bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Gut Microbiome and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Growing Relationship
Authors: Bou Zerdan Maroun , Hebbo Elsa , Hijazi Ali , El Gemayel Maria , Nasr Janane , Nasr Dayana , Yaghi Marita , Bouferraa Youssef , Nagarajan Arun
Published: December 2022

Evidence that the gut microbiota plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease is already un-ravelling. The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that is not fully understood but includes neural, immune, endocrine, and metabolic pathways. The progression of Alzheimer’s disease is supported by mechanisms related to the imbalance in the gut microbiota and the development of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are at the origin of Alzheimer's disease. Alterations in the composition of the gut microbiome led to dysregulation in the pathways governing this system. This leads to neurodegeneration through neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter dysregulation. Neurodegeneration and disruption of the blood-brain barrier are frontiers at the origin of Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, bacteria populating the gut microbiota can secrete large amounts of amyloid proteins and lipopolysaccharides, which modulate signaling pathways and alter the production of proinflammatory cytokines associated with the pathogenesis of Alz-heimer's disease. Importantly, through molecular mimicry, bacterial amyloids may elicit cross-seeding of misfolding and induce microglial priming at different levels of the brain-gut-microbiota axis. The potential mechanisms of amyloid spreading include neuron-to-neuron or distal neuron spreading, direct blood-brain barrier crossing, or via other cells such as astrocytes, fibroblasts, microglia, and immune system cells. Gut microbiota metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, pro-inflammatory factors, and neurotransmitters may also affect AD pathogenesis and associated cognitive decline. The purpose of this review is to summarize and discuss the current findings that may elucidate the role of gut microbiota in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Understanding the underlying mechanisms may provide new insights into novel therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease, such as probiotics and targeted oligosaccharides.
Novel Series of Peripherally Phthalocyanines (Zn, Pd and Cu): Spectroscopic Studies
Authors: Rahali Asma , Abderrahim Raoudha , Almeida-Marrero Verónica , de la Escosura Andrés , Torres Tomás
Published: December 2022

A new series of metallophthalocyanines (MPc) containing metals such as : Zn (II), Cu (II) and, Pd (II) were designed, synthesized, and characterized, using MS, IR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. A Suzuki cross-coupling reaction was investigated by using the Pd(dppf)Cl2 as a catalyst and cesium carbonate as a base to improve the yield of the precursor 2.6-di(pyridin-3-yl)- phenyl benzyl ether. The changes of metals, substituents, and positions increases the Q-band value from the monosubstituted to the octa-substituted macrocycles, and from Pd, to Cu to Zn complexes. All MPc showed quite similar IR spectra.
Synthesis, Characterization, ‘ADMET-SAR’ Prediction, DPPH Assay,
and Anti-Mycobacterium Study of 4-[(substituted benzyl) amino]benzo
hydrazides and its Hydrazones as the Acyl-CoA Carboxylase, AccD5
Inhibitors
Authors: Desale Vijay J. , Mali Suraj N. , Thorat Bapu R. , Yamgar Ramesh S. , Dharanguttikar Swapnali V. , Dharanguttikar Vyankatesh R. , Chtita Samir , Oliveira Mozaniel , Cruz Jorddy Neves
Published: December 2022

Background:

Hydrazide-hydrazone derivatives have shown diverse biological activities,
such as antitubercular (anti-TB), antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral,
and antiprotozoal actions.

Objectives:

Hydrazide–hydrazones contain azomethine (-NH-N=CH-) group connected with carbonyl
group and are believed to be responsible for various pharmaceutical applications. They aid
in the synthesis of different five-membered heterocyclic systems, such as oxadiazole, triazoles,
etc.

Methods:

In the present study, various hydrazines/hydrazones were synthesized starting from 4-
amino benzoic acid derivatives. Structures of all 9 newly synthesized compounds (6a-6d and 8a-
8e) were further characterized by using various spectroscopic methods, such as 1H-NMR (Nuclear
Magnetic Resonance), FT-IR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), Gas chromatographymass
spectrometry (GC-MS), etc. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis against the acyl-CoA
carboxylase, AccD5 (PDB ID: 2A7S), was also carried out using the Glide module, which depicted
good binding scores than standard drugs. The anti-tuberculosis activity of all the hydrazides
and hydrazones (6a-6d and 8a-8e) were evaluated against the Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37
RV strain using the Alamar-Blue susceptibility (MABA) test. The activity was expressed as the
minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in μg/mL values. The antioxidant activity was also carried
out using a DPPH assay.

Results:

Our findings demonstrated highly encouraging in-vitro results (MABA assay, MIC: 1.2
μg/mL) of hydrazones as depicted by good antimycobacterial activity. The antioxidant results
showed a moderate to a good percentage of DPPH inhibition. Our in-silico ADMET analysis further
suggested good pharmacokinetic and toxicity-free profiles of synthesized analogues (6a-6d
and 8a-8e).

