinoma in left breast along with its management and literature review.
A Novel Reseach on Network Security Situation Prediction based on Iteratively Optimized RBF-NN
Authors: Wu Yuqin , Shen Congqi , Xiao Shungen , Feng Wei , Fan Yexian , Zhou Xiuzhuang
Published: December 2024

Network security situation (NSS) prediction has attracted a great attention in recent years, and gained promising results to avoid different types of network attacks in advance. However, current methods still suffer from several drawbacks. In this paper, we propose a novel iterative optimized RBF-NN method for NSS prediction. Our proposed method applies a resource allocation network (RAN) to determine the optimal number of neurons in the hidden layer. Moreover, it builds a cross-model method with a genetic algorithm to compute the optimal weights for the RBF-NN model. Specifically, we come up with a chaos search strategy during the iterative optimization process to prevent the RBF-NN model from falling into a local extreme point. Due to our opti-mization technique, compared with other optimization techniques, the proposed method could shorten training process by at most 29.2% and increase prediction accuracy by at most 86.6% with well generalization ability.
Effectiveness of preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with lung cancer combined with moderate to severe COPD: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yang Jia-Ying , Lv Lan , Ni Jun , Cheng Xiao-Ping
Published: December 2024

Background: Lung cancer surgery is associated with a high incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs), especially in high-risk patients, such as moderate to severe COPD, long-term smoking, and low cardiorespiratory endurance. Preliminary evidence suggests that pulmonary rehabilitation can reduces the incidence of PPCs, However, there is still no consensus on the specific methods of pulmonary rehabilitation. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effectiveness of preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with lung cancer combined with moderate to severe COPD through the improved pulmonary rehabilitation program,and to explore the influence of preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation on the surgical outcome of high-risk patients .
Methods: A randomized, prospective, single-blind (evaluator) clinical trial. Participants（n=70）will be randomly divided into two groups. The intervention group will receive 2 weeks preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation (inspiratory muscle training + aerobic exercise + preoperative rehabilitation education), the control group will only receive preoperative rehabilitation education. Both groups will routinely receive the guidance training (contains breathing exercises and early ambulation) after surgery. The primary outcome is incidence of PPCs defined with the Melbourne Group Scale diagnostic scoring tool. Secondary outcomes include pre- and post-operative hospital length of stay (LOS), pulmonary function, inspiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity ,cardiopulmonary endurance, grip strength, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), fatigue, the sleep quality ,anxiety and depression.
Discussion: This trial was designed to test the hypothesis that preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation can improve preoperative cardiopulmonary function of patients with lung cancer complicated with moderate and severe COPD, reduce the incidence of PPCs, shorten the length of hospitalization, Improve fatigue, quality of life and more.
Trial registration:ChiCTR,ChiCTR2400093829.Registered 12 December 2024,https://www.chictr.o
rg.cn/
An exact method to solve a multi-objective dynamic job shop scheduling problem: A case study on Impression Teinture Sahel company
Authors: SALAH Mohamed Essalah
Published: December 2024

Solving a problem in an optimal way represents a main challenge for any decision maker. The realization of this research is registered in this context. In this paper, a literature review and motivation of this work are presented. An improvement and a reformulation of the presented literature model is made and tow corrects and equivalent models are obtained. An exact method is proposed to solve these models. This method is implemented in python language. An experimental result and some discussion points are presented. A dynamic job shop scheduling problem instances are generated to test the performance of our proposed exact method. The experimental result showed that our resolution method gives equivalent solutions (with the same values of the objective functions and the same values of the decision variables) for models 1 and 2 in each of the instances. We noticed that the two models have the same complexity (in terms of the number of constraints and decision variables) and there is a little variation in the solve time of the same instance of model 1 and 2. We showed that it is possible that this exact method does not have a well-defined path to find the optimal solution. Also, we noticed that for each instance, the solve time variation is small and does not exceed 0.05 seconds in most instances. A case study is presented on Impression Teinture Sahel (ITS) company.
Priorities and expectations of researchers, funders, patients and the public regarding equity in medical research and funding: Results from the PERSPECT qualitative study
Authors: Ramkumar Raksha , Betzner William B. , Cristall Nora , Drozdowska Bogna A. , Fladt Joachim , Jaroenngarmsamer Tanaporn , McDonough Rosalie , Goyal Mayank , Ganesh Aravind
Published: December 2024

