bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maximum carotid intima-media thickness and NT-pro BNP in association with retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Onoe Hajime , Tanaka Koji , Tsuchiya Norihiro , Miyata Keisuke , Kitaoka Mai , Nakayama Mao , Mori Ryusaburo , Nakashizuka Hiroyuki
Published: December 2023

The purpose is to clarify the relationship between patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO), maximal intima-media complex thickness (Max IMT), and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), which is useful in assessing atherosclerosis. This was a retrospective observation, single center study. The patients were 86 RVO patients (male: female = 43:43, mean age 63.3 years), 25 with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and 61 with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), classified as ≧50 years old and <50 years old, Max IMT≧1.1 and less, NT-pro BNP≧55 and less. Results showed that Max IMT ≧1.1 was significantly more common in both the CRVO and BRVO groups at ≧50 years, and NT-pro BNP ≧55 was significantly more common in the CRVO group. Max IMT≧1.1 was seen in 80% of the BRVO group and in 85% of patients aged ≧50 years. Sixty-eight percent of patients in the CRVO group had Max IMT≧1.1, but none of those < 50 years had Max IMT≧1.1. Forty-eight percent of RVO patients had NT-pro BNP≧55, and significantly more patients had Max IMT≧1.1 than those who did not have NT-pro BNP more than 55 (p = 0.02). Multiple regression analysis with Max IMT as the dependent variable showed that age and NT-pro BNP were significantly associated with RVO (p = 0.015, 0.022). RVO patients were more likely to have a Max IMT≧1.1, which was associated with atherosclerosis. Max IMT and NT-pro BNP were also associated with RVO patients, so NT-pro BNP may be a marker of RVO.
Invasively measured and estimated central blood pressure using the oscillometric algorithm Antares in patients with and without obesity
Authors: Stäuber Alexander , Dörr Marcus , Piper Cornelia , Köster Marco , Lapp Harald , Richter Stefan , Ohlow Marc-Alexander , Eckert Siegfried , Hoppe Matthias Wilhelm , Barroso Michael Thomas Coll , Baulmann Johannes
Published: December 2023

Background

Obesity is a global health concern and risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The assessment of central blood pressure (cBP) has been shown to improve prediction of cardiovascular events. However, few studies have investigated the impact of obesity on cBP in adults, and invasive data on this issue are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate cBP differences between patients with and without obesity, identify cBP determinants, and evaluate the accuracy of the algorithm Antares for non-invasive cBP estimation.

Methods

A total of 190 patients (25% female; 39% with BMI ≥30kg/m2; age: 67±12 years) undergoing elective cardiac catheterization were included. cBP was measured invasively and simultaneously estimated non-invasively using the custo screen 400 device with integrated Antares algorithm.

Results

No significant cBP differences were found between obese and non-obese patients. However, females, especially those with obesity, had higher systolic cBP compared to males (P<0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed that brachial mean arterial pressure, pulse pressure, BMI, and heart rate predicted cBP significantly (adjusted R2 = 0.82, P<0.001). Estimated cBP correlated strongly with invasive cBP for systolic, mean arterial, and diastolic cBP (r = 0.74–0.93, P<0.001) and demonstrated excellent accuracy (mean difference <5 and SD <8 mmHg).

Conclusions

This study discovered no significant difference in cBP between obese and non-obese patients. However, it revealed higher cBP values in women, especially those with obesity, which requires further investigation. Additionally, the study highlights Antares’ effectiveness in non-invasively determining cBP in obese individuals. This could improve the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension in this special patient population.
Circulating intermediate monocytes CD14++CD16+ are increased after elective percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Merinopoulos Ioannis , Bhalraam U , Holmes Terri , Tsampasian Vasiliki , Corballis Natasha , Gunawardena Tharusha , Sawh Chris , Maart Clint , Wistow Trevor , Ryding Alisdair , Eccleshall Simon C. , Smith James , Vassiliou Vassilios S.
Published: December 2023

Aim

Inflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and in the sequelae of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Previous work demonstrated that intermediate monocytes (CD14++CD16+) are associated with adverse cardiovascular events, yet monocyte subset response following elective PCI has not been described. This article explores the changes in monocyte subset and humoral response after elective PCI.

Methods

This prospective study included 30 patients without inflammatory diseases being referred for elective PCI. We included patients treated with drug coated balloons or 2nd generation drug eluting stents. Patients underwent blood tests at baseline (prior to PCI), four hours, two weeks and two months later. Analyses were performed in terms of monocyte subsets (classical CD14++CD16-, intermediate CD14++CD16+ and non-classical CD14+CD16++), gene expression of CD14+ leucocytes and humoral biomarkers.

Results

Intermediate monocytes decreased significantly four hours after PCI, were recovered at two weeks, and increased significantly at two months post elective, uncomplicated PCI. They remain significantly elevated in the DES group but not in the DCB group. Gene expression analysis of CD14+ leucocytes showed IL18 had decreased expression at two weeks, CXCR4 and IL1β decreased at two months, while pentraxin 3 increased at two weeks and two months. In terms of humoral biomarkers, hsTnI remains elevated up to two weeks post PCI while IL6 and TNFα remain elevated till two months post PCI.

