bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AVALIAÇÃO DA APRENDIZAGEM EM CIÊNCIAS CONTÁBEIS: UM ESTUDO BIBLIOMÉTRICO E SOCIOMÉTRICO
Authors: Nolli Jessica Giovana , Giordani Mikaéli Da Silva , Domingues Maria José Carvalho de Souza , Zonatto Vinícius Costa da Silva
Published: September 2020

O ensino e a profissão contábil são compostos por particularidades, tornando-se complexos. Esse fato é reflexo da globalização, avanços tecnológicos, burocracia e convergência das normas aos padrões internacionais. Consequentemente a esses fatos ocorre o aumento da responsabilidade do processo de ensino-aprendizagem em tal área do conhecimento. Esse cenário de mudanças reflete no processo ensino-aprendizagem e, por conseguinte, na avaliação da aprendizagem. Nesse contexto, este estudo tem como objetivo identificar as redes de cooperação entre autores e os temas pesquisados envolvendo a avaliação da aprendizagem em Ciências Contábeis. Efetuou-se pesquisa bibliográfica, bibliométrica e sociométrica, a fim de evidenciar as redes de cooperação entre autores e os trabalhos publicados sobre avaliação da aprendizagem. Os resultados indicam que o professor doutor Gilberto José Miranda é o autor mais prolífero da área, envolvido na maior rede de cooperação. A temática que agregou maior número de estudos foi avaliação do ensino-aprendizagem em que os estudos se concentram nas avaliações de disciplinas, realizadas por docentes e discentes. Concluiu-se que a temática abordada neste estudo é de extrema importância para melhorar a qualidade dos cursos das instituições de ensino superior, bem como da formação de futuros profissionais, pois, mesmo que existam autores prolíferos nessa área, ainda existem muitas lacunas que devem continuar sendo exploradas. Este estudo contribui ao difundir os conhecimentos sobre a citada temática, abordando sua produção científica, no que se refere à produtividade, à rede dos pesquisadores e de suas respectivas IESs. Ainda, este trabalho proporciona um norte e um alicerce para futuras pesquisas sobre esse campo do conhecimento, influenciando seu alargamento, difusão e socialização na literatura científica nacional.
Informações
Authors: Musial Nayane Thais Krespi
Published: September 2020

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Formulário de Avaliação
Authors: Musial Nayane Thais Krespi
Published: September 2020

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Jogos de Empresas no Ensino Contábil: Competências Desenvolvidas e Dificuldades Percebidas na Implementação do Jogo Puerto Rico®
Authors: Quirino Márcio César De Oliveira , Azevedo Yuri Gomes Paiva , Gomes Hellen Bomfim , Lins Daniel Coutinho
Published: September 2020

Este estudo tem por objetivo evidenciar, sob a ótica dos discentes, as principais competências desenvolvidas e dificuldades encontradas por meio da utilização dos jogos de empresas no curso de graduação em Ciências Contábeis. Para atingir este objetivo, foi implementado o jogo Puerto Rico® na disciplina de Controladoria Empresarial de uma Universidade Federal, sendo a unidade de análise composta por 47 discentes de graduação. A coleta de dados foi realizada através da aplicação de questionários abertos, sendo esses posteriormente transcritos e analisados por meio da técnica análise de conteúdo no Software ATLAS.ti ®. Os resultados evidenciam que o método pode propiciar a otimização da capacidade de comunicação, trabalho em equipe, solução de problemas e análise crítica, sendo importante o desenvolvimento dessas competências para a prática profissional, ao passo que são cada vez mais demandadas pelo mercado de trabalho. No entanto, apesar dos benefícios percebidos, também foram elencadas as principais dificuldades encontradas pelos discentes, como compreensão das regras do jogo, o tamanho dos grupos, a falta de consenso para definir jogadas, o tempo de aplicação, a estrutura do laboratório e a separação da turma em diferentes aulas, tornando-se importante que futuras implementações busquem contornar esses problemas.
O REGIME ADUANEIRO ESPECIAL DE DRAWBACK COMO UM INSTRUMENTO ESTRATÉGICO DE COMPETITIVIDADE PARA A REDUÇÃO DE CUSTOS
Authors: Krüger Cristiane , Vargas Pereira Karine , Trombini Dorneles Bruno , De Freitas Michelin Cláudia
Published: September 2020

Nesta pesquisa objetivou-se analisar a viabilidade de adesão ao regime especial de Drawback como redutor de custos em um frigorífico de bovinos. Para atender o objetivo estipulado, especificamente, buscou-se identificar os requisitos necessários para adesão ao Drawback, comparar o resultado da tributação tradicional com a adoção do Drawback, verificar a adequabilidade do uso e demonstrar a viabilidade ou não da utilização do regime especial de Drawback. O referencial teórico foi ancorado na legislação tributária nacional e na gestão de custos. Em relação aos procedimentos metodológicos a pesquisa é aplicada, com abordagem essencialmente qualitativa e descritiva. A obtenção dos dados se deu por meio de pesquisa documental e de entrevistas semiestruturadas. A análise dos dados foi realizada inicialmente por análise documental, seguida da análise de conteúdo categorial que resultou em categorias como viabilidade, vantagens e dificuldades. Os resultados documentais mostraram que o Drawback efetivamente reduz a carga tributária dos insumos de exportação no frigorífico pesquisado. Concomitantemente, os resultados categoriais evidenciaram aumento do fluxo de caixa e redução dos custos, no entanto, dificuldades como o desconhecimento sobre o regime e as exigências de operacionalização dificultam a sua adesão. A partir da triangulação dos dados documentais com a análise de conteúdo concluiu-se que a adesão ao Drawback para o frigorífico pesquisado é viável. O estudo contribui para a tomada de decisão, demonstrando o Drawback como uma possibilidade de redução de custos e acarretando em maior competitividade no mercado exterior, servindo de base para posteriores pesquisas.
SUBMISSION OF ALLEGED AND UNLIVED SYSTEMS TO PROVIDE HEAT TRANSFER EFFICIENCY
Authors: Fernandes A. , Souza G. D. , Dias L. , Silva L. F. S.
Published: September 2020

