bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Fatal Road-Traffic Accidents: A Five-Year Study on Medicolegal Autopsies in Timis County, Romania
Authors: Ungureanu Ştefania , Ciocan Veronica , Mureșan Camelia-Oana , Stan Emanuela , Gavriliţă Georgiana-Denisa , Sirmon Alexandra , Pop Cristian , Enache Alexandra
Published: October 2024

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) represent the key sign of the level of road safety. Romania once held the record for road deaths among European Union (EU) countries and as of 2023, it came second place. It is of utmost importance to assess whether measures that restricted human mobility during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to a significant reduction in road fatalities. This study assesses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on victims of fatal RTAs by analyzing medicolegal autopsies from the Timisoara Institute of Legal Medicine (TILM), Timis County, Romania. Materials and methods: Medicolegal autopsy records of RTA victims from TILM in a 5-year period (2017–2021) were analyzed. Results: 395 cases (10.5%) were represented by victims of fatal RTAs. The reduction in the number of cases in the pandemic period was not statistically significant (p = 0.061) compared to the pre-pandemic period, but the number of victims of RTAs decreased by 17.6%. This highlights the importance of understanding the role of other risk factors in fatal RTAs, since a lesser volume of traffic did not cause a significant decrease in road fatalities. Male victims were predominant, with 18–50 years being the most affected age group. In the pandemic period, the most affected age groups were 31–40 (18.5%), followed closely by 41–50 (17.6%) and 18–30 (16.7%). In the pre-pandemic period, the first place was held by people in the age interval of 61–70 (20.5%), followed by 18–30 (19.2%). Drivers were the most involved type of road user, and a slight increase in the proportion of cyclists (13.9% from 10.5%) and motorcyclists (6.5% from 5.9%) was noted. Conclusions: Our findings show that measures implemented to control the COVID-19 pandemic may have had a positive effect on the reduction of RTAs, as shown by the information based on medicolegal autopsies in Timis County, Romania, but more attention needs to be focused on other risk factors. Further studies need to identify reasons for the small reduction in fatal injuries when the volume of traffic was reduced during mandated national lockdown.
Experiences of Digital Transitions in Health and Social Care Services in Later Life: Findings and Reflections from a Collaborative, Interdisciplinary Exploratory Review
Authors: Vaca-Benavides David Alejandro , Uthayakumar Sumetha , McSwiggan Emilie , Ostrishko Kayla , Wanok Godfrey , Halpenny Clare , Cardamone Elisa
Published: October 2024

Health and social care services are increasingly shaped by the emergence of new digital developments. Research suggests that older adults are less likely to use digital devices and, therefore, risk missing out on essential health and social care services as these become more digital by design. We carried out an exploratory literature review using the terms ‘onboarding’ and ‘offboarding’ within the design, engineering, health, and social science literature to understand how researchers are currently thinking about older adults’ digital service needs, informed by discussions of stakeholder engagement with older adults in Edinburgh to explore their own experiences of digital transitions. The review process was implemented based on the methodology of Arksey and O’Malley for scoping reviews, and the findings were reported according to the PRISMA-ScR checklist. The databases used were Web of Science, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, IEEE Xplore, Engineering Village, PsycINFO, ASSIA and ACM. In total, 18 studies were finally included. Our findings show different interpretations of onboarding across disciplines and a lack of use of offboarding in the design of digital interventions. Additionally, our findings reveal inequalities in digital onboarding, as evidenced by the limited number of studies. Finally, we share a snapshot of our findings, together with reflections on interdisciplinary and collaborative processes.
Niche Sustainable Agricultural Production in Colombia: The Case of Territorial Development Agendas and Development Planning in the Province of García Rovira
Authors: Llanez Anaya Helmer Fernando , Sánchez Reyes Jimmy
Published: October 2024

This article addresses the emergence of a niche for sustainable agricultural production in the province of García Rovira, Colombia. It examines the intervention of the Colombian planning regime, which implements agendas for sustainable territorial development. However, these agendas are not adequately aligned with provincial realities, resulting in a productive decline. From a multi-level perspective, a production niche linked to the landscape has been identified, emphasizing sustainable practices and innovation. This study aimed to explore how planning influences the emergence of such niches and identified factors that promote their transition towards sustainability. Through a mixed methodology, growing sectors were accentuated and the profiles of the producers involved were outlined. The main conclusion is that the planned intervention is inefficient as the niche of sustainable production emerges without a clear influence. Therefore, it is proposed to re-evaluate planning using alternative analysis frameworks to detect emerging productive dynamics, serving as a basis for future plans.
The Relationships between Tourism Ethnocentrism, Destination Advocacy, Local Food Motivation, and Destination Food Image: The Case of Gaziantep
Authors: Turan Orhan , Dağlı Erkan , Geçikli Recep Murat , Esen Ozan , Keskin Emrah , Aktas Ferzan , Karacil Guray
Published: October 2024