Conclusion

Intermediate monocytes increase significantly two months following elective, uncomplicated PCI. They remain significantly elevated in the DES group but not in the DCB group suggesting that the PCI strategy could be one of the ways to modulate the inflammatory response post PCI.
Differences in eye movements for face recognition between Canadian and Chinese participants are not modulated by social orientation
Authors: Gingras Francis , Estéphan Amanda , Fiset Daniel , Lingnan He , Caldara Roberto , Blais Caroline
Published: December 2023

Face recognition strategies do not generalize across individuals. Many studies have reported robust cultural differences between West Europeans/North Americans and East Asians in eye movement strategies during face recognition. The social orientation hypothesis posits that individualistic vs. collectivistic (IND/COL) value systems, respectively defining West European/North American and East Asian societies, would be at the root of many cultural differences in visual perception. Whether social orientation is also responsible for such cultural contrast in face recognition remains to be clarified. To this aim, we conducted two experiments with West European/North American and Chinese observers. In Experiment 1, we probed the existence of a link between IND/COL social values and eye movements during face recognition, by using an IND/COL priming paradigm. In Experiment 2, we dissected the latter relationship in greater depth, by using two IND/COL questionnaires, including subdimensions to those concepts. In both studies, cultural differences in fixation patterns were revealed between West European/North American and East Asian observers. Priming IND/COL values did not modulate eye movement visual sampling strategies, and only specific subdimensions of the IND/COL questionnaires were associated with distinct eye-movement patterns. Altogether, we show that the typical contrast between IND/COL cannot fully account for cultural differences in eye movement strategies for face recognition. Cultural differences in eye movements for faces might originate from mechanisms distinct from social orientation.
BioMOBS: A multi-omics visual analytics workflow for biomolecular insight generation
Authors: Heylen Dries , Peeters Jannes , Aerts Jan , Ertaylan Gökhan , Hooyberghs Jef
Published: December 2023

One of the challenges in multi-omics data analysis for precision medicine is the efficient exploration of undiscovered molecular interactions in disease processes. We present BioMOBS, a workflow consisting of two data visualization tools integrated with an open-source molecular information database to perform clinically relevant analyses (https://github.com/driesheylen123/BioMOBS). We performed exploratory pathway analysis with BioMOBS and demonstrate its ability to generate relevant molecular hypotheses, by reproducing recent findings in type 2 diabetes UK biobank data. The central visualisation tool, where data-driven and literature-based findings can be integrated, is available within the github link as well. BioMOBS is a workflow that leverages information from multiple data-driven interactive analyses and visually integrates it with established pathway knowledge. The demonstrated use cases place trust in the usage of BioMOBS as a procedure to offer clinically relevant insights in disease pathway analyses on various types of omics data.
The mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals with depressive, anxiety, and stressor-related disorders: A scoping review
Authors: Wickens Christine M. , Popal Veda , Fecteau Venesa , Amoroso Courtney , Stoduto Gina , Rodak Terri , Li Lily Y. , Hartford Amanda , Wells Samantha , Elton-Marshall Tara , Hamilton Hayley A. , Taylor Graham W. , Kupferschmidt Kristina L. , Agic Branka
Published: December 2023

Objective

A scoping review of studies published in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic focused on individuals with pre-existing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and specified stressor-related disorders, with the objective of mapping the research conducted.

Eligibility criteria

(1) direct study of individuals with pre-existing depressive, anxiety, and/or specified stressor-related (i.e., posttraumatic stress, acute stress) disorders/issues; (2) focus on mental health-related pandemic effects, and; (3) direct study of mental health symptoms related to depression, anxiety, or psychological distress.

Sources of evidence

Database-specific subject headings and natural language keywords were searched in Medline, Embase, APA PsycInfo, and Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) up to March 3, 2021. Review of potentially relevant studies was conducted by two independent reviewers and proceeded in two stages: (1) title and abstract review, and; (2) full paper review.

Data charting

Study details (i.e., location, design and methodology, sample or population, outcome measures, and key findings) were extracted from included studies by one reviewer and confirmed by the Principal Investigator.

Results

66 relevant articles from 26 countries were identified. Most studies adopted a cross-sectional design and were conducted via online survey. About half relied on general population samples, with the remainder assessing special populations, primarily mental health patients. The most commonly reported pre-existing category of disorders or symptoms was depression, followed closely by anxiety. Most studies included depressive and anxiety symptoms as outcome measures and demonstrated increased vulnerability to mental health symptoms among individuals with a pre-existing mental health issue.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that improved mental health supports are needed during the pandemic and point to future research needs, including reviews of other diagnostic categories and reviews of research published in subsequent years of the pandemic.
Topical gabapentin solution for the management of burning mouth syndrome: A retrospective study
Authors: Gramacy Amanda , Villa Alessandro
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of topical gabapentin solution (250 mg/mL) for the management of burning mouth syndrome (BMS).

Study design

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients diagnosed with BMS and managed with gabapentin 250 mg/mL solution (swish and spit) between January 2021 and October 2022. Patient-reported outcomes included changes in burning score ranked on a 10-point numeric rating scale (NRS) and reported adverse drug reactions (ADR). Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to assess differences in the oral burning score ranked on a NRS (0–10) between the baseline visit and the second visit.

Results

A total of 19 patients (68.4% females) with BMS were included and evaluated for follow-up at a median of 86 days (range: 29–195). Overall, patients reported a median 2-point burning decrease on a 0–10 NRS between the baseline visit and the second visit (p < 0.01). ADRs were reported by 3 patients (15.8%).

