bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Resilient Cities: Optimizing Shelter Site Selection and Disaster Prevention Life Circle Construction Using GIS and Supply-Demand Considerations
Authors: Jiao Hong , Feng Shining
Published: March 2024

City health examinations are integral to China’s urban planning, construction, and management. They effectively identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in urban development, ensuring safety resilience—a critical component. This resilience enhances the city’s ability to withstand internal and external shocks, promoting the safety of urban residents and fostering sustainable city development. Drawing on the Japanese disaster prevention strategy, the disaster prevention life circle emerges as a rescue and protection system during urban disasters, fortifying urban safety resilience. However, smaller and mid-sized cities, constrained by limited resources, significantly need to catch up in disaster prevention planning. Consequently, bolstering safety resilience in these cities becomes a pressing concern. This study focuses on Lindian County in Heilongjiang Province as the urban area under consideration for resilient city objectives. Leveraging the ArcGIS network analysis tool, we optimize the placement of emergency shelters, aligning with urban disaster assessments and the equilibrium of disaster prevention facility supply and demand. Accessibility analysis of emergency shelters was conducted using the Gaussian two-step floating catchment area method. Ultimately, we integrate the range of demand points assigned to each shelter, along with the effective land area reflecting the supply of shelters, as weights into a weighted Voronoi diagram. This diagram is combined with a reference to the entire region to delineate the disaster prevention life circle. Findings reveal that, under the premise of minimizing government construction costs while maximizing coverage and evacuation utilization rates, the optimal resident emergency congregate shelters in the study area are 8, with 98 emergency evacuation and embarkation shelters. Striking a balance between disaster prevention facility supply and demand and regional accessibility, the urban area of Lindian County is segmented into 3 resident disaster prevention life circles and 24 emergency disaster prevention life circles. The objective of this study is to optimize shelter siting and establish disaster prevention life circles in diverse urban areas. This endeavor aims to bolster urban resilience and foster sustainable urban development.
Using a Metadata Approach to Extend the Functional Resonance Analysis Method to Model Quantitatively, Emergent Behaviours in Complex Systems
Authors: Hill Rees , Slater David
Published: March 2024

In an increasingly complex world there is a real, urgent need for methodologies to enable engineers to model complex sociotechnical systems, as these now seem to describe the majority of systems in use today. This is, of course, exacerbated by the increasing involvement and augmentation with “black box” AI contributions. Hollnagel produced a methodology (FRAM) which did allow the analyst insights into these systems’ behaviour, but the model-based system engineering applications demand numbers and a quantitative approach. In the last 10 years, this original approach, developed to model systems as sets of interactive, interdependent “functions” (abstracted from agent or component details), has been further developed to the point where it can take the basic data and structures from the current component-focussed system engineering “models”, and can pull them all together into dynamic models (as opposed to the static, fixed System Theoretic Process Accimaps) from which analysts can discern how they really work in practice, and predict the emergent behaviours characteristic of complex systems. This paper describes how the FRAM methodology has now been extended to provide these extra, essential attributes. It also describes its implementation using an open-source software, freely available for use and verification on the GitHub site.
Methods for Coordinating Optimization of Urban Building Clusters and District Energy Systems
Authors: Wu Peng , Liu Yisheng
Published: March 2024

In the face of increasingly severe global climate change, achieving zero-carbon development goals has gradually become a consensus across various industries. Enhancing the electrification level of building energy use and increasing the proportion of renewable energy applications are primary means to achieve zero-carbon development in the construction sector, which also imposes higher demands on energy system planning and operation. This study focuses on urban building clusters and district energy systems, proposing coordinated optimization methods for energy supply and demand. On the demand side, strategies such as utilizing energy storage from electric vehicles are applied to enhance the flexibility of building energy use, along with methods to improve building load leveling rates and increase renewable energy penetration rates. On the supply side, a dual-layer planning method is proposed for the optimal configuration and operation of district energy systems considering the construction of shared energy storage stations. Results indicate that the optimization methods for urban building clusters significantly improve the flexibility of building energy use, and different functional compositions of building clusters can enhance load leveling and renewable energy penetration rates to a certain extent. The dual-layer optimization method for district energy systems can further exploit the potential of building energy flexibility, thereby achieving a balance between economic and environmental benefits.
Long-Term Environmental Methylmercury Exposure Is Associated with Peripheral Neuropathy and Cognitive Impairment among an Amazon Indigenous Population
Authors: Rebouças Bruno H. , Kubota Gabriel T. , Oliveira Rogério A. A. , Pinto Bruna D. , Cardoso Roberta M. , Vasconcellos Ana C. S. , Basta Paulo C.
Published: March 2024