Ethnocentric attitudes and beliefs are defined as prejudice against those who do not belong to one’s own community and are based on the understanding of considering one’s own nation to be superior. When the concept is interpreted from a tourism perspective, the conformity of the experiences with the norms of society can be described as the ensemble of attitudes and behaviors aimed at glorifying future domestic tourism welfare. When the destination experiences are evaluated, food constitutes the largest experience area within the tourism market. Besides transferring recipes and flavor elements to individuals, food also conveys the culture, beliefs, and value judgments of a society to future generations. Based on this point, the relationships between tourism ethnocentrism, destination advocacy, local food motivation, and destination food image were investigated in this study. In the scope of the study, a survey was conducted on people who visited the Gaziantep region and had a dining experience. Structural equation modeling was utilized in line with the study model. According to the findings of the study, local food motivation has a positive and significant effect on destination food image and tourism ethnocentrism, and tourism ethnocentrism positively and significantly affects destination food image and destination advocacy. Moreover, destination food image has a positive and significant effect on destination advocacy.
Sustainable Digital Transformation Roadmaps for SMEs: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mick Marcela Marçal Alves Pinto , Kovaleski João Luiz , Chiroli Daiane Maria de Genaro
Published: October 2024

Sustainable digital transformation in SMEs not only simplifies operations and increases efficiency but also fosters innovation, facilitates data-driven decision-making, and minimizes negative environmental and social impacts, paving the way for a sustainable competitive advantage in the digital age. However, SMEs still face significant barriers to implementing this transformation. In addition to limited financial resources, a critical obstacle is the lack of specific and comprehensible roadmaps. Thus, this paper aims to analyze existing roadmaps for sustainable digital transformation in SMEs. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA and Methodi Ordinatio methods, with data collection and analysis performed using the NVivo 12 and VOSviewer software (version 1.6.20). Content analysis was used to assess how these papers align with the study’s context. The analysis identified whether the roadmaps address aspects related to the triple bottom line (TBL), their specificity to SMEs, the principles of digital transformation they incorporate, and the aspect of digital maturity. The findings indicate that none of the current literature provides a fully developed roadmap for sustainable digital transformation in SMEs. Consequently, future studies are suggested to develop a comprehensive roadmap that addresses these issues. Finally, this study highlights the main gaps and opportunities in each studied roadmap and formulates 14 research questions divided into six categories for future investigation. Addressing these questions can help close the current gaps in the literature and provide SMEs with robust, adaptable, and sustainable digital transformation strategies.
Complex Systems and Sustainable Leadership: Enhancing Resilience and Sustainability of Community-Based Social Enterprises in Soweto, South Africa
Authors: Cheruiyot Roselyne , Venter Robert
Published: October 2024

In urban South Africa, community-based social enterprises (CBSEs) face challenges at the intersection of financial and environmental sustainability and social purpose. These enterprises address social exclusion and community development within complex institutional environments. Despite increasing governmental support, CBSEs struggle with historical inequalities, resource limitations, high poverty levels, inadequate infrastructure, and complex social dynamics. These challenges contribute to a high failure rate among SMMEs, including CBSEs, which represent approximately 71% of community-level businesses. This study examines how complex system dynamics in marginalized South African suburbs impact the sustainable leadership and resilience of CBSEs. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the study conducted 15 in-depth semi-structured interviews with CBSE leaders. The findings revealed that effective leadership in CBSEs requires extraordinary abilities to traverse complexity, adapt to changes, and engage in dynamic organizational change. The key themes identified included adaptive and flexible leadership, interdependencies and network collaboration, community engagement and co-creation, continuous learning and feedback loops, policy influence and response, and resource utilization and constraints. By applying complex systems leadership theory (CSLT) and sustainable leadership principles, the research offers insights into the mechanisms enabling CBSEs to thrive in challenging environments. These findings contribute to Social Enterprise Management and Leadership Studies, providing practical implications for policymakers and practitioners to support CBSE development and sustainability in marginalized urban communities.
Charged Microdroplets Deposition for Nanostructured-Based Electrode Surface Modification
Authors: Zumpano Rosaceleste , Agostini Marco , Mazzei Franco , Troiani Anna , Salvitti Chiara , Managò Marta , Di Noi Alessia , Ricci Andreina , Pepi Federico
Published: October 2024

Accelerated synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in charged microdroplets produced by electrospray ionization (ESI) was exploited to modify the surface of graphite screen-printed electrodes (GSPEs). The deposited AuNPs were then functionalized by the charged microdroplets deposition of 6-ferrocenyl-hexanethiol (6Fc-ht) solutions that act as reducing and stabilizing agents and provide electrochemical properties for the modified electrodes. The morphology and composition of the AuNPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to investigate the electrochemical behavior of the modified electrodes. The results showed that the ESI microdroplets deposition technique produces uniform and well-dispersed AuNPs on GSPE, and optimal conditions for deposition were identified, enhancing GSPE electrocatalytic performance. Further functionalization by ESI microdroplets of AuNPs with 6Fc-ht demonstrated improved redox properties compared with the conventional self-assembled monolayer (SAM) method, highlighting the technique’s potential for the easy and fast functionalization of electrochemical sensors.
Searching for Continuous n-Clusters with Boolean Reasoning
Authors: Michalak Marcin
Published: October 2024