Conclusion:

Our results signify hydrazones/hydrazines as potential hit candidates against the future
developments of potent and safer anti-TB agents.
Bone Scaffold Materials in Periodontal and Tooth-supporting Tissue
Regeneration: A Review
Authors: Jahangirnezhad Mahmood , Mahmoudinezhad Sadaf Sadat , Moradi Melika , Moradi Kooshan , Rohani Ali , Tayebi Lobat
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives:

Periodontium is an important tooth-supporting tissue composed
of both hard (alveolar bone and cementum) and soft (gingival and periodontal ligament) sections. Due to
the multi-tissue architecture of periodontium, reconstruction of each part can be influenced by others.
This review focuses on the bone section of the periodontium and presents the materials used in tissue
engineering scaffolds for its reconstruction.

Materials and Methods:

The following databases (2015 to 2021) were electronically searched: ProQuest,
EMBASE, SciFinder, MRS Online Proceedings Library, Medline, and Compendex. The search was limited
to English-language publications and in vivo studies.

Results:

Eighty-three articles were found in primary searching. After applying the inclusion criteria, seventeen
articles were incorporated into this study.

Conclusions:

In complex periodontal defects, various types of scaffolds, including multilayered ones, have
been used for the functional reconstruction of different parts of periodontium. While there are some multilayered
scaffolds designed to regenerate alveolar bone/periodontal ligament/cementum tissues of periodontium
in a hierarchically organized construct, no scaffold could so far consider all four tissues involved
in a complete periodontal defect. The progress and material considerations in the regeneration of the bony
part of periodontium are presented in this work to help investigators develop tissue engineering scaffolds
suitable for complete periodontal regeneration.
Asafetida (Ferula asafoetida) and its Potential Risks on Respiratory Disorders
Authors: Salavatifar Maryam , Mahboubi Mohaddese , Sotoudeh Nia Sepideh
Published: December 2022

Ferula asafoetida is an endemic species in Iran and is rich in oleo-gum resin with high economic value in the world. One important application of F. assafoetida is its traditional use for the management of respiratory ailments. The aim of this review was to collect papers dealing with F. asafoetida oleo-gum resin in respiratory tract’s diseases in modern medicine. For preparing the manuscript the scientific databases (Google scholar, PubMed, Springer, Science Direct, Magiran), books, thesis, etc. were searched using the keywords of “Ferula asafoetida”, “Ferula scorodesma”, “Scorodesma foetida”, “Northex asafoetida” plus “respiratory tract”, "respiratory disorder" “infection”, “cough”, “trachea”, “traditional medicine” up to Feb 2022 and the collected data were summarized, analyzed, and discussed. The results of the investigation confirmed the traditional belief on the efficacy of Ferula asafoetida in the treatment of respiratory viral infection (Coronavirus, influenza), cigarette smoking, asthma, cough and cancer, but most studies were limited to in vitro. There was only one registered randomized, blinded, placebo controlled clinical trial for 300 mg F. asafoetida aqueous extract capsules (three times a day for 14 days) on 40 patients with COVID-19 without any published results. Although, the studies implied the efficacy of F. asafoetida in the treatment of respiratory treatments, but design large clinical studies for evaluating its efficacy and safety is essential in future investigations.
Direct Load Control Scheme for Flexible Loads under Automated Demand
Response Program for Peak Demand Management, Loss Minimization,
Asset Management, and Sustainable Development
Authors: Chauhan Rajeev Kumar , Maurya Sanjay Kumar , Chauhan Durg Singh
Published: December 2022

Background:

Nowadays implementation of Demand Response (DR) programs in the distribution
grid is a necessary planning criterion for distribution utility. Implemented DR programs
should be automated, intelligent, well-educated, and more competent than the conventional augmentation
techniques to resolve Distribution Network (DN) constraints. Peak demand causes DN to approach
its maximum capacities. Peak demand also exceeds the sustainable limit of the DN resulting
disruption in electric supply, failures of various assets like transformers, feeders, etc.

Objective:

In this paper, a Direct Load Control (DLC) scheme for Flexible Loads (FLs) is modeled
& implemented under Automated Demand Response (ADR) program and tested on real 54-bus DN.

Methods:

This ADR program is implemented through Demand Response Aggregator (DRA) and
ADR Technology Solution Enablers (ADRTSE) to curtail the peak demand on the DN ADR is a
recent technology that may put off new generation (conventional- and non-conventional both).

Results:

It also enables the distribution utility to curtail the peak demand & its period ensuring reliability
of supply without restructuring, augmentation of existing infrastructure, and development of
new infrastructure.

Conclusion:

The result validates the effectiveness of ADR program for peak demand curtailment, asset
management, distribution network losses minimization, and for sustainable development of environment.
Mental Health Disorders in Healthcare Workers Exposed to COVID-19, Mashhad, Iran: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Saeidinia Amin , Ghanabri Ghazale , Akbari Adele , khazaei Fateme , Khani Najme , Khakshour Ali , Talebi Mahdi
Published: December 2022

Background:

Healthcare workers (HCWs) who are directly involved in the management of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection are at higher risk of psychological disorders.

Objective:

In this study, we evaluated the risk factors related to mental health disorders in HCWs active in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mashhad, Iran.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional investigation performed between April 2020 and May 2020 at five referral centers in Mashhad, Iran. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Impact of Event Scale–Revised (IESR), and VAS (for fear from COVID-19) to assess depression, anxiety, insomnia, distress and fear related to COVID-19 were filled. Risk factors were evaluated by the regression model.

