bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability of Seismicity Rates and Maximum Magnitude for Adjacent Hydraulic Stimulations
Authors: Kwiatek Grzegorz , Grigoratos Iason , Wiemer Stefan
Published: September 2024

We hindcasted the seismicity rates and the next largest earthquake magnitude using seismic and hydraulic data from two hydraulic stimulation campaigns carried out in adjacent (500 m apart) ultra-deep wells in Finland. The two campaigns performed in 2018 and 2020 took place in the frame of the St1 Helsinki project producing stable, pressure-controlled induced seismic activity with the maximum magnitudes of Mw 1.7 and 1.2, respectively. The seismicity rates were modeled using simplified physics-based approaches tailored to varying injection rates. This is the first time that this framework was applied to a cyclical injection protocol. The next largest earthquake magnitude was estimated using several existing models from the literature. Despite the close proximity of the two hydraulic stimulations and associated seismicity, we obtained strongly different parameterizations of the critical model components, questioning the usefulness of a priori seismic hazard modeling parameters for neighboring stimulation. The differences in parameterization were attributed to the contrasting hydraulic energy rates observed in each stimulation, small differences in the fracture network characteristics of the reservoir and resulting seismic injection efficiency, and potentially to variations in the injection protocol itself. As far as the seismicity rate model is concerned, despite a good performance during the 2018 campaign, the fit during the 2020 stimulation was suboptimal. Forecasting the next largest magnitude using different models led to a very wide range of outcomes. Moreover, their relative ranking across stimulations was inconsistent, including the situation when the best-performing model in the 2018 stimulation turned out to be the worst one in the 2020 stimulation.
Analysis of Magnitude–Frequency Distribution of Earthquakes in the Sichuan Basin, Southwest China
Authors: Liu Jingwei , Du Yi , Han Chao , Xie Furen
Published: September 2024

The Sichuan basin is characterized by underdeveloped active geological structures and low seismic activities. In recent years, an increase in seismicity has been observed in the southern Sichuan basin, which includes small earthquakes induced by water injection during shale gas exploitation and M ≥ 5.0 earthquakes, causing unexpected damage and casualties. This necessitates a comprehensive analysis of the magnitude–frequency distribution of the current seismicity. In this study, we examined the current seismicity using instrumental earthquake records at different periods and estimated the temporal and spatial variations in b-value. We found that the b-values widely vary in the Sichuan basin and analyzed the spatial differences in b-value in seven different earthquake clusters. The results show that the intense fault movement on the western boundary of the Sichuan basin might be the main controlling factor of the increased seismicity in the southern basin instead of being induced by water injection. Furthermore, earthquakes in the Sichuan basin follow the same size distribution as the events on the boundary faults and the Sichuan–Yunnan rhombus active block. Thus, it is appropriate to consider the magnitude–frequency distribution of earthquakes for the Sichuan basin and the Sichuan–Yunnan rhombus block together rather than separately. These results may help improve the recurrence models in probabilistic seismic hazard assessment of the region.
Why Do Great Continental Transform Earthquakes Nucleate on Branch Faults?
Authors: Stein Ross S. , Bird Peter
Published: September 2024

The five Mw≥7.8 continental transform earthquakes since 2000 all nucleated on branch faults. This includes the 2001 Mw 7.8 Kokoxili, 2002 Mw 7.9 Denali, 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan, 2016 Mw 7.8 Kaikōura, and 2023 Mw 7.8 Pazarcık events. A branch or splay is typically an immature fault that connects to the transform at an oblique angle and can have a different rake and dip than the transform. The branch faults ruptured for at least 25 km before they joined the transforms, which then ruptured an additional 250–450 km, in all but one case (Pazarcık) unilaterally. Branch fault nucleation is also likely for the 1939 M 7.8 Erzincan earthquake, possible for the 1906 Mw∼7.8 and 1857 Mw∼7.9 San Andreas earthquakes, but not for the 1990 Mw 7.7 Luzon, 2013 Mw 7.7 Balochistan, and 2023 Mw 7.7 Elbistan events. Here, we argue that because fault continuity and cataclastite within the fault damage zone develop through cumulative fault slip, mature transforms are pathways for dynamic rupture. Once a rupture enters the transform from the branch fault, flash shear heating causes pore fluid pressurization and sudden weakening in the cataclastite, resulting in very low dynamic friction. But the static friction on transforms is high, and so they are usually far from failure, which could be why they tend to be aseismic between, or at least for centuries after, great events. This could explain why the largest continental transform earthquakes either begin on a branch fault or nucleate along the transform at locations where the damage zone is absent or the fault continuity is disrupted by bends or echelons, as in the 1999 Mw 7.6 İzmit earthquake. Recognition of branch fault nucleation could be used to strengthen earthquake early warning in regions such as California, New Zealand, and Türkiye with transform faults.
Assessing Potential Seismic Hazard in Enhanced Geothermal Systems: Insights from Comparing Gonghe and Pohang Reservoirs
Authors: Zhang Supeng , Ji Yinlin , Hofmann Hannes , Cappa Frédéric , Li Shouding
Published: September 2024

