bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum dots and their potential biomedical applications
Authors: Ma Hexuan
Published: May 2024

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor-based nanocrystals. These nanoparticles have exhibited their unique optical and electronic properties. With these characteristics, QDs attracted scientists interest in biomedical areas such as bioimaging, drug delivery and biosensors apart from other applications like photocatalysis, light-emitting, and solar cells in recent years, and plenty of QDs and QD-based materials have exhibited their unique properties in their applications of biomedical areas. Nevertheless, the potential toxicity of QDs becomes the limitation of QDs application in biomedical areas. The toxicity of QDs might come from: the toxicity core material of QDs; the toxicity substances from the surface of QDs; the free radicals or reactive species released from QDs; the biological environment induced QDs toxicity. In this article, we review the properties of QDs, the applications of QDs in different biomedical fields, how QDs cause toxicity, and how to reduce or prevent QDs potential toxicity. In the future, we expect the improvement and further application of QDs in biomedical areas.
Comparative antimicrobial activity of water-alcohol extracts of the aboveground part of the meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.) and of the dropwort (Filipendula hexapetala Gilib.)
Authors: Соколов Никита Сергеевич , Шарипова Сафия Хакимовна , Куркин Владимир Александрович , Лямин Артем Викторович , Сазанова Ксения Николаевна
Published: May 2024

Цель работы – проведение скрининга и сравнения антимикробной активности водно-спиртовых извлечений из травы лабазника вязолистного Filipendula ulmaria (L.) и лабазника шестилепестного Filipendula hexapetala Gilib. с действием препарата сравнения (этилового спирта).В результате проведенного исследования показано, что наибольшим антимикробным действием обладают извлечения на 70 %-ном спирте этиловом, изготовленные из травы обоих видов лабазника. Из них более выраженный антимикробной активностью обладает образец на основе травы лабазника вязолистного.Таким образом, исследуемые в работе лабазник вязолистный Maxim. и лабазник шестилепестный являются перспективными источниками получения биологически активных соединений с противомикробным действием.

The purpose of the work is to screen and compare the antimicrobial activity of hydroalcoholic extracts from the herb Filipendula ulmaria (L.) and six-petaled meadowsweet Filipendula hexapetala Gilib. with the effect of the reference drug (ethyl alcohol). As a result of the study, it was shown that extracts with 70% ethyl alcohol made from the herbs of both types of meadowsweet have the greatest antimicrobial effect. Of these, the sample based on the herb meadowsweet has the most pronounced antimicrobial activity. So meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. and dropwort Filipendula hexapetala Gilib. they are promising sources of obtaining biologically active compounds with antimicrobial action.
Electrical transcutaneous stimulation of acupuncture points in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Готовский Михаил Юрьевич , Шилина Марина Владимировна
Published: May 2024

Цель. Проанализировать и обобщить публикации о применении электрической чрескожной стимуляции точек акупунктуры при лечении хронической обструктивной болезни легких, оценить эффективность, безопасность и характеристики лечебного воздействия. Методы. Обзор публикаций в российских и зарубежных электронных библиотеках за период с 2000 по 2023 гг., с отбором оригинальных статей и результатов исследований, опубликованных в рецензируемых журналах, посвященных результатам применения неинвазивной (чрескожной) электрической стимуляции точек акупунктуры в лечении хронической обструктивной болезни легких в рандомизированных условиях исследований с контрольными группами. Результаты. Вошедшие в обзор исследования свидетельствуют об эффекте применения электрической чрескожной стимуляции точек акупунктуры на снижение одышки, увеличение ОФВ1, снижение десатурации, улучшение толерантности к физической нагрузке у пациентов при лечении хронической обструктивной болезни легких. Заключение. Неинвазивная электрическая стимуляция точек акупунктуры может быть эффективным и безопасным средством лечения хронической обструктивной болезни легких.

