bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ion transportation properties of cement-based material under standard curing and steam curing
Authors: Fu Hua , Zhang Min , Li Gege , Wang Penggang , Sun Xiaoguang , Tian Li , Du Zhenxing , Li Weichao
Published: June 2024

In coastal and saline environments, the infiltration of chloride and sulfate ions into cementitious materials can result in erosion and deterioration. This research focuses on the impact of temperature-related curing methods on the ion transport properties and microstructure of these materials. The results show the curing method does not alter the hydration products of cementitious materials. High-temperature curing reduces the content of ettringite, resulting in decreased Friedel's salt and gypsum after chloride ion corrosion. Meanwhile, high-temperature curing reduces the content of calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and silicon dioxide (SiO2), decreasing the content of gypsum after sulfate ion erosion. This indicates that high-temperature curing reduces the binding capacity of both chloride ions and sulfate ions. High-temperature steam curing also deteriorates the pore structure compared to standard curing. As a result, the resistance of concrete to ion corrosion is reduced under high-temperature steam curing. In addition, the surface ion concentration and binding capacity of chloride ions and sulfate ions both increase with the duration of erosion. At the same erosion age, the binding capacity of sulfate ions is significantly higher than that of chloride ions. This research provides new insights into the transport characteristics of eroding ions under high-temperature steam curing.
Effect of different fibre reinforcements on the strength and acid attack resistance of alkali-activated concrete
Authors: Chottemada Pujitha Ganapathi , Kar Arkamitra
Published: June 2024

The effects of steel, polyvinyl alcohol, polypropylene and glass fibre reinforcements on alkali-activated concrete (AAC) were investigated by conducting various mechanical strength tests. The fibre dosage was 0.1–0.3% by volume of AAC. Furthermore, the effects of acidic exposure on the strength of fibre-reinforced alkali-activated concretes (FRAACs) were examined by immersing samples in 10% v/v solutions of hydrogen chloride, sulfuric acid or nitric acid for 28 days. It was found that fibre additions improved the compressive and flexural strength by up to 13% and 27%, respectively, while the modulus of elasticity was significantly improved by up to 52%. Acid attack tests on AAC specimens demonstrated sulfuric acid to be highly detrimental to the mechanical and chemical properties of AACs. The strength loss in FRAAC after acidic exposure was up to 50% less than that of the plain AAC. The glass-fibre-reinforced AACs were found to be highly resistant to acid attack, whereas the steel-fibre-reinforced AACs had less resistance. These findings were further validated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, which showed the changes in the microstructure of the specimens subjected to acidic environments. Overall, the fibre reinforcements improved the mechanical and durability properties of AACs.
YAYINLANMAYACAK - Research on the Motivational Factors of Information Technologies Department Employees in the Context of Abraham Harold Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Authors: Bahar Burak , Özen Üstün
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study is to evaluate the degree to which information technology department employees meet the stages of needs outlined in Abraham Harold Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory. The researchers identified eight variables and formulated eight hypotheses related to these variables. To test these hypotheses, data from an online survey completed by 401 active information technology employees in Turkey, representing the study population, was utilized. The statistical analysis revealed a noteworthy correlation between the variables, particularly in terms of income status and motivation, across all sub-dimensions of Abraham Harold Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory. While variations in the perceived level of deprivation by sub-dimensions were identified in other hypotheses, these variances did not reach statistical significance across all sub-dimensions.
Osmanlı Vakıf Yöneticilerinin Girişimci ve Makyavelist Liderlik Perspektifinden Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: Cankurt Cemre , Bayar Yasin
Published: June 2024

Çalışmanın amacı, Osmanlı Devleti’nde vakıfların yöneticisi konumunda bulunan mütevellilerin yürüttükleri faaliyetlerin girişimci ve makyavelist liderlik tipolojileriyle ilişkilendirilerek açıklamaktır. Bu bağlamda mütevellilerin vakıf işlemleri yoluyla kazanç sağlama amaçlarının arkasında yatan temel motivasyon güdüsünün hangi liderlik tipolojisi altında ele alınacağı tartışılmıştır. Çalışmanın amacı doğrultusunda nitel araştırma tekniklerinden yorumlayıcı fenomenolojik yaklaşım benimsenerek tarihsel kaynaklar incelenmiştir. Bu kapsamda yöneticilerin belirlenen liderlik tipolojileri bağlamında analiz edilmesi için mevcut literatürden faydalanarak liderlik, girişimci liderlik ve makyavelist liderlik hakkında teorik bir arka plan oluşturulmuştur. Elde edilen bulguların, belirlenen tipolojiler ekseninde değerlendirilmesi ile vakıf mütevellilerinin, bir liderde bulunması gereken inisiyatif alma, analitik düşünme, riski üstlenme, cesaret vb. özellikleri taşıdığı tespit edilmiştir. Nihai olarak tarihi süreç içerisinde vakıf kurumunda ve ekonomide meydana gelen değişimlerin de etkisiyle mütevellilerin hem girişimci lider hem de makyavelist lider tipolojileri ekseninde hareket ettikleri sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Inflation, Price Dispersion, and Welfare: The Role of Consumer Search
Authors: Sara-Zaror Francisca
Published: June 2024