Evaluating and predicting the seismic hazard induced by fluid injection in enhanced geothermal systems (EGSs) is critical for safe and effective operations. This study compares the Gonghe project, a pioneering EGS initiative in China, with the well-studied Pohang EGS in South Korea, within a broader context of global fluid injection practices. We assessed the potential seismic hazard at these two sites based on their seismogenic indices (Σ). We find that Σ of the Gonghe EGS generally decreases from 0.4 to −0.7, consistent with the typical ranges of Σ in EGS sites, including Pohang. Our results indicate that real-time Σ is a more reliable measure for assessing seismic hazard in Gonghe because it offers insights into the maximum magnitude, exceedance probabilities, and expected numbers of earthquakes. Conversely, in Pohang, maximum Σ proves more effective for seismic hazard assessment. However, predicting the seismic hazard after the Mw 3.2 earthquake in Pohang remains challenging, particularly for the runaway rupture associated with the subsequent Mw 5.5 earthquake, highlighting the complexities involved. This study suggests that the use of real-time Σ is viable for assessing seismic hazard in EGS reservoirs characterized by descending Σ and seismic injection efficiency. Conversely, for reservoirs with ascending Σ and seismic injection efficiency, such as Pohang, maximum Σ could offer better insights into seismic hazard assessment, although precise earthquake magnitude constraints may be elusive due to dominant tectonic influences.
Análisis Crítico del Discurso y los estudios cognitivos
Authors: Flax Rocío
Published: September 2024

En este trabajo, nos proponemos profundizar en la importancia de la utilización de herramientas de la lingüística cognitiva tanto para describir como para explicar el funcionamiento de los discursos desde una perspectiva crítica. En particular, vamos a analizar cómo los conceptos de marcos, metáforas, metonimias y esquemas de imagen pueden ser utilizados de manera productiva para el análisis del modo verbal y de los gestos manuales. Para ello, analizaremos una entrevista que brindó el expresidente chileno Sebastián Piñera en el año 2016 en ocasión de la campaña electoral que permitiría su posterior reelección. Concluimos que ciertos gestos manuales realizan significado ideacional que refuerza las estrategias discursivas presentes en el modo verbal.
Relações intersemióticas em verbetes de um dicionário infantil de língua espanhola
Authors: Sousa Dulcimar Albuquerque de , Araújo Antonia Dilamar
Published: September 2024

Este artigo é um recorte da pesquisa desenvolvida durante o mestrado da primeira autora, que investigou a relação verbo-visual em verbetes do dicionário Mi primer diccionario de ciencia (Sousa, 2021), produzido a partir de um corpus contendo textos escritos e desenhos feitos por crianças falantes de catalão do ensino fundamental de uma escola da Espanha. Nosso objetivo principal neste artigo é apresentar uma análise multimodal mais detalhada de 4 (quatro) verbetes não contemplados na dissertação. O referencial teórico foi baseado principalmente nos seguintes autores: Kress e van Leeuwen (2021), Martinec e Salway (2005), Hernández (2000) e Martinez Pulido (2012). A pesquisa caracteriza-se por ser de natureza descritiva e qualitativa, e os resultados das análises atestam o potencial dos dois modos semióticos – verbal (escrito) e visual (desenhos) – para a compreensão dos verbetes. Além disso, tanto as informações constantes nas definições como os elementos semióticos inseridos nos desenhos revelam elementos presentes na sociedade, possivelmente experienciadas pelas crianças-autoras, em diferentes contextos. Nesse sentido, o estudo mostra como as definições dos verbetes e seus respectivos desenhos se inter-relacionam para a construção de sentidos, possibilitando aos consulentes em potencial obter uma compreensão dos termos do dicionário a partir das multissemioses inseridas na obra.
Story Apps as Didactic Multimodal Resources for Multiliteracies Practices
Authors: Pereira Íris Susana Pires , Gil Maitê Moraes , Sylla Cristina Maria dos Santos Moreira da Silva
Published: September 2024

This article aims to contribute to the understanding of the use of interactive story apps as didactic resources for fostering the learning and teaching of multiliteracies. It presents the multimodal discourse analysis of an interactive story app showing a dense net of intermodal meaning relations, such as convergence, complementarity, and divergence, in the representation of ideational and interpersonal meanings. The results allow the characterization of the story app as a complex multimodal ensemble and point to the need of a renewed readers and teacher’s agency in the pedagogical use of interactive story apps in the learning and teaching of multiliteracies. The article finishes by identifying the limitations of the study and some future developments.
Semiótica Social
Authors: Nepomuceno Arlete Ribeiro , Ramos Maria Clara Gonçalves , Paes Vera Lúcia Viana de
Published: September 2024