Aim. To analyze and summarize publications on the use of electrical transcutaneous stimulation of acupuncture points in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, to evaluate the effectiveness, safety and characteristics of the therapeutic effect. Methods. Review of publications in Russian and foreign electronic libraries for the period from 2000 to 2023, with a selection of original articles and research results published in peer-reviewed journals on the results of the use of non-invasive (transcutaneous) electrical stimulation of acupuncture points in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in randomized research conditions with control groups. Results. The studies included in the review indicate the effect of using electrical transcutaneous stimulation of acupuncture points on reducing shortness of breath, increasing FEV1, reducing desaturation, and improving exercise tolerance in patients during the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Conclusion. Noninvasive electrical stimulation of acupuncture points may be an effective and safe treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Career Decision-Making Difficulties: Mediation Role of Career Adaptability of University Students
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc-Khanh , Le Hai-Yen Pham , Anh Nguyen Vu Hoang , Nguyen-Duong Bao-Tran , Thanh  Bui Dieu Thi , Tran-Chi Vinh-Long
Published: May 2024

Rapid changes in the global marketplace and invisible pressures have made career decision-making challenging for students. This article explores the relationship between emotional intelligence and career decision difficulties, as well as the mediating role of career adaptability, in a cross-sectional study conducted among students. A total of 265 students from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Mage = 19.99; SD = 1.46) were randomly selected and participated through an online questionnaire. The study employed the Career Decision-making Difficulties Questionnaire, which includes 34 questions to assess career decision-making difficulties; the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale, comprising 16 items to measure emotional intelligence; and the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale - Short Form with 12 items to evaluate career adaptability. The findings reveal two primary outcomes: (1) emotional intelligence significantly negatively impacts career decision difficulties (effect = -0.15, p < .05, 95% CI = [-0.29, -0.01]), and (2) career adaptability significantly mediates this relationship (effect = -0.11, 95% CI = [-0.20, -0.02]). These results suggest that enhancing emotional intelligence and career adaptability may facilitate improved career decision-making among students.
Understanding the Influence of Single Payer Health Insurance on Socioeconomic Disparities in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) Utilization: A Transnational Analysis
Authors: Mehta Bella , Ho Kaylee , Gibbons J. Alex B. , Ling Vicki , Goodman Susan , Parks Michael , Ravi Bheeshma , Wang Fei , Ibrahim Said , Cram Peter
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Access to care varies between countries. It is theorized that income-based disparities in access may be reduced in countries with universal health insurance relative to the United States, but data are currently limited. We hypothesized that income-based differences in total hip arthroplasty (THA) utilization and outcomes would be larger in the United States than in Canada.

Methods:

We retrospectively compared all patients undergoing THA from 2012 to 2018 in Pennsylvania, the United States, and Ontario, Canada. We compared age-standardized and sex-standardized per-capita THA utilization in the United States and Canada overall and across different income strata, where income strata were defined by neighborhood income quintile. We also examined income-based differences in rates of 1-year revision, 90-day mortality, and 90-day readmission.

Results:

Overall THA utilization per 10,000 people per year was higher across all income groups in Pennsylvania compared with Ontario (15.1 versus 8.8, P < 0.001 in lowest-income quintile; 21.4 versus 12.6, P < 0.001 in highest-income quintile). Income-based differences in utilization in the highest-income vs lowest-income quintile groups were greater in Ontario (43.2%) than Pennsylvania (41.7%). The adjusted odds for the lowest-income group compared with the highest-income group of 1-year revision were greater in Ontario compared with Pennsylvania (P = 0.03), and risk of 90-day mortality and 90-day readmission was similar between the regions.

Conclusion:

Income-based differences in THA utilization were more notable in Ontario than in Pennsylvania. In addition, patients in low-income communities in Ontario were at equal or greater risk relative to high-income community patients for adverse outcomes compared with patients in Pennsylvania. Income-based disparities in THA utilization and outcomes were smaller in the United States than in Canada, in contrast to what might be expected.

Level of evidence:

III
Myopie-Management vom Kind zum Erwachsenen anhand eines Fallberichts
Authors: Baertschi Michael , Wyss Michael
Published: May 2024

Purpose: The case report describes the successes and lessons learned from optical therapeutic management of progressive myopia, based on long-term treatment plan and the resulting development of the correction and axial lengths of a female patient from age 8 to 22 years. Material and Methods: Using a risk analysis and adaptive care plan, with age-appropriate contact optic care, an attempt was made to positively inhibit, the progression of myopia in a young female patient from 2009 to 2023. The scientific facts and contact lens techniques available at the time of treatment, were applied such as analysis of environmental factors, use of bifocal silicone hydrogel contact lenses and orthokeratology. Results: By using orthokeratology contact lenses, the increase in myopia and axial length growth could be clinically inhibited over several years. Early setbacks during the treatment period due to ineffective measures or early treatment cessation (partial rebound effect) could be stopped or stabilized due to the increasing age of the patient. Conclusion: By means of targeted and controlled contact lens treatment, it is possible to successfully inhibit the progression and thus mitigate the subsequent, secondary health risk.
Association of Osteoporosis with Antibiotic Resistance among Postmenopausal Women with Open Tibial Fractures
Authors: Bhatti Rasheed Ahmed , Maheshwari Lachman Das , Ahmed Adnan , Jhokio Muhammad Faraz , Lakho Arshad Sattar , Abro Akbar Gohar
Published: May 2024