Widespread contamination of the Amazon basin with mercury has been reported to occur since at least the mid-80s due to heavy gold mining activity. Although initial studies have indicated that this may lead to deleterious neurological consequences to the indigenous populations living in the region, further research is needed to better characterize the neurological burden of such long-term exposure. With this aim, a cross-sectional exploratory study has been conducted with the Yanomami indigenous population residing in a northern Amazon region. All participants underwent a structured interview; detailed neurological examination, including assessment for cognitive, motor, coordination, and sensory functions; and laboratorial testing for serum hemoglobin, blood glucose, and methylmercury levels in hair samples. This study enrolled 154 individuals of 30.9 ± 16.8 years of age, of which 56.1% were female. Mean methylmercury levels in hair were 3.9 ± 1.7 µg/g. Methylmercury levels in hair > 6.0 µg/g were found in 10.3%. Among participants with hair methylmercury levels ≥ 6.0 μg/g, the prevalences of peripheral neuropathy and reduced cognitive performance were, respectively, 78.8% (95%CI 15–177%, p = 0.010) and 95.9% (95%CI 16–230.8%, p = 0.012) higher than those of individuals with lower levels. These results suggest that chronic mercury exposure may lead to significant and potentially irreversible neurotoxicity to Yanomami population living in the northern Amazon basin.
Long-Term Observation of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Response upon High Efficacy Treatment in Multiple Sclerosis—A Real-World Scenario
Authors: Schraad Muriel , Runkel Stefan , Hitzler Walter , Protopapa Maria , Bittner Stefan , Uphaus Timo , Zipp Frauke
Published: March 2024

Immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive therapy is needed in people with a chronic neuroinflammatory disease of the central nervous system such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Therefore, MS requires monitoring for and preventing against infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2. Vaccination and anti-viral treatments are, in particular, recommended for elderly people and people at risk of a severe course of infection and of MS. Here, we asked whether repetitive infection or vaccination influenced responses upon receiving high efficacy treatments, namely sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator (S1P) or anti-CD20 B cell antibody (anti-CD20) treatments. We performed a prospective real-world study of people with MS (pwMS) under S1P or anti-CD20 with repetitive exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus or vaccine. The measurement of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titres was performed by two independent immunoassays after initial immunisation and after booster vaccination or infection. Other laboratory and clinical parameters were included in the analysis of influencing factors. As secondary outcomes, lymphocyte and immunoglobulin levels were observed longitudinally under intravenous and subcutaneous anti-CD20 treatment. In a long-term real-world cohort of 201 pwMS, we found that despite lymphopenia upon S1P drugs, the SARS-CoV-2 immunisation response increased both in selective and non-selective S1P (100% and 88% seroconversion, respectively), whereas those under anti-CD20 therapies merely exhibited a slight long-term increase in antibody titres (52% seroconversion). The latter was independent of immunoglobulin or total lymphocyte levels, which mostly remained stable. If the individual was immunised prior to therapy initiation, their levels of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies remained high under treatment. PwMS under non-selective S1P benefit from repetitive vaccination. The risk of an insufficient vaccination response mirrored by lower SARS-CoV-2 antibodies remains in pwMS receiving anti-CD20 treatment, even after repetitive exposure to the vaccine or virus. Due to the compromised vaccination response in CD20-depleting drugs, prompt antiviral treatment might be necessary.
The Impacts of River Channel Blockages Caused by Sliding Embankment Collapses during Earthquakes
Authors: Harada Norio , Satofuka Yoshifumi , Mizuyama Takahisa
Published: March 2024

New Japanese regulations governing earth embankment construction were introduced after a debris flow in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, caused significant damage. Slope failures block river channels during earthquakes, triggering flooding, inundation, and debris flows. Appropriate risk assessments are crucial for residential areas potentially impacted by earthen embankment landslides during seismic events. This study evaluates the methods used to assess the potential damage caused by such landslides and previous research on the harm caused by embankment failures during earthquakes. We derived predictive equations based on statistical analyses of historical dam landslides that triggered river channel blockages when residential earth embankments failed in the Nigawa Yurino area. The equations describe the morphologies of landslide dams in river channels. The results indicated that the predictive equations were reasonably accurate. We built and validated a two-dimensional model of landslide dam overtopping and breaching using experimental data on a gently sloping dam. We derived the outflow volumes associated with residential earth embankment failures when full reservoirs breached in the Nigawa Yurino area. Our findings suggest that the peak outflow volumes after such embankments breach are generally lower than those associated with dam landslides or deep-seated dam failures, but higher than those of glacial lake outburst floods.
Correlating assessment between clinical features and morphologies on CT scan of mandibular condyle fracture
Authors: Nguyen Van Minh , Hoang Vu Minh , Vo Khac Trang , Le Trung Thong
Published: March 2024

Background: Among mandibular fractures, condyle fractures are common injuries which directly affect the occlusal function and aesthetics of the patients. Accurate diagnosis based on clinical and radiographic features helps to choose the appropriate treatment. This study aims to evaluate clinical features, morphologies on CT Scan of mandibular condyle fractures and analyze the relationship between these characteristics.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study on 30 patients with mandibular condyle fractures were conducted at Department of ENT - Ophthalmology - Odonto Stomatology in the Hospital of Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, from December 2021 to June 2023.

