bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE INFLUENCE OF INSTITUTIONAL OWNERSHIP, INDEPENDENT COMMISSIONERS AND CAPITAL INTENSITY ON TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors: Nurhaliza Henti , Sari Intan Rahma
Published: November 2023

The practice of tax avoidance has gained significant attention in the realm of corporate finance and accounting due to its potential implications for both firms and governments. Tax avoidance refers to the legal minimization of tax liabilities through strategic financial and operational decisions, often involving the utilization of various loopholes and incentives provided by the tax code. This study aims to analyze the determinants of tax avoidance, both from institutional ownership and independent commissioners which are also from capital intensity factors. The method used is quantitative method using secondary data. The population in this study are manufacturing companies in the basic consumer goods sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2017 - 2021. The samples used in this study were 24 companies with an observation period of 5 years in the 2017-2021 period and the number of financial reports sampled in this study amounted to 120. The analysis used is descriptive statistical analysis and panel data regression analysis. The analytical tool used in this research is analysis with the help of the E-views Version 12 program. The results of the research conducted show that simultaneously institutional ownership, independent commissioners and capital intensity affect tax avoidance. Partially, institutional ownership has no effect on tax avoidance, independent commissioners and capital intensity have an effect on tax avoidance.
WHEN SELF BELONGING AND ORGANIZATION CULTURE COLLIDE
Authors: Masyhuri Mohammad Ali , Emmywati  , Purnomo Teguh , Suprihandari Miya Dewi
Published: November 2023

Organizations and institutions serve as dynamic hubs where diverse backgrounds and perspectives converge. While individuals often establish deep connections, considering these places a second home. This study explores how personal diversity, technology, and organizational culture intersect in organizations, aiming to understand their impact on self-belonging and the overall culture. Through literature review and case analysis, we scrutinize the intricate relationships between personal diversity, technology, and culture. Effective management can alleviate challenges stemming from these dynamics, enhancing human resource conditions. Successful strategies embracing diversity and technology can positively influence these conditions. Although technology accelerates institutional development, cultural change is gradual. Effective management is crucial in bridging gaps between personal diversity, technology, and cultural continuity. Improved conditions foster self-belonging, enriching organizational culture. This research underscores the role of strategic management in harmonizing personal identities with organizational values, ultimately fostering an adaptive institutional culture.
THE EFFECT OF COMPANY SIZE AND INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY SET ON AUDIT REPORT LAG WITH FINANCIAL DISTRESS AS A MODERATING VARIABLE
Authors: Armeliya Febby Agustini , Rosharlianti Zulfa
Published: November 2023

In the contemporary business landscape, financial reporting and auditing play a crucial role in maintaining transparency, accountability, and investor confidence within organizations. The timing of audit reports, commonly referred to as audit report lag, is an important aspect of financial reporting that reflects the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization's financial reporting process. Several factors can influence audit report lag, including the size of the firm, the presence of investment opportunities, and financial difficulties that a company might face. This study aims to empirically investigate the influence of firm size and investment opportunity sets on audit report lag, and whether financial difficulties can moderate the impact of company size and investment opportunity sets on the delay in audit reports. The research focuses on the infrastructure, utilities, and transportation sectors listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2019 to 2021. Employing a quantitative research approach, this study utilizes secondary data collection techniques, specifically documentation, and involves a sample of 24 companies. The findings reveal that Company Size significantly affects Audit Report Lag, while Investment Opportunity Set does not have a discernible impact on Audit Report Lag. Additionally, the study demonstrates that Financial Distress does not act as a moderating factor in the relationship between Company Size and Audit Report Lag, nor between Investment Opportunity Set and Audit Report Lag. When considered together, Company Size and Investment Opportunity Set concurrently exhibit a significant influence on Audit Report Lag.
ADDRESSING KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT ISSUES AT UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON: OVERCOMING OBSTACLES TO IMPROVE ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE
Authors: Alabdullah Tariq Tawfeeq Yousif
Published: November 2023

Effective knowledge management (KM) is crucial for corporate success in today's fast-paced business landscape. This theoretical study explores how KM processes impact organizational performance. It provides a comprehensive framework drawn from existing literature to explain how KM can enhance decision-making, innovation, and operational efficiency when employed strategically. The study highlights key KM components: knowledge creation, dissemination, storage, and application, shaping business success. It categorizes and examines these elements, revealing their intricate relationships. The research explores how an open, collaborative culture promotes knowledge sharing and organizational performance. Additionally, it delves into the role of leadership in fostering a KM-focused culture, emphasizing leaders' influence on knowledge-driven initiatives. It shows how KM practices drive innovation by integrating insights from diverse areas. The study emphasizes leveraging digital platforms for information sharing, despite potential challenges like information hoarding and resistance. Overall, it underscores KM's vital role in organizational performance and provides insights for strategic decision-making in dynamic business environments.
PROMOTING FIRM PERFORMANCE VIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS EFFECTIVENESS : A STUDY OF FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPANIES IN NEW ORLEANS
Authors: Salim Shahad
Published: November 2023