Background
Considerations of equity in funding and conduct of medical research are receiving greater attention. However, perspectives of diverse stakeholder groups on this topic are poorly characterized. Our study aimed to further understand various stakeholder perspectives and associated priorities regarding perceived inequities in medical research.
Methods
We employed a qualitative descriptive methodology embedded in an interpretive grounded theory framework. This approach involved in-depth, semi-structured interviews with researchers, funders, patients, and members of the public. Participants were asked to discuss their perspectives on the current state of equity in medical research and funding. Collected data were analyzed using constant comparison, open-coding, and theme identification to generate a substantive theory.
Results
We conducted 41 interviews involving 11 researchers, 10 funders, 10 patients, and 10 members of the public. Participants perceived several inequities within research participation, funding opportunities, topic prioritization, and lack of international collaborations inclusive of low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Potential strategies to address these inequities were also identified. Through participants’ perspectives, we developed a central theory that addressing inequities in medical research and funding can promote collaborative spaces and produce greater research impact for society, regardless of demographics, socioeconomic status, and geographical residence. While we gained diverse perspectives from four distinct stakeholder groups, our primary limitation was that participants in our study were predominantly from Canada and the United States.
Conclusions
Participants perceived various inequities in the funding and conduct of medical research. However, based on the insights into potential solutions that we gained from their diverse perspectives, we are optimistic that addressing these inequities will help accelerate and broaden the societal impact of medical research, including in LMICs.
Coordinating a Three-Echelon Fresh Product Supply Chain with Freshness-keeping Effort under a Wholesale and Maintenance Price Agreement
Authors: Shayesteh Abolfazl , Dolat-Abadi Hossein Mohammadi
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates a three-echelon fresh product supply chain (FPSC) that includes the retailer, supplier, and logistics service provider in two decision-making structures including decentralized and centralized with an integrated sales approach and considering changes in consumer buying behavior allowing products to be sold through online and offline channels. In a decentralized decision-making approach, FPSC members individually and independently optimize their decision variables (retailer’s selling price and sales effort level, the supplier’s wholesale price, and the service price and freshness-keeping effort offered by the logistics service provider), while in a centralized approach, the FPSC decision variables are optimized from an overall and holistic perspective. To move from a decentralized to a centralized decision-making structure, this paper proposes a new coordination approach using wholesale and maintenance price agreements to coordinate decision variables in the investigated FPSC. After, numerical results for decision variables of the proposed FPSC members and the overall profit in two decision-making structures, decentralized and centralized decision-making, are examined and compared to analyze the performance of the models. The results show that the proposed mechanism for achieving the coordinated model not only improves the overall profit of the FPSC but also improves the service level, freshness level of products, and profit of the FPSC members. Sensitivity results show that reducing storage and supply prices for fresh products increases the attractiveness of the retail sector for investment, leading to the adoption of broader product sales policies and boosting overall FPSC profitability.
Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic in Spine Surgery: A Global Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends and Influences
Authors: Wu Xingyuan , Pan Huilong , Wang Hangchi , Wang Jun , Lin Yile , Musaev Elmar , Huang Ruiyuan , Li Shu , Zhang Jin , Wu Haixiao , Zhang Chao
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) technique is increasingly utilized in spine surgery, offering minimally invasive solutions with promising outcomes. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global research trends and key influences in UBE application.
Methods
A systematic search in the Web of Science Core Collection was performed on June 9, 2024, focusing on English publications related to UBE and spine surgery. Bibliographic data were analyzed using R and VOSviewer to visualize trends, collaborations, and citation networks.
Results
A total of 231 articles from 59 sources were identified, with World Neurosurgery being the most prolific journal. Publications peaked in 2023, with South Korea and China leading the field through significant collaborations. HEO DH emerged as the most productive and cited author. Key research focuses included "decompression," "surgery," and "discectomy."
Conclusion
The analysis highlights increasing research interest in UBE, with key contributors and collaborations shaping advancements. It provides insights into research trends, main areas of focus, and emerging topics, guiding future UBE research and applications.
Effect of Phototherapy on Serum Levels of Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, and Vitamin D in Infants With Hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Agrawal Pulak , Dubey Risabh , Thakur Prakash , Punj Ajay
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims: Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (NH) is a common neonatal condition, affecting 60% of full-term and 80% of preterm infants, especially in regions with limited healthcare resources. Phototherapy is the standard treatment for NH, utilizing blue-green light to convert bilirubin into excretable isomers. However, phototherapy has been associated with side effects, including alterations in serum levels of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, which are critical for bone metabolism and neonatal health. This study aimed to assess the impact of phototherapy on these biochemical parameters in neonates with NH.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Nursery Ward, tertiary medical hospital of north India, from September 2022 to March 2024. Sixty neonates with NH requiring phototherapy were included, following ethical approval and informed consent. Serum levels of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin D were measured at baseline and after 48 hours of phototherapy using chemiluminescence and enzymatic methods. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests to determine significant changes.
Results: Phototherapy significantly reduced calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D levels in the 3rd samples compared to baseline (P < 0.05), with stabilization by the 4th sample (P > 0.05). Phosphorus levels showed similar trends. Weak correlations were observed between these parameters, neonatal weight, and gestational age.
Conclusion: Phototherapy transiently affects serum calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels. Routine monitoring and early supplementation may mitigate potential risks and optimize neonatal care.
Comparative Study of Two-level Cervical Disc Herniation: Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (Acdf) Using Stand-alone Titanium Cage Versus Cage and Plate Fixation - a Retrospective Analysis of Complication Rates and Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Sever Cem , Kilinc Bekir Eray , Akpolat Ahmet Onur , Bozkaya Tayfun , Kurtan Akif , Misir Abdulhamit
Published: December 2024