A bicluster consists of a subset of rows and columns of a given matrix, whose intersection defines the region (bicluster) of values of precisely defined condition. Through the decades, a variety of biclustering techniques have been successfully developed. Recently, it was proved that many possible patterns defined in two-dimensional data could be found with the application of Boolean reasoning. The provided theorems showed that any existing pattern in the data could be unequivocally encoded as an implicant of a proper Boolean function. Moreover, a prime implicant of that function encoded the inclusion-maximal (non-extendable) pattern. On the other hand, the definition of some two-dimensional patterns may be easily extended to three-dimensional patterns (triclusters) as well as to any number of dimensions (n-clusters). This paper presents a new approach for searching for three- and higher-dimensional simple patterns in continuous data with Boolean reasoning. Providing the definition of the Boolean function for this tasks, it is shown that the similar correspondence—implicants encode patterns, and prime implicants encode inclusion-maximal patterns—has a strong mathematical background: the proofs of appropriate theorems are also presented in this paper.
Brain Tumor Segmentation from Optimal MRI Slices Using a Lightweight U-Net
Authors: Hernandez-Gutierrez Fernando Daniel , Avina-Bravo Eli Gabriel , Zambrano-Gutierrez Daniel F. , Almanza-Conejo Oscar , Ibarra-Manzano Mario Alberto , Ruiz-Pinales Jose , Ovalle-Magallanes Emmanuel , Avina-Cervantes Juan Gabriel
Published: October 2024

The timely detection and accurate localization of brain tumors is crucial in preserving people’s quality of life. Thankfully, intelligent computational systems have proven invaluable in addressing these challenges. In particular, the UNET model can extract essential pixel-level features to automatically identify the tumor’s location. However, known deep learning-based works usually directly feed the 3D volume into the model, which causes excessive computational complexity. This paper presents an approach to boost the UNET network, reducing computational workload while maintaining superior efficiency in locating brain tumors. This concept could benefit portable or embedded recognition systems with limited resources for operating in real time. This enhancement involves an automatic slice selection from the MRI T2 modality volumetric images containing the most relevant tumor information and implementing an adaptive learning rate to avoid local minima. Compared with the original model (7.7 M parameters), the proposed UNET model uses only 2 M parameters and was tested on the BraTS 2017, 2020, and 2021 datasets. Notably, the BraTS2021 dataset provided outstanding binary metric results: 0.7807 for the Intersection Over the Union (IoU), 0.860 for the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), 0.656 for the Sensitivity, and 0.9964 for the Specificity compared to vanilla UNET.
Identifying Brain Network Structure for an fMRI Effective Connectivity Study Using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) Method
Authors: Li Xingfeng , Zhang Yuan
Published: October 2024

Background: Studying causality relationships between different brain regions using the fMRI method has attracted great attention. To investigate causality relationships between different brain regions, we need to identify both the brain network structure and the influence magnitude. Most current methods concentrate on magnitude estimation, but not on identifying the connection or structure of the network. To address this problem, we proposed a nonlinear system identification method, in which a polynomial kernel was adopted to approximate the relation between the system inputs and outputs. However, this method has an overfitting problem for modelling the input–output relation if we apply the method to model the brain network directly. Methods: To overcome this limitation, this study applied the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) model selection method to identify both brain region networks and the connection strength (system coefficients). From these coefficients, the causality influence is derived from the identified structure. The method was verified based on the human visual cortex with phase-encoded designs. The functional data were pre-processed with motion correction. The visual cortex brain regions were defined based on a retinotopic mapping method. An eight-connection visual system network was adopted to validate the method. The proposed method was able to identify both the connected visual networks and associated coefficients from the LASSO model selection. Results: The result showed that this method can be applied to identify both network structures and associated causalities between different brain regions. Conclusions: System identification with LASSO model selection algorithm is a powerful approach for fMRI effective connectivity study.
The Magellanic Clouds Are Very Rare in the IllustrisTNG Simulations
Authors: Haslbauer Moritz , Banik Indranil , Kroupa Pavel , Zhao Hongsheng , Asencio Elena
Published: October 2024