Results:

Mean ± SD age of participants was 33.84 ± 7.03 years. Most were females (64.2%). Of 360 participants, 252 had some degree of an anxiety disorder (70%), 63.8% had depression, 55.8% had insomnia, and 72.8% had distress. Work experiences (OR: 0.94, 95% CI = 0.901- 0.983, p = 0.007), exposure to COVID-19 patients (OR: 2.54, 95% CI = 1.37-4.69, p < 0.001), and job status (OR: 1.40, 95% CI = 1.19 -1.54, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of anxiety. Age (OR: 1.15, 95% CI = 1.05-1.27, p = 0.002), exposure to COVID-19 patients (OR: 1.95, 95% CI = 1.04-3.64, p = 0.037), work experience (OR: 0.86, 95% CI = 0.78-0.93, p < 0.001), having children (OR: 0.58, 95% CI = 0.39- 0.87, p = 0.008), and being infected with COVID-19 (OR: 9.95, 95% CI = 1.92-51.64, p < 0.001) were the significant independent factors for depression in participants.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 could significantly affect HCWs mental health status, specifically depression. By targeting these predictors, health policymakers can reduce the burden of psychological disorders in HCWs.
Pemetaan Daya Dukung Jasa Ekosistem Penyedia Pangan di Kabupaten Banyuwangi
Authors:   Politeknik Negeri Banyuwangi, Holik Abdul , Bachtiar Riza Rahimi ,   Politeknik Negeri Banyuwangi, Halil Halil ,   Politeknik Negeri Banyuwangi
Published: December 2022

Kemampuan lingkungan hidup untuk mendukung perikehidupan manusia perlu untuk terus diawasi guna menjamin keseimbangan antara aktivitas manusia dengan lingkungan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji sebaran kemampuan lingkungan dalam mendukung penyediaan pangan di Kabupaten Banyuwangi. Metode yang dilakukan adalah dengan cara pembobotan dan tumpang susun dari data spasial dan data tabular tata guna lahan, bentang alam, dan tutupan vegetasi alami. Hasil penelitian dikelompokkan kedalam lima kelas kategori mulai dari sangat rendah hingga sangat tinggi. Hasil perhitungan menunjukkan bahwa daya dukung jasa ekosistem penyedia pangan Kabupaten Banyuwangi masih didominasi oleh kategori tinggi seluas 2,269.34 km2 atau 63% sedangkan kategori sedang seluas 1,216.84 km2 atau 34% dari total luasan.
Evaluation of prevailing draft loads in the couplings of the electric trains
Authors: Belyaev V. I. , Gorskiy D. V. , Stupin D. A. , Konyshkov A. N.
Published: December 2022

Introduction. Until now, the requirements for manual and automatic couplers for locomotive-hauled passenger carriages and electric trains have been completely identical, despite the significantly lower level of longitudinal forces during the movement of multi-unit rolling stock with distributed traction. The introduction of specialised designs of coupling devices for electric trains led to the development of strength requirements that enable the creation of new models with smaller dimensions and weight. Operating experience has shown that parts of couplings may be destroyed, leading to the uncoupling of trains. Fatigue damage may cause accidents. However, there were studies of the draft loads of electric trains couplers in operation, on the basis of which it was possible to develop regulatory requirements for specialised coupling devices.Materials and methods. The authors measured the forces acting in the couplings of electric trains of various categories and types during normal operation, as well as the frequencies of the occurrence of forces of various levels. The article includes histograms based on the results of processing the received data showing the distribution of longitudinal forces acting on the inter-car couplers and the parameter characterising the accumulation of fatigue damage per 100,000 km. Results. According to the results of processing of the experimental data, the calculation of the accumulation of fatigue damage to the couplers was carried out and the requirements for their expected service life were established. Test procedures have also been developed to evaluate strength and fatigue resistance under high-cycle and low-cycle loading conditions. The article provides ground for introducing a correction factor into the procedure for processing test results, which makes it possible to perform life tests on equipment with different values of the load cycle asymmetry factor.Discussion and conclusion. The authors have evaluated the draft loads in coupling devices during the operation of electric trains, on the basis of which technical requirements and test methods were developed and approved by JSC Russian Railways. Development and acceptance of all new models of coupling devices for electric trains will be carried out in accordance with these regulatory documents.
Monometallic motor-axial bearings of diesel locomotives: replacing bronze with complex aluminium alloy
Authors: Mironov A. E. , Gershman I. S. , Krylov A. A. , Muserskiy P. O.
Published: December 2022

Introduction. Replacing the material of monometallic motor-axial bearings currently manufactured from bronze to aluminium alloy is advisable to improve traffic safety due to the higher reliability and efficiency of such bearings.Materials and methods. This article studies the materials of monometallic motor-axial bearings, bronze and the proposed complex aluminium-tin alloys. Mechanical properties are determined by standard methods: tensile strength, relative elongation (ductility), Brinell hardness, impact strength. Antifriction properties (abradability, score resistance, wear resistance of the antifriction alloy and the steel associated with it, the heating temperature of the steel surface and the coefficient of friction) were determined according to the methods of the Railway Research Institute approved by JSC Russian Railways on the SMTs-2 friction machine. Bronze and three grades of aluminium alloys were tested with M-14V2 diesel oil, and bronze, B16 babbitt and one grade of aluminium alloy were tested with axial oil.Results. This research shows the possibility of replacing bronze with complex-alloyed aluminium alloys both in terms of economic indicators and antifriction properties. A comparison of mechanical properties is carried out, in most of which aluminium alloys are found superior or not inferior to bronze. The exception is ductility, in terms of which bronze surpasses the proposed alloys.Discussion and conclusion. According to the complex of service characteristics obtained in laboratory studies, it seems expedient to replace bronze with complex aluminium antifriction alloy. The final decision on such a replacement could be made after bench and operational tests of motor-axial bearings on diesel locomotives.
Study of the waves propagation of lightning overvoltage impulse in the catenary system of electrified railways
Authors: Belomestnykh K. S. , Bardin A. N. , Vechkanov S. N. , Krylov A. A.
Published: December 2022

