bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Editorial path and the visibility of scientific publications: an exploratory case study on the journal Tchê Química
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Paulista, de Mira Bianca , de Olveira Caroline ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Shintaku Milton ,   Instituto Brasileiro de Informação em Ciências e Tecnologia
Published: July 2023

Introduction:Traditionally, the Hard Sciences have journals as their preferred channel for disseminating research results. However, in Brazil these disciplines are predominantly publish in international journals. Thus, it is understandable that the national journals linked to the Rigid Sciences seek international relevance. Objective:The study aims understand the problems related to journals in the field of Chemistry, mainly that concern visibility. Methodology and Results:We chose to select a single journal and analyze its editorial path, through the Journal Ranking provide by the Scimago Journal & Country Rank (SJR), belonging to Scopus. The journal chosen was Tchê Química and its editorial path was analized. The journal remained indexed to the Scopus database from 2011 to 2020. The analyzes included the data provided by the SJR and a citation network built in the VOSviewer software from the citing journals of Tchê Química. Conclusion:It is concluded that the journal has a strong relationship with specific journals and that is ranking results are linked to the citations of these journals and to selfcitations
Domain Vocabulary Alignment using AML and LogMap
Authors:   Universidade do Minho, Guimarães João , Andrade Morgana ,   Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Baptista Ana ,   Universidade do Minho
Published: July 2023

Introduction: In the context of the Semantic Web, interoperability among heterogeneous ontologies is a challenge due to several factors, among which semantic ambiguity and redundancy stand out. To overcome these challenges, systems and algorithms are adopted to align different ontologies. In this study, it is understood that controlled vocabularies are a particular form of ontology. Objective: to obtain a vocabulary resulting from the alignment and fusion of the Vocabularies Scientific Domains and Scientific Areas of the Foundation for Science and Technology, -FCT, European Science Vocabulary -EuroSciVoc and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization -UNESCO nomenclature for fields of Science and Technology, in the Computing Sciences domain, tobe used in the IViSSEM project. Methodology: literature review on systems/algorithms for ontology alignment, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses -PRISMA methodology; alignment of the three vocabularies; and validation of the resulting vocabulary by means of a Delphi study. Results: we proceeded to analyze the 25 ontology alignment systems and variants that participated in at least one track of the Ontology Alignment Evaluation Initiative competition between 2018 and 2019. From these systems, Agreement Maker Light and Log Map were selected to perform the alignment of the three vocabularies, making a cut to the area of Computer Science. Conclusion: The vocabulary was obtained from Agreement Maker Light for having presented a better performance. At the end, a vocabulary with 98 terms was obtained in the Computer Science domain to be adopted by the IViSSEM project. The alignment resulted from the vocabularies used by FCT (Portugal), with the one adopted by the European Union (EuroSciVoc) and another one from the domain of Science & Technology (UNESCO). This result is beneficial to other universities and projects, as well as to FCT itself.
Systematization of the evaluation model of vocabulary control in repositories: research report with the Unesp Institutional Repository
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Fugita Mariângela
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Vocabulary control in information resource storage, treatment and retrieval systems is necessary to obtain consistency between indexing and retrieval in order to avoid informational dispersion. Digital repositories in universities are currently fundamentalin the organization and management of knowledge generated by scientific, technological, artistic, and administrative production, however, it is necessary to verify the availability of controlled vocabulary and how vocabulary control is carried out. Objective: With the objective of systematizing a proposal for vocabulary control and the use of controlled vocabularies in university repositories managed by libraries, an evaluation model was developed that proposes to systematize methods, procedures, resources, and techniques. Methodology: For this, the development of the investigation carried out exploratory research with bibliographic and documentary research and applied research in the Unesp Repository. Results: The results obtained constituted an Action Plan, discussed and elaborated by the Study Group, composed of six actions and nine studies to evaluate and control vocabulary in university repositories about: vocabulary control in indexing by professionals and non-professionals; vocabulary control in retrieval; use of subject metadata from academic papers; keyword matching; analysis of terminological variations at semantic, syntactic and pragmatic levels; analysis of transaction logs for searches by subject. Conclusion: Itis concluded that the systematization of actions in an evaluation model is relevant for university repositories to incorporate the advances offered by vocabulary control in their routines and, mainly, for the contribution of new terms arising from scientific and technological evolution.
PREVALENCE OF WAX STOPPER IN CHILDREN IN RIO GRANDE DO NORTE
Authors: Bedaque Henrique , Ferreira Lidiane Maria de Brito Macedo , Clemente Marconi Júlio Ferreira , Morais Gabriel Maia , Cavalcante Luiz Eduardo Queiroz
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Cerumen, popularly known as earwax, is a substance produced by the sebaceous and ceruminous glands of the outer two thirds of the ear canal. The presence of cerumen is usually asymptomatic, but in symptomatic patients there is an indication of appropriate therapy. Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence and associated symptoms of ear cerumen in children from a tertiary hospital. Methodology: This is an analytical, transversal and observational research, within a quantitative approach. An epidemiological study in which it is expected to obtain, by sampling, the prevalence of the entire pediatric population in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. This research was carried out with an age group, over 5 years old to under 18 years old. Results: A total of 385 children participated in the research, being 51.2% male (n=197) and 48.8% female (n=188), age ranged from 6 to 17 years, with an average 10.05. Among the total number of participants, the presence of wax was verified in 326 (84.7%), with cerumen impaction in 45 children (11.7%). Furthermore, of the total cases of total obstruction, 46.6% were bilateral. Conclusion: Cerumen impaction is a common problem observed in Brazilian children. It is evident the importance of increasing accessibility to the health service that is capable of performing otoscopy, in addition to ear lavage, in order to reduce the prevalence and impact of cerumen impaction in children in Brazil.
Prevalence of otological symptoms at Rio Grande do Norte’s population
Authors: Bedaque Henrique , Silveira Yasmim Barros , Silva Pedro Henrique de Medeiros , Ferreira Lidiane Maria de Brito Macedo
Published: July 2023