Results: The male:female ratio was about 2:1, the main cause of fractures was traffic accidents (73.4%). The common clinical symptoms were malocclusion (96.7%) with occlusal interferences on posterior teeth and limited mouth opening (83.3%). On CT Scan, condylar neck fractures were the most common position (58.8%). There was a relationship between the side of deviated mouth opening and the affected sides (p < 0.05). In cases of unilateral condyle fractures, there was a relation between the side of premature contact on posterior teeth and the affected sides (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Fractures of condylar neck was the most common fractures in the mandibular condyle, which resulted in malocclusion, interferences on posterior teeth, limited and deviated mouth opening. There was a relationship between deviated mouth opening and premature contacts on posterior teeth with the fractured side.

Key words: Mandibular condyle fracture, clinical features, CT Scan.
Burden of Post-COVID-19 Hair Loss among Older Adults in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thi Hong Chuyen , Le Hoang Thien , Nguyen Thanh Huan
Published: March 2024

Background: Little is known about the burden of hair loss following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in older adults. This study investigated the prevalence and associated factors of hair loss in older outpatients in Vietnam.

Materials and methods: Between March 2022 and July 2022, this multicenter cross-sectional study included 547 older patients (aged ≥ 60 years; mean age 68.5 ± 6.9 years; men 27.1%) from three post-COVID-19 clinics. Factors associated with hair loss were assessed using logistic regression.

Results: In total, 63 patients (11.5%) experienced hair loss. All of the patients with hair loss exhibited diffuse type. In the adjusted model, factors associated with hair loss were women (odds ratio [OR], 3.36; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43 - 7.89; P = 0.005), single or divorced in marital status (OR, 3.27; 95% CI, 1.33 - 8.02; P = 0.01), and history of COVID-19 related hospitalization (OR, 5.17; 95% CI, 2.44 - 10.95; P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Our study found a substantial prevalence of post-COVID-19 hair loss in older outpatients.

Key words: COVID-19, post-COVID-19 symptoms, hair loss, older adults, Vietnam.
The condition of cervical tooth wear and association with brushing habits among students of Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy
Authors: Le Thi Quynh Thu , Huynh Thi Hue Chi , Nguyen Ngoc Tam Dan
Published: March 2024

Background: Cervical tooth wear is a common oral health issue that often leads to the loss of tooth structure integrity, making the teeth sensitive, prone to plaque buildup, affecting the dental pulp, and causing aesthetic concerns. Assessing the extent of tooth erosion and its correlation with brushing habits is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of necessary interventions and preventive measures.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and severity of cervical tooth wear in young individuals aged 18-25 and examine the association between brushing habits and cervical tooth wear.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 60 undergraduate students from the Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, aged 18 - 25, who visited the Odonto-Stomatology Clinic, Family Medicine Center from November 2020 to April 2021. Study participants were interviewed and provided clinical examinations after obtaining their consent.

Results: The study findings revealed a relatively high prevalence of cervical tooth wear (53.3%). Most cases exhibited a severity score 0 (no tooth wear), and no cases were classified as score 4. The highest prevalence of cervical tooth wear was observed in the left mandibular (65.6%). Regarding the association between cervical tooth wear and brushing habits, there was a significant correlation between horizontal brushing technique and brush hardness with cervical tooth wear (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between brushing frequency, toothbrush replacement time, brushing duration, and force applied during brushing with cervical tooth wear (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: In general, the prevalence of cervical tooth wear is relatively high, and there exists a correlation between horizontal tooth brushing habits and brush hardness with the condition of cervical tooth wear. Therefore, implementing preventive measures against cervical tooth wear is crucial for enhancing oral health for everyone.

Key words: cervical tooth wear, brushing habits, brush hardness, student.
Recortes da história dos determinantes para sala de aula
Authors: Araújo Ícaro Amorim Carnevali de , Chaquiam Miguel
Published: March 2024

Diante da atual relação construída acerca da história da matemática com o ensino matemático e a ampliação dos recursos didáticos em direção a uma aprendizagem eficaz em matemática, apresentamos esse artigo científico com base na pesquisa a bibliográfica, de cunho histórico, na qual possui o objetivo de associar a história da matemática como recurso didático  no estudo de determinantes à área de educação matemática, em que tal trabalho, cujo tem-se perspectivas entorno ao diagrama metodológico de Chaquiam (2022), no intuito de propor um conjunto de textos envolvendo História da Matemática que possam ser utilizados em sala de aula da Educação Básica durante o processo de ensino de objetos matemáticos. Em concordância, no que tange a evolução do tema, houve a sintetização de alguns recortes históricos em relação aos momentos de cada personagem, em que se atribui partes bibliográficas e contribuições sobre a temática, nesse caso, o estudo de determinantes. Ao final do texto, realizou-se a produção de intervenções e questões para serem respondidas a partir das informações contidas no texto.  No que concerne aos resultados, mostra-se que a possibilidade de elaboração de textos com recurso didático, a partir do diagrama proposto, é válido para aproximar o ensino da investigação e de como se dá a construção de um determinado objeto matemático.
Proposta de regulamentação da lei nº 21.761 de 30 de novembro de 2023 que instituiu o Programa Bombeiro Militar Integrado
Authors: Silva Marcelo Godoy da
Published: March 2024