Neste artigo, objetivamos analisar múltiplos significados semiótico-imagéticos que constroem e/ou representam significados sociais, estabelecem interação e organizam os elementos da composição dos textos, numa malha multimodal, na consideração do contexto. Para atender a esse propósito, ancoramo-nos nos pressupostos teórico-metodológicos da Semiótica Social, numa abordagem multimodal, preconizada por Hodge e Kress (1998), Kress (1997; 2003; 2010), com ênfase nas categorias analíticas da tríade de significados metafuncionais, propostos por Halliday (2014 [1985]) e incorporados pela Gramática do Design Visual (Kress; van Leeuwen, 2006 [1996]). Metodologicamente, para uma análise qualitativo-interpretativista, o corpus selecionado é composto por um frame da primeira temporada da série nacional “Bom dia, Verônica” (2020), disponível na plataforma streaming Netflix, um meme sobre o príncipe Charles (2022), um cartaz publicitário do Baile da Santinha (2022) e uma charge sobre a espetacularização da violência pela mídia (2023), veiculados no suporte midiático Instagram. Este estudo justifica-se pela necessidade de (re)conhecimento e entendimento da ampliação semântico-pragmática de significados orquestrados no todo social na e pela língua(gem). A partir disso, concluímos que textos construídos por multissemioses são recorrentes na sociedade moderna, para atender a diferentes formas de divulgação, narrando experiências e construindo conceitos; estabelecendo relações interpessoais e organizando as informações.
Treatment of cauliflower seeds with product based on bacillus subtilis aiming plant seedling production, development and productivity.
Authors: Possas de Souza Emanuele , Marques Sheury Celante , Lourenço Flávia Mendes dos Santos , Sá Marco Eustáquio de , Freitas Pâmela Gomes Nakada , Cardoso Antonio Ismael Inácio
Published: September 2024

The relation between seed vigor and field performance is not yet fully understood, and it is questionable whether these effects extend to more advanced phenological stages and if they affect crop production. In front of that, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects on the seedlings and plant production of cauliflower using doses of product based on Bacillus subtilis in seed treatment. The study was conducted in Ilha Solteira city, São Paulo State. The experimental design was a complete randomized design for laboratory analysis and complete randomized blocks for the field stage. Ten treatments were studied in a 2 x 5 factorial scheme with four replications. The treatments consisted of seed treatment of cultivars Sharon and Barcelona with Bacillus subtilis-based product (strain FMT001 containing 3x108 cells cm-3) in five doses (0, 100, 200, 300 and 400 mL per 10 kg of seeds). Seed vigor and crop yield (shoot, root and inflorescence weight, leaf number, inflorescence diameter and yield) characteristics were evaluated. Cultivars averages were compared by Tukey test (p <0.05) and regression for the doses. The results showed that doses of 200 and 400 mL per 10 kg of seeds increased the percentage of strong seedlings of cultivars Barcelona and Sharon, respectively.
EDITORIAL
Authors: . .
Published: September 2024

This is an Editorial and does not have an abstract. Please download the PDF or view the article in HTML.
A Bibliographic Review of Diclofenac Sodium Determination with Electrochemically Modified Sensors in Different Biological, Pharmaceutical, and water Sources
Authors: Hidalgo J. , Galambos I. , Turdean G.
Published: September 2024

Diclofenac sodium (DS) attracts the interest of researchers because it is one of the most prevalent pharmaceuticals in aqueous matrices and has the potential to harm aquatic life. However, most of the techniques used to analyze it are expensive and require a highly trained professional to perform them. On the other hand, there is the possibility of testing DS with electrochemical sensors. They are currently available for determining contaminants in different samples (tablets, blood, urine), but only a few articles analyze DS in wastewater. This is how the selection of articles for the review was organized by the type of modifier used in the working electrode. In addition, recent improvements in DS detection using electrochemical techniques in pharmaceutical formulations, biological fluids, and environmental materials were provided and discussed, along with a brief description of the results and methods used in the development publications.
Keywords: diclofenac sodium, wastewater, modifier, electrochemical detection..
Resumen
El diclofenaco sódico (DS) atrae el interés de los investigadores porque es uno de los productos farmacéuticos más presentes en matrices acuosas y tiene el potencial de dañar la vida acuática. Sin embargo, la mayoría de las técnicas utilizadas para analizarlo son costosas y requieren de un profesional altamente capacitado para realizarlas. Por otro lado, existe la posibilidad de probar DS con sensores electroquímicos. Actualmente están disponibles para la determinación del contaminante en diferentes muestras (tabletas, sangre, orina), pero sólo unos pocos artículos analizan el DS en aguas residuales. Es así como la selección de los artículos para la revisión se organizó por el tipo de modificador utilizado en el electrodo de trabajo. Además, se brindaron y discutieron mejoras recientes en la detección de DS mediante técnicas electroquímicas en formulaciones farmacéuticas, fluidos biológicos y materiales ambientales, junto con una breve descripción de los resultados y métodos empleados en las publicaciones de desarrollo.
Palabras Clave: Diclofenaco Sódico, Aguas Residuales, Modificador, Detección Electroquímica.
Glacier Volume Estimation Using the Glaptop Model in the Cordillera Blanca of Peru
Authors: Quispe M Zapana , Murillo R Peña , Huerta Y Pachac
Published: September 2024