In standard macroeconomic models, the costs of inflation are tightly linked to the price dispersion of identical goods. Therefore, understanding how price dispersion empirically relates to inflation is crucial for welfare analysis. In this paper, I study the relationship between steady-state inflation and price dispersion for a cross section of U.S. retail products using scanner data. By comparing prices of items with the same barcode, my measure of relative price dispersion controls for product heterogeneity, overcoming an important challenge in the literature. I document a new fact: price dispersion of identical goods increases steeply around zero inflation and becomes flatter as inflation increases, displaying an Upsilon-shaped pattern. Current sticky-price models are inconsistent with this finding. I develop a menu-cost model with idiosyncratic productivity shocks and sequential consumer search that reproduces the new fact and exhibits realistic price-setting behavior. In the model, inflation-induced price dispersion increases shoppers' incentives to search for low prices and thus competition among retailers. The positive welfare-maximizing inflation rate optimally trades off the efficiency gains from lower markups and the resources spent on search.
Formation of Relevant Hypotheses of Structural Changes in Regional Economy
Authors:   Institute of Economics of the Ural Branch of RAS, Chazov V. S.
Published: June 2024

Modern economic situation in Russia depends not only on external economic and political circumstances. It is largely determined by the variety of unsolved domestic economic problems. The paper examines investment processes that lead to structural changes in regional economy. The article aims to assess the quality parameters of old-industrial regional economies and propose practical recommendations for its improvement by developing and implementing investment policies. The research identifies existing factors that determine the growth of economic sectors, providing for the development of the entire regional economy due to the balanced structure and interests in the use of resources (production factors). As a result, the theoretical concept of structural changes in regional economy was clarified on the basis of neo-industrialisation and regional development theories. Causal relationship between investment processes and structural changes in regional economy in time and space was considered.
State Support Measures for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses in the Udmurt Republic
Authors:   Udmurt State University, Chuvakorzin M. V.
Published: June 2024

The process of small business formation in various spheres of public life in Russia is going on without qualitative changes due to various reasons: the spread of coronavirus infection, sanctions pressure, the beginning of a special military operation. Thus, the tasks of creating favourable conditions, stimulating and supporting small and medium-sized businesses gained importance. The article examines the world practice and Russian experience (in particular, of the Udmurt Republic) in providing support measures to small businesses, as well as considers problems in efficient distribution of such measures and offers a programme for their solution. The programme was designed to support entrepreneurs and develop the region’s economy (growth of GRP, shipped products) and budget (increased revenues).
Economic Justification of Public-Private Partnership in Social Infrastructure Projects Using an Agent-Based Approach
Authors:   Institute of Economics and Industrial Engineering of the Siberian Branch of RAS, Zafarjonova M. R.
Published: June 2024

The number of publications on the evaluation of socially significant projects and programmes is increasing, new methods are being developed and existing methods are being improved. However, it is still challenging to select a suitable method according to a project’s specificity. This article presents a taxonomy of widely used methods of project evaluation, which demonstrates the fundamental difference between cost-benefit analysis and social return on investment. When implementing a public-private partnership project essential for the development of social infrastructure at the regional and municipal levels with limited budget, it is necessary to determine the efficiency of not only the project, but also participation in it. The study proposed an approach as part of the cost-benefit analysis, based on the construction of interrelated and interdependent cash flows, which provides an opportunity to substantiate mutually beneficial interaction of agents of PPP-projects in the health sector. Among the largest economic results of the project, an agent-oriented approach was used to estimate social effects distributed among patients of medical services as its important participants.
Step-by-Step Internationalisation of Transport Infrastructure and Choice of Strategy
Authors:   Industrial University of Tyumen, Tchumlyakov K. S.
Published: June 2024

The article examines the internationalisation of transport infrastructure, as well as develops management tools to justify the inclusion of transport infrastructure links of international importance in the international transport infrastructure. The foundations of internationalisation are explored; the author’s definition of this concept is presented. The study proposes a step-by-step approach, including external and internal analysis, development and implementation of a decision on the internationalisation of transport infrastructure. This approach has four stages. Possible internationalisation strategies for selecting strategic directions are described.
Factors of Air Pollution from Stationary Sources in Municipalities of Siberia
Authors:   Siberian Federal University, Verchenko D. Yu.
Published: June 2024

The problem of air pollution in Russian cities remains relevant. The article presents the results of research on factors of air pollution from stationary sources in municipalities of the Siberian Federal District in 2008–2020s. A positive impact of the shipping volume and investment in fixed capital on atmospheric air pollution is established. The study shows that the influence of these factors varies depending on the type and sectoral specialisation of municipalities. The development of studies on socio-economic causes of air pollution at the municipal level is necessary for the creation of effective strategies for optimising pollutant emissions within the framework of the state environmental policy.
Development of a clinical diagnostic model for Bell's palsy in patients with facial muscle weakness
Authors: Li Hongzhu , Chen Guangxian , Lai Guoan , Lin Shiyu , Zeng Jingchun , Lu Liming , Li Yuemei , Wang Shuxin
Published: June 2024