O trabalho propõe uma regulamentação para as atividades conjuntas entre Bombeiros Militares e Agentes de Defesa Civil, decorrente da implementação do Programa Bombeiro Integrado pela Lei nº 21.761 de 30 de novembro de 2023. A proposta visa estabelecer critérios para a seleção de localidades para a adoção do Programa Bombeiro Comunitário, alinhado com as Políticas Públicas do Plano Nacional de Segurança Pública e Defesa Social (PNSPDS) e o planejamento estratégico da Corporação. Destaca-se a importância da presença do órgão de segurança pública nos municípios do Estado do Paraná, com atribuições constitucionais para atividades de defesa civil, prevenção e combate a incêndios, socorros públicos e atendimento pré-hospitalar. A legislação proposta visa orientar a cooperação entre Estado e Município, além de regulamentar os encargos dos Agentes de Defesa Civil durante a vigência da parceria no âmbito do Programa Bombeiro Integrado.
Visibility of ‘I’ in the invisible: a diasporic reading of invisible man by Ralph Ellison
Authors: Singh Bidya
Published: March 2024

Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man (1952) is awarded with National Book Award in 1953. It is a work of nationhood that discusses various topics like marginalisation, sustainability, crises of livelihood, supremacy and the socio-political instabilities. Modernity and the imperialist have brought diversity in the regional and ethical entities. Invisible Man deals with the need of willingness that is being suppressed by the unethical norms of colour, cast and creed. It also discusses the hardships of the Afro-Americans who survived in the mainstream with a spur of revival. So Invisible Man is on the other hand is treated as the voice of the marginalised.  The novel begins with a first person narrative who is a black. The colour of his skin made him invisible even in his own eyes. So the question of being “I?” remains constant through out the novel.  Apart from black identity and nationalism Invisible Man also discusses the substantial issues of individuality and personal identity. The narrator is being unnamed because it does not represent the black or the marginalised where as it represents the whole idea of the individuality. The novel seeks answer for the invisible ‘I’ who is needed to be visible and voiced.
Nova rota de sinterização do carbeto de sílicio em atmosfera oxidante
Authors: Costa Rhayana Ayamy Yamaguchi Gomes da , Alkimim Hellen Karina Pereira , Lima Eduardo de Sousa , Campos José Brant de , Souza Rodrigo Fernandes Magalhães de
Published: March 2024

O método convencional de sinterização do carbeto de silício (SiC) apresenta custos consideravelmente inviáveis, uma vez que demanda a aplicação de elevadas temperaturas e uso de atmosfera inerte. Portanto, uma abordagem alternativa de sinterização foi estudada, utilizando fornos com temperaturas abaixo de 1700°C e atmosfera oxidante. Com isso, foram fabricados 3 tipos de amostras com as seguintes composições: SiC puro, SiC com Alumina e SiC com Ítria, todos produzidos com ligante base de álcool polivinílico líquido (PVA). Os corpos de prova foram submetidos a uma pré-carga de 0,5 toneladas para o tempo de um minuto e, posteriormente, aplicou-se 4,0 toneladas pelo mesmo período. Cinco corpos de prova foram fabricados para cada tipo de composição. Duas estratégias de processamentos foram usadas para comparação. O processo A consistiu na retirada do ligante com pré-sinterização até 1100°C seguida da sinterização até 1900°C sob atmosfera inerte. O processo B também envolveu a retirada do ligante com pré-sinterização até 1100°C seguida da sinterização até 1400°C sob atmosfera oxidante. As análises das composições foram conduzidas através dos testes de Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV), Difração de raios X (DRX) e Análise Termogravimétrica (TGA). O difratograma revelou que as fases cristalinas de Al2O3 e Y2O3  não apresentaram impurezas. No entanto, o SiC manifestou divergências em relação à pureza informada pelo fabricante. O TGA do SiC puro mostrou um ganho de massa pouco expressivo à 900°C, devido à oxidação em algumas amostras, e perda de massa devido à reação do SiC com o SiO2 resultando na formação do produto gasoso CO. Para os resultados de TGA do SiC puro, SiC+Al2O3 e SiC+Y2O3, observou-se um leve aumento de massa nas duas últimas composições e um aumento mais significativo no primeiro ao atingir a temperatura de 1500°C, o que pode ser atribuído à oxidação do SiC.
Religious Pilgrimages in South Africa: A Catalyst for Sustainable Tourism and Local Economic Development
Authors: Nompumelelo Linda
Published: March 2024