Background:
This study aims to compare the outcomes of two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures using stand-alone cages versus cage and plate fixation in patients diagnosed with cervical disc herniation (CDH).
Materials and Methods:
This retrospective analysis included 60 patients who underwent two-level ACDF procedures. Patients were divided into two groups: one treated with stand-alone cages and the other with cage and plate fixation. Data on surgical duration, blood loss, fusion stability, and complication rates were collected. Clinical outcomes, including neck pain and functional status, were assessed using standard scoring systems.
Results:
Plate fixation provided superior fusion stability but was associated with longer surgery durations, higher intraoperative blood loss, and increased complication rates. Stand-alone cages reduced intraoperative trauma but demonstrated higher subsidence rates and prolonged fusion times. Both techniques resulted in significant improvements in neck pain and disability scores.
Discussion:
While both approaches are effective for managing cervical disc herniation, each has distinct advantages and limitations. Selecting the most appropriate technique based on patient-specific anatomical and clinical considerations is crucial to optimizing surgical outcomes.
Generalized Sichel Crash Predictive Model: Analysis of Predictor-Dependent Overdispersion in Urban Signalized Intersections
Authors: Mousavi Mobinshah , Behnood Hamid Reza , Hajrajabi Arezou , Moradi Farzad
Published: December 2024

Planning to reduce accidents and the resulting costs often require crash prediction processes. Since the distribution of data related to the frequency of crashes often has long tails in addition to overdispersion, studies have shown that sometimes the negative binomial (NB) distribution cannot properly model this type of data. In this study, using the geometric, traffic and crash data of the main intersections in the city of Qazvin, Iran, with the help of NB and Sichel (SI) models in two fixed and predictor-dependent dispersion states of the crash counts, the effect of the two variables of traffic volume and lane width on the number of crashes has been analyzed. According to the analysis, it was found that the full generalized models can better show the effect of predictor variables on the number of crashes. Since the full generalized SI model (-Loglik = 180.03, AIC = 368.06, and BIC = 375.78) has lower goodness of fit criteria than the full generalized NB model (-Loglik = 183.36, AIC = 374.73, and BIC = 383.45), it has better efficiency. The conclusion does not apply for the models with reduced variables. The results show that the dispersion parameter of the SI model can estimate the level of dispersion with more accuracy and confidence.
Integrative Machine Learning Approaches to Identify and Validate Gene Biomarkers for Early Detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Srikantamur Mahati Munikoti , Kaur Parneet , Bindewald Eckart , Thirunagari Srinivas , Moorthy Nachiappan Dhatchana
Published: December 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and prognosis is poor if the disease is detected at advanced stages. There is an urgent need for early diagnostic biomarkers to facilitate timely interventions. Current diagnostic methods, such as liver function tests (LFTs), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) panels, and imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound, lack specificity for HCC and do not provide a comprehensive prognosis. This study proposes a machine learning (ML) based approach for identifying early HCC biomarkers using RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data. We analyzed publicly available RNA-seq datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), UCSC Xena, and GEO RNA-seq Experiments Interactive Navigator (GREIN). In this study, we performed various feature selection methods using ML with a Random Forest (RF) model, achieving the best performance in identifying and predicting the top most significantly important genes. Bioinformatics tools, including Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING), Gene Ontology (GO), DAVID (Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery), the Human Protein Atlas (HPA), and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) were used for validation. Through our analysis, we identified six potential early-detection gene biomarkers for HCC: CDKN3, LIFR, MKI67, TOP2A, SLC5A1, and VIPR1.
From Automation to Accountability: A Governance Framework for Sustainable AI and Hybrid Intelligence
Authors: Sammour George , Malas Laila
Published: December 2024