Early diagnosis of Bell's palsy is crucial for effective patient management in primary care settings. This study aimed to develop a simplified diagnostic tool to enhance the accuracy of identifying Bell's palsy among patients with facial muscle weakness. Data from 240 patients were analyzed using seven potential clinical evaluation indicators. Two diagnostic benchmarks were established: one based on clinical assessment and the other incorporating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. A multivariate logistic regression model was developed based on these benchmarks, resulting in the construction of a predictive tool evaluated through latent class models. Both models retained four key clinical indicators: absence of forehead wrinkles, accumulation of food and saliva inside the mouth on the affected side, presence of vesicular rash in the ear or pharynx, and lack of pain or symptoms associated with tick exposure, rash, or joint pain. The first model demonstrated excellent discriminative ability (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.94 - 0.99) and calibration (P < 0.001), while the second model also showed good performance (AUC = 0.88, 95% CI 0.83 - 0.92) and calibration (P = 0.005). Bootstrap validation indicated no significant overfitting. The latent class defined by the first model significantly aligned with the clinical diagnosis group, while the second model showed lower consistency.
Medical treatment for occipital neuralgia: A comparison between four medications
Authors: Keyvan Mostofi , Morad Peyravi
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Treatment of Occipital Neuralgia (ON) is challenging and there is no consensus about how to treat it. Current drug therapy is based on different medications from first-line pain-killers up to opioid analgesics but more importantly on antiepileptic medications and classically CARBAMAZEPINE (CA). Methods: In this paper, we present our experience with the medical treatment of ON by comparison of the four most frequently used medications in 133 patients. Results: Analysis of data from our study showed that PREGABALINE (PR) was on average the most effective drug with 60% satisfactory results. AMITRIPTYLINE (AM) with 53.30% ranked second. AM had the highest (14.29%) and GABAPENTINE (GA) had the lowest (8.82%) rates of side effects. Discussion: In this study, we evaluated and compared the efficacy of four medications in the treatment of occipital neuralgia. In first and second-line treatment, the efficacy of PR appears to be higher than CA.
Core Genome Multilocous Sequence Typing Development Workflow v1
Authors: not provided made.krisna , Monteith William , not provided odile.harrison , C. J. Maiden Martin
Published: June 2024

Core genome MLST (cgMLST) is a high-resolution typing approach that enables the evaluation of bacterialpopulation structure for research and public health-related purposes, such as outbreak confirmation and routine surveillance. Currently, many pangenome analysis tools are available, with each tool employing distinct strategies for clustering orthologous genes and identifying paralogs. This protocol aims to describe a step-by-step process of developing the computational pipeline for pangenome analyses utilising a combination of software, namely PIRATE, Panaroo, chewBBACA, PEPPAN, and Genome Comparator from BIGSdb.
Preparation of PEI for primary coating of MaxOne (neuronal cultures) v1
Authors: Katz Yonatan
Published: June 2024

Polyethyleneimine (PEI) coating to enhance cell adhesion on MaxOne chips. PEI coating is followed by Laminin coating.
Multiplatform Plant Metabolomics Analysis Protocol for Arabidopsis thaliana v1
Authors: Wijerathna Yapa Akila , Netzel Gabriele , Dara Daygon Venea , Stark Terra
Published: June 2024

In the pursuit of comprehensive metabolomic profiling, a multiplatform analysis protocol has been developed for Arabidopsis thaliana, utilizing an array of analytical techniques to quantify a diverse set of intracellular metabolites. This protocol encompasses methods for the extraction and purification of metabolites, followed by their analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for amino acids, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for central carbon metabolism, and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) for open profiling of amino acids, organic acids, sugars, and fatty acids. Each method is meticulously designed to ensure precise quantification and identification of metabolites critical for understanding the metabolic networks in Arabidopsis thaliana. This protocol not only outlines the steps for metabolite extraction and analysis but also details the preparation of reagents and solutions, instrumental settings, and the analytical conditions required for optimal detection and quantification. The integration of these platforms provides a robust framework for metabolic studies, contributing significantly to the field of plant metabolomics by enabling detailed metabolic profiling with high accuracy and reproducibility.
NCBI submission protocol for HPAI milk surveillance v1
Authors: Timme Ruth
Published: June 2024