The study presented is based on two automotive fin and non-fin heads made of cast aluminum that were subjected to an indirect heating called conduction and convection by means of a rectangular equipment constructed of 2mm 1020 carbon steel plate, isolated in its bases. and side by means of a 10mm thick ceramic fiber blanket sandwich, subjected to an internal heat source, a 3,000 watt finned heater, which conducted conductive and convective heat to the top cover where the heads were housed, the fin side and the non fin side. The heating was controlled by thermostat, which when it reached its highest value, was turned off and the calibration made using fans until reaching the ambient temperature. Temperature data were collected by a PICO TECH-TC-08 data entry plate, viewed on the computer through the card software and compared between both fin and non-fin heads by means of “K” thermocouples glued to each silicon block and their respective instrumentation, so that the temperature sensors were strategically positioned to prove the study. After analyzing and discussing the results, it is observed that finned bodies under this operating condition and constructive aspects allowed a better thermal exchange with the medium, producing a higher efficiency between 5 and 12%.
GEOTHERMAL DEVELOPMENT IN CAMEROON
Authors: Nemzoue P. N. N. , Keutchafo N. A. K. , Tchouankoue J. P.
Published: September 2020

Africa is currently experiencing a period of economic growth. Its population is growing rapidly and its economies grow and diversify. To be sustainable, such growth requires a large investment in the energy sector. In the case of Cameroon hydroelectric energy is the main source of electrical power whereas the analysis of the geological point of view shows that Cameroon is unique in west-northern of Africa for its active volcanic line (with the last eruption of Mount Cameroon that last erupted in 1999 and 2000) that is a favorable zone for the production of power from geothermal resources. The Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) is 100 km wide linear magmatic megastructure oriented N30°E that extends more than 1500 km from Pagalu Island in the Gulf of Guinea to Lake Chad. Along this active volcanic line, more than one hundred and thirty thermal springs are found with the hottest spring at Woulndé (74°C).The aim of this paper is to evaluate the importance of geothermal energy development in the Cameroon Volcanic Line through a geological investigation of areas (Mt. Cameroon and Adamawa) bearing springs with hottest temperatures. This work is a compilation of the bibliographic analysis find at the same topic of research with a source like an International reviewed article, local documents and a websites research. The absence of commitment and enthusiasm from the government is weakening the sector potentiality to be developed either by private sector investments and also foreign investors. Other applications of geothermal energy in Cameroon are also discussed.
Efficiency in Public Administration Focusing on Strategic Alignment
Authors: Colares Jose Carlos De Souza , Neves Henrique De Castro , Santos Jean Carlo Silva dos , Cavalcante Marcio Jose Matias , Silva Rosangela Aparecida da , Filho Flavio de Sao Pedro
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this article is to measure the efficiency of Public Administration in the process of strategic alignment of people management with strategic organizational guidelines. The strategic alignment of Human Resources consists on adapting the people management strategy to the organization's strategy. An efficient institutional strategic alignment with the people management area is an essential condition for the success of the business. The first point for people management to be aligned with the organizational strategy regards to the fact that the human resources management strategy must derive from the corporate strategic plan. Recent studies demonstrate that there is an important change in the strategic focus related to people management, with the transition from a strategy focused on control to a strategy linked to commitment standing out as the most significant change. This article was developed through a bibliographic study on the strategic management of people in public administration and, also, by conducting a field research that covered 20 (twenty) units of the administrative structure from the government of the state of Rondônia - Brazil. The method used was the case study supported by a mathematical model developed by the authors, aiming to evaluate the event qualitatively and quantitatively in a more profound manner. The results demonstrated that the actions of the Public Administration, regarding the strategic alignment of the Human Resources area with the organizational strategy, are at an inadequate level of efficiency.
Renewable Energy Technologies and Electricity Forward Market Risks
Authors: Koolen Derek , Bunn Derek , Ketter Wolfgang
Published: September 2020