The spatial retreat of glaciers located in the Peruvian Andes is closely linked to global climate change. The glaciers of the Checquiaraju micro-basin of the Cordillera Blanca are the main sources of water for the Andean zone; however, they have been suffering an accelerated space retreat. Remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) techniques have been applied to estimate the variation in glacier area and volume from LANDSAT 5 images. Glacier area and volume results are correlated with normalized difference snow index (NDSI) data to discriminate the snow cover from the rest of the elements in the image through the digital numbers (DN) of two bands: the TM blue band and shortwave infrared. The glacial zone was separated from the non-glacial zone for a better fit with the glacier limits seen in the composite color image. Subsequently, the delimitation of the glacier cover was refined through supervised classification, and finally, the determination of the volume of the glacier was estimated using the Glabtop model. The evolution of the glacier area of the Checquiaraju micro-basin tends to retreat. In the period 1989–2004, the glacier area of the study area decreased by 0.44 km2 (representing 11.3% of the glacier area in 1989), considering a rate of decrease of 0.0275 km2/year, which shows the retreat of glaciers in the area, which is a source of supply.
Keywords: Checquiaraju, SIG, LANDSAT 5, NDSI, Glabtop.
Resumen El retroceso espacial de los glaciares ubicados en los Andes peruanos está estrechamente vinculado al cambio climático global. Los glaciares de la microcuenca de Checquiaraju de la Cordillera Blanca son una fuente de agua muy importante para la zona andina; pero ellos vienen sufriendo un retroceso espacial acelerado. Se ha aplicado las técnicas de la Teledetección y Sistemas de Información Geográfica (SIG) para estimar la variación del área y volumen glaciar a partir de imágenes LANDSAT 5. Los resultados de área y volumen glaciar se correlacionan con datos de NDSI (Normalized Difference Snow Index) para discriminar la cobertura nival del resto de los elementos en la imagen, a través de los números digitales (DN) de dos bandas TM banda en azul e infrarroja de onda corta. Se separó la zona glaciar de la zona no – glaciar para un mejor ajuste con los límites de glaciar visto en la imagen de color compuesta. Posterior se refinó la delimitación de la cobertura glaciar a través de la clasificación supervisada y finalmente la determinación del volumen del glaciar se estimó mediante el modelo Glabtop. La evolución del área glaciar de la microcuenca de Checquiaraju tiene una tendencia al retroceso. En el periodo 1989 – 2004, el área glaciar de la zona de estudio se redujo 0,44 km2 (lo que representa el 11,3 % del área glaciar en 1989), considerando una tasa de disminución de 0,0275 km2/año, lo que evidencia el retroceso de los glaciares en la zona, la cual es fuente de abastecimiento.
Palabras Clave: Checquiaraju, SIG, LANDSAT 5, NDSI, Glabtop.
Analysis of Automotive Air Conditioning System Performance with Alternative Refrigerants to R-134a
Authors: Silva-Espinoza DA , Taipe-Chariguamán ME , Vásconez-Núñez DC , Bonilla-Novillo SM , Tello-Oquendo FM
Published: September 2024

This work analyzed the performance of the automotive air conditioning system, operating with several alternative refrigerants to R-134a. For this, a thermodynamic model of the automotive vapor compression cycle was implemented to determine the COP of the system, the refrigeration capacity, and the consumption of the compressor. The model considers the compressor rotation speed, ambient temperature, cabin temperature, air speed in the condenser, and volumetric airflow in the evaporator as operating parameters. The refrigerants chosen for the analysis were R-152a, R-1234yf, R-290, R-410A, and R-32. The simulation was carried out with climatic data from the city of Riobamba, and temperatures inside the cabin were measured experimentally. The study shows that the refrigerant R-152a has a COP 10% better than R-134a and could be an alternative for direct replacement of refrigerant. On the other hand, R-1234yf presented a COP 9% lower than that of R-134a, which requires adjustments in the sizing of components to provide the same cooling capacity as R-134a. Finally, R-290, R-410A, and R-32 refrigerants have lower performance and higher compressor consumption.
Keywords: automotive air conditioning, vapor compression cycle, COP, cooling capacity, refrigerants.
Resumen
En este trabajo se analizó el desempeño del sistema de aire acondicionado automotriz operando con varios refrigerantes alternativos al R-134a. Para ello, se implementó un modelo termodinámico del ciclo de compresión de vapor automotriz para determinar el COP del sistema, la capacidad frigorífica y el consumo del compresor. El modelo considera como parámetros de funcionamiento la velocidad de giro del compresor, temperatura ambiente, temperatura del habitáculo, velocidad del aire en el condensador y flujo volumétrico del aire en el evaporador. Los refrigerantes escogidos para el análisis fueron el R-152a, R-1234yf, R-290, R-410A, y el R-32. La simulación se realizó con datos climáticos de la ciudad de Riobamba y temperaturas del interior del habitáculo medidas experimentalmente. El estudio muestra que el refrigerante R-152a presenta un COP 10% mejor que el R-134a, pudiendo ser una alternativa para un remplazo directo de refrigerante. Por otro lado, el R- 1234yf presentó un COP 9% menor que el del R-134a, con lo cual se requieren ajustes en el dimensionamiento de componentes para proporcionar la misma capacidad de refrigeración que el R-134a. Finalmente, los refrigerantes R-290, R-410A y R-32 presentan un menor rendimiento y mayor consumo de compresor.
Palabras Clave: aire acondicionado automotriz, ciclo de compresión de vapor, COP, capacidad frigorífica, refrigerantes.
Exploring the Potential and Risks of the Metaverse: An Interdisciplinary Study
Authors: Muñoz Romulo Nayrod Villa
Published: September 2024