PURPOSE: This DRAFT protocol provides detailed instructions on how to submit raw targeted amplicon sequence data and associated contextual data of H5N1 to NCBI. The protocol includes essential steps to create a new NCBI submission environment for your laboratory group, which is crucial to have in place before data are submitted. After these initial setups, the the remaining protocol focuses on step-by-step instructions for data submission GUIDANCE FOR NEW SUBMITTERS: Before initiating your first data submission, there is significant preparatory work required. We advise designating a team member to spend several days setting up the necessary systems well before your anticipated first submission. Watch NCBI's 10min video tutorial describing general submission to SRA. ADVICE FOR FREQUENT/LARGE VOLUME SUBMISSIONS: Start by following Step 1 to establish your NCBI submission environment. For ongoing or large-scale submissions, email gb-admin@ncbi.nlm.nih.gov to arrange an account for API-based submissions. Version history:
Antioxidant and Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity of Durio zibethinus L. Clone 175 (Durian Udang Merah) Shell and UHPLC-ORBITRAP-MS Profiling of the Extract
Authors: Wan Zain Wan Muhd Hatim , Mediani Ahmed , Zolkeflee Nur Khaleeda Zulaikha , Wong Pei Lou , Abas Faridah
Published: June 2024

Durio zibethinus or ‘durian’ is a well-known seasonal fruit of Southeast Asia and has been called the ‘King of Fruit’. The popularity of durian has led to large production of this crop in Malaysia, consequently creating a huge agricultural waste including the shell. Despite illness remedies from various parts of durian, the information on phytochemical constituents and bioactivities of durian shells remained scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of D. zibethinus shell extracted with different ethanol percentage (0%, 50%, and 100%). Results showed that the 100% ethanolic extract exhibited the highest 2,2-dipheny-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 96.91 ± 1.09 µg/mL. Furthermore, the 50% ethanol extract exhibited the highest TPC with 130.57 ± 1.92 mg GAE/g crude extract, and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 435.30 ± 3.41 µg/mL. Both 50% and 100% ethanolic extracts of D. zibethinusshell exhibited great potential in α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 1.99 ± 0.90 and 4.53 ± 0.21 µg/mL, respectively. Thus, the bioactive compounds in 100% ethanolic extract of D. zibethinus were profiled by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) analysis. A total of 20 compounds were tentatively identified, including flavonoids, alkaloids, benzofurans, terpenoids, pentose phosphate, organosulfur compounds, organooxygen compounds, polyketides, carotene, carboxylic acid, coumarin, and stigmasterol. In conclusion, durian shell exhibits potential for future applications driven by its inherent pharmacological benefits, consequently contributing to waste reduction.
Dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG) Induced Hypoxia Promoted Migratory and Invasive Properties of HCT116 Colon Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Ahmad Nor Ezleen Qistina , Mohd Yusoff Amirah Alhusna , Md Hashim Nur Fariesha , Abdullah Nurul Akmaryanti , Muhamad Zakuan Noraina
Published: June 2024

Hypoxia, a condition characterised by low oxygen levels, leads to increased production of a protein called hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) in cancer cells. This protein is involved in driving processes such as vascularization, cytoskeletal reorganisation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), which contribute to metastasis. Previous studies used hypoxic workstations, chambers, and incubators to evaluate the effects of hypoxia on colon cancer cell lines. In a cell culture model, hypoxic conditions can also be induced using dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG) as the hypoxia-mimicking agent. This study aims to investigate the effects of DMOG-induced hypoxia on colon cancer metastasis, focusing on cell migration and invasion. HCT116 cells were subjected to hypoxic conditions by treating them with DMOG, and the expression of HIF-1α proteins was measured at various time points, followed by wound healing and invasion assays. It was found that HIF-1α protein expression increases after 6 h of DMOG induction and persists for 24 h. At 6 and 24 h, a significantly higher percentage of hypoxic cells migrated compared to normoxic cells. The invasion assay demonstrated that hypoxic cells were more invasive than normoxic cells within 24 h. Thus, the increase in migration and invasion of cells is comparable to the increase in HIF-1α expression at 6 and 24 h. These findings suggest that DMOG induces HIF-1α expression in colon cancer cells, leading to enhanced cell migration and invasiveness. The established model can be further utilised in gene knockdown or drug treatment studies to evaluate the effects of hypoxia on cancer cells.
Barreras en la capacitación tecnológica del profesorado de ciencias de la salud. Un estudio de caso
Authors: Fernández-Cerero Daniel
Published: June 2024

Las competencias digitales de los docentes constituyen una variable clave para integrar las TIC en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje. Su desarrollo se ha convertido en uno de los principales problemas formativos que afecta de forma general al ámbito educativo, y más aún a la formación de profesionales de Ciencias de la Salud. El propósito del estudio ha sido conocer las principales barreras que encuentran los profesores de educación secundaria que imparten asignaturas de educación para la salud, en Sevilla (España) y su provincia, para su capacitación tecnológica. El diseño de la investigación se sitúa desde una perspectiva de investigación etnográfica de carácter descriptivo, donde se analizaron 60 entrevistas. Entre las conclusiones podemos destacar que las principales barreras que obstaculizan la realización de actividades de formación tecnológica en el profesorado de ciencias de la salud vienen determinadas en primer lugar por factores económicos, de tiempo y de actitud del profesorado.
THE MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF CARBON BASED NANOPARTICLE REINFORCED EPOXY COMPOSITES: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: Turan Fatih
Published: June 2024