Technological advancements in the contemporary world appear to be a significant contributing factor to the increased prevalence of automation and machine-operated work across various sectors. A technological revolution is currently at its zenith, with the world entering an era in which machines are poised to supplant human labor in industry, raising concerns among individuals. Although this may seem advantageous, it introduces numerous ethical and societal challenges. This study addresses the apparent consequences of mechanized work and asserts the necessity of establishing a sustainable equilibrium between humans and machines to promote social and economic order. The study thus elucidates a proposition wherein such an equilibrium can be achieved through the integration of AI-powered technologies anchored in human decision-making. Lastly, this research presents the SAFE (Sustainable AI Framework for Ethics) framework, which is developed to ensure that hybrid intelligence systems are ethically appropriate and support the “United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”. Within this governance framework, we provide actionable steps to adapt AI to sustainable and ethical governance in a manner that is valuable for individuals, industries, and society.
Strawberry Desiccation and Gloss in Refrigerated Storage Depend on the Interaction between Cultivar and Time after Harvest
Authors: Lewers Kim S. , Bello Nora M.
Published: December 2024

The objectives of this study were to characterize strawberry cultivars grown under two production systems for gloss at harvest as a proxy for freshness and assess cultivar differences regarding the loss of gloss and changes in desiccation scores during refrigerated postharvest storage. Nine strawberry cultivars were grown in an annual plasticulture system for 3 years, harvested twice weekly, and packaged for refrigerated storage. Four of these cultivars also were grown in a low tunnel production system and harvested, packaged, and evaluated similarly. In both cases, berry gloss was measured at harvest and again after 1 and 2 weeks of refrigerated storage. Subjective desiccation scores were assigned to the berries during refrigerated storage. For both traits, effects were primarily determined by the interaction between the cultivar and time of measurement relative to harvest. For either gloss or desiccation, there was no evidence of differences in cultivar rankings based on the production system or packaging event. Cordial and Sweet Charlie were among cultivars that did not show loss of gloss or changes in desiccation scores during storage; therefore, they would not be good choices for studies that test alternative postharvest storage protocols. Keepsake and USDA Lumina were among the glossiest cultivars and those with the highest gloss levels and desiccation scores after both 1 week and 2 weeks of refrigerated storage. The variability of these traits among cultivars indicate that improvement can be made when developing new cultivars.
Consumer Preferences for Cut Roses and the Effect of the Introduction of a New Cultivar on the US Market
Authors: Mayorga-Gomez Andres M. , Campbell Julie H. , Campbell Benjamin L.
Published: December 2024

During this study, we explored the consumer preferences for the US rose market using a nationwide online survey. Through conjoint analysis, we evaluated how attributes such as price, origin, vase life, and bloom size influence consumer choice. We found that rose origin is the most significant factor, accounting for 31% of consumer preference, followed by price (23%) and vase life (21%). The US roses are favored over those from Ecuador, Colombia, and other Latin American countries. Price sensitivity is evident, with a preference for roses priced at approximately $9.99 per dozen and a vase life of 14 days. During this study we identified eight distinct consumer segments with varying priorities, including those who value origin, price, vase life, or a combination of these attributes. Market simulation indicates that US rose producers can gain a substantial market share by emphasizing US origin, offering competitive pricing, and enhancing product attributes like bloom size and vase life. The findings suggest that to remain competitive, US rose growers should focus on origin labeling and innovative practices to counteract the influence of international sellers and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.
CHARACTERISTICS AND CLINICAL FEATURES OF PHACOEMULSIFICATION CATARACT SURGERY PATIENTS IN PASURUAN EYE HOSPITAL IN 2023
Authors: Pradana Yuda , Sitaresmi Dutaning Sri Pawenang  , H. R. Ach. Hadi Soesilo
Published: December 2024