This study explores the critical link between board effectiveness and company performance, focusing on New Orleans' financial services sector. In today's dynamic business landscape, boards of directors play a pivotal role in guiding organizations towards sustainable growth and value creation. The research aims to contribute significantly to the corporate governance discourse by introducing novel metrics such as cash flow and value-added production, expanding the scope of analysis beyond traditional financial indicators. We emphasize two key factors: gender diversity and director tenure, offering a holistic understanding of board composition. The empirical analysis draws from a dataset of financial services firms in New Orleans, revealing that boards with gender diversity and experienced directors excel in strategic decision-making, risk management, and innovation. This highlights the importance of building diverse and knowledgeable boards that blend seasoned business leaders with fresh perspectives. The findings hold broader implications for policymakers, who can advocate for policies promoting diversity and experience in corporate governance. Investors gain insights into value drivers beyond traditional metrics, facilitating partnerships with companies prioritizing comprehensive performance improvement. The study illuminates the intricate relationship between board effectiveness and company success in New Orleans' financial services sector. The unique methodology combines innovative performance indicators and an integrated framework, providing a comprehensive view of the value created by diverse and experienced boards. These insights inform investment strategies, policy development, and strategic decision-making, fostering long-term company performance and societal benefit.
Työläisperhe hajallaan
Authors: Frigren Pirita
Published: November 2023

Pirita Frigrenin artikkeli käsittelee merimiesten työn vaikutusta heidän perheidensä arkeen Suomen länsirannikon satamakaupungeissa purjelaivamerenkulun kultakaudella 1800-luvun puolivälissä. Laivanvarustusteollisuuden kasvun myötä merityö alkoi houkutella ja kasvava merimiesväestö muutti vanhojen porvariskaupunkien sosiaalista rakennetta. Merimiesperheet olivat kaupunkien ensimmäisiä palkkatyöläisperheitä, mutta miehen työ merillä kaukana kotoa loi näihin perheisiin perhehistorian näkökulmasta mielenkiintoisia sosiaalisia ja taloudellisia erityispiirteitä, jotka yhä vallinneen patriarkaalisen perhekäsityksen valossa näyttäytyivät poikkeuksellisina. Miehen ”etätyön” takia perhe oli lähes koko ajan hajallaan tai jopa vaarassa hajota lopullisesti joko miehen kuoleman tai karkaamisen vuoksi. Syntyi eräänlainen pysyvä poikkeustila, joka synnytti tarpeen erilaisille arjen strategioille.
Hänen itsensä kertomana. 1800-luvun kansanihmiset ja oman elämän kirjoitus
Authors: Kuismin Anna
Published: November 2023

Anna Kuisminin artikkeli käsittelee 1800-luvun kansanihmisten omaelämäkertoja. Kuismin rakentaa julkaistujen ja julkaisemattomien elämäkertojen kokonaiskuvaa kirjoittavien kansanihmisten tavoitteista ja kirjoittamisen käytännöistä. Millaiset kansanihmiset tarttuivat kynään, mitä he kirjoittivat ja mitkä tekijät innostivat heitä vastoinkäymisistä huolimatta jatkamaan kirjoittamista?
PELATIHAN PENGGUNAAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN BERBASIS ONLINE DI SDK MANLETEN KABUPATEN BELU
Authors: Mbiri Adeodata Laniria Charla Barros , Bria Fridus
Published: November 2023

Pandemic kovid-19 menghambat proses pembelajaran disemua jenjang pendidikan termasuk  jenjang pendidikan sekolah dasar (SD). Proses pembelajaran yang awalnya berbasis manual atau face to face mengalami transformasi berbasis online atau belajar dari rumah (BDR), proses pembelajaran online menggunakan media pembelajaran berupa aplikasi. Dalam menghadapi transformasi para murid SDK Manleten  menghadapi sebuah tantangan besar dikarenakan  tidak mampu  dalam menggunakan aplikasi pembelajaran berbasis online sehingga proses pembelajaran yang diterapkan pada masa pandemic adalah materi yang diberikan dalam bentuk Pekerjaan Rumah (PR). Berdasarkan survey awal tim pengabdi mendapatkan temuan bahwa  proses pembelajaran online  yang telah diterapkan tidak optimal dikarenakan minimnya penjelasan dari guru sehingga para murid SDK Manleten merasa kurang memahami materi yang diberikan. Dalam menghadapi tantangan ini maka diselenggarakannya PELATIHAN PENGGUNAAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN BERBASIS ONLINE DI SDK MANLETEN, sasaran pengabdian ini murid Sekolah Dasar Kelas 6 dikarenakan pada masa pandemic murid kelas 6 diharuskan melaksanakan proses pembelajaran berbasis online. Kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah memberikan pelatihan dan pendampingan penggunaan media pembelajaran daring. Pelatihan yang diberikan berupa pelatihan penggunaan aplikasi google meet, aplikasi word dan aplikasi power point. Pelatihan penggunaan ketiga aplikasi ini berdasarkan hasil kuesioner awal sebagaian besar murid-murid tidak tahu cara penggunaan aplikasi pembelajaran online dimasa pandemic. Metode yang digunakan dalam melaksanakan pengabdian ini adalah observasi, perencanaan, pelaksanaan dan evaluasi. Kegiatan pengabdian ini memiliki target yaitu diharpakan murid-murid dapat mengetahui dan mengaplikasikan media pembelajaran online setelah mengikuti pelatihan dan pendampingan ini
Tecnologias digitais no atendimento odontológico da pessoa idosa: um protocolo de revisão de escopo
Authors: Beserra Leticia Regina Marques , Silva Januária de Medeiros , De Lima João Guilherme Ribeiro , Rufino Matheus Victor de Carvalho , Costa Ricardo Augusto Silva , Farias Thayane de Lira , Piagge Carmem Silvia  Laureano Dalle , Mélo Cláudia Batista
Published: November 2023