Conclusion

Although this was a small retrospective study, BMS management with topical gabapentin (250 mg/mL) appears to be effective and well-tolerated. Future randomized prospective studies are needed to verify these preliminary findings.
Occupational survey of the educational outputs of the first established program of cardiac technology speciality in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (2013–2022): A cross-sectional study
Authors: Al Saikhan Lamia , Al Ghamdi Lamis
Published: December 2023

Background

The demand for qualified cardiac technology (CT) graduates is increasing in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to provide the first descriptive occupational survey of the educational outputs of the first established CT speciality program in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia over the past 10 years.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, survey-based study. An online self-administered survey was distributed to all alumni who graduated from the CT program between 2013 and 2022 at the Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University (IAU) in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

Results

Of the 238 graduates, 164 completed the survey (72.2%). All the respondents (100%) were women, 56% were aged 25–30 years, 58.5% were married, the majority (95.7%) held a bachelor’s degree, and (93.3%) lived in the eastern region. Of the respondents, 33.7% specialised in cardiac catheterisation and 66.3% in echocardiography. Of those, 66.4% were employed, which was similar between both subspecialties and predominantly in the Eastern region (83.9%). A total of 57.9% of participants attributed the reason for unemployment to limited opportunities in the Eastern province (vs. 15.8% across the country). A total of 76.6% of the respondents reported that most job opportunities were in the Central region (Riyadh). The main barriers and limitations to unemployment reported by the alumni were the need for childcare assistance, further training, and poor job search/interview skills. Of the respondents, 42% expressed a desire to change their career path because of limited job opportunities (10.7%) followed by a change in career interest post-graduation (7.9%).

Conclusions

The employment rate of IAU CT alumni was high (66.4%) and predominantly based in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia, and 42% expressed a desire to change their career path due to limited regional job opportunities. The findings from this study will help inform the future of speciality across the kingdom and shape the potential for expansion.
Relationship of life expectancy with quality of life and health-related hope among Japanese patients receiving home medical care: The Zaitaku Evaluative Initiatives and Outcome Study
Authors: Yasunaka Masakazu , Tsugihashi Yukio , Hayashi Shinu , Iida Hidekazu , Hirose Misaki , Shirahige Yutaka , Kurita Noriaki ,   and the ZEVIOUS group
Published: December 2023

Spiritual care for patients’ quality of life (QOL) and hope should be included in home medical care for patients with limited life expectancy. This study aimed to analyze the associations between estimated life expectancy, QOL, and hope among patients receiving home medical care in Japan. This multicenter cross-sectional study involved 29 home medical care facilities in Japan. Patients were categorized by estimated life expectancy, as assessed by home medical care physicians. The outcomes were QOL measured via the Quality-of-Life Scale for Elderly Patients Receiving Professional Home Care (QOL-HC: higher score indicates better QOL), the domain scores of health-related hope (“health,” “role and connectedness,” and “something to live for”; higher scores indicate higher levels of hope), and life functioning measured using the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0; higher score indicates worse functioning and disability). QOL-HC scores were significantly higher in patients with shorter life expectancy (< 6 m vs. ≥ 1 y, adjusted mean differences: 0.7 points [95%CI 0.1 to 1.3]). Regarding health-related hope, “something to live for” scores were associated with shorter life expectancy (< 6 m vs. ≥ 1 y, -17.7 points [-34.2 to -1.2]), whereas “role and connectedness” scores did not change remarkably with shorter life expectancy (< 6 m vs. ≥ 1 y, -3.3 points [-16.4 to 9.8]). Furthermore, shorter life expectancy was associated with higher WHODAS 2.0 scores (< 6 m vs. ≥ 1 y, 19.6 points [4.3 to 34.8]). Home medical care physicians who engage in spiritual care should facilitate thoughtful dialogue with their patients by recognizing declines in life functions and hope for fulfilment, which are associated with short life expectancy.
Changes in life satisfaction among middle-aged adults living alone over a 12-year span
Authors: Yoon Jaehee , Kim Jeewuan , Chung Joohyun , Son Heesook
Published: December 2023

This secondary analysis used data collected for the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging from 2006 to 2018 to examine changes in life satisfaction among middle-aged adults living alone in South Korea. Individuals who were over 45 years of age, lived alone at the time of the first data collection wave, and responded at least twice to the survey over the 12-year study period were included in the final linear mixed model (N = 124). Life satisfaction increased for those who had increased assets, were widowed, and had more frequent contact with acquaintances (i.e., once a month and once a week compared with once a year). Life satisfaction decreased as the number of chronic illnesses increased for underweight individuals compared with normal weight or overweight individuals and for depressed versus non-depressed individuals. This study’s findings indicate that increased social support is beneficial for middle-aged marginalized individuals, including those who are economically disadvantaged, have few social interactions, are underweight, and have chronic illnesses.
Attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals among Thai medical students
Authors: Wiwattarangkul Teeravut , Wainipitapong Sorawit
Published: December 2023

Background

The global population of individuals with gender diversity or LGBTQ+ people is on the rise. However, negative attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals persist, even among healthcare professionals, creating barriers to healthcare access. These attitudes are influenced by cultural variations worldwide and necessitate investigation across diverse cultures and settings.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people and describe associated factors with being LGBTQ+ among Thai medical students.

Methods

During the 2021 academic year, a survey was conducted at a medical school in Bangkok, Thailand, collecting demographic data and attitudes measured by a standardised Thai questionnaire. Descriptive statistics as well as bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to describe characteristics and association.