Background: Cataract is a disease that has become the most common cause of visual impairment in Indonesia. Its incidence in Indonesia is about 210.000 cases/year, while cataract surgery rate is only 80.000 patients/year. One of provinces in Indonesia that has the highest cataract prevalence based on survey results that has been done by Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) in 2014-2016 is East Java. There were 371.599 blindness cases with 81.1% from all the blindness cases caused by cataract.
Objective: This study described characteristics and clinical features of phacoemulsification cataract surgery patients in Pasuruan Eye Hospital in 2023.
Method: This quantitative research was done by using descriptive observational design and cross-sectional approach. Variable research was taken from medical records in Pasuruan Eye Hospital.
Results: There were 55 cataract surgery patients who completed all appointments with an ophthalmologist until D+30 of the surgery. Research results showed that 48 patients (87.2%) obtained good vision after undergoing cataract surgery using the phacoemulsification method. Proportion of cataract events was greater in women (54.5%) than men (45.5%). The most frequent surgical complication after phacoemulsification was corneal edema (23.6%).
Conclusion Most cataract surgery results using the phacoemulsification method show good visual acuity. However, there were cataracts that occur at ages less than 50 years. This condition requires action from health services to investigate the factors that influence the occurrence of cataracts at an earlier age.
The Philosomer
Authors: Gritten Anthony
Published: December 2024

A decade on from its founding, it is the right time to take stock and consider the manner of Performance Philosophy’s constitution and its projection into and onto the world. There are questions about how it narrates itself, both inwardly to its network (though the global reach of Performance Philosophy suggests that ‘inward’ is not the right word here) and outwardly towards interlocutors nominally outside the network. One challenge concerns the “performative materialisation” of Performance Philosophy’s many practitioners. This can be unpacked with a few questions: Who witnesses events? Who intervenes materially? Who contributes to the network? Whose collaboration increases social capital? Who evaluates practitioners’ self-management? Other questions are possible. This essay considers some of these questions.
Law and Political Religion: the Theology of Soviet Law
Authors: Vovk Dmytro
Published: December 2024