Otorhinolaryngology has several areas, including otology, rhinology, in addition to involving complaints of the throat, sleep, dysphagia, phoniatry, taste, smell and otoneurology. In terms of frequency in otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinics, right after nasal alterations, there are otological complaints. OBJECTIVE: Define the prevalence of hypoacusis, dizziness, tinnitus, otological pruritus and earache of Rio Grande do Norte’s population. METHOD: A total of 1067 volunteers at the Hospital Universitário Onofre Lopes (HUOL-RN) were evaluated regarding the presence of otological complaints. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Otological complaints are extremely common in the studied population, especially otological pruritus, hypoacusis and tinnitus.
INTRATHECAL DEXMEDETOMIDINE USE IN SHIVERING PREVENTION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIALS
Authors: Rego Vasconcelos Amanda , Medeiros Heitor , Pereira Trevisan Lucas , Klenio Confessor de Souza Raphael , Andrino da Silva Wallace
Published: July 2023

Shivering is a common postoperative complication and can lead to important interferences in monitorization, in addition to causing discomfort to the patient and increased oxygen consumption. Although frequently related to hypothermia, it can occur in normothermic patients, a fact that raises the importance of using pharmacological strategies for its prophylaxis and treatment. The effectiveness of alpha-2 agonists in preventing this entity has been extensively studied, mainly dexmedetomidine due to its greater selectivity to alpha-2 receptors. Many studies have shown that its intravenous infusion is capable of preventing post-anesthetic shivering, however its use has been questioned due to its possible side effects. Intrathecal administration, on the other hand, has been evaluated as an effective adjuvant drug to local anesthetics. Therefore, this study aims to review the evidence of the intrathecal use of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant drug in spinal anesthesia to prevent shivering. A search was performed in the MEDLINE database accessed through PubMed and Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), which resulted in seven randomized clinical trials presented in this work. They show a significant reduction in the incidence and intensity of shivering after spinal block with the use of five micrograms of intrathecal dexmedetomidine, in addition to promoting an increase in the duration of motor and sensory blocks. However, further studies are still needed to ensure that the hemodynamic repercussions are not significant.
THE EFFECT OF TURMERIC ON ULCERATIVE COLITIS: A PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Araujo-Filho Irami , Moraes da Cunha Franciara Leticea , Meneses do Rêgo Amália Cinthia
Published: July 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with limited treatment options and potential side effects. Curcumin, derived from Curcuma longa, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making it a potential therapeutic choice for UC. This review summarizes the literature on the impact of curcumin on UC management and its mechanisms of action. The included studies demonstrated that curcumin supplementation can lead to clinical remission, improved endoscopic findings, and reduced inflammatory markers in patients with UC. Curcumin's ability to target multiple pathways involved in the pathogenesis of UC makes it a promising adjunctive therapy. However, there are limitations due to the various study designs, curcumin dosages, and formulations. More well-designed clinical trials are needed to establish optimal dosing and evaluate long-term safety and efficacy. In conclusion, curcumin shows potential as a complementary therapy for UC due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Although more research is needed, current evidence suggests that curcumin supplementation may offer clinical benefits in managing UC. Future studies should standardize formulations, optimize dosages, and investigate long-term effects.
PREHOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE AND PROFESSIONAL BURNOUT: NURSES IN FOCUS
Authors: Araujo-Filho Irami , Medeiros da Silva Lázaro Deogenes , Meneses do Rêgo Amália Cinthia
Published: July 2023

Burnout syndrome among nurses working in mobile emergency services is a relevant issue, as it influences the well-being of health professionals and the quality of care provided. Understanding the factors related to Burnout in this population is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. This review aimed to critically analyze the Burnout syndrome in nurses working in mobile emergency services. After carefully selecting studies in relevant databases, a high workload, exposure to critical incidents, lack of organizational support, and inadequate coping mechanisms were identified. These factors promote emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduction in personal fulfillment, central components of the Burnout Syndrome. The need for interventions to face the challenges and risk factors involved in the illness process is highlighted. The importance of organizational support, workload management, and implementation of coping strategies to mitigate Burnout and improve the general well-being of nurses in this environment was emphasized. Additional research is needed to develop evidence-based interventions that effectively prevent and alleviate Burnout in this population.
Vaksin SARS-CoV-2: Kontribusi Global Pfizer dan BioNTech dalam Menangani Covid-19
Authors: Fauzan Rachmat , Sari Deasy Silvya
Published: July 2023