Results

A total of 806 medical students participated, with a neutral attitude being the most prevalent (72.2%), followed by a positive attitude (27.2%), and a minority reporting a negative attitude (0.6%). Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed significant associations between positive attitudes and female sexual identity (aOR 2.02, 95%CI 1.45–2.81, p-value < 0.001), having LGBTQ+ family members (aOR 3.57, 95%CI 1.23–10.34, p-value = 0.019), having LGBTQ+ friend (aOR 1.46, 95%CI 1.02–2.11, p-value = 0.040), and coming from areas outside of Bangkok (aOR 1.41, 95%CI 1.01–1.97, p-value = 0.043).

Conclusion

Positive attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community are essential for physicians, emphasising the need to study factors that contribute to positive attitudes in order to foster an LGBTQ+-friendly environment for both patients and medical students.
Oka estuarioko ur-kalitatearen hobekuntzaren lehen zantzuak saneamenduaren ondorioz
Authors: Zorita Izaskun , Larreta Joana , Uriarte Ainhize , Solaun Oihana
Published: December 2023

Euskal Herrian, hirietako hondakin-uren isurketek eutrofizazio arriskua eta bainua hartzeko debekua eragin dituzte, bereziki Okaren estuarioaren barrualdean. Horregatik, 2015ean, hondakin-urak tratatzeko Bermeon araztegi berri bat jarri zen martxan, edukiera handiagokoa, eta 2021ean Urdaibai eskualdeko hondakin-ur ia guztiak estolderia-sistemara lotu ziren. Lan honen helburua uraren kalitatearen espazio- eta denbora-joerak saneamenduaren fase ezberdinekin zehaztea izan zen. Horretarako, mantenugaien kontzentrazioak eta aldagai ozeanografiko nagusiak hiru hilean behin neurtu ziren estuarioan zehar kokatutako hiru laginketa-puntuetan, 1995 eta 2021 bitartean. Horrez gain, 2008-2021 bainu-denboraldian, bi astetik behin, bakterio fekalak aztertu ziren estuarioko lau hondartzetan. Estuarioaren barruko laginketa-puntutik kanpo laginketa-punturaino, gradiente bat ikusten da, mantenugai guztien kontzentrazioaren batez besteko balioetan, baita oxigenoaren eta klorofilaren balioetan ere. Bestalde, saneamenduak aurrera egin ahala, estuarioko uraren kalitate fisiko-kimikoa hobetu egin dela ikus daiteke, bereziki aztertutako azken urteetan. Bainatzeko urei dagokienez, barruko hondartzak zentsu ofizialetik kendu ziren 2016. urtean, azken lau urteetan kalitate nahikoa ez erakusteagatik; baina 2021ean, hondartza horietako bat berriro sartu zen bainatzeko guneen zerrendan. Lehenengo hobekuntza-seinale horiek adierazten dute neurri zuzentzaileak eraginkorrak izaten ari direla, bai mantenugaien sargaien kudeaketan, baita kostaldeko zerbitzuen lehengoratze eta babesean ere.
Estrategia terapeutiko berritzaileak Parkinson gaixotasunean: nanopartikulak
Authors: Zubelzu Maider , Razquin Jone , Vaquero-Rodriguez Andrea , Bidgood Raphaelle , Ortuzar Naiara , Bengoetxea Harkaitz , Miguelez Cristina , Ruiz-Ortega Jose Angel , Lafuente Jose Vicente , Morera Herreras Teresa
Published: December 2023

Parkinson gaixotasuna (PG) nahasmendu neurodegeneratibo motor ohikoena da, gai beltzaren zati trinkoko neurona dopaminergikoen galeragatik eta horrek eragindako mugitzeko desgaitasunagatik bereizten dena. Klinikan gehien erabiltzen diren egungo tratamenduek, hala nola lebodopak, garuneko neurotransmisio dopaminergikoa lehengoratzen dute. Hala ere, tratamendu horiek sintomatikoak baino ez dira, denbora pasatu ahala eraginkortasuna galtzen dute eta eragin kaltegarri larriak eragiten dituzte. Eragin kaltegarrietako batzuk administrazio-bidearekin lotuta daude; izan ere, aho-bidezko farmakoek hartzaile dopaminergikoen aktibazio ez-jarraitua eragiten dute, tratamenduarekin lotutako asaldura motorren agerpena bultzatuz. Horregatik, tratamendu berritzaileak aurkitzeaz gain, segurtasun-profil hobeak dituzten administrazio-sistema berriak garatzea beharrezkoa da. Hala, azken urteetan nanopartikulen eraginkortasuna aztertzen duten ikerketak egin dira. Izan ere, nanopartikulek hesi hematoentzefalikoa (HHE) erraz zeharkatzeaz gain, farmakoen bioerabilgarritasuna eta eraginkortasuna hobetuz eragin kaltegarriak minimizatzen dituzte. Nanogarraiatzaile organiko eta ez-organiko desberdinak erabiliz, lebodopa, agonista dopaminergikoak edo faktore neurotrofikoak bezalako farmakoen eraginkortasuna aztertu da PG animalia-ereduetan, emaitza itxaropentsuak lortuz. Hala, nanoingeniaritzako partikulek oso tresna erabilgarria dirudite, HHE gurutzatuz farmakoak modu seguru, eraginkor eta iraunkorrean emateko, eta, beraz, PG bezalako nahasmendu neurologikoak tratatzeko etorkizun handiko estrategia bilaka daitezke.
Fabrikazio gehigarri eta digitalizazio bidezko zulagailu aeronautikoaren diseinu-optimizazioa
Authors: Arrizubieta Jon Iñaki , Lamikiz Aitzol , Ukar Arrien Eneko , Ortega Rodriguez Naiara , Galleguillos Rioboo Carlos
Published: December 2023