We analyse how the introduction of the same renewable energy technology at different parts of the electricity supply chain has different price formation effects on wholesale power markets. We develop a multi-stage competitive equilibrium model to evaluate the effects on short-term price formation of a technology shift from conventional to both large-scale renewable energy production (e.g. wind and solar farms) and distributed renewable energy sources (e.g. rooftop solar). We find that wind and solar technologies oppositely affect the forward risk premium, and this is related to technology-varying, risk-related hedging pressures of producers and retailers. We form a multi-factor propositional framework and empirically validate the model by analyzing data from California and Britain; two markets which recently experienced significant increases of renewable power, in terms of utility scale and distributed sources. The work is innovative in showing theoretically and empirically how different types of renewable technologies influence market price formation differently. This has implications for market participants facing wholesale price risks, as well as regulators and policy-makers.
Urban Residential Energy Demand and Rebound Effect in China: A Stochastic Energy Demand Frontier Approach
Authors: Du Kerui , Shao Shuai , Yan Zheming
Published: September 2020

The energy rebound effect is a potential threat to energy-saving targets based on energy efficiency improvements. This paper employs a stochastic energy demand frontier model to analyze the energy demand and rebound effect in China’s urban residential sector. Using a panel data set of 30 Chinese provincial-level regions over the period 2001-2014, for the first time, we investigate the degrees and determinants of China’s urban residential energy demand and energy rebound effect.The results show that residents’ income level, energy price, temperature deviation, population scale, household size, and district heating system are significant influencing factors of residential energy consumption. Regarding the energy rebound effect, we find that energy price is negatively correlated with the rebound effect, and an inverted U-shaped relationship between residents’ income level and rebound-effect size exists. The magnitude of the rebound effect varies across regions, with an average of 65.4%. The main policy implication generated by this study is that it should be in urgent need of energy pricing reform to mitigate the rebound effect in China.
Haar Hybrid Transform Based Melanoma Identification Using Ensemble of Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Thepade Sudeep D , Ramnani Gaurav , Mandhare Shubham
Published: September 2020

Traditional methods of disease diagnosis can be time-intensive, error prone and invasive to the subject. These methods are also prejudiced by the doctor’s subjectivity. These issues can be resolved by using automated diagnosis methods. There is a considerable dearth of medical experts today, especially in the rural areas. The use of computing technology may help to assist in the diagnostic process. This paper proposes the utilization of computers to detect melanoma skin cancer. Melanoma skin cancer can be fatal, especially in its later stages. However, it shows a high recovery rate when it is detected in its early stages. Considering the lack of medical professionals, early diagnosis of melanoma may be tried using machine learning algorithms. This paper explores hybrid wavelet transform based melanoma identification using ensemble of machine learning algorithms. The hybrid wavelet transform is produced using Discrete Cosine Transform and Haar Wavelet Transform as its components. The sizes of both components are varied from 4x4 to 128x128 to obtain the hybrid wavelet transorm. Experimentation performed on the transformed dermoscopy skin images with machine learning algorithms and their ensembles gives rise to a total of 196 variations. Overall, if the average of the metrics accuracy, sensitivity and specificity is considered, the SVM algorithm using the hybrid transform of Haar 8x8 and DCT 64x64 gives the best performance, followed by the SVM algorithm using hybrid transform of Haar 128x128 and DCT 4x4.
Retinal Blood Vessel Extraction from Fundus Images Using Enhancement Filtering and Clustering
Authors: Parida Priyadarsan , Dash Jyotiprava , Bhoi Nilamani
Published: September 2020

Screening of vision troubling eye diseases by segmenting fundus images eases the danger of loss of sight of people. Computer assisted analysis can play an important role in the forthcoming health care system universally. Therefore, this paper presents a clustering based method for extraction of retinal vasculature from ophthalmoscope images. The method starts with image enhancement by contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) from which feature extraction is accomplished using Gabor filter followed by enhancement of extracted features with Hessian based enhancement filters. It then extracts the vessels using K-mean clustering technique. Finally, the method ends with the application of a morphological cleaning operation to get the ultimate vessel segmented image. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated by taking two different publicly available Digital retinal images for vessel extraction (DRIVE) and Child heart and health study in England (CHASE_DB1) databases using nine different performance matrices. It gives average accuracies of 0.952 and 0.951 for DRIVE and CHASE_DB1 databases, respectively.
O que os olhos e o coração veem e sentem: Três encontros com arte e educação matemática
Authors: Moraes João Carlos Pereira de
Published: September 2020

O presente artigo tem o objetivo de elencar divergências e convergências entre alguns autores que se debruçam sobre a temática Arte e Educação Matemática, sendo eles Zaleski Filho, Franco e Mendes. Tal escolha deve-se a relevância dos mesmos no campo da Educação Matemática e sua relação com a Arte. Para realização da investigação, fora selecionado trabalhos dos pesquisadores com a temática e analisados em suas perspectivas teórico-metodológicas. Como política de escrita, escolheu-se o modelo de entrevistas ficcionais, perante a ideia de abordar de forma mais sistemática as intenções dos autores. Como resultado, notam-se três abordagens diferenciais: (1) releitura da obra através do conhecimento matemático; (2) Investigação de práticas sociais mobilizadoras de cultura matemática; (3) Método estético, aplicação no cotidiano.
Civil defense and crisis management in Poland in the systemic approach
Authors: Kalinowski Romuald
Published: September 2020