The metaverse has been a topic of much discussion and speculation in recent years, particularly within the fields of technology and gaming. This paper defines the metaverse and explores its ontology and model building. The potential impact of the metaverse on various sectors, including tourism and education, is examined, along with the risks that must be considered when using metaverse technologies. The paper stresses the importance of user experience and navigation in immersive virtual tourism, and the need to ensure cybersecurity and privacy. It also highlights the importance of responsible development and deployment of metaverse technologies. Interdisciplinary research, collaboration, and a cautious approach are necessary to understand and minimize the potential risks and ensure user safety. By doing so, the metaverse can offer innovative solutions to challenges in different fields.
Keywords: metaverse, ontology, model building, user experience, virtual reality.
Resumen
El metaverso ha sido un tema de mucha discusión y especulación en los últimos años, particularmente en los campos de la tecnología y los videojuegos. Este artículo define el metaverso, explora su ontología y construcción de modelos. Se examina el impacto potencial del metaverso en varios sectores, incluidos el turismo y la educación, junto con los riesgos que deben tenerse en cuenta al utilizar tecnologías de metaverso. El documento destaca la importancia de la experiencia del usuario y la navegación en el turismo virtual inmersivo y la necesidad de garantizar la ciberseguridad y la privacidad. También destaca la importancia del desarrollo y la implementación responsables de tecnologías de metaverso. La investigación interdisciplinaria, la colaboración y un enfoque cauteloso son necesarios para comprender y minimizar los riesgos potenciales y garantizar la seguridad del usuario. Al hacerlo, el metaverso puede ofrecer soluciones innovadoras a los desafíos en diferentes campos.
Palabras Clave: Metaverso, ontología, construcción de modelos, experiencia de usuario, realidad virtual.
Computer Attacks and Their Impact on the Security of Servers with Linux Operating System of Local Government Entities
Authors: Javier Aguilar Feijóo Francisco , Fernando Andaluz Espinosa Diego
Published: September 2024

This research aims to determine the incidence of computer attacks on servers with the Linux operating system of local government entities. The study is limited to the decentralized autonomous government (GAD) of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Initially, the most common computer attacks that have affected organizations in recent years were determined using statistical reports from important computer security companies positioned as leaders in Gartner’s magic quadrant. Phishing and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks are established as computer attacks under study. Computer attacks are carried out before and after mitigation measures are established. With the help of the information systems risk analysis and management methodology (MAGERIT), the vulnerability, level of impact, and risk computer attacks cause on servers with the Linux operating system are determined. This research aims to serve as a guide to the information technology departments of local governments in implementing mechanisms that safeguard the most important asset of an organization, such as information.
Keywords: computer attack, phishing, DDoS, MAGERIT, Linux.
Resumen
La presente investigación tiene como finalidad determinar la incidencia de los ataques informáticos en los servidores con sistema operativo Linux de entidades de gobierno local. El estudio está delimitado a un gobierno autónomo descentralizado (GAD) de la Amazonía ecuatoriana. Inicialmente se determina los ataques informáticos más comunes que han afectado a las organizaciones en los últimos años haciendo uso de reportes estadísticos de importantes empresas de seguridad informática posicionadas como líderes en el cuadrante mágico de Gartner. Se establece como ataques informáticos objeto de estudio los ataques de phishing y de denegación de servicio distribuido (DDoS). Se realizan ataques informáticos antes y después de establecer las medidas de mitigación y con la ayuda de la metodología de análisis y gestión de riesgos de los sistemas de información (MAGERIT) se determina la vulnerabilidad, el nivel de impacto y el riesgo que los ataques informáticos provocaban en los servidores con sistema operativo Linux. El presente trabajo de investigación pretende ser de gran utilidad y servir de guía a los departamentos de tecnologías de la información de gobiernos locales en la implementación de mecanismos que salvaguarden el activo más importante de una organización como lo es la información.
Palabras Clave: ataque informático, phishing, ddos, magerit, linux.
Evaluation of Predictive Value of CT Pulmonary Angiography for Right Ventricular Failure in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Dahmardeh Hamid , Momivand Rahim , Vatankhah Alireza , Hooshanginezhad Zahra , Hashemi Mohamad Ghazanfari , Momeni Mohammad Kazem , Danesh Hoseinali
Published: September 2024