Geometria konplexuei, diseinu pertsonalizatuei eta ezaugarri funtzionalei eskerrak, osagai berrien garapenerako prozesurik eta berritzaileenetakoa bihurtu da fabrikazio gehigarri metalikoa. Horregatik, lan honetan aeronautikako sektorean erabiliko den zulagailu industrial baten karkasaren diseinua optimizatzeko fabrikazio gehigarriaren gaitasuna aztertu da. Ikerlan honen helburua zulagailuaren tenperatura kontrolatu eta mugako balio onargarrien azpitik mantentzea da, horrela modu jarraituan erabili ahal izateko eta eragiketaren produktibitatea handitzeko. Zulagailuaren portaera aztertu eta diseinua optimizatzeko, haren digitalizazioa gauzatu da ANSYS Workbench 2021-R2 softwarearen bidez, eta emaitzen baliotasuna bermatzeko metodologia zorrotzari jarraitu zaio. Lehenengo pausuan, zulagailuaren diseinuan erabiliko diren gainazal mota ezberdinen (laua, erretikularra, gyroidea, hegalduna, eta abar) portaera analizatu da, bakoitzaren beroa disipatzeko gaitasuna zenbatesteko. Ostean, bigarren pausuan, egungo zulagailuaren diseinuaren portaera aztertu eta barruko bero-iturria karakterizatu da. Horrekin guztiarekin, zulagailuaren karkasaren diseinu berri bat proposatu da, funtzionaltasuna mantenduz, baina hozketa gaitasuna hobetuz. Behin diseinu berria erabakita, hauts ohantzeko teknologia bidez (laser Powder Bed Fusion, L-PBF) fabrikatu da eta esperimentalki baieztatu da haren funtzionamendu zuzena.
¿Cuándo es irregular el contrato temporal o el fijo-discontinuo en el trabajo agrícola?
Authors: Ruiz Saura José Enrique
Published: December 2023

Los condicionantes que afectan a la correcta utilización de las modalidades de contratación laboral temporal y fija (tanto discontinua como ordinaria) en campañas agrícolas, son diversos y entrañan complejidad. Por este motivo, existe una amplia doctrina jurisprudencial llamada a clarificar cuándo es ajustado a derecho el empleo de cada uno de los referidos contratos, así como a concretar cuáles son los límites que no debe rebasar la negociación colectiva en este ámbito.
El presente trabajo pretende presentar un análisis cronológico de las resoluciones más relevantes sobre esta materia, incidiéndose en la evolución del criterio doctrinal mayoritario hasta llegar al prevalente en la actualidad. Como podrá verse, la casuística propia del trabajo agrícola en la Región de Murcia resulta interesante por abordar cuestiones en algunos casos novedosas y de enorme relevancia.
Trends in Democratic Attitudes: Bolivia 2004-2021
Authors: Moreno Morales Daniel E.
Published: December 2023

After more than a decade of political stability, in 2019 Bolivia suffered a major political crisis that ended with the resignation of a long-standing President, amidst popular unrest after a questioned election. While the crisis was the immediate result of a questionable attempt by the President to skip constitutional term limits, its roots can be found in the declining rates of support and satisfaction with democracy among citizens and in the polarization reaching democratic support. Using survey data from LAPOPs AmericasBarometer, this article finds that national averages for different measures for democratic support show declining trends, and, perhaps more importantly, they also show high levels of polarization, with supporters of the president showing radically different attitudes that those who are critics of the government, particularly during critical times. Cluster analyses performed on the same data indicate that the proportion of individuals who share attitudes that can be considered as “institutionalists” has been declining, while the proportion of those who support extra-powers for the executive and authoritarian alternatives, has increased. The article concludes discussing some risks for Bolivian democracy within its citizens’ attitudes towards democratic institutions.
Az énhatékonyság és a pszichológiai immunkompetencia összefüggései
Authors: Nagyné Hegedűs Anita
Published: December 2023

Hazai és nemzetközi empirikus kutatási eredmények igazolják a belső erőforrások fontosságát a lelki egyensúly megőrzésében, a kihívásokkal való sikeres megküzdésben. Jelen vizsgálatban felsőoktatásban részt vevő hallgatók énhatékonyságának, valamint a Pszichológiai Immunkompetencia Kérdőív által lefedett területeket magában foglaló pszichés erőforrásainak feltérképezése volt a célom. A vizsgálat eredményei igazolták, hogy összefüggések mutathatók ki a válaszadó gyógypedagógus hallgatók énhatékonysági vélekedései és pszichológiai immunkompetenciája között. Összességében megállapítható jelen vizsgálat eredményei alapján, hogy a gyógypedagógus hallgatók rendelkeznek olyan erőforrásokkal, melyek segítséget nyújthatnak számukra későbbi gyakorlati, szakmai munkájuk során. Ezen erőforrások felhasználhatók a képzési folyamatban a személyiség komplex alakítása, a fejlesztendő területek megerősítése kapcsán. A személyiség erőforrásaira való tudatos odafigyelés elsajátítása a képzési folyamat egyik fontos feladatának tekinthető, mellyel az oktatás hozzájárul a leendő pedagógusok mentális egészségének megőrzéséhez.
Comprehensive analysis of oversized cargo transportation market in Poland (2001-2022): Trends, regulations, and industry dynamics
Authors: Juściński Sławomir
Published: December 2023