Introduction. The article is devoted to the study of the waves propagation of lightning overvoltage impulse in the catenary system of electrified railways. The purpose of the work is to determine the zone of waves propagation of lightning overvoltage impulse along the catenary system, the degree of attenuation and the influence of the soil condition on the mode of their propagation.Materials and methods. The authors carried out tests on the waves propagation of lightning overvoltage impulse along the catenary system of the 1st (ring) track and the 15th (dead end) track of the Experimental Loop of the Railway Research Institute at the Shcherbinka station using a high-voltage impulse voltage generator.Results. During the tests, the influence of the soil condition on the mode of waves propagation of lightning overvoltage impulse was determined. The degree of attenuation of the lightning overvoltage impulse wave in the catenary system in the looped and dead end sections is determined, considering the influence of the reverse (reflected) overvoltage wave, as well as changes in the voltage level during the wave process occurring in the catenary system. The data obtained during the tests enable to determine the propagation speed of the lightning impulse wave.Discussion and conclusion. The obtained test results will be useful for improving the reliability of lightning protection devices of the catenary system against external overvoltages and can be used to improve insulating elements.
Methodological provisions for determining the main parameters of the organisation of the transportation process during the introduction of cars with increased axial and linear load
Authors: Mekhedov M. I. , Sotnikov E. A. , Kholodnyak P. S. , Kapyrin A. A. , Kornienko N. V.
Published: December 2022

Introduction. One of the ways to increase the traffic-carrying capacity of railway lines is increasing the amount of cargo carried in cars, while taking into account the inevitable increase in the axial and linear load of the car. The decision to use cars with increased axial load should be based on an assessment of their technical and economic efficiency in comparison with the innovative and widely used open-box wagons with a load of 25 tonnes per axle. When assessing the economic efficiency of such cars, it is required to consider their impact on changes in the parameters of the organisation of the transportation process.Materials and methods. Based on the presented initial data on the estimated predicted freight flow, the numerical values of the parameters of the transportation process were determined when introducing 8- and 4-axle (27 t/axle) open-box wagons. When determining the increase in the traffic-carrying capacity, its change due to an increase in the net mass of the train and a change in the total number of trains is taken into account. The calculation was made accounting for the increase in traction in proportion to the increase in the gross mass of the 8- and 4-axle (27 t/axle) open-box wagon trains on the existing infrastructure.Results. The authors have developed methodological provisions to determine the numerical values: an increase in the traffic- carrying capacity, the required inventory fleet of cars and the available locomotive fleet in the context of the introduction of new 8- and 4-axle (27 t/axle) open-box wagons.Discussion and conclusion. The article is theoretical and is devoted to calculation mechanisms and methodological issues. The results of the study may be applied to the ranges of the Russian Railways network, in particular, to solve complex issues of increasing the traffic-carrying capacity of the Eastern range.
Estudo do desempenho térmico de blocos maciços de gesso
Authors: Júnior L. L. M. , Tavares Y. V. P. , Batista P. I. B. , Aráujo H. J. T. de , Alves A. M. M. , Oliveira R. S. de
Published: December 2022

A análise do desempenho térmico em blocos de gesso utilizados na construção civil é fundamental para o estudo do conforto térmico em construções que utilizam esse material. O objetivo dessa pesquisa é avaliar o desempenho térmico de blocos maciços de gesso, através de uma câmara térmica com uma fonte de calor em seu interior. Utilizando termopares conectados a um termômetro digital, foi obtida a temperatura dos blocos a cada minuto, enquanto expostos à fonte de calor. Com uma câmera infravermelha foram capturados termogramas ao longo desse processo. Seguindo os procedimentos indicados pela norma NBR 15220 e NBR 15575, foram analisados quatro fatores: resistência térmica, atraso térmico, transmitância térmica e capacidade térmica. No aquecimento dos blocos houve uma variação máxima de 6,3º C no lado frio e 31,2º C no lado quente. Foi analisado o resfriamento do bloco GS 50+, obtendo-se o instante em que ocorre o equilíbrio térmico nos dois lados e comprovado nos termogramas correspondentes. Foi analisado em todos os blocos o desempenho térmico por meio do cálculo de parâmetros e o bloco que obteve melhores resultados foi o GS 100+.
Comparação económica e ambiental entre a reabilitação do Palácio Condes de Murça e uma construção nova equivalente
Authors: J. Ferreira  , M.D. Pinheiro  , J. Brito
Published: December 2022