Sustainable tourism and local economic development as a mechanism for religious pilgrimages in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). This is particularly pertinent for religious pilgrimages in KZN province which boosts historical landmarks and pilgrimage destinations. Pilgrimage tourism and several other forms of tourism related to it have significant affinities to the tenets of sustainable development. The purpose of this paper is to examine the complications that could arise from religious pilgrimages' potential as a form of travel that, once implemented, would be beneficial for sustainable tourism and local economic development (LED). This paper further intends to assess the pilgrimage destinations to be viewed as a mechanism for local economic development. A quantitative research design was employed, as the nature of this research necessitates the use of numerical data and descriptive statistics to draw conclusions. A standardised questionnaire was used to collect data from 410 respondents selected using a convenience sampling technique from different pilgrimage destinations in KZN, South Africa. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted using IBM’s SPSS version 28 software. The pilgrims and local communities’ perceptions of socio-economic contribution indicate that the availability of tourism facilities might be perceived as a socio-economic contributor to pilgrimage destinations. The findings further reveal that African religious pilgrimages can be sustainable and be a local economic development catalyst in KwaZulu-Natal. The study recommends that the South African National Christian Forum (SANCF), in collaboration with the South African government (national and provincial), develop an operational plan to provide business education, entrepreneurial skills, and relevant support to local communities surrounding religious pilgrimages or religious destinations, to empower them to contribute to the development of the local economy. This will assist to reduce South Africa's high unemployment rate, particularly in less developed regions.
Indigenous Therapeutic Tourism: Challenges, Emerging Trends, and Sustainability
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda A. , Abella Márcio , Fônseca Flaviano , Santos Jorgenaldo
Published: March 2024

A healthy, harmonious, proactive, and happy life is not just desirable; it is a fundamental human aspiration in our increasingly threatened contemporary world. This social research, applied to tourism, focuses on the indigenous peoples of Aldeia Fulkaxó in the state of Sergipe, Brazil, conducted between 2022 and 2023. The primary objective of this study is to explore the healing ceremonies and rituals practiced by this indigenous community, which constitute a complex, systemic, and transdisciplinary phenomenon. The research aims to identify and assess the integrative and complementary aspects of the health practices of these indigenous peoples and their impact on governance. The methodology employed is exploratory and involves a review of the state of the art in this field from 2003 to 2023. Qualitative research methods are also utilized, including audiovisual ethnography and field diaries. This approach reveals the challenges and possibilities of indigenous phytotherapeutic processes as ethnocultural tourist attractions. We observe their annual retreats offered to both national and international groups. Preliminary findings indicate a growing demand for tourist experiences that immerse individuals in nature and the indigenous way of life, with a particular emphasis on therapeutic benefits. Furthermore, this study highlights the sociocultural emergence of therapeutic tourism as an innovative product within the realm of health and well-being, with a specific focus on addressing issues such as anxiety, stress, and depression.
Women Tourism Entrepreneurs in KwaZulu – Natal, South Africa: Capabilities and Challenges?
Authors: Nzama Nompumelelo , Ezeuduji Ikechukwu O.
Published: March 2024

This study conducted in the context of South Africa, aims   to explore gender nuances in the performances of tourism-related businesses in the Durban Central Business District, KwaZulu-Natal, with emphases on traditional societal perceptions and access to capital. Questionnaire survey, a quantitative research method, was used to collect data from 150 tourism-related business owners and managers using purposive sampling method. Data was analysed using IBM’s SPSS version 25 software. Descriptive (frequency, mean), bivariate (Spearman’s Rank Correlation (two-tailed) test, Pearson’s Chi-Square test, Mann-Whitney U test) and multivariate (Reliability test using Cronbach’s Alpha) data analyses were applied in this study. Results shows that entrepreneurial performance is influenced by the belief system of the society, marketing capabilities, and the entrepreneur background. Hence, there may be the influence of African traditional societal perceptions on African women entrepreneurs to be more contented than men with the small size of their businesses (because society expects them not to manage large businesses). This study did not make a conclusive finding that gender plays a strong role in differentiating business success or performance. However, the study found that it is somewhat easier for female entrepreneurs to find business start-up capital. Based on this study results, authors recommend that entrepreneurial training and mentorship programmes should emphasise that gender has no role in determining entrepreneurial success. Better optimisation of marketing capability and increased awareness of entrepreneurs regarding sources of business funding, are crucial for business start-ups and success.
Paradisiacal Lived Experiences of Tourists in Islas de Gigantes
Authors: Balida Don Anton
Published: March 2024