The two subsystems in the state defense system that make up the civil defense system and the crisis management system have specific tasks to fulfill. The two organizational structures, guided by their systemic approach, remain independent of each other, even though they share the same decision-making bodies, executive or executive bodies, subsidiary bodies, and executive entities. Inappropriate perception of them – even by decision-makers – leads to organizational irregularities, a lack of understanding of the responsibilities of the bodies and actors of these systems. It is also a source of misregulation in this area. A systemic perspective may require an appropriate approach and the development of new solutions to improve the process of activity in this area.
Severe Hypocalcemia after Total Parathyroidectomy Plus Autotransplantation for Secondary Hyperthyroidism-Risk Factors and a Clinical Algorithm
Authors: Chou Fong-Fu , Chen Jin-Bor
Published: September 2020

Severe hypocalcemia is a serious complication occurring after parathyroidectomy for secondary hyperparathyroidism. Totally, 322 patients who were successfully treated with total parathyroidectomy and bilateral thymectomy plus autotransplantation were studied. Group A (247 patients) developed mild hypocalcemia. Group B (75 patients) who had post-operative serum Ca levels <6.5 mg/dL or needed >4 g of intravenous (i.v.) Ca gluconate to keep Ca levels ≥6.5 mg/dL developed severe hypocalcemia. Preoperatively, patient age was recorded, and serum Ca, P, alkaline phosphatase (Alk-ptase), and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels were checked. These serum levels were checked again 18 h post-operatively. The algorithm showed that i.v. Ca gluconate 8 g/150 dL (5% glucose)/day was administered for Ca levels <6.5 mg/dL, 4–6 g/75 dL/day for levels <7.6 mg/dL, and 2 g/15 dL/15 min for symptomatic hypocalcemia. Young age, low Ca, and high Alk-ptase levels and long operation time were independent risk factors for severe hypocalcemia. Serum Ca levels <7.6 mg/dL at 18 h post-operation were the optimal cutoff value for hypocalcemia that needed i.v. Ca gluconate. The post-operative hospitalization in Group B was 3–5 days shorter than that previously reported. The readmission rate (0.62%) due to hypocalcemia was rare.
Determination of Concentration for Some Priority Substances in Paddy Fields of Ergene River, Meriç River, and Yenikarpuzlu Dam, Turkey
Authors: Can Körükçü Barış , Ozcan Cemile
Published: September 2020

This study was intended in paddy (rice husk and rice), sediment, and irrigation water samples taken from the paddy fields of Ergene River, Meriç River, and Yenikarpuzlu Dam reservoir which are frequently grown in the river basin in Thrace region and endosulfan (EN) and PAHs were investigated. For analysis, EN and PAHs were studied by GC-MS. The data obtained as a result of the analyses were compared with the results of the standard reference items, and the accuracy of the results was determined. The standard addition method was used to prove the accuracy of EN and PAHs. The recovery parameters on the extraction efficiency of EN and PAHs were optimized, and the recoveries ranged from 82 to 105%. The methods showed good linearity for EN and PAHs, and the LOD and LOQ for methods were found 0.03–63.1 and 0.1–210 μg kg−1, respectively.
Supporting Communication Vulnerable Children to Communicate Their Pain
Authors: Johnson Ensa
Published: September 2020

Communication vulnerable children need an alternative way to express their pain to receive appropriate pain management. In this chapter, the concept of communication vulnerability will be explained by using the social-communication model of pain as a theoretical framework. The concept of pain is difficult to describe due to its subjective nature and individuals’ different experiences to pain. Clinicians and researchers find it challenging to understand the dynamic interplay between the biological, psychological and social determinants of pain. Understanding any episode of acute or chronic pain therefore necessitates considering the holistic pain picture to analyse the essentials at biological, psychological and social levels. The chapter concludes with suggestions to use augmentative and alternative strategies to support communication vulnerable children to communicate their pain.
Comparing the Effect of Two Methods of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and High-Intensity Continuous Training (HICT) on Damage and Antioxidant Indices of Liver in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Ghasemnian Aghaali , Usefpour Mozhgan , Rahmani Ahmad , Iddehloei Zeinab
Published: September 2020

Background: Nowadays, one of the widely used training methods is high-intensity interval training (HIIT). In addition, researchers have stated that long-term, high-intensity training is associated with the production of free radicals in the body. Free radicals also damage liver cells, resulting in increased liver enzymes. Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of HIIT, compared to high-intensity continuous training (HICT), on damage and antioxidant indices of the liver in male Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty-two adult male rats were randomly divided into three groups of control (n = 6), HIIT (n = 8), and HICT (n = 8). Training protocols included HIIT and HICT on a treadmill for eight weeks (five days in a week). Standard water and food were provided for rats ad libitum. Forty-eight hours after the last training session, blood and tissue samples were collected, and serum enzymes were measured by the methods recommended by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) method. The level of enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase in the liver tissue was measured by Randox Commercial Kit (Cat. No. SD 126). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc tests were used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed that eight weeks of HIIT and HICT had no effect on the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level (P = 0.14), but eight weeks of HIIT significantly decreased the serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level compared to the control group (P = 0.04). The level of liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity significantly increased in the HIIT and HICT groups compared to the control group (P = 0.001). HICT also led to a significant increase in the SOD level compared to HIIT (P = 0.03). Conclusions: The research results suggested that eight weeks of HIIT led to a significant reduction in serum AST levels, and HIIT had a lower effect on the increased SOD activity in liver tissue compared to HICT. It might be stated that HIIT is safer than HICT, and it has fewer destructive effects on liver tissue.
The UWorkItOut UWin Program: Improving University Students’ Psychological Distress through Physical Activity
Authors: Muir, MHK Irene L. , Munroe-Chandler Krista J. , Loughead Todd M. , Sutherland Chad A. , Hawksley Kieran G.
Published: September 2020