Na maioria dos países desenvolvidos, dos quais fazem parte os países da União Europeia, verifica-se a existência de um excedente de edifícios, cuja maioria necessita de obras urgentes de reabilitação e reforço. No que diz respeito ao reforço sísmico, tais exigências são ainda mais prioritárias em países que se localizem em zonas de sismicidade elevada, como é o caso de Portugal. No entanto, a solução para este problema pode não passar obrigatoriamente por uma reabilitação. Uma demolição seguida de uma reconstrução também respeita tais exigências e também contribui para uma renovação do parque construído. Assim, através da teoria do ciclo de vida, este trabalho procura perceber se a reabilitação é mais sustentável ambiental e economicamente do que uma construção nova equivalente, edificada sob as mesmas condicionantes. Numa primeira abordagem, recorre-se a umacomparação teórica de vários estudos de avaliação do ciclo de vida realizados internacionalmente para edifícios reabilitados e para edifícios novos. Posteriormente, procede-se a uma avaliação do ciclo de vida de uma reabilitação real de um antigo palácio de Lisboa, que é comparada com uma demolição hipotética seguida de uma reconstrução integral em betão armado, obra que serealizaria no mesmo local sob as mesmas condicionantes. Como conclusões, verifica-se que ambientalmente a reabilitação aparenta ser mais benéfica do que a construção nova equivalente, embora no caso avaliado os ganhos não sejam tão positivos quanto seria expectável, devido à utilização massiva da estrutura metálica e do betão projectado na obra de reabilitação. Por fim, a avaliaçãoeconómica permitiu concluir que a reabilitação é mais cara do que a construção nova equivalente, o que reforça a necessidade de desenvolvimento de soluções mais viáveis economicamente, mecanismos financeiros e de um estudo económico e ambiental integrado, durante uma acção de tomada de decisão.
In general terms, discrete choice models are calibrated using data obtained from Revealed Preference (RP) and Stated Preference (SP) surveys. In transportation planning, one of the main sources of data is the Origin/Destination (O/D) Survey, which is an R
Authors: V. A. Gomes  , C. S. Pitombo  , L. Assirati
Published: December 2022

In general terms, discrete choice models are calibrated using data obtained from Revealed Preference (RP) and Stated Preference (SP) surveys. In transportation planning, one of the main sources of data is the Origin/Destination (O/D) Survey, which is an RP survey and describes the actual choices and behaviors of individuals. However, it is not possible, through this source, to characterize the alternatives not chosen. This study has two related aims: (1) to propose a criterion to characterize the travel mode alternatives using RP data, and (2) to test the improvement of travel mode choice estimates based on including characteristics of alternatives. First, the CART (Classification and Regression Tree) algorithm was used to characterize the travel times of the travel modes available in the study area (city of São Paulo, Brazil). The trips were classified according to independent variables selected by the algorithm, and average travel time values were obtained for five travel mode alternatives – information not previously available in the RP survey. Finally, the improvement of discrete choice modeling, based on including average travel times, was tested using a validation sample and performance metrics, such as Hit rates and LogLikelihood values. An increase in estimates was observed from including travel duration, and the proposed method is an academic contribution to the modeling based on RP data.
Diretrizes para gestão de suprimentos: análise do panorama da função compras na construção civil de uma capital Amazônica
Authors: C.A. Farias Júnior  , R.M. Neves  , A.A.A.M. Duarte  , B.M.O. Nascimento
Published: December 2022

Este artigo tem como objetivo a apresentação de um conjunto de diretrizes relacionadas ao panorama da gestão da cadeia de suprimentos (SCM), com ênfase à função compras, em pequenas, médias e grandes empresas da indústria da construção civil na cidade de Belém, localizada na Amazônia Brasileira. Para tanto, adotou conceitos teóricos relacionados à estrutura da área, seus processos, desempenho e tendências. A realização da investigação, tem como referência metodológica central um relevante estudo nacional em gestão de suprimentos, utilizando-se como ferramenta para coleta de dados um questionário fechado, em formato eletrônico, tipo survey. Constatou-se que quase a metade das empresas (44%) sequer utilizam-se da SCM em suas compras, que mais de 1/3 (36%) sofrem com atrasos muito significativos nas entregas e que a grande maioria busca a diversificação de fornecedores (92%), melhoria nas relações com eles (80%) e nos seus sistemas de Tecnologia de Informação - TI (76%). A partir destes e dos demais resultados alcançados são ressaltadas diretrizes, dentre as quais destacam-se: (1) necessidade de formalização da utilização de Indicadores de Desempenho dos Fornecedores; (2) indicação do aumento do nível de envolvimento da área de compras em decisões abrangentes; (3) configuração de uma nova postura proativa da gestão de compras. O presente estudo de caso, em um segmento específico (habitacional) de um cidade de médio porte em um país em desenvolvimento, chega à conclusões que corroboram os conceitos e as teorias existentes na literatura de gestão da cadeia de suprimentos e estratégia organizacional, em especial no setor da construção civil, e seus resultados convergem com trabalhos desenvolvidos em outros países emergentes, o que pode contribuir para o avanço e maior utilização da SCM na região amazônica e, talvez, em outras que guardem caraterísticas ou contextos similares, podendo, assim, haver importantes implicações gerenciais no setor.
O ensino-aprendizagem da Participação Portuguesa na I Guerra Mundial nas disciplinas de História e Cidadania e Desenvolvimento
Authors: Pereira Maria Paula
Published: December 2022