The oversized cargo transportation market in Poland actively participates in developing the economy, providing services necessary for implementing large infrastructure and industrial projects on a national and European scale. Development and functioning of this sector in the EU and globally requires overcoming many organisational, technical and administrative barriers and difficulties, and the authors of several publications indicate how these services are developing. The current study contains a detailed analysis of data from 2001-2022. The paper characterises the changes in particular years, indicating the main causes of the occurring processes, and defines the existing trends. It presents the legal framework that regulates the functioning of the domestic market. Moreover, it discusses the number of permits and the value of fees for issuing permits collected by the General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways (Generalna Dyrekcja Dróg Krajowych i Autostrad, GDDKiA) over two decades. The article also evaluates trends concerning the number of licenses more than 50% decrease compared to the maximum in 2008. It assesses the course of changes in values, which in 2021 reached their highest level during the period under assessment. Furthermore, it discusses the differences that occurred in the number of permits issued and applications submitted in the years 2014-2022. It describes the structure of the number of permits issued in categories IV-VII in 2014-2020 and categories III-V in 2021-2022. It characterises the course of the largest operation in the history of Polish road haulage - the transport of an abnormally-sized TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) - in terms of requirements and problems that occurred during the preparation and fulfilment of this order and were typical for the functioning of the sector. The evaluation provides the basis for summaries and conclusions on the Development and condition of the oversized cargo transportation sector in Polish road transport sector.
Effect of shipping company demographic characteristics on cabotage vessel finance and repayment in Nigeria
Authors: Orogun Ambrose Chodja , Akpoghomeh Osis , Emenike Gladys
Published: December 2023

The research examined the effect of shipping company demographic characteristics on cabotage vessel finance and repayment in Nigeria. The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) have been concerned about the inability of the Ship Acquisition and Ship Building Fund (SASBF) beneficiaries to pay back disbursed loans fully, resulting in the suspension of further disbursement of the fund required for the development of Nigerian local content capacity. The Cabotage Act 2003 was intended for local content development of shipping and maritime logistics capacity. The fund realized through a 2% surcharge on cabotage trade has accrued since inception, but no shipowner has benefited from the CVFF loan. The study relied on both primary and secondary data. Data was collected through a well-structured questionnaire. The study utilized a Statistical Product Service Solution (SPSS v. 23) and a one-sample chi-square test as statistical tools for data analysis. The results reveal that demographic characteristics of shipping companies, such as age, number of vessels, number of employees and total annual revenue, significantly influence CVFF loan repayment.
Purpose: To identify and analyze the shipping company demographic characteristics which influence cabotage vessel finance and repayment in Nigeria. The findings suggested practical steps for effective CVFF loan disbursement and reliable loan recovery.
Methodology: The study utilized Statistical Product Service Solution (SPSS v. 23) and a one-sample chi-square test as statistical tools for data analysis.
Results: The demographic characteristics of a shipping company, such as company age in years, number of employees, share capital, number of vessels and shipyards as well as the age of vessels and shipyards has a significant influence on her Character, Capacity, Credibility, Capital, Conditions, Collateral and Creditworthiness of the organization.
Theoretical contribution: The research contributed to exploring, understanding, and applying the probability of credit default theory in shipping finance loan repayment. The demographic internal microeconomic organization Character, Capacity, Credibility, Capital, Conditions, Collateral and Creditworthiness significantly affects the ability of CVFF fund beneficiaries to repay the loans.
Practical implications: Prospective borrower indigenous maritime operators should be duly and professionally evaluated to ensure sustainable cash flow and revenue projection during and after granting CVFF loans to guarantee complete repayment.
Analysis of air cargo traffic at airports in Nigeria and Ghana
Authors: Adenigbo Adedotun Joseph
Published: December 2023