The Large and Small Magellanic Clouds (LMC and SMC) form the closest interacting galactic system to the Milky Way, therewith providing a laboratory to test cosmological models in the local Universe. We quantify the likelihood for the Magellanic Clouds (MCs) to be observed within the ΛCDM model using hydrodynamical simulations of the IllustrisTNG project. The orbits of the MCs are constrained by proper motion measurements taken by the Hubble Space Telescope and Gaia. The MCs have a mutual separation of dMCs=24.5kpc and a relative velocity of vMCs=90.8kms−1, implying a specific phase-space density of fMCs,obs≡(dMCs·vMCs)−3=9.10×10−11km−3s3kpc−3. We select analogues to the MCs based on their stellar masses and distances in MW-like halos. None of the selected LMC analogues have a higher total mass and lower Galactocentric distance than the LMC, resulting in >3.75σ tension. We also find that the fMCs distribution in the highest resolution TNG50 simulation is in 3.95σ tension with observations. Thus, a hierarchical clustering of two massive satellites like the MCs in a narrow phase-space volume is unlikely in ΛCDM, presumably because of short merger timescales due to dynamical friction between the overlapping dark matter halos. We show that group infall led by an LMC analogue cannot populate the Galactic disc of satellites (DoS), implying that the DoS and the MCs formed in physically unrelated ways in ΛCDM. Since the 20∘ alignment of the LMC and DoS orbital poles has a likelihood of P=0.030 (2.17σ), adding this χ2 to that of fMCs gives a combined likelihood of P=3.90×10−5 (4.11σ).
On Planetary Orbits, Ungravity and Entropic Gravity
Authors: Pérez-Cuéllar Gemma , Sabido Miguel
Published: October 2024

In previous works, entropic gravity and ungravity have been considered as possible solutions to the dark energy and dark matter problems. To test the viability of these models, modifications to planetary orbits are calculated for ungravity and different models of entropic gravity. Using the gravitational sector of unparticles, an equation for the contribution to the effect of orbital precession is obtained. We conclude that the estimated values for the ungravity parameters from planetary orbits are inconsistent with the values needed for the cosmological constant. The same ideas are explored for entropic gravity arising from a modified entropy–area relationship.
The Effect of Dietary Plant-Derived Omega 3 Fatty Acids on the Reproductive Performance and Gastrointestinal Health of Female Rabbits
Authors: Quattrone Alda , Belabbas Rafik , Fehri Nour Elhouda , Agradi Stella , Mazzola Silvia Michela , Barbato Olimpia , Dal Bosco Alessandro , Mattioli Simona , Failla Sebastiana , Abdel-Kafy El-Sayed M. , Jemmali Bayrem , Salem Imène Ben , Mandara Maria Teresa , Giglia Giuseppe , Colin Michel , Guillevic Mathieu , Muça Gerald , Sulçe Majlind , Castrica Marta , Bilgiç Bengü , Marongiu Maria Laura , Brecchia Gabriele , Curone Giulio , Menchetti Laura
Published: October 2024

This study examined the effects of extruded linseed and algae Padina pavonica extract on the reproductive performance, milk production, and gastrointestinal health of female rabbits. Thirty-six nulliparous New Zealand White female rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 12) with different diets. The control group (CNT) received a standard diet, while the other two groups received modified isoenergetic diets in which part of the CNT diet ingredients were replaced with 5% extruded linseed (L5%) and 5% extruded linseed plus 0.2% Padina pavonica algae extract (L5%PP). The rabbits were monitored from artificial insemination until the weaning of the rabbit kits, evaluating different reproductive parameters. Our results indicate that extruded linseed and alga Padina pavonica extract did not affect the feed intake or body weight of female rabbits. Additionally, no clinically significant histological changes were observed at the gastrointestinal level. The reproductive parameters, including litter size, litter weight, and milk yield, showed no significant differences among groups. Notably, perinatal and pre-weaning mortalities were reduced in litters born to females receiving omega-3 integrated diets (p < 0.05). While these findings are promising, further studies are needed to confirm these results and explore the specific mechanisms by which omega-3 affects reproductive function and litter health.
Long-Term Survival in Canine Hepatosplenic T-Cell Lymphoma Treated with Toceranib Phosphate Following Splenectomy: A Case of Atypical Lymphoma
Authors: Akiyoshi Makoto , Hisasue Masaharu , Asakawa Midori Goto , Neo Sakurako
Published: October 2024

Toceranib phosphate (toceranib) is approved for canine mast cell tumor treatment. However, no long-term response to toceranib in canine HSTCL has been reported. Here, we describe a case of a 10-year-old castrated mixed-breed dog that presented with a 3-month history of weight loss, polydipsia, and polyuria. The clinicopathological and imaging abnormalities included icterus, biliary obstruction, and splenomegaly with multiple diffuse splenic hypoechoic nodules. On day 21, a cholecystectomy was performed to remove the obstruction, followed by a liver biopsy and splenectomy. Cytology of the spleen and liver showed many small lymphocytes with intracytoplasmic granules (sGLs). Splenic and hepatic infiltration of neoplastic CD3/granzyme B-positive small cells and lymphocytic cholecystitis with granzyme B-negative small cells were noted. T-cell receptor gene clonal rearrangements were observed in the liver tissues. The dog was diagnosed with a hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma (HSTCL) of sGLs concurrent with lymphocytic cholecystitis. The icterus resolved after surgery, but there was progressive elevation of liver enzyme levels. Toceranib was administered from day 39, resulting in decreased liver enzyme levels, and the dog remained in good condition. The dog stayed in remission after toceranib administration and survived for 460 days. Toceranib should be considered an effective treatment option for canine HSTCL.
Immunohistochemical Expression of Tenascin-C in Canine Meningiomas
Authors: Sant’Ana Fabiano José Ferreira de , Blasco Ester , Pumarola Martí
Published: October 2024