This comparative study experimentally investigates the effect of both the type and content of carbon based nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of epoxy composites. For this purpose, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), expanded graphite (EG), and carbon black (CB) were used as reinforcing nanoparticles at various concentrations within the epoxy polymer. The nanoparticles were dispersed by ultrasonication method. CNTs incorporated up to 0.4% by weight (wt.) while EG and CB nanoparticles were employed at 4%, 8%, 10%, and 12% concentrations by weight. Tensile tests of the nanocomposites were conducted according to ASTM D680 to determine the mechanical properties of nanocomposites including ultimate tensile strength and modulus. The results revealed that all types of nanoparticles have a strong reinforcing effect on the mechanical properties depending on their concentrations. When carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were used, the highest improvement in strength, by 84.7% at 0.1% wt., and in modulus, by 32.1% at 0.2% wt. content, was observed. EG nanoparticles exhibited improvement in both strength and modulus at all contents. The highest improvement in strength, by 109.6% at 4% wt., and in modulus, by 95.6% at 10% wt. concentration, was observed. In the case of carbon black (CB), improvement in strength was observed only at 4% wt. concentration, by 44.9%. On the other hand, enhancement in modulus was seen at all CB contents, with the greatest improvement at 10% wt., reaching 58.2%.
El matrimonio forzado como manifestación de la violencia contra las mujeres: Aproximación comparada
Authors: Villacampa Estiarte Carolina , Salat Paisal Marc
Published: June 2024

El matrimonio forzado constituye una forma de violencia de género que afecta a mujeres y niñas en todo el mundo. Este trabajo ofrece una aproximación comparada al fenómeno. Parte del enfoque victimocéntrico requerido por el Convenio de Estambul, centrado en la protección de sus víctimas. Analiza los datos sobre matrimonio forzado y la aproximación institucional y legislativa frente al mismo en Alemania, España, Finlandia e Irlanda. Concluye que se precisa ahondar más en el conocimiento empírico de este proceso en los países analizados para adoptar estrategias preventivas eficaces. Sugiere que legislativamente debe dejar de centrarse la respuesta en el derecho penal, que además conduce a conceptualizaciones demasiado estrechas del concepto de matrimonio forzado, para basarse en el derecho civil y de familia. Finaliza sugiriendo que debe intensificarse la atención institucional al matrimonio forzado en los cuatro países analizados para que sus víctimas tengan efectivo acceso a la justicia.
QUALIDADE DO MENU INFANTIL EM RESTAURANTES DE SHOPPINGS CENTERS DA CIDADE DE SÃO PAULO E DA BAIXADA SANTISTA
Authors: Duarte Caroline Barboza , Pinto Ana Maria de Souza , Matias Andrea Carvalheiro Guerra , Rocha Ada Margarida Correia Nunes da , Glória Neumann Spinelli Mônica
Published: June 2024

Food consumption out of home has become a routine for Brazilians because of the practicality and agility. Nevertheless, this is characterized by a greater ingestion of calories, sugars and fat, which may increase the risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases. Given this scenario, the present study aimed at evaluating the quality of the children's menus available in shopping mall restaurants in the municipality of São Paulo and in the municipalities of Santos, São Vicente, Praia Grande and Guarujá, in Baixada Santista. For sample selection, the restaurants of 30% of the shopping malls of each region in the city of São Paulo were included, as well as those of all shopping malls in Baixada Santista. Only those presenting children's menus were evaluated and, after collection, only one restaurant per chain was considered. The data were collected using a form at Google Forms. Only 30.3% of the establishments in São Paulo and 13.2% in Baixada Santista offered the option of children's menu. The protein and fried preparations were the most offered in the children's menus. The presence of vegetables was evident in Baixada Santista; nonetheless, the servings are considered small, being noticeable the low offer of in natura and minimally processed foods, and the most used cooking methods were boiled, fried and grilled. The results obtained demonstrate there is a need for a new look in the development of children's menus, given the high demand of consumption out of home and the adaptation to children's needs
ANÁLISE MULTITEMPORAL DA COBERTURA VEGETAL DO MUNICÍPIO DE SÃO JOSÉ DOS CAMPOS, SP
Authors: De Mello Tavares Marianna , Fonseca da Costa Sandra Maria , Silva do Carmo Monique Bruna
Published: June 2024

Remote sensing is an essential tool for monitoring and mapping vegetation. Multitemporal analysis of satellite imagery allows for the observation of landscape evolution, fostering the development of management plans aimed at preserving natural resources and maintaining biodiversity. The objective of this article was to present a multitemporal analysis of land use and land cover in the municipality of São José dos Campos, SP, with a focus on vegetation cover, using TM-Landsat 5 and OLI-Landsat 8 images, over a period of 10 years (2010 to 2020). These images were classified into the following classes: Cerrado (savanna), Atlantic Forest, anthropogenic areas, reforestation, agricultural areas, water bodies, and urban areas, using supervised classification techniques in ArcGIS software. The results showed an increase of 4.52% in the urban area, an increase of 314.17% in the silviculture areas and consequently the reduction of the original vegetation cover of the municipality, where the areas of Cerrado were reduced by 88.9% and those of Atlantic Forest by 8.57%, evidencing the need for the implementation of projects and public policies that favor the preservation of the natural plant remnants of São José dos Campos and the protection of endemic species belonging to the present biomes in the region
UTILIZAÇÃO DE TÉCNICAS ESPECTROSCÓPICAS NO INFRAVERMELHO (FTIR-UATR), ACOPLADAS A ANÁLISES ESTATÍSTICAS MULTIVARIADAS, NA ANÁLISE DE QUALIDADE DE COLORÍFICOS ALIMENTÍCIOS CONTENDO URUCUM
Authors: De Sousa Corrêa Devanir , Ferreira Lyra Lucas , Maria Broca Fatima , Maria Barbosa Ana , Koibuchi Sakane Kumiko
Published: June 2024