Explorar sistematicamente a literatura quanto ao uso das tecnologias digitais na assistência odontológica no cuidado à pessoa idosa, a fim de analisar a utilização desses recursos como método de prevenção e democratização do cuidado odontológico a esse grupo de indivíduos. Refere-se a um protocolo de revisão de escopo, no qual seguirá as instruções e recomendações do Manual do Instituto Joanna Briggs –JBI (Manual for Evidence Synthesis), assegurando a confiabilidade do método de revisão, utilizando as seguintes bases de dados: PubMed, Scopus, Web Of Science e Lilacs. As bases bibliográficas encontradas serão organizadas através do gerenciador EndNote. Após a exclusão dos estudos duplicados, será iniciada a escolha das referências por três pesquisadores independentes. O desenvolvimento da seleção de estudos estará disposto no fluxograma. As informações serão extraídas dos estudos através de uma planilha desenvolvida no programa Microsoft Excel pelos autores, interpretando e avaliando as informações de acordo com o objetivo proposto. Os dados serão organizados em tabelas, quadros e fluxogramas, com discussão narrativa.
Fenologia da vegetação arbórea em remanescente de Mata Atlântica no estado da Paraíba
Authors: Nobre Gustavo dos Santos , Silva Neto Edito , Quirino Zelma Glebya Maciel
Published: November 2023

Esse estudo foi desenvolvido visando o acompanhamento fenológico dos padrões vegetativos e reprodutivos de espécies arbóreas em um fragmento de Mata Atlântica na RPPN Gargaú, Santa Rita-PB. As observações fenológicas foram realizadas mensalmente de outubro de 2010 a setembro de 2011. Para a seleção dos indivíduos foi montado uma parcela de 100m2 e selecionado os indivíduos com Circunferência à Altura do Peito (CAP) ≥ 63 cm. O número total de indivíduos amostrados foi de 151, distribuídos em 16 espécies de 14 famílias. Foi observado picos de 76% dos indivíduos em brotamento e 100% com queda foliar, para as fenofases reprodutivas 56% dos indivíduos foram observados em floração; 44% em frutificação. A espécie que apresentou maior período de frutificação foi Protium heptaphyllum, com duração de cinco meses, de dezembro a abril, correspondendo ao final do período seco a início do chuvoso. Padrão encontrado para todas as espécies zoocóricas. As espécies foram caracterizadas quanto a sua dispersão, 11 são zoocóricas (68%), duas são anemocóricas (12%) e uma é autocórica (6%). A floresta tropical se mostra muito sazonal e bastante influenciada pelo clima e precipitação local, principalmente pelas fenofases de brotamento e floração.
The solubility of CaF2 in seawater of normal and increased salinity (associated with genesis of fluorite in sedimentary rocks)
Authors: Savenko Alla V. , Savenko Vitaliy S.
Published: November 2023

The solubility of crystalline and precipitated calcium fluoride in seawater and brines of the first stages of its evaporative concentration (before the beginning of gypsum and halite setting) was experimentally studied. It was established that in the entire studied range of salinity, seawater and its derivatives are strongly undersaturated by the calcium fluoride, which excludes its spontaneous precipitation in drying isolated sea basins. A necessary condition for the formation of sedimentary fluorite is the entry into the drying sea basins of significant amounts of dissolved fluorine from external sources, which can be river runoff, volcanic emanations, and hydrothermal solutions.
Сomparative analysis of oils from carbonate sediments of Upper Usolskaya subformation and ediacarian-cambrian productive horizons in central part of Nepsko-Botuobinskaya anteclise
Authors: Egorov Ilya V. , Bolshakova Mariya A. , Krylov Oleg V.
Published: November 2023

The focus in study of the central part of Nepsko-Botuobinskaya anteclise is concentrated on the subsalt oil and gas bearing horizons of group B (Osinsky, Upper Ust-Kutsky, Lower Ust-Kutsky, Preobrazhensky horizons) and V (terrigenous formations of Vendian age). However, higher, in the Lower-Middle Cambrian carbonate-halogen deposits, there are also promising horizons of group A (Kelorsky, Atovsky, Khristoforovsky, Balykhtinsky), oil and gas presence of a sufficient amount of the Angara-Lena stage, the northern part of the Nepsko-Botuobinskaya anteclise and adjacent structures.