O presente artigo apresenta uma atividade ensino, de natureza transversal, destinada a alunos do 9.º ano do ensino básico, sobre a temática da participação portuguesa na Primeira Guerra Mundial. Esta atividade destina-se a ser desenvolvida nas aulas de História e de Cidadania e Desenvolvimento, no contexto de um projeto de Autonomia e Flexibilidade Curricular. Esta opção prende-se com a realidade atual, onde o número de horas atribuídas à disciplina de História é condicionante do aprofundamento de alguns conteúdos programáticos, no entanto, considera-se que uma abordagem transversal e integrada nos projetos de turma permite colmatar lacunas. O desenho da atividade tem em consideração a importância do desenvolvimento de competências digitais, as Aprendizagens Essenciais das disciplinas envolvidas e as competências previstas no Perfil do Aluno à Saída da Escolaridade Obrigatória e tem como objetivos principais: i) o desenvolvimento de uma consciência histórica, ii) o desenvolvimento de competências na área do pensamento crítico e argumentativo, iii) o exercício de uma cidadania humanista, ativa e participativa na sociedade. Esta abordagem possibilita uma participação dinâmica dos alunos, enquanto sujeitos ativos na (re)construção do conhecimento.
A memória 2.0 do pianista do séc. XXI: possibilidades e recursos
Authors: De Vincenti Giosuè
Published: December 2022

Uma das dificuldades que sempre afetaram o mundo do pianista solista é a memória. Existem muitos estudos e teorias sobre a memória que concluem que, de facto, a memória influencia a performance (Palmer, 2012). Desde os grandes pianistas até aos estudantes de piano, a prática de tocar de memória pode ser causa de stress e de situações embaraçosas em contextos de concertos. Por esse motivo muitos músicos, e não só, escreveram sobre as técnicas de memorização e sobre a melhor maneira de enfrentar esta situação. Isto implica, claramente, mais trabalho e pode ser limitativo para o repertório individual do pianista. Podem, então, as novas tecnologias ir ao encontro desse problema? Podemos ter o mesmo resultado, com a liberdade necessária no palco, de tocar mais tranquilos e ter um repertório disponível mais vasto? Este artigo fala acerca da memória do pianista na sua vertente de solista (não serão, portanto, abordados aspetos relativos aos pianistas acompanhadores ou em contexto de música da câmara) apresenta um panorama histórico da execução de memória, desde os seus inícios até os dias de hoje, assim como as tecnologias atualmente disponíveis. Neste sentido, é proposto o uso de uma ferramenta de apoio à memória do pianista no século XXI: a Memória 2.0.
Pellagra and alcoholism: case report
Authors: Novaes Ana Caroline Gonçalves de Sá , Sanches Rafael Teles , Souza João Marcos , Carneiro Zuleika Santiago de Medeiros , Junior Joanilson Andrade Freire , Costa Nilo Fernandes
Published: December 2022

Pellagra is mainly caused by a niacin deficiency or its precursor amino acid, tryptophan. We report a case of a male patient, 34 years old, a chronic alcoholic with delirium tremens and gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, inappetence, and heartburn). He presented erythematous-brown, scaly, and well-defined plaques dispersed throughout the integument (photo-exposed areas) for 2 months that evolved with ulceration and hematic crusts. The case was diagnosed as pellagra associated with secondary bacterial infection and treated with rest, an unrestricted diet, B-complex replacement, abstention from alcohol, restriction of sun exposure, and broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. The treatment allowed for significant improvement of symptoms in one week. Aspects of the pathophysiology and differential diagnoses of this condition are discussed, reinforcing the importance of considering pellagra in diagnosing patients with skin lesions associated with risk factors for malnutrition.
Remote Consultations for People With Parkinson Disease and Cognitive Impairment: Interview Study With Patients, Caregivers, and Health Care Professionals
Authors: Pigott Jennifer Sarah , Armstrong Megan , Chesterman Elizabeth , Read Joy , Nimmons Danielle , Walters Kate , Davies Nathan , Schrag Anette
Published: December 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic led to many consultations being conducted remotely. Cognitive impairment is recognized as a potential barrier to remote health care interactions and is common and heterogeneous in Parkinson disease. Studies have shown remote consultations in Parkinson disease to be feasible, but little is known about real-life experience, especially for those with cognitive impairment. We explored the experiences and perceptions of remote consultations for people with Parkinson disease and cognitive impairment.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the experiences of remote consultations for people with Parkinson disease and cognitive impairment from the perspective of service users and professionals and investigate considerations for future service delivery.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted remotely with 11 people with Parkinson disease and cognitive impairment, 10 family caregivers, and 24 health care professionals (HCPs) between 2020 and 2021. Purposive sampling was used. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Overall, four themes were identified: “the nature of remote interactions,” “challenges exacerbated by being remote,” “expectation versus reality,” and “optimizing for the future.” Remote consultations were considered as “transactional” and less personal, with difficulties in building rapport, and considered to play a different role from that of in-person consultations. The loss of nonverbal communication and ability of HCPs to sense led to remote consultations being perceived as riskier by all groups. Issues arising from communication and cognitive impairment, balancing the voices of the person with Parkinson disease and the caregiver, and discussions of the future affect this population specifically. Remote consultations were reported to have been more successful than anticipated in all 3 groups. Obstacles were not always as expected; for example, age was less of a barrier than predicted. Video consultations were perceived as being preferable to telephone consultations by many participants, but not accessible to all people with Parkinson disease. With widespread expectation of ongoing remote consultations, potential improvements for these 3 groups and health care services were identified, including practice, preparation, increased awareness of issues, expectation management by HCPs, and more time and flexibility for consultations.