Pandemi COVID-19 telah menimbulkan permintaan akan vaksin sebagai respon cepat tanggap untuk menanggulangi masalah kesehatan global. Untuk itu, peran aktor internasional dari berbagai level sangat diperlukan untuk menangani masalah global seperti ini. Salah satu upaya yang dapat dilakukan adalah dengan kerja sama. Pfizer dan BioNTech merupakan contoh perusahaan multinasional yang ahli dalam bidang teknologi kesehatan yang melakukan kerja sama untuk membuat vaksin COVID-19. Penelitian ini berupaya untuk memahami kerja sama bilateral yang dilakukan oleh Pfizer dan BioNTech berdasarkan konsep Kerja Sama Bilateral serta relevansinya dengan kesehatan global. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif yang berbasis pada data arsip, dokumen, dan internet. Adapun temuan dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kerja sama bilateral yang dilakukan Pfizer dan BioNTech telah melalui proses utama dalam kerja sama bilateral, yakni membentuk perjanjian, melaksanakan kerja sama, serta hasil yang diberikan dapat menyelesaikan masalah yang ada. Vaksin BNT162b2 yang Pfizer dan BioNTech produksi juga telah terbukti efektif dan aman dalam menangkal penyakit COVID-19, sehingga relevan dalam mewujudkan nilai-nilai Kesehatan Global.
Kata Kunci: Vaksin COVID-19, Pfizer-BioNTech, Kerja Sama Bilateral, Kesehatan Global
A Narrative Inquiry on the Alienation Experience of a Home Parenting Unmarried Mother
Authors:   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare, KWON Young-Sook , KIM Sue-Young
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to understand and explore the alienation experience of a singlemother at home based on the narrative inquiry. For this purpose, in-depth interviews wereconducted from July to September 2021 with one unmarried mother at home. The meaning ofexperience was grasped by the framework of analysis of temporality, sociality, and place. Before becoming a single mother, the participant experienced continuous abandonment throughfamily of origin, school, work, society, and lover relationship. After becoming a single mother,she experienced another abandonment from the community. The alienation of the unmarriedmother at home was expanded and solidly structured by repeated abandonment, negativeself-image, and social prejudice and exclusion, but the experience of alienation became animportant motivation for unmarried mother to experience intense maternal love. Despitepoverty, social prejudice, and repeated abandonment, the connection that an unmarried motherexperiences through her child has become a driving force for the relationship between love andhealing.
The effectiveness of inquiry lesson-based digestive system materials for training students' science literacy ability
Authors: Oktaviana Rina , Nuraeni Eni , Amprasto Amprasto
Published: July 2023

Learning biology needs to seek the formation of students who have scientific literacy skills. This ability is closely related to understanding science in everyday life. This study aims to analyze the increase in scientific literacy skills by implementing inquiry lesson-based worksheets on the material of the human digestive system. The research method used was quasi-experimental with a non-randomized control group pre-test and post-test research design. Participants are two classes XI MIPA. The sampling technique is cluster random sampling. That is, two classes XI MIPA were randomly selected. Classes XI MIPA 5 and XI MIPA 6, each consisting of 32 students, where one was the control class and the other was the experimental class. Data were obtained using 10 PISA frameworks scientific literacy questions in the form of valid and reliable multiple choice questions. The results showed a significant difference, as evidenced by the results of hypothesis testing with Sig. (2-tailed) = 0.000 < 0.05, then H0 rejected and Ha accepted. There is a difference in t-count experimental class and t-count where is the control class t-count the experimental class is greater than t-count the control class is 53.82 > 21.997 so that the scientific literacy abilities of students from the two classes have significant differences.Abstrak Pembelajaran biologi perlu mengupayakan terbentuknya peserta didik yang memiliki kemampuan literasi sains. Kemampuan ini erat hubungannya dengan pemahaman sains di dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peningkatan kemampuan literasi sains melalui implementasi LKPD berbasis Inquiry Lesson pada materi sistem pencernaan manusia. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu quasi eksperimental dengan desain penelitian Pre-test and Post-test Non-randomized Control Group. Partisipan merupakan dua kelas XI MIPA. Teknik penarikan sampel menggunakan cluster random sampling, yaitu dipilih secara acak dua kelas XI MIPA. Kelas XI MIPA 5 dan XI MIPA 6 yang masing-masing terdiri dari 32 peserta didik, dimana salah satu sebagai kelas kontrol dan yang lain sebagai kelas eksperimen. Data diperoleh dengan menggunakan soal literasi sains berframework PISA berjumlah 10 dengan bentuk soal pilihan ganda yang telah valid dan reliabel. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan perbedaan yang signifikan dibuktikan melalui hasil uji hipotesis dengan Sig. (2 tailed) = 0,000 < 0,05, maka H0 ditolak dan Ha diterima. Terdapat perbedaan pada t-hitung kelas eksperimen dan t-hitung kelas kontrol dimana t-hitung kelas eksperimen lebih besar dari t-hitung kelas kontrol yaitu 53,82 > 21,997, sehingga kemampuan literasi sains peserta didik dari kedua kelas tersebut memiliki perbedaan yang signifikan.
Meta-analysis: The effect of guided inquiry on students' critical thinking skills in biology learning
Authors: Ridzal Dewi Asriani , Hatuala Mujuna , Haswan Haswan , Farnia Farnia
Published: July 2023