The paper examines the results of geochemical studies of oil samples from the Osinsky horizon (layer B1) and the nameless dolomite layer located between the salts in the lower part of the Upper Usolskaya subformation, previously considered gas-bearing at best. The conducted studies by the method of chromatography-mass spectrometry and comparison of the geochemical parameters of oils from different reservoirs show the similarity of hydrocarbon fluids of the Upper Usolskaya subformation and lower productive horizons, which makes it possible to attribute them to a single oil and gas bearing system.
Evolution of bioclasts during catagenesis in rocks of Bazhenov formation on the territory of the Frolov oil and gas region
Authors: Marunova Darya A. , Pronina Natalya V. , Kalmykov Anton G. , Ivanova Darya A. , Savostin Grigoriy G. , Vaitechovich Anastasiya P. , Kalmykov Georgiy A.
Published: November 2023

The paper presents the results of the Bazhenov formation rocks organic matter on the territory of the Frolov oil and gas region of the West Siberian basin investigations. The maceral composition of the sediments is represented by bituminite and alginite, removed vitrinite, as well as bioclasts: onychites and calcespheres organic matter. The investigation is focused on bioclasts. The petrographic characteristics, their change in the process of maturation evolution are described, qualitative parameters to access the degree of bioclasts maturity are established, and the initial formula for converting the onychites reflection index to the equivalent of vitrinite reflection index is proposed.
Elecciones regionales en Colombia 2023: ¿la emergencia de un nuevo mapa político en contravía del presidente Gustavo Petro y su proyecto de izquierda?
Authors: Cepeda Jiménez José Alejandro
Published: November 2023

Los resultados de las elecciones regionales en Colombia, tal como había sucedido durante el gobierno anterior de Iván Duque (2018-2022), presentan signos de cambio que pueden anteceder el curso político de los próximos años. Las principales capitales y gobernaciones del país quedaron en manos ajenas al movimiento político del presidente Gustavo Petro, el Pacto Histórico, e incluso en manos de abiertos contradictores, lo que genera no solo un nuevo mapa político sino una lucha distinta por la gobernabilidad a nivel nacional.
ECONOMIC JUSTIFICATION FOR THE USE OF A DRONE TO ASSESS THE CHARACTERISTICS OF RADAR SYSTEMS
Authors: Markosyan Ashot , Markosyan Mher , Avetisyan Vahan , Martirosyan Hayk
Published: November 2023

The immediate goal of obtaining an economic result (effect) from the implementation of scientific and technical programs is to increase production efficiency. The article substantiates that the costs of obtaining research results using a drone compared to a helicopter are significantly lower, which indicates a high economic effect from using the proposed method.
Cálculo paralelo de índice de validação de agrupamento
Authors: Barbosa Vinicius F. , Martins Wellington S.
Published: November 2023

No meta-aprendizado, as meta-características são medidas derivadas do conjunto de dados que fornecem informações adicionais sobre suas propriedades. A extração, ou cálculo, dessas meta-características pode ser custosa, especialmente em agrupamentos. Este trabalho busca utilizar o paralelismo para calcular de forma mais rápida e eficiente a meta-característica, ou índice, de validação de agrupamentos. Nossos experimentos mostram ganhos de até 22 vezes em comparação com a versão sequencial.
Como FaaS integrados a DBaaS se comportam em diferentes regiões: uma avaliação por meio da Framework Orama
Authors: Kamienski Bruno Abreu , Carvalho Leonardo Rebouças de , Araujo Aleteia
Published: November 2023

Os provedores de nuvem pública têm feito esforços para expandir a cobertura de seus serviços baseados no paradigma sem servidor, a fim de atender à necessidade da próxima geração de computação em nuvem. No entanto, é muito importante estudar o comportamento dos ambientes FaaS em diferentes regiões de provedores. Este trabalho apresenta um estudo auxiliado pela framework Orama a fim de avaliar o desempenho dos principais FaaS integrados aos serviços DBaaS em diferentes regiões espalhadas pelo globo. Os resultados indicam que o provedor Alibaba conseguiu garantir uma boa equivalência entre suas regiões, além de um menor tempo médio de execução. AWS e GCP tiveram resultados semelhantes, enquanto a Azure, por outro lado, teve o pior desempenho além de taxas de falha significativas.
LLC: Low Level Contêiner no Linux
Authors: Flausino Caio Gomes , Queiroz Diego César Florêncio de , Sundfeld Daniel
Published: November 2023

Desde a década de 1960, a execução remota de procedimentos é estudada em diversas aplicações dos sistemas distribuídos . Mais recentemente, com as tecnologias web e preocupações de segurança, novas tecnologias mudaram a forma que os processos podem ser executados. O WebAssembly, permite executar código através de um navegador e os contêiners isolam a aplicação em execução. Neste trabalho, comparamos a performance de aplicações básicas com WebAssembly e o LLC (Low Level Container), um sandbox de execução de aplicações que implementamos. Os resultados mostram que o WebAssembly é mais rápido que contêiners, apenas com instruções de segurança SECCOMP, mas o LLC se mostrou uma promissora plataforma para a execução.
Advances in Colloidal Quantum Dot Laser Diodes
Authors: Lin Jie , He Geng , Hu Yun , Huang Jingsong
Published: November 2023