In humans, tenascin-C (TN-C) expression has been detected in more aggressive neoplasms of the central nervous system, such as gliomas and meningiomas. No study has analyzed the immune expression of TN-C in canine meningioma. The current study aimed to investigate the immunohistochemical distribution of TN-C in different grades of canine meningiomas. Twenty-one cases of canine meningioma (12 grade I, 6 grade II, and 3 grade III) were analyzed. All samples were examined by immunohistochemistry with the following antibodies: TN-C, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), Ki-67, pan-cytokeratin (Pan CK), and vimentin. The histopathological diagnosis of meningioma was reinforced with the positive labeling of vimentin (moderate to strong) and EMA (mild to moderate) in neoplastic cells in most cases, independently of its grade or subtype. The immunoreactivity of TN-C was irregular: mild in grade I, moderate in grade II, and moderate to severe in grade III neoplasms. Usually, immune positivity was observed in the stroma and perivascular space in all subtypes. In addition, the concentric whorls of neoplastic cells were labeled positive in some psammomatous and transitional meningiomas. The reaction to TN-C was more significant in grade II and III tumors. The immunohistochemical findings of the current study suggest that TN-C can act as a stromal marker, mainly in grade II or III meningiomas.
Measuring the Pupillary Light Reflex Using Portable Instruments in Applied Settings
Authors: Gray Nicola S. , Price Menna , Pink Jennifer , O’Connor Chris , Antunes Ana , Snowden Robert J.
Published: October 2024

The early components of the pupillary light reflex (PLR) are governed by the parasympathetic nervous system. The use of cheap, portable pupillometry devices may allow for the testing of parasympathetic-system health in field settings. We examined the reliability of two portable instruments for measuring the PLR and their sensitivity to individual differences known to modulate the PLR. Parameters of the PLR were measured in a community sample (N = 108) in a variety of field settings. Measurements were taken using a commercial pupillometer (NeuroLight, IDMED) and an iPhone using the Reflex Pro PLR analyser (Brightlamp). The parameters of baseline pupil diameter, constriction latency, amplitude and relative amplitude of constriction, and constriction velocity were measured. Individual differences related to age, levels of anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomology were assessed. Some measures could not be attained using the iPhone under these field conditions. The reliability of the measures was high, save for the measurement of contraction latency which was particularly unreliable for the iPhone system. The parameters of the PLR showed the same internal relationships as those established in laboratory-based measurements. Age was negatively correlated with all the reliable PLR parameters for both systems. Effects of anxiety and PTSD symptomology were also apparent. The study demonstrated that a hand-held portable infrared pupillometer can be used successfully to measure the PLR parameters under field settings and can be used to examine individual differences. This may allow these devices to be used in workplaces, sports fields, roadsides, etc., to examine parasympathetic activity where needed.
Assessment of Hydrometeorological Impacts of Climate Change on Water Bodies in Northern Kazakhstan
Authors: Yessenzholov Baurzhan , Khussainov Abilzhan , Kakabayev Anuarbek , Plachinta Ivan , Bayazitova Zulfiya , Kyzdarbekova Gulmira , Zhamkenov Uzak , Ramazanova Makhabbat
Published: October 2024

This article examines the impact of climate change on the hydrometeorological indicators of some lakes and reservoirs in the Akmola and North Kazakhstan regions. Two meteorological variables’ annual and seasonal trends at three weather stations in 1986–2023 were analyzed. The non-parametric Mann–Kendall and Sen’s slope methods were used to determine the presence of a positive or negative trend in weather data and their statistical significance. Hydrometric indicators were studied using the ArcGIS 10.8 program from 1995 to 2023. The results indicate an increasing average spring air temperature, with an annual rise of 0.08–0.09 °C. A significant trend in increasing average annual precipitation was observed in Saumalkol, with a rise of 4.7 mm per year. In contrast, no significant trends were found in the annual and seasonal precipitation data for Sergeyevka. It was also found that the area of Lake Saumalkol increased by 1.6% due to a rise in annual precipitation. In contrast, the area of Lake Kopa decreased by 6.04% because of an increase in the annual average temperature.
Design and Optimization of Water Level Control Gate System in Malwathu Oya River, Sri Lanka
Authors: Rathnayaka Pradeep Tharanga Kumara , Lee Jin-Young
Published: October 2024