Background: The predominance of mental health concerns among post-secondary students has amplified the demand for campus counselling services. Although exercise is positively linked to mental health, campus interventions that integrate supervised exercise and exercise counselling are limited. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of the UWorkItOut UWin program on students’ psychological distress. Methods: The UWorkItOut UWin program is a 6-week exercise training and counselling intervention offered to low risk, sedentary students seeking counselling services at a mid-sized Canadian University. The participants included 49 (male, n = 16; female, n = 32; gender invariant, n = 1) university students (71% undergraduate) with a mean age of 23.08 years (SD = 4.97). Students completed one unsupervised (60 minutes) and two supervised (45 mins each) exercise training sessions per week. Students also attended weekly individual exercise counselling sessions (30 minutes each). The Mental Health Inventory-38 (MHI-38) was used to measure changes in the three subscales of psychological distress: 1) anxiety, 2) depression, and 3) loss of emotional control. Results: Paired samples t tests demonstrated significant decreases in anxiety and depression scores from pre-to post-intervention (ps < .05). No significant change was found for loss of emotional control from pre-to post-intervention (p > .05). Conclusion: The findings provide evidence for the effect of exercise in reducing university students’ psychological distress. Consequently, exercise is an additional mental health service for this population, alleviating strain on campus counselling services.
Hydrographic data inspection and disaster monitoring using shipborne radar small range images with electronic navigation chart
Authors: Xu Jin , Jia Baozhu , Pan Xinxiang , Li Ronghui , Cao Liang , Cui Can , Wang Haixia , Li Bo
Published: September 2020

Shipborne radars cannot only enable navigation and collision avoidance but also play an important role in the fields of hydrographic data inspection and disaster monitoring. In this paper, target extraction methods for oil films, ships and coastlines from original shipborne radar images are proposed. First, the shipborne radar video images are acquired by a signal acquisition card. Second, based on remote sensing image processing technology, the radar images are preprocessed, and the contours of the targets are extracted. Then, the targets identified in the radar images are integrated into an electronic navigation chart (ENC) by a geographic information system. The experiments show that the proposed target segmentation methods of shipborne radar images are effective. Using the geometric feature information of the targets identified in the shipborne radar images, information matching between radar images and ENC can be realized for hydrographic data inspection and disaster monitoring.
Creation of mutants by using centrality criteria in social network analysis
Authors: Takan Savaş
Published: September 2020

Mutation testing is a method widely used to evaluate the effectiveness of the test suite in hardware and software tests or to design new software tests. In mutation testing, the original model is systematically mutated using certain error assumptions. Mutation testing is based on well-defined mutation operators that imitate typical programming errors or which form highly successful test suites. The success of test suites is determined by the rate of killing mutants created through mutation operators. Because of the high number of mutants in mutation testing, the calculation cost increases in the testing of finite state machines (FSM). Under the assumption that each mutant is of equal value, random selection can be a practical method of mutant reduction. However, in this study, it was assumed that each mutant did not have an equal value. Starting from this point of view, a new mutant reduction method was proposed by using the centrality criteria in social network analysis. It was assumed that the central regions selected within this frame were the regions from where test cases pass the most. To evaluate the proposed method, besides the feature of detecting all failures related to the model, the widely-used W method was chosen. Random and proposed mutant reduction methods were compared with respect to their success by using test suites. As a result of the evaluations, it was discovered that mutants selected via the proposed reduction technique revealed a higher performance. Furthermore, it was observed that the proposed method reduced the cost of mutation testing.
A prediction modeling based on SNOT-22 score for endoscopic nasal septoplasty: a retrospective study
Authors: Kang Xue-ran , Chen Bin , Chen Yi-sheng , Yi Bin , Yan Xiaojun , Jiang Chenyan , Wang Shulun , Lu Lixing , Shi Runjie
Published: September 2020

Background

To create a nomogram prediction model for the efficacy of endoscopic nasal septoplasty, and the likelihood of patient benefiting from the operation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 155 patients with nasal septum deviation (NSD) was performed to develop a predictive model for the efficacy of endoscopic nasal septoplasty. Quality of life (QoL) data was collected before and after surgery using Sinonasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) scores to evaluate the surgical outcome. An effective surgical outcome was defined as a SNOT-22 score change ≥ 9 points after surgery. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was then used to establish a predictive model for the NSD treatment. The predictive quality and clinical utility of the predictive model were assessed by C-index, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis.

Results

The identified risk factors for inclusion in the predictive model were included. The model had a good predictive power, with a AUC of 0.920 in the training group and a C index of 0.911 in the overall sample. Decision curve analysis revealed that the prediction model had a good clinical applicability.