Colloidal quantum dots possess distinctive optoelectronic properties, rendering them a promising material for gain applications. Additionally, colloidal quantum dot lasers can emit light over a broad range of wavelengths, spanning from the near-infrared to the visible spectrum, which makes them suitable for various applications. The potential impact of colloidal quantum dot lasers on various industries and technologies cannot be overstated. Their continued development and optimization represent an exciting area of research that could revolutionize numerous fields. The review examines the challenges related to achieving lasing with colloidal quantum dots, discusses potential approaches to overcome these challenges, and surveys the latest advances made toward achieving this objective.
Perspective Chapter: Integration of Fiberoptic and Radio Frequency Channels for Hybrid 5G MIMO Network
Authors: Juwiler Irit , Vinnik Michael , Brown Ron , Blaunstein Nathan
Published: November 2023

This work investigates the combination of fiberoptic and wireless radio frequency (RF) channels that enable the transmission of RF signals over an optical medium, which improves the load separation of the entire system and increases its bandwidth. This concept is called a hybrid system. We studied the influence of additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) and of multiplicative noise over single-input single-output (SISO) and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) channels to examine the differences in channel capacity and bandwidth, spectral efficiency and bit error rate (BER). We show that hybrid systems can provide an acceptable communication solution for a large number of devices that use a wireless network.
Perspective Chapter: Financing Private Healthcare for Government Employees to Improve Access
Authors: Mametja Selaelo , Letshweni Mapule , Semenya Mabatlo , Moyo Boldwin , Whyte Carmen , Bultinck-Human Jolene , Moloabi Stanley
Published: November 2023

Eight years following the first democratically elected government in South Africa in 1994, most public sector employees remained unable to access private health insurance and care due to high cost. In 2002, the Parliamentary Cabinet approved a policy framework on a restricted medical insurance scheme for public sector employees. This policy centered around the principles of equity, efficiency, and differentiation. Employees would have access to essential healthcare benefits across different option plans under equitable remuneration structures based on their health needs. The establishment of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) was approved by the Cabinet in 2004 and was then registered and operationalised in January 2005. This chapter aims to describe the evolution of GEMS as the largest closed medical insurance scheme within South Africa over the past 18 years, and how it improved access to care by embracing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) principles. We present the socio-demographic evolution of the Scheme and how it and the employer have provided affordable contributions and expanded healthcare benefits to universally cover members, their immediate and extended families during their active working years and retirement. We also expand on member-centric benefit design and the critical role of organised labor and government, as both employer and policy maker.
Defining Diversity and Inclusion as an Art and Science Devoid of Operational Misconceptions with Human Resources Management
Authors: Egwu Eze Ifeanyichukwu
Published: November 2023

This chapter sets out to define diversity and inclusion as an art and science devoid of operational misconceptions with human resources management by comparing their histories, theoretical frameworks, functions, and others. It became obvious that human resources management (HRM) has, from its origin, been organized to help senior management achieve its strategic goal by attracting and hiring individuals considered cultural fits according to some predetermined conditions. Therefore, it was found that HRM is fitness-oriented, while diversity and inclusion is barrier-oriented. The paper goes on to show that though HRM and diversity and inclusion management (DIM) have operational similarities, they are distinct, and further highlights reasons why HRM and DIM should not be lumped together, as well as the misconceptions about DIM and how it creates value. Furthermore, the paper justifies DIM as an art and science by highlighting its basic nature and operational tools.
Hydrophobic Protection for Building Materials
Authors: Buczkowska Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

The chapter “Hydrophobic Protection for Building Materials” highlights the significance of modifying wetting properties to enhance the durability and performance of construction materials. It addresses the theme of wetting in building materials, wetting assessment techniques, and factors influencing wetting, such as chemical composition, pore distribution, and surface properties. Traditional building materials are compared with innovative materials like geopolymers. Various methods of wetting modification are discussed in this chapter, including altering material composition through bulk additives and coatings. Research is presented to acquaint the reader with current trends in modifying the wetting of construction materials. The chapter underscores the importance of nanomaterials and bulk additives in altering surface properties and outlines investigations into coatings designed for surface protection. Practical applications of hydrophobic coatings are also demonstrated through examples of different commercial products.
Perspective Chapter: The Development and Integration of Palliative Care at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana
Authors: Ebert Moltara Maja
Published: November 2023