That paper is one of my works, in which I try to apply the concept of political religion to Soviet law studies. Many political philosophers and scholars use this concept for describing the nature of totalitarian regimes, for which metapolitical goals (achieving communism, Nation defense etc.) and the tasks of their own legitimacy strengthening and increasing the control of society presuppose the usage of means which are religious by their nature. Political studies of political religion are quite developed, but legal theory pays almost no attention to such concept. So, in the paper I am trying to answer the question: if Soviet political regime can be defined as political religion, what does it means for law? In this paper I pay significant attention to Soviet law theology, that is the development of Marxism-Leninism dogmas in legal realm, which I call the “symbol of faith” of Soviet Law. I show how the “symbol of faith” guided Soviet legal studies, what philosophical and legal problems they raised and the ways Soviet scholars solved them. I mean such problems as connection between law and economics, law and state, law and factual social relations, the role of law in achieving communism. In 1920s there were different versions of Marxist legal theory (Evgeny Pashukanis, Mikhail Reysner, Pyotr Stuchka, and others), but at the beginning of 1930s the unification of approaches was being made (the 1938 narrow-normative definition of law by Andrey Vyshinsky became its). The Vyshinsky’s definition was partly rejected during post-Stalin era, the new attempts to substantiate the broader understanding of law by connecting it with legal conscience and legal relations appeared. Though these conceptions were formally substantiated as attempts to find “the right one” Marxist understanding of law, their authors were rather trying to reconcile their own vision of law with official ideology. In the paper I also delineate how Soviet law theology influenced Soviet law system. By using some examples, I argue that this theology was not just the set of ideas far from legal practice. For example, Soviet ideological dogmas determined the development of the socialistic legality doctrine as the key doctrine of Soviet legal order. At the same time Soviet legal system has never been developed exclusively under influence of Soviet political religion; it always was a mixture of influences, including Marxist-Leninist teachings, civil law tradition, political reasons etc.
Rethinking Regulation: Integrating Large Language Models in International Arbitration
Authors: Tsuvina Tetiana , Tsuvina Anna
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the relevant from theoretical and practical points of view issue of using so-called Large Language Models (LLMs) in international arbitration as a type of general-purpose artificial intelligence (AI) aimed at speech recognition and selection of answers with the highest probability, such as ChatGPT, Bildi, Gemini, etc. The purpose of the article is to analyse the challenges arising from the use of LLMs in international arbitration and to develop recommendations for their proper and bona fide application. The article uses the following research methods: the dialectical method (for studying the nature and content of LLMs and the specifics of their application in international arbitration), the method of analysis and synthesis (for analysing and systematising the main challenges of using LLMs in international arbitration), the systemic and structural method (for characterising the right to a fair trial and analysing the specifics of its application in international arbitration), comparative legal method (for examining the provisions of the legislation of certain countries regulating the functioning of international arbitration).Through the prism of the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards (1958) and the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration (1985), the article examines the main challenges of using LLMs in arbitration, in particular, the need to comply with the requirements of due process and ensure guarantees of the right to a fair trial, the reasoning of arbitral awards, arbitrator impartiality and confidentiality, as well as the right to be heard in arbitration. The authors have analysed specific guidelines on the use of AI in international arbitration in certain institutions, in particular, the Silicon Valley Arbitration and Mediation Center (SVAMC) Guidelines on the Use of AI in Arbitration. This allowed the authors to propose a Checklist for the use of LLMs in international arbitration, which can be applied to the bona fide use of AI in international arbitration proceedings.
Entretenimento, Cultura do Déficit de Atenção e Séries:
Authors: Silva Júnior Stamberg José , Fernandez Vaz Alexandre
Published: December 2024

A partir do cancelamento da série 1899, alocada na Netflix, este texto discute as mudanças no modo de fazer e de consumir cinema, entendendo a cultura do déficit de atenção como ponto-chave do projeto moderno e(m) sua liquidez. O artigo debate a diluição da capacidade imaginativa e de concentração como suporte inerente ao tempo presente, cujo regime de velocidade e estimulação ininterrupta modifica o ser, o fazer e o devir. Apresenta as narrativas de ficção seriada como resultado do prazer ancestral do humano em gostar de ouvir histórias, mas argumenta que o processo pandêmico do SARS-CoV-2 pode ter agudizado a instantaneidade e a fluidez na linearidade do assistir e do ouvir. Por fim, discorremos sobre a cotidianidade do “choque da imagem” e as consequências disso nos dias atuais.
Efetividade na gestão municipal: uma análise a partir de indicadores temáticos em municípios de grande porte
Authors:   , Lima Francisco Felipe Ramos Rodrigues
Published: December 2024

Os índices de avaliação da gestão, como o Índice de Efetividade da Gestão Municipal
(IEGM), são ferramentas de grande importância para a administração pública, pois
fornecem uma avaliação objetiva do desempenho e dos resultados alcançados pelos
órgãos governamentais e suas políticas. Tais índices ajudam a medir o impacto real
das ações governamentais sobre a qualidade de vida dos cidadãos, além de ajudar a
reduzir o conflito de agência no serviço público ao aproximar os interesses dos
gestores com os interesses da sociedade, contribuindo para uma administração mais
responsável, eficiente e alinhada com as necessidades e aspirações da população. A
partir da compreensão da necessidade de avaliação do desempenho da gestão
pública e, centralizando a análise na esfera municipal, este estudo tem como objetivo
geral identificar fatores que permitam prever, com razoável grau de precisão, o nível
de efetividade da gestão nos municípios brasileiros, indicado pelo IEGM. Para isso,
adotou-se como metodologia uma abordagem quantitativa. A amostra foi composta
por municípios com populações superiores a 150 mil habitantes, ranqueados pelo
IEGM ano-base 2019. A utilização de técnicas estatísticas aliadas ao aprendizado de
máquina mostrou-se eficaz na análise dos dados e na criação de um modelo de
predição para o nível de efetividade baseado em variáveis ligadas ao tamanho do
setor público. Além dessa abordagem, os resultados indicaram uma correlação
significante entre o índice de efetividade e o PIB per capita dos municípios, assim
como com a localização geográfica. Através de comparações entre indicadores que
analisam dimensões similares, evidenciou-se a relação entre efetividade e gestão
fiscal, transparência e desenvolvimento dos municípios. Numa perspectiva
intradimensional, concluiu-se que municípios com melhores índices ligados a
educação e gestão fiscal apresentam melhor efetividade. Dessa forma, este estudo
contribuiu para o aprofundamento da análise na literatura sobre avaliação de
desempenho no âmbito do setor público, especificamente em relação à efetividade na
gestão das administrações municipais e a descoberta de elementos que podem
fornecer suporte aos tomadores de decisão públicos no aprimoramento do processo
de decisão, visando à eficácia na execução de políticas governamentais.
Aspectos de convergência às normas internacionais de contabilidade aplicada ao setor público: uma proposta de implantação dos procedimentos contábeis patrimoniais na Prefeitura Municipal de Mossoró-RN
Authors:   , Moura Leonel Ritchie de Souza
Published: December 2024