Food colorings (FCs) have the important function of improving the appearance and flavor of foods. There are two types of FCs: the artificial ones, which are obtained by chemical synthesis, and the natural ones, which are extracted from natural sources. However, the increased publicity about the harmful effects caused by the use of synthetic FCs, as well as the restrictions on the use of various types of synthetic FCs, have helped to increase the interest in their replacement with natural FCs. Urucum, a natural FC extracted from Bixa orellana seeds, has Brazil as one of its largest producers and exporters. The aim of this study is to analyze the quality of FCs which contain urucum, using FTIR-UATR techniques, together with multivariate statistical analyses. The identification of the analytical band of urucum, located at 1716 cm-1, allowed the identification of urucum within the infrared spectra of commercial FCs, without requiring its extraction from the analyzed FCs. One of the FC samples obtained had its spectra taken before and after its expiration date (once a month, for three months after its expiration date). Using the multivariate analyses in the spectra of this sample, it was possible to observe that there was a significant change in its spectrum over time, indicating that this change may have been caused mainly by its contact with atmospheric air and its humidity, as well as with the light of the place where it was stored
PHYSIOLOGICAL PERFORMANCE OF SEEDS OF Phaseolus vulgaris L. AS A FUNCTION OF ZINC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY
Authors: Lima Paula Aparecida Muniz de , Oliveira Cabral Mateus , Henrique da Silva Pedro , Dias Alixandre Ricardo , Rosa de Lisbôa Jacomino Gardênia , De Oliveira Lopes Simone , Sobreira Alexandre Rodrigo , Lopes José Carlos
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to study the physiological quality of bean treated with levels of zinc during the physiological maturation stage. The work was carried out at Fazenda Ponte da Braúna and at the Seed Analysis Laboratory of the Center for Agricultural Sciences and Engineering at the Federal University of Espírito Santo. Bean seeds of the cultivar Peanut were treated with Zn at concentrations of 0; 2.5; 5.0; 7.5 and 10 g kg-1 of seeds and sown in the field. The variables analyzed were seed moisture, 1000-seed weight, length, width and thickness of pods and seeds, germination, germination speed index, shoot length, root length, shoot and root dry matter. The experimental design used was completely randomized, in the factorial 5 x 7 (zinc doses x maturation periods), with four replications of 25 seeds. The seeds of the bean cultivar Amendoim treated with zinc at 10 g kg-1 seeds showed the highest values of pod length, thickness, and width. The seeds of the bean cultivar Amendoim showed the highest germination means and GSI after 35 days from anthesis. The treatment of seeds of the bean cultivar Amendoim with zinc does not influence the seedling characteristics. Seed treatment with zinc does not interfere with the seed maturation time of the bean cultivar Amendoim.  The physiological maturation of seeds of the bean cultivar Amendoim occurs after 42 days from anthesis. The seed water content of the bean cultivar Amendoim at the stage of physiological maturation is 19%
Oil Palm Production in the 20th Century and Beyond: The Impact of Climate Change in Malaysia
Authors: Wan Mohd Noor Wan Noranida , Mohd Nawi Nolila , Buda Mark , Wong Kai Seng Kelly
Published: June 2024

The widespread concern about the devastating impact of climate change, especially in the agricultural sector, has become severe. This paper aims to explore and predict the impact of climate change on oil palm production using future climate conditions projected by the National Water Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM). An error correction model (ECM) and autoregressive distributed lags (ARDL) cointegration approach were applied to assess the short-run and long-run impact of climate change on oil palm production. The estimated short-run coefficients disclosed that the oil palm own price and fertilizer use positively affected oil palm production in the second lag period, and increased acreage benefited oil palm production in the long run. The rainfall variable negatively affected the second lag period but positively rose oil palm production in the long run. The results of forecasting analysis revealed that SN1 (minimum climate variability), SN2 (maximum climate variability), and SN3 (average climate variability) would increase oil palm production by 5%, 1%, and 2%, respectively. Meanwhile, the oil palm yield would rise from 16.73 t/ha in 2020 to 16.89 t/ha in 2030 under SN1. However, with maximum rainfall, the yield would drop to 16.41 t/ha in 2030. Overall, climate change would likely reduce oil palm yield. This research could serve as empirical guides for policymakers and oil palm stakeholders in terms of practical and policy implications to adapt to climate change-related risks and uncertainties. The practical cover investments in technologies, such as developing drought-tolerant and early-maturity crop varieties, boosting water saving, and reducing evapotranspiration.
Assessment of antimicrobial activity of Meliponula ferrugica in pathogenic wound samples
Authors: Rajayan Jasmin Sajini , Rangasamy Naveen , Narayan Niranjan Lakshmi , George Vijila Helen Mary , Rajendran Karthik
Published: June 2024