Purpose: Right ventricle failure is a well-known complication following pulmonary thromboembolism. Although Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography (CTPA) findings are supposed to be a surrogate for patients’ outcome, investigations based on this issue is not still elucidated. Thus, in the current study, we assessed patients’ CTPA findings and compared the result with echocardiographic findings.
Materials and Methods: A total of 36 patients with proven pulmonary thromboembolism were enrolled and a comparison was made between indices in CTPA (interventricular septal deviation to the right side, inferior vena cava contrast reflux, and right ventricle diameter to left ventricle diameter ratio) and echocardiographic findings for detecting right ventricular failure. Also, the reliability of the aforementioned indices was sought for predicting mortality.
Results: No significant correlation was found between CTPA indices and echocardiographic findings. The highest sensitivity and positive predictive value in CT pulmonary angiography for detecting right ventricle dysfunction were revealed to be for Right Ventricle Diameter (RVD) / Left Ventricle Diameter (LVD) > 1 (63.64%), abnormal septal deviation (75.00%), respectively.
Conclusion: Our results revealed that CTPA indices can reliably predict the upcoming mortality risk. On the other hand, these indices were not well-correlated with echocardiographic findings.
Effects of Tellurium Oxide (TeO2) Particles on the Thermal Conductivity, Hardness, and Roughness of Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomers
Authors: Hasan Mays H. , Fatalla Abdalbseet A
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to evaluate how different concentrations of TeO2 filler particles influence the thermal conductivity, hardness, and surface roughness of room-temperature-vulcanizing VerSiltal 50 silicone elastomeric materials.
Materials and Methods: A total of 90 samples were prepared by varying the weight percentages of TeO2 powder (0, 3, and 5 wt. %). Thirty samples from each group were used in the analysis. Two experimental groups with 3 and 5 wt. % of TeO2 fillers were prepared and subjected to thermal conductivity, surface hardness, and surface roughness tests. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance with multiple comparison tests, and a P value < 0.05 indicated significance.
Results: Thermal conductivity and hardness improved as the percentage of TeO2 increased from 3 wt. % to 5 wt. %, compared with those in the control group, whereas surface roughness decreased.
Conclusion: The means for thermal conductivity and surface hardness of the 3 and 5 wt. % TeO2 experimental groups increased significantly relative to those in the control group.
Estimation of Dose Perturbation Due to the Presence of Metal Hip Prostheses in Radiotherapy with Electron and Photon Beams: A Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Hashemizadeh Morteza , Zabihzadeh Mansour , Azadbakht Omid , Jamali Masoud
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The impact of various hip prosthesis materials on the amount of dose perturbation generated by 9 MeV electron and 18 MV photon beams during pelvic radiation therapy is analyzed in this research.
Materials and Methods: The Varian 2100 C/D LINAC head for the electron (9 MeV) and photon (18 MV) modes and a water phantom with a realistic hip prosthesis were modeled using the Monte Carlo (MC) code; MCNPX (Ver. 2.6.0) and were benchmarked for measurement. Four different materials, including Cobalt–Chromium–Molybdenum-alloy (CCM), Stainless Steel (SS), Titanium, and Titanium-alloy (Ti-alloy) were evaluated. The changes in electron and photon fluences and dose perturbations due to the presence of the hip prostheses were investigated.
Results: An increased dose of 13.29%, 13.77%, 6.16%, and 5.93% for 9 MeV and 30.43%, 33.05%, 10.89%, and 11.27% for 18 MV was calculated for Ti-alloy, Ti, CCM, and SS prosthesis, respectively. At 0.5 mm distance from the prosthesis, the Electron Backscatter Factor (EBF) of 1.31, 1.33, 1.15, and 1.14 for 9 MeV and 1.32, 1.34, 1.11, and 1.12 for 18 MV was calculated for Ti-alloy, Ti, CCM, and SS prosthesis, respectively. Dose perturbation is higher at a near distance from the prosthesis; by reducing the distance from the Ti-alloy prosthesis (1.5 to 0.5 mm), an increased dose of 7.70% and 5.54% resulted in 18 MV and 9 MeV, respectively. The dose decreases of up to 21% behind the hip prosthesis were calculated for 18 MV.
Conclusion: It is essential to consider the dose perturbation due to the presence of a hip prosthesis to achieve the optimal treatment planning in radiotherapy.
Calculation of Dose Perturbation in Radiotherapy of Head and Neck Tumors Due to the Presence of Dental Implants: A Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Hashemizadeh Morteza , Shams Nasim , Zabihzadeh Mansour , Jamali Masoud , Sedaghat Zeinab , Azadbakht Omid
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The presence of a dental implant across the irradiation beam has the potential to perturb the dose distribution. In this study, the effect of different commercial dental implants on dose distribution was investigated in electron beam therapy.
Materials and Methods: The Varian 2100 C/D linear accelerator (Linac) head was modeled precisely with proper components for electron mode (6 and 9 MeV) by MCNPX 2.6.1 and was benchmarked according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) protocol, TRS -398. Dose distribution was calculated for Six different implant materials, including Titanium, Titanium alloy, Zirconia (Y-TZP), Zirconium oxide, Alumina, and PolyetherEtherKetone (PEEK), and for Four different scenarios.
Results: The highest and lowest increasing doses occurred for Y-TZP (114.44% and 108.69% for 6 and 9 MeV, respectively) and PEEK (104.85% and 98.84% for 6 and 9 MeV, respectively) directly in front of the implant, respectively. By removing an implant from the jaw, an increasing dose was not seen, but an increasing dose occurred behind its depths in the bone region (31.81 %).
Conclusion: The amount of dose perturbation due to the dental implant's presence depends on the beam energy, mass density, and atomic numbers of implants. Maximum and minimum increased doses were estimated for Y-TZP and PEEK implants, respectively. Considering the correction factors due to the presence of high density and atomic number dental implants are essential to estimate the accurate dose delivery in radiotherapy with electron beams.
Recent Advances and Future Perspectives in Radiolabeled Antibody Fragments for Breast Cancer Molecular Imaging
Authors: Gerami Reza , Altafi Mana , Shahpar Zahra , Izadpanah Ensieh , Soltani Siamak , Naderloo Omid , Tarighatnia Ali
Published: September 2024