The history of the development of palliative care at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana dates back to the 1990s when counseling and advisory work in the field of palliative care began. In 2007, the Department for Acute Palliative Care was established with six beds to treat palliative care patients with the most complex symptoms. The beginning of outpatient care and the reestablishment of consular work date back to 2013. The number of patients increased from year to year until 2017, the first critical year when palilalia almost brought the activity to an end. With the support of patients’ associations, the activity was nevertheless maintained, sustained through the COVID-19 epidemic, and increased again in recent years. In 2021, the Mobile Palliative Unit and 24-hour telephone support were added to the previous activities.
Drug Therapeutics of Osteoporosis, Vertebral Fracture and Nonunion
Authors: Gou Pengguo , Chang Feng
Published: November 2023

Osteoporosis management is effective in decreasing vertebral fracture risk. The assessment of vertebral fracture risk is used to identify patients with high fracture risk for anti-osteoporotic treatment, especially for those who have not yet fractured. Several pharmacological agents are available to lower vertebral fracture risk by reducing bone resorption or/and stimulating bone formation. Aside from surgical treatment for fresh vertebral fracture or fracture nonunion in elderly patients, recent studies indicated that management of osteoporosis plays a vital role in boosting vertebral fracture union, preventing progressive vertebral collapse and decreasing the refracture risk. In this chapter, we focus on the treatment of osteoporosis, acute vertebral fractures and nonunion, as well as the evaluation of clinical efficacy by bone quality and bone turnover markers after treatment.
Noise: the importance of silencing the loud NICU
Authors: Boyar Vita , Gennattasio Annmarie
Published: November 2023

In utero, the growing fetus is subject to low-frequency noises. However, the high-risk neonate experiences much harsher sounds in the extrauterine environment. Despite many advances, modern Neonatal Intensive Care units cannot mimic the womb environment for preterm infants. Neonates are exposed to a stressful noisy environment where sleep is frequently interrupted and physiologic consequences alter development. Undesirable noise can be generated from simple conversation, use of equipment, overhead announcements, surrounding objects, and vibration. Noise levels above the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendation (under 35–45 decibels [dB]) are associated with adverse outcomes and hearing loss. Noise level in the NICU is an important patient safety issue and should be regularly addressed by healthcare providers. Understanding modifiable and non-modifiable noise can influence daily practices, NICU design, staff education, and unit-specific quality improvement programs.
Perspective Chapter: Epstein-Barr Virus – Emphasis on Diagnostic Approaches
Authors: Atefi Aref
Published: November 2023

Classical methods (morphological, immunomorphological, virological, and serological) such as microscopic analysis, virus culture, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) are used to diagnose Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections. All the above methods are time-consuming and unusable for quick and accurate diagnosis of EBV, and the low sensitivity of these methods sometimes causes a delay in the start of treatment. Rapid development steps in molecular biology techniques have profoundly affected the detection of viral agents. Molecular methods can be classified into three main groups: (1) target amplification methods, (2) probe amplification methods, and (3) signal amplification methods. The most considerable and practical group of techniques is target amplification methods. In this category, valuable and important techniques include polymerase chain reaction (PCR), multiplex PCR, reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR), nested PCR, immuno-PCR, real-time PCR, nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA), and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). In nucleic acid amplification systems in laboratory conditions, the target molecule is replicated in large numbers using enzymes to the extent that the product can be revealed by methods such as gel electrophoresis. The first and perhaps the most important and best system in which the target molecule increases in number is the PCR technique. In terms of scientific principles, this technique is very similar to DNA replication and is derived from it.
Value of Quantitative Electroencephalography in Diagnosis and Management of Mild to Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury: Case Series of 150 Football Players with Multiple Concussions
Authors: L. Merritt John
Published: November 2023

Multiple sports-related concussions have been associated with neurocognitive impairments ranging from a mild dementia to full Alzheimer’s disease. Quantifying injuries and associated impairments is important to a diagnosis and management strategy. In addition to a necessary history and physical exam, other testing is always needed to confirm clinical suspicions. Radiology and imaging is often added, but they are often insensitive and nonspecific. An often neglected alternative or addition is electrophysiological assessment. Quantitative EEG, such as eVox, (which we call functional EEG) is one such readily available, objective electrophysiological system that has a large database with which to refer. In our clinic we evaluated a case series of 150 retired former professional American Football players who presented with histories of concussion and persistent symptoms of cognitive impairments. Their evaluations included comprehensive examinations, brain MRI (concussion protocol,) neurocognitive testing, and quantitative electroencephalography (Evoke NeuroScience.). Males, ages 32 to 65 years with professional football careers ranging from 1 to 18 years. Physical exams included ataxia of speech and gait, word finding impairments, nystagmus, pendular reflexes, and abnormal affect. Neurocognitive testing revealed impairments in up to five cognitive domains. MRI (concussion protocol) were positive findings in only 34%. Evoke EEG findings included delayed P300a and P300b, reduced EEG power in regions associated with working memory, and information processing and alterations in heart rate variability. The physical-neurological exam provided some objective findings, but they were often subtle. Brain MRIs were abnormal in only 34%. Neurocognitive testing identified abnormalities in all cases. The Evoke EEG provided electrophysiological abnormalities in all cases. Evoke EEG is sensitive and objective, and adds confirmatory neurophysiological data that correlate tightly with formal neurocognitive impairments and symptoms. Additionally, specific abnormal patterns provided objective rationale for targeted treatment regimens, including neurofeedback and neurocognitive training.
Anti-Bacterial Use and Resistance Pattern in Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Melaku Kebede Tsegaye
Published: November 2023