This research focuses on improving flood management of the Malwathu Oya River in Anuradhapura Historical City, Sri Lanka, by designing an efficient gate system for the weir of Halpan Ela in the Malwathu Oya River. Frequent flooding threatens agriculture, infrastructure, and public safety in this region. This research aims to enhance water level control in the upper reach of Halpan Ela Anicut by evaluating rainfall patterns, tank spillway efficiency, and gate operation challenges. Historical data on rainfall and tank spillage were analyzed. Flow simulations revealed significant pressure differences, with the existing gate structure showing an upstream pressure of 114,492.5 Pa at a maximum flow of 1740 m3/s, compared to 105,406 Pa for the new flap gate system at the same flow rate. This represents a pressure difference of 9 kPa, equivalent to a 0.9 m water head. Despite the system’s estimated cost of USD 0.1 million, the potential reduction in river flood damage, which currently exceeds USD 0.2 million annually, demonstrates its value. This research emphasizes the effectiveness of the flap gate system in reducing flood risks in Anuradhapura City compared to the existing gate type, though it is only a part of a broader flood mitigation strategy.
Nitrogen Transport Pathways and Source Contributions in a Typical Agricultural Watershed Using Stable Isotopes and Hydrochemistry
Authors: Tang Zhi , Xiong Yangfu , Liu Yang , Yu Jinhao , Zou Yuanbing , Zhu Jiandong , Fu Shengbo , Yang Fei , Zhao Mingzhe , Pan Jie , Yang Sen
Published: October 2024

The increasing global nitrogen input poses a significant threat to aquatic environments, particularly in agricultural watersheds, where intensive human activities and insufficient water protection infrastructure exacerbate the risk of nitrogen pollution. Accurate identification of nitrogen pollution sources and the associated transformation processes is essential for protecting watershed ecosystems. In this study, a combination of hydrochemical analysis, correlation and principal component analysis, and stable nitrate isotopes (δ15N-NO3− and δ18O-NO3−) were employed to trace nitrogen transport pathways and source contributions in both surface water and groundwater within a typical agricultural watershed. The results revealed the presence of nitrogen pollution, including total nitrogen (TN), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N), with significant spatial and seasonal variations in both surface water and groundwater. The spatiotemporal evolution of hydrochemical indicators and nitrate isotope compositions highlighted multiple potential sources of nitrogen, including soil input, agricultural input, and manure and sewage input. The results from stable isotope analysis in an R (SIAR) model indicated that ammonium fertilizers (7.1~78.4%) and manure and sewage (2.6~69.7%) were the primary sources of nitrates in surface water, while manure and sewage were the main sources in groundwater (67.9~73.7%). This research demonstrated that nitrification, seasonal variations, and human activities significantly impact nitrogen migration and transformation in agricultural watersheds. However, the issue of groundwater severely polluted by manure and sewage has received insufficient attention. To effectively control nitrogen pollution in agricultural watersheds, it is necessary to improve septic tanks and sewage networks, as well as implement scientific fertilization practices.
USING THE POTENTIAL OF TERRITORIAL COMMUNITIES IN THE FORMATION OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCES OF FUTURE CULTUROLOGISTS
Authors: Lukyanenko O.
Published: October 2024

The article analyzes the place and role of territorial communities in the system of professional training of culturologists. It has been determined that among the qualifications of a master of cultural studies, the national standard for extensive knowledge of this specialty means the ability to professionally diagnose, predict, project and model the cultural development of different cultural regions, physical and visual culture. It is described how the preparation of such specialist, who are present in the socio-cultural field of the region, has become one of the ambushes of the educational and professional programs «Culturology» of the first (bachelor’s) and the other (master’s) who is jealous of the great knowledge of the Poltava National Pedagogical University named after V. G. Korolenko. It is characterized how this process will ensure that stakeholders from various territorial communities are recruited before the process of developing, negotiating, changing and revising new programs like these, and also in cooperation with robot sellers in localities and villages Poltava region and regional areas near the area of organization of practice, ensuring dual coverage of cultural scientists, as well as through obtaining awareness of socio-cultural projects, such as carrying out foundations and establishing culture, community organizations and local activities.
It is proved that the mutual work from the preparation of a cultural scientist, who is not without a wide range of current cultural knowledge, and also to create an organization (often funerary popularization), to the last (analytical) practical), as well as enabling activities in the sphere of culture and the department of foreign affairs culturology of Poltava Pedagogical University from hours of sleep. The wide base of stakeholders, which were obtained up to this point, is associated with the sphere of practice of such a specialist, which nurtures the foundations of light, and the establishment of culture, as well as the cultural and creative industries.
In 2020, the adoption of a new standard for the specialty 034 Culturology did not deprive the class of subjects that formulate the necessary skills of a cultural scientist, and this meant the norm of preparation of the specialist, which includes the creation of the organization and the promotion of communication with government authorities, scientific and research institutions, information and analytical services, methods of mass information and cultural nutrition. This led to the establishment of close collaboration with stakeholders and territorial communities to train students to work in localities and villages in the region.
METHODS OF MANAGEMENT IN PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY AND PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF MASTERS OF PHARMACY
Authors: Sholoiko N. , Kravchenko L.
Published: October 2024