Fluctuations that characterise airport traffic make planning for efficient operations difficult. This study examines air cargo traffic at Murtala International Airport, Lagos, Nigeria, and Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana. The study focused on the trend of cargo volume, origin, and destination and forecasted the cargo volume at the airports. Air cargo data from 1991-2022 were collected from the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL). Descriptive techniques using line graphs and GIS mapping were used to analyse data. Time series techniques of moving and weighted averages, exponential smoothing, and least square techniques were used to forecast the cargo volume of the airports. The study found a characteristic fluctuating pattern of cargo flow. Nigeria’s dominating export cargo types are general goods, edible items, and hair attachments. Ghana’s dominating export cargo types were pineapple, general goods, and papaya. Germany, followed by Ethiopia and Turkey, dominate the origin of import cargo, while the United Kingdom, UAE, and Turkey dominate the destination of export cargo from Nigeria. Luxembourg, Turkey, and the UK dominate the origin of import cargo, while the UK, Netherlands, UAE, and Qatar dominate the destination of export cargo in Ghana. The least-square technique predicts 3.67% and 2.3% growth of cargo traffic in Nigeria and Ghana, respectively. An increasing trend in cargo volume was predicted for both airports. Both countries need to strategise on their relationships with other countries and develop policies that will increase cargo flow by air.
Reverse logistics and performance of food and beverage manufacturing firms in Kenya
Authors: Kiogora Henry , Chege Dennis , Arani Wycliffe
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the relationship between Reverse Logistics and the performance of food and beverage manufacturing firms in Kenya. Methodology: An explanatory research design was employed in the study. All 172 of Kenya’s registered food and manufacturing businesses were considered using the census approach. Using questionnaires, primary data was gathered. This study employed 172 questionnaires. Version 25 of the SPSS statistical program was used to analyze the data. Findings: The study found that there is a correlation of 0.705 between Reverse Logistics and the performance of Kenyan food and beverage manufacturing companies. Reverse Logistics accounted for 49.4% of the variation in the performance of food and beverage manufacturing firms in Kenya. A unique contribution to theory, practice, and policy: The Stakeholders theory was validated. The study noted that the use of packaging that is returnable may save costs for the firms and improve efficiency. Reverse logistics can help a company identify ways to reuse, resell or recycle materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill. Implementing reverse logistics not only helps in profit margins but also helps improve the company’s brand reputation.
How time value affects the performance of road freight transport operators in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mujakachi Christopher Tapiwa , Tukuta Marian , Tsvere Maria
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The primary purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the Road Freight Transport Sector in Zimbabwe considers the value of time in their operations and how this affects their competitiveness. Methodology: This quantitative study involves a survey of 384 randomly selected companies from a population of 1256 registered road freight companies in Zimbabwe. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS. Results: The study found that all the registered companies that participated in the research confirmed that the value of time phenomenon was alien to their business practices as they worked on assumptions. They also indicated a loss of business due to customer complaints. Theoretical Contribution: This paper contributes to the field by highlighting the importance of considering the value of time in business operations, particularly in the road freight transport sector. It provides empirical evidence supporting the theory that the value of time can significantly impact a firm’s competitiveness. Practical Implications: The findings of this study have practical implications for companies in the road freight transport sector. The study recommends policy formulation for companies emphasizing standard operating procedures and good time management to enhance competitiveness. This could lead to improved customer satisfaction and business success.
Efficacy and Safety of Ustekinumab for Ulcerative Colitis Through 4 Years: Final Results of the UNIFI Long-Term Maintenance Study
Authors: Afif Waqqas , Arasaradnam Ramesh P. , Abreu Maria T. , Danese Silvio , Sandborn William J. , Miao Ye , Zhang Hongyan , Panaccione Remo , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Scherl Ellen J. , Leong Rupert W. , Rowbotham David S. , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Sands Bruce E. , Marano Colleen
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic condition that may require long-term treatment. We report the final efficacy and safety results of the UNIFI long-term extension study of ustekinumab in patients with UC through 4 years.

METHODS:

Ustekinumab induction responders who completed 44 weeks of maintenance treatment and agreed to enter the long-term extension continued their subcutaneous maintenance therapy (90 mg ustekinumab every 8 or 12 weeks [q8w or q12w] or placebo). Starting at week 56, randomized patients could receive dose adjustment to 90 mg q8w. Symptoms and adverse events were assessed through the study; endoscopic assessment was conducted at week 200.

RESULTS:

Of the 348 patients randomized to subcutaneous ustekinumab at maintenance baseline (q8w and q12w combined), 55.2% were in symptomatic remission at week 200. A greater proportion of biologic-naive patients (67.2% [117/174]) were in symptomatic remission than those with a history of biologic failure (41.6% [67/161]). Among patients in symptomatic remission at week 200, 96.4% were corticosteroid-free. Of the 171 patients with endoscopic evaluation at week 200, 81.6% (71/87) in the q12w group and 79.8% (67/84) in the q8w group had endoscopic improvement. From weeks 156 to the final safety visit (up to week 220), no deaths, major adverse cardiovascular events, or tuberculosis occurred in patients receiving ustekinumab. Nasopharyngitis, UC worsening, and upper respiratory tract infections were the most frequently reported adverse events.

DISCUSSION:

The long-term efficacy of ustekinumab maintenance in patients with UC was confirmed through 4 years. No new safety signals were observed. ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT02407236.
Colletotrichum truncatum transmission via lima bean seeds
Authors: Gomes Rommel dos Santos Siqueira , Silva Hilderlande Florêncio da , Medeiros José George Ferreira , Pereira Walter Esfrain , Nascimento Luciana Cordeiro do
Published: December 2023

Anthracnose is the primary disease in Phaseolus lunatus cultures, causing severe losses. Inoculation techniques are vital for assessing genotype resistance and control methods at the early stages of seedling development. This study aimed to compare inoculation methods and exposure times of a lima bean seed variety to Colletotrichum truncatum using a completely randomized 4x5 factorial design with five replications. Seed inoculation methods by direct contact with mycelium, mannitol water restrictor, and sucrose water restrictor and immersion in conidia suspension were compared and submitted to substrates containing the developed pathogen or not at exposure times of 0, 36, 60, 84, and 108 hours. Evaluations were made by analyzing the severity, incidence, and disease index for anthracnose and seedling physiological quality under greenhouse conditions. The inoculation method by direct contact with sucrose solute for 36 hours was the most suitable for C. truncatum inoculation in lima bean seeds, providing a higher transmission rate but slightly affecting their physiological parameters. C. truncatum damage to lima bean seed performance increased with longer exposure times, regardless of the inoculation method.
Avaliação da Infraestrutura Cicloviária e Interpolação Espacial de seus Indicadores de Qualidade: uma Abordagem Baseada em Análise Hierárquica e Geoestatística
Authors: Traldi Wellington de Aquino , Marques Samuel de França , Pitombo Cira Souza , Sousa Pablo Brilhante de , Melo Ricardo Almeida de
Published: December 2023