Critical thinking skills are one of the six skills (6C) that must have by students to face competition in the 21st century. Guided inquiry is one of the learning models that can be used to increase students' critical thinking skills in biology learning. The purpose of the study was to determine the effectiveness of the enforcement of the guided inquiry model, especially on students' critical thinking skills in biology learning based on the effect size value in terms of education level. This research method is a meta-analysis method. The research sample taken from 12 national articles consists of seven journals at the high school level and five journals at the junior high school level. The results showed that the guided inquiry model was effectively used both at the high school and junior high school levels because it was proven to have a forceful impact on students' critical thinking skills in biology learning with an average effect size value of 1.651 (strong effect). Based on the level of education, the enforcement of the guided inquiry model at the high school level has a higher impact on student's critical thinking skills with an effect size value of 1.866 (strong effect) than at the junior high school level with an effect size value of 1.435 (strong effect). This guided inquiry model needs to be applied more broadly so that more students have critical thinking skills and ready to compete in the global world.Abstrak Keterampilan berpikir kritis merupakan salah satu dari 6 kecakapan (6C) yang harus dimiliki oleh siswa agar dapat menghadapi persaingan di abad 21. Inkuiri terbimbing menjadi salah satu model pembelajaran yang dapat digunakan untuk meningkatkan keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa pada pembelajaran biologi. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui efektivitas penerapan model inkuiri terbimbing khususnya terhadap keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa pada pembelajaran biologi berdasarkan nilai besarnya efek ditinjau dari jenjang pendidikan. Jenis penelitian ini adalah meta analisis. Sampel penelitian terdiri dari 12 artikel yang terdiri dari 7 jurnal pada jenjang SMA dan 5 jurnal pada jenjang SMP. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan model inkuiri terbimbing efektif digunakan baik pada jenjang SMA maupun SMP karena terbukti dapat memberikan pengaruh yang sangat kuat terhadap keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa pada pembelajaran biologi dengan nilai rerata besaran efek sebesar 1.651 (efek kuat). Berdasarkan jenjang pendidikan, penerapan model inquiry terbimbing pada tingkat SMA memiliki pengaruh yang lebih besar terhadap keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa dengan nilai besaran efek sebesar 1.866 (efek kuat) dibanding ditingkat SMP dengan nilai besaran efek sebesar 1.435 (efek kuat). Model inkuiri terbimbing ini perlu diterapkan secara lebih luas agar lebih banyak peserta didik yang memiliki keterampilan berpikir kritis dan siap bersaing di dunia global.
The development of guided-inquiry based student worksheets integrated with Islamic values on environmental pollution material
Authors: Fazira Dayana , Jayanti Ummi Nur Afinni Dwi
Published: July 2023

Guided inquiry-based student worksheets (LKPD) that are integrated with Islamic values are still rarely developed. This research was conducted with the aim of developing LKPD, as well as testing validity, practicality and effectiveness in classroom learning. The method used is Research and Development (R&D) 4D model. Data was collected using validation sheets by media experts, materials, Islamic values material, biology teacher response questionnaires and class X MIA MAS Madinatussalam Deli Serdang students. The results of the study obtained a score of 96.15% in the "very valid" category for the media feasibility test, a score of 100% in the "very valid" category for the material feasibility test, a score of 82.86% in the "valid" category for the material feasibility test on Islamic values. The practicality test scored 96.6% (teacher response), and 89.37% (student response) in the practical category. The effectiveness test got an average N-Gain score of 0.599 with a "moderate" classification and was declared effective in increasing student learning outcomes and environmental care attitudes with a percentage of 92.12%. This LKPD can facilitate learning outcomes and instills the practice of caring for the environment which is integrated with Islamic values which will form a form of faith and gratitude to Allah, the creator of the universe, as well as being the basis for the development of other LKPD that integrates Islamic values.Abstrak Lembar kerja peserta didik (LKPD) berbasis inkuiri terbimbing yang terintegrasi dengan nilai-nilai Islam masih jarang dikembangkan. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tujuan untuk mengembangkan LKPD, serta menguji kevalidan, kepraktisan dan keefektifan dalam pembelajaran dikelas. Metode yang digunakan yaitu Research and Development (R&D) model 4D. Data dikumpulkan menggunakan lembar validasi oleh ahli media, materi, materi nilai-nilai Islam, angket respon guru biologi dan peserta didik kelas X MIA MAS Madinatussalam Deli Serdang. Hasil penelitian didapatkan skor 96,15% dengan kategori “sangat valid” untuk uji kelayakan media, skor 100% dengan kategori “sangat valid” untuk uji kelayakan materi, skor 82,86% dengan kategori “valid” untuk uji kelayakan materi nilai Islam. Uji kepraktisan mendapat skor 96,6% (respon guru), dan 89,37 % (respon peserta didik) dengan kategori praktis. Uji keefektifan mendapat skor rata-rata N-Gain sebesar 0,599 dengan klasifikasi “sedang” dinyatakan efektif meningkatkan hasil belajar dan sikap peduli lingkungan siswa dengan persentase sebesar 92,12%. LKPD ini dapat memfasilitasi hasil belajar dan menanamkan pengamalan sikap peduli lingkungan yang diintegrasikan dengan nilai-nilai Islam akan membentuk wujud rasa iman dan bersyukur kepada Allah pencipta alam semesta, serta menjadi dasar pengembangan LKPD terintegrasi nilai Islam lainnya.
A Prey-Predator Defence Mechanism For Ad Hoc On-Demand Distance Vector Routing Protocol
Authors: Akinwale Abiodun , Olajubu Emmanuel Ajayi , Aderounmu Ganiyu Adesola
Published: July 2023