The article outlines the importance and role of scientific management methods as a factor in improving the mechanisms of managerial influence on pharmaceutical employees and a component of technologies for training masters of pharmacy in educational institutions to ensure the effective performance of their general and specific functions in the industry.
The purpose of the study is to characterize the economic methods of pharmaceutical management, which are related to the activities of a pharmacy manager by the nature of influence and the specifics of their mastering in the process of professional training.
The survey of a group of 121 students majoring in the specialty 226 «Pharmacy» has allowed us to identify the demand of future masters of pharmacy for the use of methods of studying and building economic plans in the organization (strategic, tactical, operational), developing a budget for a separate structure (its functions, production and economic processes, areas of cost savings and increased revenues, targeted use of funds, development of internal monitoring, delegation of authority, etc. Aspects of the training content are proposed to fill the gaps in the knowledge of applicants identified during the survey.
At the same time, a survey of 49 teachers of pharmaceutical faculties and higher education institutions has revealed the need to apply and study administrative management methods as a set of organizational, administrative, and disciplinary methods of influence on masters of pharmacy.
It has been concluded that future masters of pharmacy need to study and master the set of methods of pharmaceutical management in the process of training and practical training at the enterprise.
REGULATORY AND METHODOLOGICAL PRINCIPLES OF TEACHING STANDARDISATION OF MEDICINES TO FUTURE MASTERS OF PHARMACY IN THE CONTEXT OF DIGITALISATION OF EDUCATION IN UKRAINE
Authors: Manchenko O.
Published: October 2024

The article substantiates that the strategic vector for ensuring the quality of educational services chosen in Ukraine under martial law has increased the need to update state and local regulations of the educational process, as well as to find effective methodological approaches to teaching higher education students, including the transformation of all teaching and learning materials into digital format and the creation of publicly available knowledge bases on their basis. Based on the analysis of national educational legislation, strategic priorities for the development of the healthcare sector, the article features the regulatory and methodological aspects of the implementation of educational initiatives aimed at improving the level of digital literacy of masters of pharmacy, the practical use of digital technologies in their educational and future professional activities, as well as amendments to educational standards and educational programs in terms of the list of general and special (professional, subject) competencies of the above-mentioned specialties. Generalisation of the content of local acts, websites of higher medical/pharmaceutical education institutions of Ukraine made it possible to identify the main innovations in the organisation of training of future masters of pharmacy, to illustrate these with examples of the introduction of digital technologies in the training of future masters of pharmacy, in particular the discipline «Standardisation of Medicines» at the Bogomolets National Medical University. The leading direction for improving the effectiveness of teaching standardisation of medicines to future masters of pharmacy in the context of digitalisation of higher education in Ukraine is identified, which is to harmonize the regulatory and methodological foundations of this process in accordance with the current and future (post-war reconstruction of the educational sphere) challenges of socio-political life of society, compliance with the security system, the provision of quality educational services in the context of the dynamic deployment of the electronic healthcare system, as well as the desire of government institutions and stakeholders to integrate with the European pharmaceutical market.
Diagnóstico qualitativo da realidade socioeconômica e ambiental dos catadores de resíduos sólidos do município de Areia (PB)
Authors: Honorio Luzia Maria Castro , Santos José Cassiano Soares dos , Moreira Edilene Dantas Teles , Santos Maria Betania Hermenegildo dos
Published: October 2024

O estudo expõe uma experiência no campo da extensão universitária, realizada em colaboração entre a comunidade acadêmica do campus II da UFPB e um grupo de catadores de resíduos sólidos do município de Areia (PB). O objetivo foi analisar qualitativamente a realidade dos trabalhadores, considerando o perfil socioeconômico e o papel da sustentabilidade na política de gestão de resíduos, além de suas experiências na Educação Ambiental. Dos dez catadores entrevistados e avaliados por meio de questionários semiestruturados, foram pontuados critérios como condições de vida, preconceito, agregação custo-benefício e acidentes de trabalho. A partir das análises, percebeu-se que a maioria dos catadores são analfabetos, do sexo masculino, têm idade entre 19 a 55 anos, são autônomos e desconhecem a importância de conceitos no campo ambiental. Desafios como avanços nas relações entre os catadores e setor público local para garantir melhoria na gestão organizacional também foram identificados, devido às resistências e incertezas por parte dos catadores locais.
Contribuições do agente de assistência técnica e extensão rural para a Educação Ambiental entre agricultores familiares em Ibatiba (ES)
Authors: Carvalho Eder Junior Carlos de , Peçanha Anderson Lopes , Carvalho Juliana Fontan de Oliveira , Teixeira Sérgio Luiz , Vieira Wesley Cardozo
Published: October 2024