Background: Honey is a naturally occurring sweet material that bees make from nectar from flowers, secretions from plant parts, or excretions from plants that suck insects from plant parts. Honey’s antibacterial and antifungal qualities are widely known, and it has been used to heal burns, surgical wounds, and decubitus ulcers. Honey instantly sterilizes wounds affected by Staphylococcus aureus. The honey’s ability to fight bacteria can be ascertained by the nectar’s origin.  Many antibiotic resistances among the bacteria that cause infections in humans have directly evolved as a result of the use of antibiotics in clinical practice.
Methods: This study found that Bergey’s manual of determinative bacteriology can be used to identify Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. According to the study’s findings, honey has a capacity to neutralise Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus that have been isolated from infected wounds. Honey’s antibacterial characteristics account for a significant portion of its antibacterial activity.
Results: Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were both susceptible to the antibacterial activity of the honey sample. Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited lower activity compared to Staphylococcus aureus.
Conclusions: The results of this investigation show that Bergey’s handbook of determinative bacteriology can be used to identify Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. According to the study’s findings, honey has the ability to neutralise Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus that have been isolated from infected wounds.
Enhancing patient safety: leveraging artificial intelligence-powered electronic medical records for effective drug-drug interaction nudge in real-world prescribing practices
Authors: Jayanthy G. , Majumdar Arnab , Kaloo Supriya , Shah Snehal
Published: June 2024

Background: Concurrent prescriptions of various medications may lead to unfavorable and unanticipated potential drug-drug interactions. Hence, the elimination of drug-drug interactions is a key aspect of delivering a coherent treatment regime. In response to this concern, HealthPlix, one of India's largest AI-powered electronic medical record providers, introduced a drug-drug interaction nudge feature in June 2022, providing a proactive solution for physicians to address potential interactions between incompatible drugs. This study aimed to elucidate the role of electronic medical records in identifying and managing drug interactions and the advantages of interaction nudges for doctors in prescribing appropriate medications.
Methods: An observational retrospective study was conducted using data obtained from HealthPlix, containing two or more drugs, written for patients older than 18 years.
Results: In an average of 1.9 million patient visits analyzed, the interaction visits were observed to be 1.2 million. An average of 185,745 interactions were observed during the study period. For all observed interactions, an average of 72,383 molecules were removed. These results provide insights into the efficiency of HealthPlix in abrogating interactions and illustrate the tangible benefits of nudges in modifying prescription practices.
Conclusions: The above results illustrate the effectiveness of drug-drug interaction nudges as a clinical decision support tool integrated into HealthPlix, marking a significant advancement in Indian healthcare. This unique feature contributes to reducing the frequency of potent drug interactions, showcasing its potential to enhance patient safety and improve the quality of healthcare delivery.
Vitamin D status and its association with the severity of COVID-19 among hospitalized patients
Authors: Dip Abir Hasan , Quadry Shaiful Azam , Alam M. Shariful , Rijvy M. Tanimul Haque , Akter Shilpy , Parvin Hosneara , Sarker Mohammad Arbab , Ahmed Shamim , Chakrobortty Rajashish
Published: June 2024

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing COVID-19, manifests with outcomes ranging from mild to severe, even fatal. The reason for severe symptoms remains unclear. Vitamin D is implicated in the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19, including ARDS, cytokine storms, and thrombotic complications. The aim of this study was evaluation of vitamin D status and its association with the severity of COVID-19 patients attending Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib medical University (BSMMU).
Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted at BSMMU, Dhaka from January to December 2021, included 103 adult COVID-19-positive patients from both genders. Disease severity was assessed using WHO guidelines, and vitamin D levels recorded. Data were collected using a pre-designed datasheet after obtaining written informed consent.
Results: Among 103 COVID-19 patients, 55.3% were vitamin D deficient, 26.2% insufficient, and 18.4% sufficient. Most were male (65%) in their sixth and seventh decades. The mean vitamin D level was 20.97±10.96 ng/ml with a median of 18.10 ng/ml. Vitamin D deficiency was highest among critical patients (84.6%), followed by severe (71.1%), moderate (41.9%), and mild (28.6%) cases (p<0.001). Severe patients had a significantly higher deficiency rate (74.5%) compared to non-severe (36.5%) cases (p<0.001). Symptoms such as cough (96.5%), fever (89.5%), and shortness of breath (78.9%) were prevalent in the vitamin D deficiency group.
Conclusions: This study reveals a 55% prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in COVID-19 patients, correlating independently with disease severity. Hypertension and diabetes are notable comorbidities. It underscores the importance of assessing vitamin D levels in clinical practice.
Expert opinion on the prescription practice of vildagliptin and its combinations in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus in Indian settings
Authors: S. Manjula , M. Krishna Kumar
Published: June 2024