Conclusions

Our prediction model is efficient in predicting the efficacy of endoscopic surgery for NSD through evaluation of factors including: history of nasal surgery, preoperative SNOT-22 score, sinusitis, middle turbinate plasty, BMI, smoking, follow-up time, seasonal allergies, and advanced age. Therefore, it can be cost-effective for individualized preoperative assessment.
Hidden potential of fruit waste and its utilization
Authors: Soni Damini , Saxena Gargi
Published: September 2020

The global increasing population demands for more food production and food processing which consequently results in more food waste generation. The total waste produced in different stages of processing of food generally comprises of peels, pomace, seed, pulp, unused flesh and damaged food which is biodegradable in nature. These by-products are a good source of bioactive compounds like polyphenols, antioxidants and phytochemicals. They are the storehouse of complex carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nutraceuticals depending on the nature of product produced for example poultry and meat industries are rich the source of proteins and lipids, fruits and vegetable processing industries are rich in bioactive compounds and cereal industries are good source of phenolic compounds and dietary fiber. The food waste or by-products are important source of colorants, fiber, flavoring and antimicrobials which are used in food industry as a source of food additives. The phenolic compounds present in by products of different foods exhibit anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory activity and play a major role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems, osteoporosis, thrombosis, platelets aggregation and diabetes in humans. By products from different industries can be used to develop value added products in India where poverty and malnutrition are the major issues. Developing effective policies for the utilization of food waste along the value chain can help reduce food waste problem and contribute towards food security and sustainability.Keywords: By products, Bioactive compounds, Food industry, Food waste.
Comparative Study between Spinal Anesthesia and Lumbar Plexus Block for Intraoperative Anesthesia and Postoperative Analgesia in Fracture Femur Surgery
Authors: Naeem Mohamed G. , Mohammed Naglaa K. , Elrahman Reda S. Abd , Shalaby Osama M.
Published: September 2020

Background: Fracture femur is common in elderly. Spinal anesthesia (SA) in elderly patients can be associated with major hemodynamic changes whereas lumbar plexus block (LPB) can provide ideal perioperative analgesia as there is no hemodynamic instability or depression of pulmonary functions. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of SA versus LPB for intraoperative anesthesia and postoperative analgesia in fracture femur surgery.

Materials and Methods: This prospective randomized controlled study was carried out 70 patients of either sex with age >20 years, ASA physical status I - III scheduled for fracture femur surgery. Patients were randomly classified into two equal groups (n = 35); group I (SA) received SA by heavy bupivacaine HCL 0.5% 2.5-3.5 ml and group II (LBP) received posterior LPB by 30-35 ml bupivacaine 0.5%.

Results: The time for performing the block was significantly longer in group LPB than group SA. The onset of sensory and motor block was significantly increased in group LPB than group SA. The intraoperative HR was significantly increased, and intraoperative MAP was significantly decreased in group SA compared to group LPB at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 minutes. Postoperative HR and MAP was significantly increased in group SA compared to group LPB at 1 and 6 h. Postoperative VAS was significantly increased in group SA than group LPB at 1 and 6 h. The duration of sensory and motor block was significantly increased in group LPB than group SA. The time of postoperative first analgesic requirement was significantly longer and the total pethidine consumption in the 1st 24 h was significantly lower in group LPB than group SA. SA was associated with significant increase in hypotension, nausea, vomiting and headache.

Conclusion: LPB is an effective alternative to SA as an anesthetic technique for femur fracture surgeries. LBP offers a more stable intraoperative hemodynamics and provides longer duration of analgesia postoperatively with less side effects. However, SA has shorter time for performing the block with earlier onset of sensory and motor block.
Metal‐Phenolic Networks Nanoplatform to Mimic Antioxidant Defense System for Broad‐Spectrum Radical Eliminating and Endotoxemia Treatment
Authors: Wei Zhiwei , Wang Liya , Tang Chengqiang , Chen Shengqiu , Wang Zhoujun , Wang Yilin , Bao Jianxu , Xie Yi , Zhao Weifeng , Su Baihai , Zhao Changsheng
Published: September 2020

Oxidative stress occurs when excess oxidative free radicals are produced in cells, which can overwhelm the normal antioxidant capacity and play an important role in many disease states. Thus, advanced functional materials which can mimic the intracellular antioxidant defense system have a huge potential to become candidates for curing oxidative stress triggered diseases. Herein, a high‐performance nanoplatform is developed with a green and mild strategy by combining mimic‐enzymatic antioxidant (Fe3O4) and nonenzymatic antioxidant (tannic acid (TA)) for constructing antioxidant defense system (Fe3O4 @ TAn nanoflowers (NFs)). Owing to the excellent peroxidase (POD)‐mimic and catalase (CAT)‐mimic capacities of Fe3O4 in various conditions, the antioxidant ability of TA and the flower‐like morphology, the Fe3O4 @ TAn NFs can effectively scavenge multiple reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. In vitro experiments verify that the Fe3O4 @ TAn NFs demonstrate synergetic antioxidative properties, which can be used to protect blood and cellular components against oxidative damage. Meanwhile, in vivo experiments demonstrate that the Fe3O4 @ TAn NFs exhibit excellent therapeutic effects for systemic inflammation on endotoxemia mice and promote wound healing owing to the excellent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. Thus, this antioxidant defense system expands the toolbox of antioxidative materials and shows potential applications in oxidative stress treatment.
Solid Phase Exfoliation for Producing Dispersible Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Liangzhu , Chen Cheng , Zhou Jiadong , Yang Guoliang , Wang Jiemin , Liu Dan , Chen Zhiqiang , Lei Weiwei
Published: September 2020