A convergência às normas internacionais trouxe à Contabilidade Aplicada ao Setor Público inúmeros desafios, sendo o principal deles a mudança do enfoque orçamentário para o patrimonial. Neste contexto, foi aprovado, pela Secretaria do Tesouro Nacional (STN), o Plano de Implantação de Procedimentos Contábeis Patrimoniais (PIPCP), que estabelece Procedimentos Contábeis Patrimoniais (PCP’s) obrigatórios para todos os entes da federação. Assim, observando o desafio da adoção desses procedimentos, por parte dos municípios, o presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar como está o processo de implementação dos PCP’s na Prefeitura Municipal de Mossoró-RN, por meio do mapeamento quantitativo dos PCP’s e de entrevista com o Contador Geral. Foram analisadas as Contas Anuais do ente federativo do exercício de 2021. Para tanto, procedeu-se um estudo qualitativo, descritivo, com pesquisas documentais, entrevista e a estratégia de estudo de caso. O resultado apontou que a Prefeitura Municipal de Mossoró-RN apresenta um grau médio de evidenciação do PIPCP, promulgado pela Portaria STN nº 548/2015. Conclui-se que o ente federativo apresenta dificuldades no processo de convergência, principalmente por falta de capacitação dos servidores públicos envolvidos e utilização de sistemas contábeis precários para os registros patrimoniais. Efetivamente a pesquisa comprovou os obstáculos vivenciados por parte da prefeitura estudada, o que contribui para o debate acerca da convergência das normas brasileiras de contabilidade aplicadas ao setor público pelos municípios brasileiros.
A corrupção e seu impacto no desempenho das firmas durante a pandemia do Covid-19
Authors:   , Dantas Camila de Souza Filgueira
Published: December 2024

O presente estudo abordou a relação entre corrupção e desenvolvimento, explorando diversas
perspectivas e análises de diferentes estudiosos, enfatizando o impacto da corrupção na
economia e evidenciando as consequências negativas para o crescimento econômico e o
investimento estrangeiro. Buscou oferecer uma visão abrangente da corrupção, destacando suas
causas multifacetadas, impactos na economia e na sociedade, utilizando a pandemia de COVID-
19 como um estudo de caso significativo. Firmamos como objetivo principal a análise dos
efeitos diretos da pandemia na performance das empresas, internalizando características a nívelmacro,
com ênfase na corrupção, no desempenho dessas empresas em momentos de crise. Para
isso, estabelecemos como objetivos específicos, a observação das características
microeconômicas e como elas tiveram impactos significativos no crescimento, bem como qual a
correlação das variáveis macroeconômicas com o crescimento das vendas durante a pandemia.
A metodologia aplicada foi por meio de um modelo econométrico e os dados foram obtidos da
base de dados COVID-19 Enterprise Survey Follow-Up do Grupo Banco Mundial. Foi realizada
uma pesquisa descritiva, onde revelou-se uma ampla variação no crescimento das empresas
durante a pandemia. A matriz de correlação destacou relações significativas entre o crescimento
e várias variáveis. Os resultados do modelo econômico mostraram que o suporte do governo e
características microeconômicas tiveram impactos significativos no crescimento, bem como na
performance das firmas durante esse período.