Conclusions

Advantages and challenges of remote consultations for this population are identified. Consultations could be improved with increased support, practice, preparation, awareness of issues, and more time and flexibility within services.
Improving Knowledge About Pregnancy for Deaf South African Women of Reproductive Age Through a Text Messaging–Based Information Campaign: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Haricharan Hanne Jensen , Hacking Damian , Lau Yan Kwan , Heap Marion
Published: December 2022

Background

Signing Deaf South Africans have limited access to health information and, consequently, limited knowledge about health. Maternal and neonatal mortality rates are high. Cell phone use is high, making it a potentially effective way of communicating about maternal and child health.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to assess whether an SMS text messaging–based health information campaign could improve knowledge about pregnancy, antenatal care, and healthy living during pregnancy for signing Deaf South African women of reproductive age. The secondary aim was to evaluate the acceptability of such an intervention.

Methods

This study was designed as a pretest-posttest study. A baseline questionnaire assessed participants’ knowledge about pregnancy, antenatal care, and healthy living during pregnancy before an SMS text messaging–based information campaign was conducted. After the campaign, an exit questionnaire was administered containing the same questions as the baseline questionnaire with additional questions on general acceptability and communication preferences. The results were compared between baseline and exit using the McNemar and Wilcoxon signed rank tests. A focus group aimed to obtain further information on the impact and acceptability of SMS text messages. The focus group was analyzed inductively.

Results

The study showed a statistically significant improvement in overall health knowledge among participants. Despite this, some participants found the medical terminology challenging to understand. Several ways of improving SMS text messaging campaigns for the Deaf were identified, including using Multimedia Messaging Services with a person signing messages and linking information campaigns to a communication service that would enable Deaf people to pose questions. The focus group also suggested that SMS text messages might play a role in motivating healthy behaviors during pregnancy.

Conclusions

The SMS text messaging campaign effectively improved Deaf women’s knowledge about pregnancy, antenatal care, and healthy living during pregnancy and has the potential to affect health behavior. This contrasts with a similar study on hearing pregnant women. This suggests that SMS text messages may be particularly effective in improving Deaf people’s health knowledge. However, attention should be paid to Deaf participants’ specific needs and communication preferences to optimize impact. The potential of using SMS text messaging campaigns to affect behavior should be studied.

Trial Registration

Pan-African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR) PACTR201512001352180; https://tinyurl.com/3rxvsrbe
Assessing the Quality and Impact of eHealth Tools: Systematic Literature Review and Narrative Synthesis (Preprint)
Authors: Jacob Christine , Lindeque Johan , Klein Alexander , Ivory Chris , Heuss Sabina , Peter Marc K
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Technological advancements have opened the path for many technology providers to easily develop and introduce eHealth tools to the public. The use of these tools is increasingly recognized as a critical quality driver in health care; however, choosing a quality tool from the myriad of tools available for a specific health need does not come without challenges.

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to systematically investigate the literature to understand the different approaches and criteria used to assess the quality and impact of eHealth tools by considering sociotechnical factors (from technical, social, and organizational perspectives).

METHODS

A structured search was completed following the participants, intervention, comparators, and outcomes framework. We searched the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest databases for studies published between January 2012 and January 2022 in English, which yielded 675 results, of which 40 (5.9%) studies met the inclusion criteria. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions were followed to ensure a systematic process. Extracted data were analyzed using NVivo (QSR International), with a thematic analysis and narrative synthesis of emergent themes.

RESULTS

Similar measures from the different papers, frameworks, and initiatives were aggregated into 36 unique criteria grouped into 13 clusters. Using the sociotechnical approach, we classified the relevant criteria into technical, social, and organizational assessment criteria. Technical assessment criteria were grouped into 5 clusters: technical aspects, functionality, content, data management, and design. Social assessment criteria were grouped into 4 clusters: human centricity, health outcomes, visible popularity metrics, and social aspects. Organizational assessment criteria were grouped into 4 clusters: sustainability and scalability, health care organization, health care context, and developer.

CONCLUSIONS

This review builds on the growing body of research that investigates the criteria used to assess the quality and impact of eHealth tools and highlights the complexity and challenges facing these initiatives. It demonstrates that there is no single framework that is used uniformly to assess the quality and impact of eHealth tools. It also highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach that balances the social, organizational, and technical assessment criteria in a way that reflects the complexity and interdependence of the health care ecosystem and is aligned with the factors affecting users’ adoption to ensure uptake and adherence in the long term.
Effect of Al Concentration over ZnO-Al2O3 Physicochemical Characteristics and Removal of Remazol Red RB
Authors: Purwaningrum Widia , Sari Fingky Pristika , Julinar Julinar , Ahmadi Adiq , Said Muhammad
Published: December 2022