2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) nanosheets with unique electronic structure and vibrationally physical and chemical properties have triggered tremendous interest both in fundamental and applied research. In order to fully exploit the potential of these remarkable materials, general and efficient exfoliation methods for producing versatile kinds of TMDs are highly desired. Here, a universal solid phase exfoliation (SPE) strategy is developed with high productivity, feasibility, and repeatability for scalably preparing 18 kinds of MX2 (M = Mo, W, V, Nb, Ta, Ti, X = Te, Se, S) nanosheets from corresponding cracked‐induced bulk crystals (C‐MX2). By directly using C‐MX2 as the starting raw materials prepared by molten‐salt cracking synthesis, it is more efficient and time‐saving to produce thin nanosheets due to the loose interaction between layers compared with densely layered MX2 (D‐MX2). Notably, the exfoliated TMD nanosheets can be easily processed as powders, water dispersions, and thin films, offering exciting opportunities for a wide range of applications from electronics to energy storage.
Advanced Post‐Potassium‐Ion Batteries as Emerging Potassium‐Based Alternatives for Energy Storage
Authors: Yao Qianqian , Zhu Changbao
Published: September 2020

Potassium‐based batteries are considered attractive alternatives for lithium ion batteries, particularly for large‐scale energy storage, owing to their economic value and abundance. There have been significant achievements in the extensive investigations of potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs). However, post‐potassium‐ion batteries (post‐PIBs), including potassium–sulfur (K–S), potassium–selenium (K–Se), all‐solid‐state potassium‐ion batteries (ASSPIBs), and aqueous potassium‐ion batteries (APIBs) along with their respective advantages such as higher energy density, better safety, lower costs, and higher power density, are still in the initial stages of research and require further attention. Therefore, this review summarizes the recent progress, current challenges, and advancements in post‐PIBs such as K–S/Se batteries and ASSPIBs. Additionally, the challenges and solutions of using K metal in such systems are discussed. Thereafter, smart designs for electrodes and electrolytes, along with rational constructions for obtaining desirable APIBs are evaluated. Finally, the development trends, challenges, and prospects are estimated for advanced post‐PIBs. This review provides instructive guidelines for research and development of promising potassium‐based systems, in particular, further application of post‐PIBs.
Vitamin D intake is associated with dementia risk in the Washington Heights‐Inwood Columbia Aging Project (WHICAP)
Authors: Zhao Chen , Tsapanou Angeliki , Manly Jennifer , Schupf Nicole , Brickman Adam M. , Gu Yian
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Low vitamin D intake and low vitamin D circulating levels have been associated with increased risk for dementia. We aimed to examine the association between vitamin D intake and dementia in a multiethnic cohort.

Methods

A longitudinal study of 1759 non‐demented older (≥65 years) participants of the Washington Heights‐Inwood Columbia Aging Project with follow‐up visits and completed a food frequency questionnaire. Dementia was diagnosed by consensus using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV) criteria. Cox hazard regression was performed.

Results

During a mean follow‐up of 5.8 years, 329 participants developed dementia. Participants with the highest tertile of vitamin D intake from food sources had decreased risk (hazard ratio [HR] 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.54–0.97, P = .030) for dementia compared with those with the lowest tertile, adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, apolipoprotein E (APOE)‐ε4, physical activity, Mediterranean diet (MeDI) score, income, depression, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and smoking.

Discussion

Higher vitamin D intake is associated with decreased risk of dementia in a multiethnic cohort.
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Newborn Bloodspots: Associations With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Correlation With Maternal Serum Levels
Authors: Bostwick Anna , Snyder Nathaniel W. , Windham Gayle C. , Whitman Casey , Pearl Michelle , Robinson Lucy , Newschaffer Craig J. , Lyall Kristen
Published: September 2020

We conducted a population‐based case–control study to examine newborn polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels in association with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and assess PUFA correlation across two time points. ASD cases (n = 200) were identified through the Department of Developmental Services and matched to live‐birth population controls (n = 200) on birth month, year (2010–2011), and sex. Nonesterified PUFAs were measured by isotope dilution liquid chromatography‐high resolution mass spectrometry from archived newborn dried blood spots and maternal mid‐pregnancy serum samples. Crude and adjusted conditional logistic regression models were used to examine the association between neonatal PUFA levels, categorized in quartiles and according to distributional extremes, and ASD. Cubic splines were utilized to examine nonlinear relationships between continuous neonatal PUFAs and ASD. The correlation between neonatal and maternal levels was examined using Pearson correlation coefficients. In adjusted analyses of neonatal PUFA levels, no clear trends emerged, though there was an elevated odds ratio of ASD for the third quartile of linoleic acid, relative to the first (adjusted odds ratio = 2.49, 95% confidence interval: 1.31, 4.70). Cubic spline analysis suggested a nonlinear association between linoleic acid and ASD, though this was not robust to sensitivity analyses. While individual PUFAs were significantly correlated with one another within a given time point, aside from docohexaseanoic acid, PUFAs were not correlated across maternal and neonatal samples. Overall, our findings do not support an association between neonatal PUFA levels and ASD. Future work should confirm and expand these findings by examining associations with phenotypic subgroups and considering PUFAs in other time points.