Despite warnings at the beginning of the industrial antibiotic era 70 years ago, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become an increasingly intractable health issue. For common bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), sepsis, and sexually transmitted infections, high rates of antibiotic resistance have been observed globally for the commonly used antibiotics used to treat these infections. This observation indicates that we are facing a shortage of effective antibiotics. This global problem has a significant impact on pregnant women, necessitating urgent multi-sectoral action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on perinatal health. The current chapter focuses on shedding light on the commonly prescribed antibiotics for treating UTI during pregnancy. This chapter also addresses the overview of UTI management and principles of antibiotic regimen selections (effectiveness). Furthermore, it also pointed to the safety concern for selected antibiotics or class of antibiotics primarily used for treatment of UTI. Finally, it provides the details of current tsunami of AR specifically among pregnant women diagnosed with UTI in different settings and countries. In general, without the effective and cautious use of antibiotics, the progress made by the United Nations in reducing maternal and child mortality and morbidity by treating infections during pregnancy, such as UTI, would be at a heightened risk.
Artificial Intelligence Starts the Big Bang of Modern Medicine and Surgery
Authors: María Blanchar Martinez Tania , Pio de la Hoz Restrepo Fernando
Published: November 2023

Objective. To identify the areas of application and uses of artificial intelligence and expert systems in medicine, surgical procedures, and surgical specialties, classifying the degree of agreement in articles published between 2010 and 2019. Materials and Methods. The methodology consists of a relational database model and an entity-relationship model. To determine the quality of each article, the classification by degrees of agreement between “highly concordant”, “relatively concordant” or “not concordant” was created on our initiative. Results. A total of 146 articles were found, of which only 28 were highly concordant with the subject of interest. Conclusions. Artificial intelligence is the new research science that is revolutionizing the way of intervention in the different disciplines of the area of medicine.
Fundamentals of Colorimetry
Authors: Kumari Shrestha Yagya , Krishna Shrestha Shree
Published: November 2023

There are several kinds of analytical techniques following the principle of photometry in which colorimetry comes under absorption photometry. The colorimetry is commonly used analytical technique involved in quantitative estimation of color i.e. it is utilized to find out concentration of the colored substance in the sample solution e.g. water, biological samples at visible spectrum of light (380–780 nm). The colorimeter is an instrument in which this technique is used. It is also called absorptiometer. A substance must be colorful or should have property of forming chromogens through the addition of reagents which will absorb light according to their color intensity to be measured. The intensity of the color is in proportion to the concentration of colored compound. Most of the analytical techniques used in our clinical laboratory presently are based on this photometric principles in which absorbed, transmitted or emitted light are measured. When intensity at different wavelength on the whole range of electromagnetic spectrum is measured, it is called spectrophotometry. Smartphone accessories have been evolved to allow the simple, quick reproducible values of the molecules.
Grasslands Development for Ecotourism: Aesthetic Perspectives
Authors: Ijaz Raina , Harun Nidaa , Aamir Iqbal Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Grasslands (also known as savanna, prairie, steppe, and pampas) are natural or seminatural areas encompassing vegetation belonging to the family Poaceae as the most dominant vegetation, while, sedges and rushes may also constitute a minor proportion. These provide numerous natural products such as food feed medicinal raw material, and honey along with nonproduct-based ecosystem services. Grasslands in lowlands and mountains either in natural form or developed landscape can provide an added value in terms of ecotourism opportunities owing to having huge esthetic and recreational potential compared to uniform agricultural areas. Grasslands characterized by high species and habitat diversity-based ecotourism are nature-based tourism whereby people visit natural or developed areas for recreation, sight-seeing, permitted and controlled hunting, on-site purchase of organic products, etc., and are usually managed by adopting sustainable practices. Ecotourism generates multifaceted economic advantages for local communities such as direct sale of products to tourists. However, ecotourism may also have a variety of negative impacts when the tourists’ number multiplies which leads to overuse of resources. The most pronounced challenges confronted to the development of grasslands for ecotourism include lack of community cooperation, careless herders, need of hefty investment, and absence of trained human capital along with climate change and loss of biodiversity.
Creative Industry Strategies in a Globalized and Digitized Media Landscape: The South Korean Blueprint
Authors: Fiaz Hassan
Published: November 2023

Many analysts had initially anticipated that digitalization and the proliferation of internet usage would diversify international media consumption. However, the opposite has generally held true. Despite individuals now having greater choice and ease of access with regards to the media they consume via platforms such as YouTube and Netflix, the prominence of domestic output in many countries has diminished relative to the rapid growth of US-produced English language content. This growth has been supercharged by digitalization, the internet, and crucially—the global superiority of US big-tech firms. However, one country has bucked this trend to an extraordinary extent: South Korea has emerged over the past two decades as an unlikely cultural superpower, with media output from the country not only dominating domestically, but also permeating global markets. This chapter will analyze and explore South Korea’s decades-long digital revolution and creative industry strategies as fundamental drivers of this success, while assessing the extent to which these can be replicated by other nations seeking to utilize the internet’s potential in their domestic mediascapes.
Metabolomics: Special Emphasis on Basic Drug Discovery and Development
Authors: Nath Dipankar , Chetia Dipak
Published: November 2023