Background: The aim of the study was to gather expert opinion regarding the use of vildagliptin and its combinations in T2DM in Indian settings.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 24 questions and collected perspectives of experts across various clinical settings in India regarding the use of vildagliptin and its combinations for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in their clinical practice.
Results: Among 195 participants, most clinicians (73%) advocated vildagliptin once-daily formulation for newly diagnosed young diabetics, elderly patients with long-standing diabetes, and those with uncontrolled diabetes as an add-on therapy. Around 92% favored vildagliptin for its weight-neutral nature, preservation of beta-cell function, minimal glycemic variation, and low risk of adverse effects. Most clinicians (66%) preferred initiating vildagliptin and metformin combination therapy in diabetic individuals aged 40 to 50 years, with 53% opting for it when HbA1c levels exceeded 8%. Approximately 83% favored this combination for young, elderly, and long-standing diabetic individuals. More than half (54%) of the clinicians preferred prescribing the fixed-dose combination (FDC) of vildagliptin and dapagliflozin to 11-25% of the patients.  
Conclusions: The survey underscored the effectiveness of vildagliptin and its combinations in managing T2DM. Clinicians widely endorsed vildagliptin once-daily formulation and vildagliptin and metformin therapy for diverse diabetic populations due to their efficacy and tolerability. They also advocated the use of vildagliptin and dapagliflozin therapy, especially in patients with specific comorbidities or higher HbA1c levels, citing its benefits in achieving better glycemic control and reducing disease progression.
Poland syndrome: a case report
Authors: Deka Debajani , Das Bipul Kumar
Published: June 2024

Poland syndrome is characterized by the absence or hypoplasia of other chest muscles: small pectoral muscle, anterior tightened muscle, grandorsal muscle, and deltoid muscle. Anomalies of the thoracic cage: agenesis or hypoplasia of one or more costal segments, pectus carinatum, excavatum, clavicular hypoplasia, pulmonary herniation. Abnormalities of the mammary region: agenesis or hypoplasia of the breast, areola and nipple. The reported incidence of Poland’s syndrome ranges from 1 in 7,000 to 1 in 100,000. Males are affected more frequently by a 2:1 to 3:1 ratio Poland’s syndrome has also been diagnosed in 1 of 19,000 mammograms. The right side of the body was found to be involved in 60% to 75% of patients - associated malformations: genitourinary malformations, cardiac malformation, hepatic and biliary tract malformations. Case report Our case involves a 7-month-old boy with no medical history of cardiac or respiratory complaints. This is a male child with around 65cm height, and 7kg weight. There is no family history of consanguineous marriage and no family history of congenital anomalies. All siblings are alive and healthy. The child’s milestones are within normal limits. There is aplasia of the right sternocostal head and clavicular heads and abdominal head of the pectoralis major muscle, there is a hypoplasia of the right nipple and breast and absence of subcutaneous fat on the same side. Ribs are visible on the right chest wall. Physical examination shows no history of hand and digit anomaly and no rib anomalies. Chest wall asymmetry with right chest wall showing depression on axillary floor. The anterior axillary fold is absent. On attempting abduction of the shoulder, it shows the absence of the sternocostal head of the pectoralis major.
Prácticas finales de estudiantes de tecnología en regencia de farmacia como aporte a la atención primaria en salud
Authors: Ortiz Rendón Milena , Salazar Ospina Andrea , Cardona Alzate Laura
Published: June 2024

Introducción. La Atención Primaria en Salud (APS) se erige como un componente fundamental de los sistemas de salud, caracterizado por un espíritu de autoresponsabilidad y autodeterminación, desempeñando un papel central en su estructura y funcionamiento, y contribuyendo al desarrollo socioeconómico global de la comunidad. En este contexto, el farmacéutico tiene un rol esencial, centrándose en la formulación de estrategias y actividades destinadas a promover el uso apropiado de medicamentos. Objetivo. Caracterizar el comportamiento bibliométrico de los trabajos de grado de estudiantes de Tecnología en Regencia de Farmacia de la Universidad de Antioquia, que aportan a la APS. Metodología. Estudio descriptivo con enfoque documental, enfocado en la caracterización de trabajos de grado de los estudiantes de Tecnología en Regencia de Farmacia de la Universidad de Antioquia, analizados a través de lo dispuesto en el repositorio CIDUA entre 2016 y 2022. Resultados. Se analizaron un total de 322 trabajos de grado, encontrando que los que estaban relacionados con la APS fueron 79 (42,1%) del sector asistencial y 56 (40.2%) del sector comercial. Conclusiones. Los trabajos de grado de los estudiantes de Tecnología en Regencia de Farmacia aportan de manera importante en áreas cruciales de la APS, promoviendo la adherencia al tratamiento, el uso adecuado y seguro de medicamentos, y la implementación de programas de seguridad y educación del paciente, dirigidos a grupos específicos de pacientes con enfermedades crónicas y de alto costo.