Lay Summary

In this study, we examined whether levels of fats known as polyunsaturated fatty acids, measured in newborns, were related to later child diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Overall, we did not find strong evidence for hypothesized reduction in risk of ASD based on newborn levels of these fats. Future studies in larger samples and considering other time points may be useful to explain whether these fats are important in brain development related to ASD. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1601–1613. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interconnected Two‐dimensional Arrays of Niobium Nitride Nanocrystals as Stable Lithium Host
Authors: Xiao Xu , Yao Wei , Tang Jun , Liu Chuanfang , Lian Ruqian , Urbankowski Patrick , Anayee Mark , He Shijie , Li Jianmin , Wang Hao , Gao Yu , Wei Yingjin , Gogotsi Yury
Published: September 2020

The cycle life of rechargeable lithium (Li)‐metal batteries is mainly restrained by dendrites growth on the Li‐metal anode and fast depletion of the electrolyte. Here, we report on a stable Li‐metal anode enabled by interconnected two‐dimensional (2D) arrays of niobium nitride (NbN) nanocrystals as the Li host, which exhibits a high Coulombic efficiency (>99 %) after 500 cycles. Combining theoretical and experimental analysis, it is inferred that this performance is due to the intrinsic properties of interconnected 2D arrays of NbN nanocrystals, such as thermodynamic stability against Li‐metal, high Li affinity, fast Li+ migration, and Li+ transport through the porous 2D nanosheets. Coupled with a lithium nickel–manganese–cobalt oxide cathode, full Li‐metal batteries were built, which showed high cycling stability under practical conditions – high areal cathode loading ≥4 mAh cm−2, low negative/positive (N/P) capacity ratio of 3, and lean electrolyte weight to cathode capacity ratio of 3 g Ah−1. Our results indicate that transition metal nitrides with a rationally designed structure may alleviate the challenges of developing dendrite‐free Li‐metal anodes.
Tin‐Containing Graphite for Sodium‐Ion Batteries and Hybrid Capacitors
Authors: Palaniselvam Thangavelu , Babu Binson , Moon Hyein , Hasa Ivana , Santhosha Aggunda L. , Goktas Mustafa , Sun Ya‐Nan , Zhao Li , Han Bao‐Hang , Passerini Stefano , Balducci Andrea , Adelhelm Philipp
Published: September 2020

The limited Na‐storage capacity of graphite anodes for sodium‐ion batteries (∼110 mAh g−1) is significantly enhanced by the incorporation of nanosized Sn (17 wt%). The composite (SntGraphite), prepared by simple annealing of graphite with SnCl2, shows a specific capacity of 223 mAh g−1 (at 50 mA g−1) combined with excellent cycle life (i. e., 96 % of capacity retention after 2,200 cycles at 1 A g−1) and initial Coulomb efficiency (90 %). The combined storage of sodium in graphite (by solvent co‐intercalation) and Sn (by alloy formation) is followed by in situ X‐ray diffraction and in situ electrochemical dilatometry (ECD). While the additional tin almost doubles the electrode capacity, its contribution to the electrode expansion (∼3 %) is surprisingly small. The use of SntGraphite as anode for sodium‐ion hybrid capacitors with activated carbon as cathode provides a maximum energy and power density of ∼93 Wh kg−1 and 7.8 kW kg−1, with a capacity retention of ∼80 % after 8,000 cycles.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Bis‐Sulfoxide and Its Evaluation as a Ligand in p‐Block Chemistry
Authors: Deak Noémi , Thillaye du Boullay Olivier , Mallet‐Ladeira Sonia , Moraru Ionuţ‐Tudor , Madec David , Nemes Gabriela
Published: September 2020

A new aryl bis‐sulfoxide derivative was designed, synthetized and structurally characterized in solution and in solid state. The chemical behaviour of the newly obtained 1,3‐(para‐tolylsulfinyl)‐5‐tert‐butyl‐benzene 2 was evaluated towards tin, silicon and phosphorus containing derivatives. In the case of Sn(II) derivative, the potential of bis‐sulfoxide 2 as a pincer type ligand was suggested.
Campus shuttle experience and mobility concerns among students with disability in the University of Cape Coast, Ghana
Authors: Odame Prince Kwame , Abane Albert , Amenumey Edem Kwesi
Published: September 2020

Although Ghana's Persons with Disability Act 715 calls for the provision of an accessible environment, attention paid to the mobility needs of persons with disability has focused on their access to public facilities like libraries and schools without paying attention to the transport environment connecting the homes of commuters to these public facilities. This study was carried out to examine the road transport infrastructure and mobility needs of students with disability at the University of Cape Coast. Participants consisted of 31 people with visual impairment and one wheelchair user who were engaged through snowballing. Also, the Transport Officer and selected shuttle operators were engaged to ascertain transport support services to students. These were reached through purposive and convenient sampling, respectively. Findings from the study indicate that hostile reception from shuttle operators and the absence of disability‐friendly accessories on campus shuttles constitute a major barrier to participants' use of campus shuttles. The study recommends documentation and enforcement of the free shuttle services for students with disability as well as the modification of existing transport facilities.