Breast Cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women and the most common cancer worldwide. It is classified based on its anatomical origin, the presence of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER-2), and the presence of Estrogen Receptor (ER) and/or Progesterone Receptor (PR). Around 20% of breast cancers are HER-2 positive. While biopsy-based diagnoses are valuable in clinical settings, they have limitations in terms of sampling and interpretation. However, laboratory tests such as Immunohistochemistry (IHC) or Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) are also limited, including being time-consuming, expensive, and requiring specialized equipment. Ongoing research and technological advancements aim to address the challenges associated with biopsy-based diagnoses and laboratory tests to develop more accurate and efficient methods for assessing HER-2 status. To this end, various radioactively labeled proteins and small compounds, such as single-chain variable Fragments (scFv), F(ab')2, affibody, and nanobody, have been developed to target HER-2 using molecular array techniques. These smaller targeted compounds offer improved image quality, shorter circulating half-life, and reduced immunogenicity compared to their larger counterparts. This is due to their better biodistribution, clearance, and stability. This study investigates the current understanding and ongoing efforts in utilizing antibody fragments for molecular imaging. The specific objectives were to evaluate the advantages of antibody fragments over full-length antibodies regarding biodistribution, clearance, and stability. Additionally, this study aims to assess the current knowledge and ongoing research in utilizing antibody fragments for molecular imaging.
Investigating Students' Clinical Experiences of Learning the Nursing Process Using an Integrated Teaching-Learning Method at Shahid Qazi Tabatabaei Hospital: A Qualitative Content Analysis
Authors: A Davoodi , A Ghahramanian
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Integrated teaching-learning methods have demonstrated potential in enhancing students' cognitive skills and, subsequently, the quality of patient care. This qualitative study aimed to explore the learning experiences of nursing students engaged in an integrated teaching-learning method during their clinical education in oncology nursing.
Method: : Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 nursing students who had completed a clinical training program in oncology nursing using an integrated teaching-learning method. Conventional qualitative content analysis was employed to analyze the data, identifying sub-categories and categories related to students' experiences.
Results: The analysis revealed four main categories: (1) sustained cognitive learning, (2) non-cognitive learning, (3) application of learned concepts in real-world situations, and (4) students' suggestions for improving the learning of the nursing process.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that an integrated teaching-learning method, implemented as a creative and student-centered approach at the bedside, effectively enhances both cognitive and non-cognitive skills, facilitating the practical application of learned concepts. To fully leverage the benefits of this method, its implementation should be expanded across clinical education units, starting in lower semesters. Simultaneously, optimizing real-world clinical education environments will further accelerate positive educational outcomes, enhancing students' cognitive and non-cognitive skills and creating a foundation for applying learned concepts in clinical practice.
Evaluation of Clinical Education Based on Cognitive Apprenticeship Model Using Maastricht Clinical Education Questionnaire
Authors: M Salajegheh
Published: September 2024

Introduction: One of the main aspects of medical students is clinical education. The cognitive apprenticeship model is one of the principles of clinical education and contains six dimensions, including modeling, coaching, scaffolding, articulation, reflection, and exploration. This research aimed to evaluate the clinical education at Kerman University of Medical Sciences based on the cognitive apprenticeship model in 2021.
Method: In this descriptive-analytical cross-sectional research, the Maastricht Clinical Education Questionnaire was separated among 150 students, and with a response rate of 74%, 112 of them completed this.
Results: In the evaluation of the clinical education at Kerman University of Medical Sciences, the score of the articulation domain was higher than others, and the lowest score was given to the reflection domain. Clinical education in the internal medicine department was the most consistent with the cognitive apprenticeship model.
Conclusion: Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of clinical education is the first step toward improving the quality of medical education. In the subsequent steps, the practitioners and planners of the faculty member empowerment programs should design, implement, and evaluate educational empowerment programs for clinical faculty members to improve their academic skills in the clinical education environment.
Investigating the Effect of Educational Intervention Using the Case-based Learning Method on the Sensitivity and Moral Courage of Nursing Students
Authors: F Keshmiri , SE Fazljoo
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The study aimed to assess the impact of Case-based Learning on nursing students' sensitivity and moral courage.
Method: The present study is semi-experimental with non-equivalent control group. The research population is nursing students in Medical Sciences who entered the study by census (61 people). The educational program was designed, and the principal learning method was based on case-based learning (CBL). Latzen's ethical sensitivity questionnaire was used to check the level of moral sensitivity, and Sekerka's questionnaire was used to determine the level of moral courage. The students completed the questionnaires before and twice after the educational interventions. The data were analyzed with descriptive and analytical tests (Pearson RM-ANOVA).
Results: The number of 61 students participated in the present study. The 29 people were in the intervention group and 32 in the control group. The average age of the participants was 18.41 ± 0.49. The study results showed that the moral sensitivity scores of the students in the intervention and control groups changed significantly over time (one week and three months after the intervention) compared to before the intervention (P = 0.02). Regarding moral courage scores, no significant change was reported between the intervention and control groups before, one week, and three months after the intervention (P = 0.82).
Conclusion: The present results showed that the educational intervention using the case-based learning method improved the student's moral sensitivity and maintained it over time. However, improvement in moral courage over time has not been reported significantly.
The Relationship Between Clinical Education Status and Academic Motivation of Clinical-Stage Medical Students at Gonabad University of Medical Sciences
Authors: H Fallah , R Ershad Sarabi , M Salajegheh , M Basiri moghadam , M Hajipour
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Motivation in education and learning are significant challenges in clinical education. This study aimed to determine the relationship between clinical education status and academic motivation among clinical-stage medical students Gonabad University of Medical Sciences.
Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 198 medical interns and residents at Gonabad University of Medical Sciences during the academic year 2021-2022 using a census method. Data collection tools included the Clinical Education Status Questionnaire and the Harter Academic Motivation Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were used to describe the participants' status, and data were analyzed using independent t-tests, Pearson, and Spearman correlation tests.
Results: The mean score for clinical education status among interns was 51.93 ± 16.56, while for residents, it was 12.93 ± 08.12. The mean score for academic motivation among interns was 102.07 ± 11.30, and for residents, it was 100.07 ± 11.54. Overall, the clinical education status averaged 93.31, indicating a relatively moderate level and Academic motivation averaged 101.05 ± 11.44, indicating a high level, with a significant correlation observed between clinical education status and academic motivation (r = 0.454).    
Conclusion: Given the weakness in the clinical education status, as well as the direct relationship between clinical education status and academic motivation, it is recommended that university officials, particularly in the educational and clinical departments, focus on special attention and planning to improve the clinical education status at the university.
Investigating the Relationship between Attitude towards Conflict Management and Conflict Management Styles in Medical Students
Authors: F Mohseni , M Khabaz Mafinejad , A Sayarifard , A Norouzi
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Understanding the relationship between medical students' attitudes towards conflict management and their dominant conflict management styles is crucial for improving their ability to effectively handle challenging situations. This study aimed to determine the relationship between medical students' attitudes towards conflict management and their conflict management styles.
Method: This was a descriptive, analytical study involving 244 first-year general medicine students from Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The Conflict Management Attitude Questionnaire (CMAQ) and the Conflict Management Styles Questionnaire (DUTCH) were used to collect data. Pearson's correlation coefficient and independent t-tests were employed for data analysis.
Results: The results showed that students predominantly used problem-solving (15.80 ± 2.18) and compromising (15.00 ± 2.23) styles. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the average score of attitudes towards conflict management and the average scores of the compromising and problem-solving styles (P = 0.014, r = 0.162; P = 0.000, r = 0.287, respectively). Additionally, a significant negative correlation was found between the average score of attitudes towards conflict management and the average score of the avoiding style (P = 0.010, r = -0.170). The t-test results indicated a significant difference in the competing style between male and female students (P = 0.038).
Conclusion: Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of clinical education is the first step towards improving the quality of medical education. Then the faculty development programs planners should design, implement and evaluate educational development programs for clinical faculty to improve their educational skills in the clinical education environment.
A Phenomenological Qualitative Study: Family Physicians Experiences of Consulting Older Adults
Authors: Selçuk Yaprak , Limnili Gizem , Dişçigil Güzel
Published: September 2024