ZnO is one of the widely used semiconductors due to its high photocatalytic activity. The inactivity of ZnO in the visible range could be enhanced by combining the ZnO with Al. In this study, the photocatalytic activity of ZnO-Al2O3 on Remazol Red RB was investigated. The effect of the ratio mass of ZnO-Al2O3 (1:0.05, 1:0.07, and 1:0.10) was also evaluated. The photocatalyst would be characterized using XRD, SEM-EDX, and UV-Vis DRS. The characterization showed that photocatalysts were successfully synthesized. The XRD analysis showed that the optimum ratio mass of ZnO-Al2O3 was achieved by 1:0.05, with the smallest crystal size of 13.3 nm. The SEM analysis showed that the surface of ZnO-Al2O3 (1:0.05) was easily granulated with smaller particle sizes than ZnO, and the shape tends to clump with the composites. The EDX analysis of ZnO-Al2O3 confirmed the presence of Zn, O, and Al elements. The photodegradation study showed that the optimum conditions were obtained at a contact time of 180 minutes at pH 6 with 91.04% dye removal. In addition, the effect of the initial concentration of the dye was achieved at 50 ppm with a dye removal of 89.26%. The study showed that the ZnO-Al2O3 exhibited adequate removal of Remazol red RB.
Effects of Nucleation and Crystal Growth Rates on Crystal Size Distribution for Seeded Batch Potash Alum Crystallization Process
Authors: Adnan Siti Zubaidah , Abdul Samad Noor Asma Fazli
Published: December 2022

The driving force of the cooling crystallization process is supersaturation, where the supersaturation level during the crystallization process is crucial to grow the crystal sufficiently. Nucleation and crystal growth rates are two concurrent phenomena occurring during crystallization. Both are supersaturation functions that determine the growth of seed crystals and the formation of fine crystals. Trade-offs between nucleation and crystal growth are essential for achieving the large size of seed crystals with the minimum number of fine crystals. Thus, the objective of this study is to analyze the effects of nucleation and crystal growth rates on final product quality, which is crystal size distribution (CSD). Modeling of the crystallization process using a potash alum case study is highlighted and simulated using Matlab software. Then, the effects of nucleation rate, crystal growth rate, and both nucleation and crystal growth rates on CSD are evaluated using local sensitivity analysis based on the one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) method. Based on simulation results for all strategies, a low combined rate delivers the best performance of the final CSD compared to others. Its primary peak has a mean crystal size of 455 µm with 0.0078 m3/m volume distribution. This means that the grown seed crystals are large with high volume distribution compared to the nominal strategy, which is at the mean crystal size of 415 µm and 0.00434 m3/m. Meanwhile, the secondary peak has the mean crystal size of 65 µm, 0.00028 m3/m in volume distribution. This corroborates the least number of fine crystals at the considerably small size compared to nominal’s (0.00151 m3/m, 35 µm). Overall, the low nucleation and crystal growth rates strategy provides useful insights into designing temperature profiles during the linear cooling crystallization process, whereby achievable supersaturation levels in obtaining large crystals with fewer crystal fines are provided via simulation.
A Comparative Study on The Electrochemical Properties of Hydrothermal and Solid-State Methods in The NCM Synthesis for Lithium Ion Battery Application
Authors: Pradanawati Sylvia Ayu , Nursanto Eduardus Budi , Thufail Afif , Raihan Ahmad Zaky , Sugianto Sugianto , Oktaviano Haryo Satriya , Nilasary Hanida , Subhan Achmad , Nugroho Agung
Published: December 2022

In this article, we report and compare the synthesis method of the active cathode materials based on nickel‐cobalt‐manganese (NCM) for lithium-ion battery application. We evaluate the hydrothermal and solid-state reaction method in NCM-622 synthesis, the material characterizations, and the battery performance. Based on the analytical results using X-ray diffraction (XRD), particles synthesized using hydrothermal and solid-state methods exhibit a highly crystalline NCM phase. NCM particles synthesized using solid-state reaction exhibit high-rate performance up to 10 C. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis shows that the charge transfer resistance (Rct) of NCM synthesized by the solid-state reaction (SSR) method was 25.9% lower than hydrothermal. Meanwhile, the ionic diffusivity of the SSR sample was 38.5% higher than the hydrothermal sample. These two factors lead to better performance when tested in a lithium-ion battery.
Application of Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Plant in Piyungan Landfill Municipal Solid Waste Management
Authors: Prihandoko Diananto , Purnomo Chandra Wahyu , Widyaputra Primanda Kiky , Nasirudin Nasirudin
Published: December 2022

Piyungan Landfill is the biggest landfill in the Yogyakarta Province that still operates in overcapacity condition. A new alternative is highly required in solid waste management in the landfill, which can reduce the volume of the waste coming into it and decrease the need for a new landfill area. Refused-derived fuel (RDF) plant is one of the technological alternatives in solid waste management that has the potential to reduce the volume of solid waste and change the waste into fuel. The study analyzed the potential of the application of the RDF to reduce the volume of solid waste in the Piyungan landfill and its economic feasibility. The results of the analysis showed that during the operational period of the RDF plant, the volume of the solid waste coming into the landfill could be annually reduced by 43% on average. The results of the economic analysis show that the RDF plant in the Piyungan Landfill is feasible to apply with an NPV of IDR 281.46 billion, an IRR of 24%, and a payback period of 6 years.