This study proposes a nature-based system survivability model. The model was simulated, and its performance was evaluated for the mobile ad hoc wireless networks. The survivability model was used to enable mobile wireless distributed systems to keep on delivering packets during their stated missions in a timely manner in the presence of attacks. A prey-predator communal defence algorithm was developed and fused with the Ad hoc On-demand Distance Vector (AODV) protocol. The mathematical equations for the proposed model were formulated using the Lotka-Volterra theory of ecology. The model deployed a security mechanism for intrusion detection in three vulnerable sections of the AODV protocol. The model simulation was performed using MATLAB for the mathematical model evaluation and using OMNET++ for protocol performance testing. The MATLAB simulation results, which used empirical and field data, have established that the adapted Lotka-Volterra-based equations adequately represent network defense using the communal algorithm. Using the number of active nodes as a measure of throughput after attack (with a maximum throughput of 250 units), the proposed model had a throughput of 230 units while under attack and the intrusion was nullified within 2 seconds. The OMNET++ results for protocol simulation that use throughput, delivery ratio, network delay, and load as performance metrics with the OMNET++ embedded datasets showed good performance of the model, which was better than the existing conventional survivability systems. The comparison of the proposed model with the existing model is also presented. The study concludes that the proposed communal defence model was effective in protecting the entire routing layer (layer 2) of the AODV protocol when exposed to diverse forms of intrusion attacks.
Predictive Control of an Intelligent Energy-saving Operation System Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Lu Yongfang , Lu Xiaofang
Published: July 2023

An intelligent energy-saving operation system is a high-tech product specifically designed to transform the air conditioning systems, motor systems, and lighting systems, to reduce energy consumption. The concentration of equipment distribution within these systems leads to a strong coupling relationship between them. By conducting an overall energy efficiency prediction, the intelligent energy-saving operation system can fully explore its energy-saving potential. The existing research methods for the online control process of intelligent energy-saving operation systems are not accurate enough to predict energy-saving operations when numerous devices are involved. Consequently, this article focuses on studying the predictive control of an intelligent energy-saving operation system using deep learning techniques. The Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) network is selected to describe the energy consumption of the system. The Beetle Antennae search algorithm is then employed to iteratively optimize the smoothing factor of the model, eliminating the need to rely on experiential parameter determination and enhancing the predictive performance of the model. For the predictive control of the intelligent energy-saving operation system, the optimized GRNN network model serves as the prediction model. The primary control objective is to minimize energy consumption while maintaining a unified carrying capacity, thus achieving intelligent energy-saving effects. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the model.
Investigating the Role of Critical Success Factors in Achieving the Success of Agile Projects in the Gaza Strip
Authors: Yousef Yousef A.
Published: July 2023

Achieving project success is a critical element of project management, and identifying the critical success factors (CSFs) that contribute to it is imperative. Agile project management has gained significant attention due to its flexibility, adaptability, and iterative approach, but achieving project success in agile projects remains a challenge. In order to identify the CSFs that have a significant impact on project outcomes, this study examines the role of CSFs in achieving project success in agile projects. A structured online questionnaire was used to collect data from 109 project managers and team members working on agile projects, which was then analyzed using various statistical methods. According to the study's findings, seven factors significantly influence the success of projects: scope and cost management, leadership, agile analytics techniques, customer involvement, teamwork, planning and scheduling, and effective communication, which account for 71.9% of the total variance explained by the CSFs components. The analysis of Pearson correlation coefficients between CSFs and agile project outcomes indicates a positive correlation between each CSF and the four project outcomes (timeliness, cost, quality, and customer satisfaction). The regression analysis includes two significant predictors: scope and cost management, and planning and scheduling, explaining 67.7% of the variation in project outcomes. The findings provide valuable insights for project managers in the Gaza Strip to enhance project success with agile methods by focusing on CSFs.
M1/M3 Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors Control Long-Term, but Not Short-Term Plasticity at the Mossy Fiber – CA3 Pyramidal Cell Synapse in Mouse Hippocampus
Authors: Zheng Fang , Wess Jürgen , Alzheimer Christian
Published: July 2023