Objective: Due to the aging population, older adult health became important. Family physicians play an important role in the health of older adults. This study aims to identify the challenges family physicians experience in counselling older adults.
Method: A qualitative, phenomenological methodology was used. Authors conducted three semi-structured focus group interviews with 22 family physicians. The recorded interviews were transcribed, and thematic analysis was applied.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 33.68 ± 8.37. The mean professional years of the participating physicians were 8.77±8.26 years. Seven of the participants were women and fifteen were men. Three themes emerged: (1) patient-related factors, (2) physician-related factors, and (3) physician remedies.
Conclusion: There are positive and negative aspects to consulting older adults. Understanding the difficulties experienced can facilitate the solution. Physicians stated that there was no geriatrics training both in their medical school undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum. They also stated that they found themselves inadequate in this regard and that creates anxiety. Effective communication is important both physically and emotionally during the interview. In fact, communication and active listening skills can be taught and postgraduate training in geriatrics can be organized.
温度对热天平中水蒸发系数 (E) 的影响：太阳能驱动的蒸汽生成方法
Authors: Rojas-Sánchez Carlos Enrique , Hernández-Chaverri Rodolfo Antonio
Published: September 2024

本研究分析了水蒸发现象随设定的干燥温度和水质量的变化，研究了五个温度水平(50、60、70、80 和 90 ℃)，最终建立了温度和蒸发速率之间的相关性。通过研究，确定了水的蒸发速度可在初始质量为 35 克、温度为90 ℃ 的条件下进行计算，而测定所需的时间为 120 分钟。此外，根据使用 Sartorius MA-100 天平进行的实验，确定了蒸发速度与温度呈二次函数关系，且当温度为 80 ℃ 时记录的最大偏差为 0.349 mmol/m2s。研究得出结论，水蒸发速度的测定高度依赖于温度和水的质量。此外，本研究还可以为未来提高蒸汽和电力联合生产等工艺效率的研究提供基础。
Semiotica generale – semiotica specifica
Authors: Gałkowski Artur , Roszak Tamara
Published: September 2024

Il volume - una miscellanea di saggi originali e innovativi, organizzati secondo un preciso percorso logico che illustra le straordinarie potenialità della semiotica nelle indagini ontologiche e dei significati più reconditi della produzione artistica nelle sue varie espressioni e in genere di ogni forma creativa - si presenta come un vero e proprio exemplum dell’efficacia analitica della scienza dei segni. Significativo è il saggio di apertura di Umberto Eco, Il futuro della semiotica, che traccia il viatico del volume costituendone il fulcro e l’anima. E la figura dello studioso, padre della semiotica italiana, aleggia su tutti i contributi. Il volume si rivolge a studiosi interessati all’applicazione dei principi di analisi semiotica nella letteratura, nella drammaturgia, nel teatro, nella filosofia, nell’arte, nell’archeologia, e più in generale in ogni forma di espressione del pensiero dall’antichità ai tempi moderni.
Andrea Piccardi