O crescimento populacional aumenta a demanda por alimentos, impulsionando inovações tecnológicas e o uso excessivo de defensivos agrícolas, resultando em problemas socioambientais. Este estudo analisa o papel dos agentes de Assistência Técnica e Extensão Rural (ATER) na promoção da Educação Ambiental entre agricultores familiares em Ibatiba (ES). Através de entrevistas e análise de conteúdo, destacam-se a influência marcante da cultura do café na região, a dependência dos agricultores de agrotóxicos e a importância dos agentes de ATER na disseminação da Educação Ambiental.
Diagnóstico precoce de atraso motor em bebês de risco por meio de uma ferramenta de avaliação neurológica infantil
Authors: Zequini Ana Luisa , Alves Egle de Oliveira Netto Moreira , Martins de Souza Isadora , Marques Felcar Josiane
Published: October 2024

Introdução. O bebê de risco é aquele que apresenta fatores que aumentam a probabilidade de desenvolver complicações de saúde ou de ter um desenvolvimento atípico durante o decorrer da vida, além de apresentarem grandes chances de desenvolver atraso no desenvolvimento motor infantil, interferindo assim na qualidade de vida e na independência funcional dessas crianças. Objetivo. Investigar a identificação de sinais precoces de comprometimento neurológico com atraso no desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor de lactentes por meio de uma ferramenta de avaliação neurológica infantil. Método. Trata-se de uma revisão da literatura sobre avaliação neurológica e diagnóstico precoce de alterações no desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor de bebês de risco por meio do instrumento de avaliação neurológica infantil Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE). As buscas foram feitas nas bases de dados: PubMed, Scielo, MEDLINE, Lilacs e The Cochrane Library. Resultados. Foram encontrados 1.350 artigos, sendo que 21 artigos cumpriram os critérios de inclusão. Os estudos mostram a eficácia da HINE tanto para o diagnóstico da Paralisia Cerebral quanto para outros desfechos. Os autores mostram que ela é uma ferramenta eficaz e que deve ser incluída nos programas de intervenção precoce Conclusão. A HINE é eficiente na avaliação neurológica de bebês que nasceram com alguma condição favorável ao atraso no desenvolvimento motor, sendo que é útil tanto com seu uso isolado quanto quando associada a outros métodos de avaliação neurológica.
A modernização da alimentação na Polícia Militar: substituição dos ranchos tradicionais por contratos de refeição
Authors: Fragoso Edivan Sharles , José Guilherme Lopes
Published: October 2024

Este artigo explora a importância da nutrição adequada para as forças policiais e as vantagens da terceirização do serviço de alimentação em comparação com o modelo tradicional de ranchos. Em um ambiente exigente como o das forças policiais, a alimentação adequada é crucial para manter a saúde, eficiência operacional e segurança pública. Nutrientes apropriados são essenciais para garantir o desempenho físico e mental dos policiais, impactando diretamente sua capacidade de concentração, tomada de decisões e resistência física. O modelo tradicional de rancho enfrenta limitações significativas, como falta de variedade, qualidade nutricional comprometida e inflexibilidade. A terceirização do fornecimento de refeições oferece vantagens, como melhor controle de qualidade, maior variedade nutricional e flexibilidade, além de potencial redução de custos. Estudos demonstram que a implementação de serviços de refeição contratados pode melhorar a satisfação e o desempenho dos policiais, e economizar recursos significativos para as instituições. No contexto da Polícia Militar do Paraná, a análise dos custos e processos licitatórios revela uma possível economia significativa com a terceirização, além da potencial melhoria na qualidade das refeições oferecidas. Estudos de caso reforçam a eficácia da mudança para um sistema de alimentação tercerizado.
Enhancing Online Learning in Architectural Education: A Virtual Reality Enabled Experiment with Arkio
Authors: Yıldırım Erdem
Published: October 2024

This study examines the role of Arkio, a Virtual Reality (VR) platform, in facilitating design critiques during online learning in first-year architectural design studios. This research, which was conducted after the severe earthquake that required a return to remote education, is based on the experiences of instructors who had previously adapted to online teaching during the Covid-19 pandemic. Arkio provides an innovative solution for the preservation of the quality of architectural education by offering an immersive, real-time environment for design feedback, which is essential in the absence of in-person studio sessions. Using a mixed-methods approach that incorporates surveys and qualitative feedback from students, the study investigates the impact of Arkio on students' understanding of architectural principles, participation in design critiques, and overall learning experience. The results suggest that Arkio was generally well-received for its ability to facilitate critiques and enhance spatial understanding. However, students encountered difficulties with the platform's interface, 3D modeling tools, and file integration. The significance of user-friendly design in educational technologies is underscored by the strong correlation between the perceived educational value of Arkio and its usability, as revealed by cross-analysis. The study identifies critical areas for improvement, despite the fact that Arkio has the potential to significantly transform the critique process in architectural education, particularly in an online setting that is influenced by external disruptions. These insights are essential for the continuous adaptation of VR-driven tools in architectural education, particularly as institutions navigate the complexities of post-pandemic and disaster-responsive remote teaching environments.