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors are well-known for their crucial involvement in hippocampus-dependent learning and memory, but the exact roles of the various receptor subtypes (M1-M5) are still not fully understood. Here, we studied how M1 and M3 receptors affect plasticity at the mossy fiber (MF)-CA3 pyramidal cell synapse. In hippocampal slices from M1/M3 receptor double knockout (M1/M3-dKO) mice, the signature short-term plasticity of the MF-CA3 synapse was not significantly affected. However, the rather unique, NMDA receptor-independent and presynaptic form of long-term potentiation (LTP) of this synapse was much larger in M1/M3-deficient slices compared to wild type slices, in both field potential and whole-cell recordings. Consistent with its presynaptic origin, induction of MF-LTP strongly enhanced the excitatory drive onto single CA3 pyramidal cells, with the effect being more pronounced in M1/M3-dKO cells. In an earlier study [1], we found that deletion of M2 receptors in mice disinhibits MF-LTP in a similar fashion, suggesting that endogenous acetylcholine employs both M1/M3 and M2 receptors to constrain MF-LTP. Importantly, such synergism was not observed for MF long-term depression (LTD). Low-frequency stimulation, which reliably induced LTD of MF synapses in control slices, failed to do so in M1/M3-dKO slices and gave rise to LTP instead. In striking contrast, loss of M2 augmented LTD when compared to control slices. Taken together, our data demonstrate convergence of M1/M3 and M2 receptors on MF-LTP, but functional divergence on MF-LTD, the net effect being well-balanced bidirectional plasticity of the MF-CA3 pyramidal cell synapse.
Evaluating Structural Details Influence on Elastic Wave Propagation for Composite Structures via Ray Tracing
Authors: Sanchez Iglesias Fernando , Fernández López Antonio
Published: July 2023

This study presents a novel method based in ray tracing for analyzing wave propagation in composites, specifically tailored for Structural Health Monitoring applications. The method offers distinct advantages over the commonly used Finite Element Method mainly in computational resource utilization, that has become a limiting factor for this kind of analyses. The ray tracing method is evaluated against a number of example cases representing structural details such as thickness changes, stringers or simulated damages and it highlights the significance of ray tracing to study wave propagation under these conditions and how it can serve as a valuable tool for structural health monitoring.
Estimation of the Uncertainties Introduced in Thermal Map Mosaic: A Case of Study with PIX4D Mapper Software
Authors: Caputo Teresa , Bellucci Sessa Eliana , Marotta Enrica , Caputo Antonio , Belviso Pasquale , Avvisati Gala , Peluso Rosario , Carandente Antonio
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study is to analyse problems related to thermal mapping obtained from thermal data acquired from Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) equipped with thermal cameras. We focused on an accurate analysis of uncertainties introduced by the PIX4D Mapper software used to obtain the surface temperature maps of thermal images acquired by the UAS. To achieve this aim, we used artificial thermal reference during the surveys, as well as natural hot targets, i.e. thermal anomalies in the Pisciarelli hydrothermal system in Campi Flegrei caldera (CFc). Artificial thermal targets, expressly created and designed for this goal, are a prototype here called “developed thermal target” (DTT) made by the drone Laboratory at Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia - Osservatorio Vesuviano (INGV-OV). We show the results obtained by three surveys during which thermal targets were positioned on land at different flight heights of the UAS. Different heights were also necessary to test spatial resolution of the DTT with the used thermal camera as well as possible temperature differences between the raw images acquired by UAS with the thermal mapping obtained from the PIX4D Mapper software. In this work we have estimated the uncertainty that may be introduced by the mosaic procedure and furthermore we find an attenuation of the measured temperatures introduced by the different distances between the thermal anomaly and sensor. These results appear to be of great importance for the subsequent calibration phase of the thermal maps especially in cases where these methodologies are applied for monitoring purposes of volcanic/geothermal areas.
Large-Range Switchable Asymmetric Transmission and Circular Conversion Dichroism in a VO2 Based Metasurface
Authors: Zhao Songliang , Jiang Huan , Wang Jingyu , Zhu Wenchang , Zhao Weiren
Published: July 2023