O presente artigo tem dois objetivos associados: (1) avaliar a qualidade da infraestrutura cicloviária no município de João Pessoa (PB) através de Processo de Análise Hierárquica e (2) realizar uma extensão da avaliação proposta, através de indicadores de qualidade, para toda a rede cicloviária do município, por meio de interpoladores espaciais geoestatísticos. Assim, é proposta uma abordagem de duas etapas. Incialmente, foram identificados fatores físicos e operacionais que afetam a qualidade da infraestrutura cicloviária para a elaboração da hierarquia. Posteriormente, foi aplicado um formulário a cinco especialistas em infraestrutura cicloviária e usuários de ciclovias/ciclofaixas, com o objetivo de ponderar os critérios. Após a ponderação dos critérios, que compõem a estrutura hierárquica proposta, foram utilizados dados de 27 trechos cicloviários, coletados em campo. Após a pontuação associada a cada trecho, estes foram classificados e mapas temáticos foram construídos para a localização dos trechos críticos. Observando-se a existência de dependência espacial, em relação ao indicador de qualidade cicloviária, foi possível realizar uma modelagem geoestatística e estimar o indicador de qualidade para 32 trechos não inspecionados previamente em campo. Dessa forma, o mapa da rede cicloviária completa, devidamente avaliada, pode ser utilizado como ferramenta de baixo custo de apoio à tomada de decisão e implementações de políticas de transporte.
CARACTERIZAÇÃO E ANÁLISE DA RECORRÊNCIA DE DESASTRES HIDROMETEOROLÓGICOS E GEOMORFOLÓGICOS NO LITORAL DO PARANÁ
Authors: Pinheiro Clara Kim , Silveira Ricardo Michael Pinheiro , Faria Gislaine Garcia de
Published: December 2023

A pesquisa objetivou caracterizar os desastres meteorológicos, hidrológicos e geomorfológicos registrados nos municípios do litoral paranaense num período de trinta anos (1990-2020) e calcular o tempo de retorno e probabilidade de recorrência (de 1 a 100 anos) dos eventos a partir das chuvas deflagradoras, a fim de analisar os limiares pluviométricos em 24h e 96h, sazonalmente e por categorias de desastres. Os resultados apontaram, em suma, que: os desastres meteorológicos representaram metade (50%) das ocorrências; a média de chuvas deflagradoras de desastres na região litorânea paranaense foi de 80,9 mm/24h e 153 mm/96h, sendo de 87,9 mm/24h para os desastres hidrológicos e de 44,3 mm/24h para aqueles de prevalência geomorfológica; os eventos intensos foram desencadeados com volumes de 104,6 mm/24h e 178,4 mm/96h; 56% dos desastres ocorreram no verão; o megadesastre de 11/03/2011 tem tempo de retorno de 21,2 anos e probabilidade de recorrência anual de 4,59%, de 37,5% em 10 anos e 90,9% em 100 anos.
REFLEXÕES ACERCA DA SEGREGAÇÃO SOCIOESPACIAL E DA VIOLÊNCIA EM LONDRINA - PR
Authors: Alcantara Danilo Marcondes de
Published: December 2023

O texto propõe a discussão acerca dos elementos que conformam o processo de segregação socioespacial na cidade de Londrina, no norte do Estado do Paraná, a partir da realidade vivenciada por sujeitos que habitam o Residencial Vista Bela, conjunto habitacional de grandes dimensões entregue sob financiamento do Programa Minha Casa Minha Vida, numa investigação realizada por meio de metodologias de pesquisa qualitativa. Na complexa série de problemáticas relatadas por esses sujeitos em entrevistas, destacou-se a questão da violência percebida e vivenciada em seu cotidiano no bairro, bem como as representações construídas pelos londrinenses que associam os moradores da periferia com a criminalidade. A segregação socioespacial é, portanto, observada neste estudo como um elemento central para se pensar o complexo problema da violência em suas dimensões objetivas e subjetivas.
FOME, ASSISTÊNCIA ALIMENTAR E DIREITOS NO BRASIL: POLÍTICAS DA VIDA COTIDIANA NA PANDEMIA
Authors: Blanco Lis Furlani , Leme Adriana Salay , Antipon Livia Cangiano , Ribeiro Junior José Raimundo Sousa
Published: December 2023

A fome é um problema presente na história brasileira desde a sua formação territorial e que pode ser mitigada ou agravada a partir de decisões e determinadas conjunturas, como a política econômica ultraliberal implantada, sobretudo desde 2016. Com o aumento dos índices de fome no Brasil provocado pela ausência de políticas públicas efetivas para lidar com a questão durante a pandemia de COVID-19, a sociedade civil se mobilizou ainda mais para promover assistência alimentar. Alicerçado nessa constatação, a proposta deste artigo é analisar a assistência alimentar tensionando a dicotomia entre direito e assistência. As ações são difusas e muito diferentes entre si, por isso realizou-se um recorte partindo do entendimento dos próprios grupos entrevistados de que a saída efetiva da fome não ocorre no ato de doar e, sim, em uma mudança estrutural. A partir de revisão bibliográfica, entrevistas e análise de dados, conclui-se que existe uma potência política dentro desses movimentos, concebendo política como uma politização da vida cotidiana a qual vai além dos aparatos públicos governamentais e direitos constitucionais.