This study explores the viewpoints and experiences of tourists at Islas de Gigantes, a captivating tourist destination located in the Philippines. This research aims to unravel the complex factors that influence tourists' perception of Gigantes as an authentic paradise, using a combination of interviews and observations. This study explores the underlying motives of tourists, their interactions with the local environment and community, and their overall level of contentment during their travels. Moreover, it carefully examines the complex relationship between tourism and the remarkable variety of biodiversity of plants and animals found on these islands. It places special importance on the long-term viability of activities like scallop harvesting and their compatibility with efforts to protect the environment and promote the welfare of local communities. This analysis examines the economic consequences of tourism for local communities, emphasizing the crucial role that tourism plays in promoting local economic growth while also acknowledging the possible disruptions that may occur. The study reveals intricate patterns and underlying patterns, enhancing our understanding of idyllic travel experiences. This research considerably contributes to the global discussion on paradisiacal locations by exposing these findings to a comparison analysis with previous literature. Additionally, it provides practical suggestions to individuals involved in the tourism industry, highlighting the significance of responsible and sustainable actions that protect the natural surroundings and conserve the local cultural heritage. Although acknowledging the inherent constraints of any research undertaking, this study provides guidance for future inquiries. This statement proposes potential areas for future research, including longitudinal studies and evaluations of climate resilience, with the aim of improving the sustainability and resilience of tourism in picturesque locations in an increasingly volatile world. This research offers valuable insights into the enticing appeal of Islas de Gigantes, as well as enhances our comprehension of how pleasant destinations can coexist harmoniously with the environment and local communities, serving as an exemplary model for responsible and sustainable tourism practices worldwide.
Instagram as a Digital Marketing Tool of a Hotel Brand
Authors: Silva Cândida , Silva Susana , Rodrigues Ana
Published: March 2024

Social media marketing is increasingly seen as one of the main ways of communicating with consumers, platforms where visual content is the main form of communication, such as Instagram. The human brain is programmed to not only pay attention to individual resources, but also to the stories that these resources tell. Stories allow humans to relate, inspire, motivate, and often be persuaded, because they mix information with emotion. In marketing, this concept of storytelling focuses mainly on details of a brand's branding. Therefore, although content shared on social networks can reach a large audience, that same content can be abandoned in the same instant, and so marketers must consciously create content that is relevant and interesting to their target audience, that tells the story of the brand and that engage the target audience with the brand. The presence of hotel units on social media, particularly Instagram, is increasingly seen as one of the main tools in the hotel industry's digital strategy. This exploratory study evaluates the role of visual marketing by analyzing how it can impact the performance of Instagram posts from a five-star hotel group brand in the city of Porto, Portugal. 77 Instagram posts were analyzed according to the following categories: day of the week of publication, content creator, engagement dimensions (number of likes, number of comments and number of hashtags), presence of people, topic, visual content analysis method (objects identified and predominant tone), color (description of color and tone) and finally, storytelling (the presence of storytelling in the publication and the type of story). The Google Vision API platform was used to analyze the visual content and color of all the publications collected. This study reveals that hotels should analyze the colors, type of stories, photographic content and topics that have the most positive effect on consumers - making the most of the interaction with consumers, leading them to make a reservation at the hotel. In this sense, the main aspects of visual marketing that are most effective are suggested, in terms of color, topic and storytelling, as well as identifying good visual marketing practices.
Host Scaling and Revenue Management: Is there a link?
Authors: Sainaghi Ruggero , Abrate Graziano
Published: March 2024

This study explores how a revenue management capability can be created by Airbnb hosts and the role played by their degree of professionalization, defined as the number of listings (apartments) the hosts manage. Considering the explorative nature of this research, a qualitative approach based on interviews has been adopted. The sample includes 55 interviews realized in the Milan destination (Italy). A protocol was created using the four theoretical blocks. These latter identify the main processes of revenue management: i) identifying the required information to establish the revenue management strategy, ii) making strategic and then tactical pricing and revenue management decisions, iii) managing communication with the guests, and iv) making available software dedicated to revenue management. Milan was selected for two reasons: first, is the second leading Italian destination after Rome in terms of overnights. Second, Milan attracts different targets, such as business, leisure, and trade fairs. Therefore, there are continuous changes in off- and on-pick revenue constituting an ideal setting for exploring the creation of a revenue management capability.Three groups of hosts were identified: i) single hosts, ii) hosts managing three to five listings, iii) hosts managing more than 10 listings. Results show strong differences between single hosts and those managing 10 or more listings, explaining why professional hosts are able to extract more value from their listings compared to single hosts. Two theoretical contributions are proposed. First, the research adds to the knowledge about how a revenue management capability (RMC) is created in the context of short-term rentals (STR). The crucial role of professionalization is confirmed, and a complex set of relationships emerge between tangible (such as the presence/absence of a RM software and dedicated staff) and cultural (such as the orientation towards price discrimination and to revenue or price maximization, as well as the approach to guest selection) barriers to RMC. Second, findings can explain why quantitative studies have sometimes shown controversial results on factors affecting price and revenue performance. Interviews with multiple hosts highlighted how they often manage third-party listings based on agreements that include a limit price, reducing the rooms for dynamic and discrimination price, and more generally revenue maximization.
Tourism Destination Management and Public-Private Partnership Networks: a Literature Review
Authors: Serruto-Perea Yesenia Aylen
Published: March 2024