Reconfigurable chiral metasurfaces with dynamic polarization manipulation capability are highly required in optical integrated systems. In this paper, we simultaneously realized giant and large-range switchable asymmetric transmission (AT) and circular conversion dichroism (CCD) in a vanadium dioxide (VO2) based metasurface. The AT and CCD of the insulator VO2 based metasurface reach 0.95 and 0.92, respectively. Utilizing the insulator-to-metallic phase transition of VO2, the AT and CCD could be continuously switched to near zero. Furthermore, the physics mechanism of the giant and switchable AT and CCD are analyzed. The proposed metasurface with large-range switchable AT and CCD is promising in the applications of biochemistry detection, chiral imaging and biosensing.
The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Immune Status and Societal Restrictions in Controlling COVID-19 Across the World
Authors: Stroo Jasmijn , Lepolder Michaëla , Murk Jean-Luc , Rijkers Ger T.
Published: July 2023

To control the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries implemented vaccination and imposed societal restrictions both at the national level and for international travel. As a check of the corona status, a COVID pass has been issued. A COVID pass could be obtained when fully vaccinated against COVID-19, having recovered from a documented COVID-19 episode, or a recent (24-48 hours) negative SARS-CoV-2 antigen test. A global analysis of SARS-CoV-2 immune status (determined by past infection and/or vaccination), vaccination rates, as well as societal restrictions in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic is presented.
Mathematical Modelling of Virus Spreading in COVID-19
Authors: Luo Liaofu , Lv Jun
Published: July 2023

A mathematical model is proposed to analyze the spreading dynamics of COVID-19. By using the parameters of the model, namely the basic reproduction number (R0) and the attenuation constant (k), the daily number of infections (DNI) and the cumulative number of infections (CNI) are deduced and shown to be in good agreement with experimental data. This model effectively addresses three key issues: explaining the waveform pattern of DNI, predicting the occurrence of the second wave of infection, and understanding the competitive spread of two viruses in a region. The findings demonstrate that these significant challenges can be comprehensively tackled using a simple mathematical framework. The theoretical insights derived from this model hold potential in guiding the estimation of the severity of an infection wave and formulating effective strategies for the control and mitigation of epidemic outbreaks.
Prevalence of Vegetarianism Among Regular Exercisers in Greek Gyms: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bompola Georgia , Petridou Anatoli , Papadopoulou Sousana , Mougios Vassilis
Published: July 2023

Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of vegetarianism among the general population in western societies ranges between 2% and 9%. Information regarding the prevalence of vegetarianism among exercisers is lacking. The aim of the present pilot study was to determine the prevalence of vegetarianism among regular exercisers in Greek gyms, as well as assess their dietary habits, exercise habits, and attitudes toward health and environmental issues. 291 regular gym clients completed an anonymous descriptive online questionnaire containing 65 questions divided into five sections (demographic characteristics, dietary habits, physical activity, dietary supplements, environment). Thirty responders (10.3%) identified themselves as vegetarians, spanning the entire spectrum of vegetarianism, from raw vegan to semi-vegetarian. Compared to omnivores, vegetarians had lower body weight, were more concerned about their health and convinced about the health benefits of their dietary choices, were surrounded by more vegetarians socially, consumed fast food and ate out less often, used more dietary supplements, and were better informed about what a sustainable diet is (all p < 0.05). Vegetarians did not differ significantly from omnivores in demographic characteristics, alcohol consumption, smoking habits, prevalence of psychogenic eating disorders, or exercise practices (except for practicing more yoga/Pilates). In conclusion, we report, for the first time, a considerable prevalence of vegetarianism among regular exercisers in gyms. Our findings demonstrate important similarities and differences between exercising vegetarians and omnivores (partly at odds with those seen in the general population) and highlight nutritional and environmental issues on which both groups should be better educated.
Sport Performance Indicators of the Miluh-Chagi Taekwondo Kick Technical System
Authors: Sousa José Luís , Gamonales José M. , Louro Hugo , Sobreiro Pedro , Ibáñez Sergio José
Published: July 2023

Taekwondo masters and coaches believe that they have a kind of “eagle eye” and that is why they feel comfortable to analyze athletes’ skills without using essential tools. The aim of this study was to analyze the athletes’ technical indicators during performance of the Miluh-chagi kick. To analyze the reliability and precision of the cycle of ten kicks (n = 120), performed by 5 women and 7 men senior athletes, we used an expert panel and a previously published observational tool. The coefficient of variation was calculated to verify precision. The intraclass correlation coefficient was calculated to confirm the reliability among the evaluators. Student’s t-test was used for group-to-group analysis. Correlation analyses were accessed using Spearman’s rho. The data quality sample reliability results, for group, intra- and inter-rater were excellent and good re-spectively. Statistically significant differences, with a large effect size, were found in the foot take-off, knee up and start leg flexion observational moments. The values showed a small and negative to moderate correlation between the conducts and aggregates criteria. Perfect correlation values were found between support leg foot and contact leg position. These findings meet the measurement requirements of athletes’ technical indicators to analyze motor behavior, develop-ment and performance of this technique.
Cystathionine gamma lyase is regulated by flow and controls smooth muscle migration in human saphenous vein
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Deslarzes-Dubuis Céline , Urfer Severine , Lambelet Martine , Déglise Sébastien , Allagnat Florent
Published: July 2023