Metabolomics utilizes analytical profiling technique for measuring and comparing large numbers of metabolites produced in the biological fluids. Traditional process of drug development is not sufficient enough to understand the proper biochemical processes within the targets which may finally lead to the failure. Metabolomics can be very useful to overcome such failure as it involves in the detailed profiling and understanding of the biochemical processes which helps in identification of target engagement (TE) markers as well as predicting mode of action (MOA). Currently pharmaceutical companies are utilizing this approach in the early drug development stage to combat failure. This chapter will mainly highlight the advantages of this concept over traditional concept of drug development along with recent developments of it.
A Brief Review of Techniques of Thermal Enhancement in Tubes
Authors: Jamshed Shamoon
Published: November 2023

Heat transfer enhancement in tubes is not a novel idea. These tubes are used in several engineering devices like heat exchangers, boilers, evaporators, refrigerators, and air conditioners, to name a few. To date, these tubes are undergoing an evolutionary period, since engineers are trying new ways to improve the heat transfer (or enhance the heat transfer). The main cause is the pressure loss that occurs due to friction and the limitation of the surface area of the tube. The passive techniques to overcome this loss are more common due to cost-effectiveness. Thus, common passive techniques include grooves inside the tube surface, grooves on both the inner and outer surface, or putting inserts within the tube. Modern techniques are utilizing nanofluids, that carry nano-materials inside the heat transfer fluid to enhance heat transfer. To quantitatively gauge the heat transfer enhancement, the heat transfer effectiveness is computed. This chapter deals with the study of the above-mentioned techniques in some detail and discusses minimizing entropy generation rate in groove tube(s). Also, a bird’s-eye view of the nanofluids and their usage for heat transfer enhancement has been seen.
Bifurcation and Periodic Triangular Pattern Formation in Reaction-Diffusion with Anisotropic Diffusion
Authors: Shoji Hiroto
Published: November 2023

Turing demonstrated a coupled reaction-diffusion equation with two components produced steady-state heterogeneous spatial patterns, under certain conditions. The instability found by Turing is now called a diffusion-driven instability or Turing instability. Systems in two dimensions produce spot and stripe patterns, and these systems have been applied as models to explain patterns observed in biological and chemical fields and to develop image information processing tools. Previously, we developed a method that utilizes a reaction-diffusion system with anisotropic diffusion that exhibits triangular patterns, thereby introducing a certain anisotropic strength. In this chapter, we discuss the effects of anisotropic diffusion on the generation of triangular patterns. By defining the statistical index characterizing the spatial patterns, we investigated the parameter range over which the triangular patterns were obtained. We determined the explanatory variable based on the relative distance of the pitchfork bifurcation point between the maximum and minimum anisotropic diffusion functions. Its relevance to diffusion instability is also discussed.
Proyecto urbano feminista como herramienta de evaluación de políticas públicas: experiencias pedagógicas de diagnóstico proyectual en el hábitat popular del sur de Buenos Aires
Authors: Roitman Anabella , Ara María Victoria , Barroso Patricia
Published: November 2023

Feminist Urbanism is a research project from FADU - UBA in Buenos Aires, Argentina, which aims to make visible the imbrication of theoretical ideas of Feminism in urban planning, through the analysis, diagnosis and proposal of public policies. For this exercise, the objective was to explore the possibilities of "Urban Project" as an urban planning instrument, on the attempt to consider it as an interface for understanding public policies for the redevelopment of a slum. The experience allowed the articulation of notions such as Popular Habitat, Urban Project and Feminist Urbanism, in addition to the exchange of experiences between the academy, the government areas, and neighborhood political spaces. The interns were able to have an approach to the understanding of popular habitat from the theoretical ideas of feminism, developed through gender perspective as a methodology.

Urbanismo Feminista es un proyecto de investigación de la FADU - UBA en Buenos aires, Argentina, que apunta a visibilizar la imbricación de las ideas teóricas del Feminismo en la planificación urbana, a través del analisis, diagnóstico y propuesta de políticas públicas. Para este ejercicio se planteó como objetivo explorar las posibilidades del instrumento urbanístico “Proyecto Urbano”, en vías a intentar considerarlo a su vez como interfase para la comprensión de las políticas públicas para la Reurbanización de una villa miseria. La experiencia permitió la articulación de las nociones de Hábitat Popular, Proyecto Urbano y Urbanismo Feminista, sumado al intercambio de experiencias entre la academia, las áreas de gobierno, y espacios políticos barriales. Las y los pasantes pudieron tener un acercamiento a la comprensión del hábitat popular desde las ideas teóricas del feminismo, llevadas a la práctica a través de la perspectiva de género como metodología.