The competitiveness of tourist destinations depends on their management and the role played by the actors in this activity. In this aspect, the study proposes, based on the review of research on the management of tourist destinations and public-private institutional collaboration networks, to demonstrate the feasibility of carrying out quantitative studies linking these two variables. The method of descriptive bibliographic review of the main databases was applied to find an approach to the most important research and studies on the subject. In the first place, qualitative inquiries directed to destination management and oriented to public and private networks from 2003 to 2022 were analyzed, observing the linkage between these two categories; where the importance of destination management for competitiveness is led by the different tourism stakeholders of the place, who through public-private networks optimize the performance of the locality. Secondly, quantitative cohort studies are presented where the variables of destination management and private public networks are analyzed from the dimensions and indicators for each one, evidencing that these two constructs lead to a relationship, proposing a model in which the factors of the authors Dwyer framed in the management of tourist destinations and that of Chiappa and Presenza channeled to private public networks are included. It is concluded the existence of a theoretical support on a linkage of these categories oriented to the qualitative and relational approach from the quantitative approach between destination management and private public networks, indicating that their study is relevant for the competitiveness of a tourist destination.
Entrepreneurship, Tourism, Local Fashion, and Curriculum Development: A South African study
Authors: Patnaik Sweta
Published: March 2024

Entrepreneurship stands as a pivotal force in our modern landscape, with an array of business opportunities beckoning young individuals. It is imperative that institutions, enterprises, and decision-makers recognize and harness the entrepreneurial potential of the youth. In an age defined by technological advancements and innovation, young people are uniquely equipped to seize these opportunities. Many of the emerging businesses in today's knowledge-driven society bear testament to this phenomenon, a fact underscored by the ongoing global crisis. In South Africa, the cultural and creative industry shines as a beacon of economic potential, ranking among the most vibrant sectors. Given this backdrop, it is prudent to explore avenues for nurturing enterprises within the realm of culture, creativity, fashion, and tourism. Furthermore, it is essential to consider the roles of educational institutions in offering incentives and support for the initiatives of young entrepreneurs venturing into these domains. These institutions play a crucial role in dismantling the obstacles that often hinder the smooth establishment and development of such enterprises. This paper significantly contributes to the existing body of knowledge by presenting empirical evidence that aligns with entrepreneurial motivation theory, albeit in a more specific context: the entrepreneurship of fashion clothing. Furthermore, it offers insights into the formulation of a fashion and clothing entrepreneurship curriculum, as perceived by university students specializing in clothing and textile studies. This research not only sheds light on the motivations of aspiring fashion entrepreneurs but also informs the design of educational programs that can better equip them to navigate this competitive landscape.
The Disruption of the Pandemic in the use of Hospitality Establishments and Services in South Africa
Authors: Nyathela-Sunday Tshinakaho , Lekata Stanley , Kesa Hema , Selepe Mosa
Published: March 2024

The tourism and hospitality sectors were among the most negatively impacted industries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many studies have reflected on the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism and hospitality industry; however, more needs to be written about the effect on the customers. Therefore, this paper aims to report if COVID-19 has affected the use of hospitality establishments and service customers during and after the lockdown in South Africa. This was a cross-sectional quantitative study. Google Forms were used for data collection using snowball and convenience sampling techniques. Seven hospitality establishment categories (Bed and breakfast, guesthouses, hotels, Airbnb, sit-down restaurants, fast food outlets, and wine farms) and two hospitality services (Catering services and delivery services) participated in the study. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26 and presented using descriptive statistics. Demographic data was introduced to give an overview of all the respondents. Most respondents were female (64%) and Africans (69%). Most respondents were employees (49%), earning salaries ranging between R5000 and R50 000. Most customers indicated that they continued to use these establishments and services during the lockdown and were willing to continue doing so post-lockdown. In terms of salaries versus the categories of establishments, customers who earned less visited establishments the most. However, it was observed that customers who visited restaurants were from all salary ranges (brackets). This indicates that customers always continue visiting hospitality establishments and utilising hospitality services. This affirms the importance of the hospitality industry in the social and economic space.
Andrological Points Classification (CAP) Nelore Bulls (Bos Taurus Indicus) of Different Ages, Kept in Reproduction Central
Authors: Ferreira Batista Ana Clara , da Silva Manoel Lucas Carvalho , Pereira Queiroz Augusto Urzedo , Neto Quintal Amanda Pifano , de Vasconcelos André Belico
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive potential of Nellore bulls at different ages, using the Andrological Points Classification system andto analyze the physical and morphological characteristics of the semen, when submitted to the cryopreservation protocol. Thus, 15 Nellore bulls were evaluated, divided into three groups according to age. The first group consisted of bulls aged ≤ 4 years, the second group of bulls aged 5 ≥ to ≤ 7 years, and the third group of bulls aged 8 ≥ to ≤ 10 years. From the evaluations performed, biometrics testicular and semen morphology, were relevant to determine the andrological classification by points (CAP index). For this purpose, the semen was collected using the electroejaculation method. And the results were expressed as mean and standard deviation.
Bioaccessibility of Principal Health-Promoting Compounds in Broccoli ‘Parthenon’ and Savoy Cabbage ‘Dama’
Authors: Fernández-León Ana María , Gómez David González- , Ayuso María Concepción , Bernalte María Josefa , Fernández-León María Fernanda
Published: March 2024