The saphenous vein is the conduit of choice for bypass grafting. Unfortunately, the hemodynamic stress associated with the arterial environment of the bypass vein graft leads to the development of intimal hyperplasia (IH), an excessive cellular growth and collagen deposition that results in restenosis and secondary graft occlusion. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a ubiquitous redox-modifying gasotransmitter that inhibits IH. H2S is produced via the reverse trans-sulfuration pathway by 3 enzymes: cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). However, the expression and regulation of these enzymes in the human vasculature remains unclear. Here, we investigated the expression of CSE, CBS and 3-MST in segments of native human saphenous vein and large arteries. Furthermore, we evaluated the regulation of these enzymes in vein segments cultured under static, venous (7 mmHg pressure) or arterial (100 mmHg pressure) pressure. CSE was expressed in the media, neointima and intima of the vessels and was negatively regulated by arterial shear stress. Adenoviral-mediated CSE overexpression or RNA interference-mediated CSE knock-down revealed that CSE inhibited primary human VSMC migration but not proliferation. We propose that high shear stress in arteriovenous bypass grafts inhibits CSE expression in both the media and endothelium, which may contribute to increased VSMC migration in the context of IH.
Cryptographically Upgrading TOR Network to Enforce Anonymity by Enhancing Security and Improving Performances
Authors: ghanem mohamed chahine
Published: July 2023

The Onion Route Network (also called TOR) is by far the most efficient and widely used anonymity platform with millions of users daily and an expanding size and capacities. Since its public deployment in 2002, the Onion Routing network (also known as TOR) has maintained its leading position and dozens of propositions aiming to improve its performance and enhance the security (anonymity and privacy) have been made. Given the significance of this research area, this work seek to contribute into the improvement of TOR by investigating and testing revolutionary cryptographic and routing mechanism. This work is justified by the current TOR vulnerability and observed weaknesses, and set the challenging aim of covering these security flaws by proposing the relevant security and performances improvement such as the authenticated-encryption for onion construction, the lightened onion encapsulation approach and the secured circuit selection and cell routing mechanisms. The obtained results from implementing the proposed improvements and testing them into a TOR-like simulation platform permit to validate not only, the performances and security contributions brought by the improvement, but also the suitability of their potential implementation into the real TOR network.
Load, Electrification Adoption, and Behind-the-Meter Solar Forecasts for Alaska’s Railbelt Transmission System
Authors: Cicilio Phylicia , Francisco Alexis , Morelli Cameron , Wilber Michelle , Pike Christopher , VanderMeer Jeremy , Colt Steve , Pride Dominique , Helder Noelle K
Published: July 2023

Load forecasting is an important component of power system and resource planning for electrical grids. The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), behind-the-meter (BTM) solar, and heat pumps will significant change the amount and variability of loads. Electrification adoption and load forecasting in arctic regions and Alaska is limited. This paper provides the first load and electrification adoption forecast for the Alaska Railbelt transmission system, including yearly adoption rates of EVs, BTM solar, and heat pumps and hourly load data. Adoption rates are based on available historical data and compared to other regional and national trends. Two forecasts are created: 1) a moderate adoption forecast based on projections from current adoption rates and comparisons to other projections, and 2) an aggressive forecast, which provides a bookend comparison at the high adoption rate of 90% for all technologies. The results of these forecasts demonstrate a significant increase in both energy, 80% and 116% for moderate and aggressive, respectively and peak load demand, 113% and 219% for moderate and aggressive, respectively. Additionally, the results indicate a maximum hourly load change of 260% and 381% for the moderate and aggressive forecasts, respectively. These findings highlight a need for resource planning, which accounts for increases in demand and suggests that significant demand management is needed to smooth and control the load fluctuations as a result of the adoption of EVs, BTM solar, and heat pumps.
Optimization of Longitudinal Alignment of 4f System in a Compact Vectorial Optical Field Generator Based on a High-Resolution Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulator
Authors: Li Mingyu , Liu Yuanzheng
Published: July 2023

Vectorial optical fields have sparked considerable interest with potential applications such as optical nano-fabrication, optical micromachining, quantum information processing, optical imaging, and so on. Traditional compact vectorial optical generators with amplitude modulation perform poorly in terms of diffraction effect reduction. In order to address this issue, the refractive 4f system in amplitude modulation is longitudinally aligned using an optimization approach presented in this research. The phase images used for longitudinal alignment are loaded into the liquid crystal spatial light modulator (SLM), and the distance between the lens and the mirror in the reflective 4f system is adjusted for longitudinal alignment by compensating for the neglected phase in the integrated module of the compact vectorial optical field generator. The spot images collected by the CCD are processed using the improved eight-direction Sobel operator, and the longitudinal alignment in the reflective 4f system is determined by the sharpness of the image. The sharpness of the lines' edges and the overall image are both enhanced after optimization compared to before optimization. The results show that the proposed method can significantly reduce the longitudinal alignment error of the reflective 4f system in the amplitude modulation of the compact vectorial optical field generator, lessen the diffraction effect, and improve the performance of the system.