Currently there is a general concern among consumers to purchase goods increasingly healthy that not only provide the necessary nutrients, but also beneficial compounds with functional properties and antioxidant activity. Because of this, there has been an increased consumption of vegetables of the Brassicaceae family, especially brassicas.
Thus, in this research work, two types of brassicas(broccoli and Savoy cabbage) were evaluated and it was found that broccoli had a higher content of functional compounds.
But functional compounds are absorbed and used in different ways when they are digested, so besides knowing the content of these compounds in foods it is necessary to know their bioavailability, which will help meet the health properties of food to optimize the diet and to establish nutritional recommendations.
Analysis of the Frequency of Occurrence of Polymorphic Alleles of Genes Associated with Biotransformation and the Mechanism of Action of Statins, Taking into Account Their Role in the Secondary Prevention of Ischemic Stroke in Patients Aged 18 to 45 Years
Authors: Витковский Ф.А. , Даниленко Н.Г. , Лихачев С.А. , Сидорович Э.К. , Пархач Л.П.
Published: March 2024

Цель. Изучить частоту полиморфных аллелей генов SLCO1B1, ABCB1, ABCG2, ассоциированных с биотрансформацией и механизмом действия статинов, у пациентов, перенесших инфаркт головного мозга в возрасте от 18 до 45 лет, во вторичной профилактике. Материалы и методы. Объектом исследования были 137 пациентов с инфарктом головного мозга. Для генотипирования пациентов были использованы методы ПЦР-ПДРФ анализа, а также аллель-специфичной ПЦР с линейными разрушаемыми пробами (TaqMan). Аллель-специфичная ПЦР с помощью линейных разрушаемых проб (TaqMan) проводилась на амплификаторе в режиме реального времени CFX96 (Bio-Rad, США). Результаты. В результате проведенного фармакогенетического тестирования полиморфных аллелей генов SLCO1B1, ABCB1, ABCG2 установлена частота пациентов с низким, умеренным и высоким риском статин-индуцированной миопатии. Установлены варианты генотипов, при которых вероятность неблагоприятных исходов инфаркта головного мозга с развитием статин-индуцированной миопатии возрастает. Выводы. Персонализированный подход с учетом фармакогенетических маркеров позволит заранее прогнозировать фармакологический ответ на лекарственное средство конкретного пациента и определять тактику вторичной медицинской профилактики.

Purpose. To study the frequency of polymorphic alleles of the SLCO1B1, ABCB1, ABCG2 genes associated with the biotransformation and mechanism of action of statins in patients who survivors a ischemic stroke aged 18 to 45 years in secondary prevention. Materials and methods. The subjects of the study were 137 patients with ischemic stroke. For genotyping of patients, PCR-RFLP analysis methods were used, as well as allele-specific PCR with linear destructible samples (TaqMan). Allele-specific PCR using destructible sample (TaqMan) was carried out on a real-time cycler CFX96 (Bio-Rad, USA). Results. As a result of pharmacogenetic testing of polymorphic alleles of the SLCO1B1, ABCB1, ABCG2 genes, the frequency of patients with low, moderate and high risk of statin- induced myopathy was established. Variants of genotypes have been identified in which the likelihood of adverse outcomes of ischemic stroke with the development of statin- induced myopathy increases. Conclusions. A personalized approach taking into account pharmacogenetic markers will make it possible to predict in advance the pharmacological response to a drug in a particular patient and determine the tactics of secondary medical prevention.
Ensino da Cidade de Teresina: Desigualdade socioespacial e os tipos de moradia
Authors: Araújo da Silva Viana Bartira , Oliveira Brito Portela Mugiany , Valadão Roberto Célio
Published: March 2024

O presente livro tem por propósito colaborar para o ensino acerca da cidade de Teresina. A nossa intenção é mostrar que existe um caminho alternativo para ensinar a cidade de convivência dos alunos e ao mesmo tempo, auxiliar os professores em sua mediação didática, que poderá se valer dos princípios do raciocínio geográfico. Tendo em vista que, ao tratarmos das desigualdades socioespaciais da cidade de Teresina, é possível estabelecer conexões geográficas com outras cidades.