Osteoporosis is common among postmenopausal women and can complicate the healing of open tibial fractures. Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in treatment. Yet, the connection between osteoporosis and antibiotic resistance remains unclear, needing the investigation for improved patient care. Objective: To explore the association between osteoporosis and antibiotic resistance among postmenopausal female patients with open tibial fractures. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, with sample size of 240 postmenopausal women with open tibial fractures and signs of infection within one week of the fracture. Participants were chosen via non-probability sampling method. Bacteriological samples for culture were obtained from secretions adjacent to the infected tissue. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21.0. Results: The majority of osteoporotic patients experienced Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) (42.5%), followed by falls from height (35.3%), while firearm injuries were less common (22.2%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen in both osteoporotic (40%) and non-osteoporotic (39.9%) patients, followed by Escherichia coli, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antibiotic resistance was predominantly found against S. aureus, MRSA, Klebsiella and E. coli. Co-Trimoxazole exhibited the highest resistance rates across all four bacterial organisms, ranging from 34% to 50%. Conclusions: The study found varying antibiotic resistance patterns across various pathogens, with notable resistance observed MRSA strains. Antibiotic resistance was observed in osteoporotic group, with Co-Trimoxazole showing the highest resistance rates.
JomAttendance: Making Facial Business Sense
Authors: JosephNg P.S. , Chow S.R.
Published: May 2024

The attendance system in education currently used in the world are commonly initial on paper is not effective in recording attendance because people can alter and change the data easily. With modern camera technology, the  attendance system should use a facial recognition system when recording attendance. Mixed-mode research concluded that university students have agreed that the traditional attendance verification process is a hassle t because of the large class size. Therefore this system plans to solve problems such as reliability, truant and delays when taking attendance. This system uses a facial recognition attendance algorithm. The system demonstrates the benefits of having a facial detection attendance system in a university setting. The facial detection approach is recommended towards a new standard for university attendance because it is faster and more effective to record student attendance.
JomMobileKey: Opening Business Sense During Covid19 Pandemic
Authors: Atallah Z.A. , JosephNg P.S. , Thong C.L
Published: May 2024

Security remains a key issue in the hospitality industry mostly due to incidents of theft and crime as previously reported. This study aims to design a system that enables hotel guests to access hotel room without using a physical card. To promote high-security attributes, NFC (Near-field communication) technology as an access system by implementing applications containing emulated smart key for specific authentication access is used. The Host-Card Emulation HCE enables cost-effectiveness profit and initiates defense system in the pandemic era. The proposed system was evaluated by statistical and analytical analysis with hotel staff and managers in two different hotels located in Malaysia. The findings show the proposed system could replace physical cards, enhance security, and promote a contactless environment. More test cases at different locations are required to further validate the proposed system.  The proposed system can be implemented in other industries in the future.
Design of Smart Phone Monitoring System of Insulin Pump
Authors: Abdulwahab Mortada Mohammed , Abdallah Abdallah K , Hashim Tagwa ali , Omer Duaa , H. Seddiq
Published: May 2024

Insulin pump is an important electronic device that provides automatic insulin delivery. It has assisted many diabetics around the world to be able to live an orderly life by regulating blood sugar levels. There are many problems that occur due to high glucose levels such as foot problems and eyes problems. This paper presents the design of insulin pump using GSM wireless technology to monitor the pump operation. This paper aims to provide continuous monitoring of glucose concentration by establishing a direct connectivity between patients and their physicians or even their relatives using a wireless monitoring system. The system has a simple structure that generally consists of a drive circuit, motor and controller device. The proposed design delivers a predefined dose of insulin automatically. The system is simulated and verified in different operation cases such as the normal conditions when the pump functioning properly, where the glucose concentration is always within the allowable level and also tested when an error occurrs in the pump, where the glucose concentration becomes more or less than the normal  level. All results reported in this paper and all monitors transmitted GSM messages are accurate. The results revealed that the design of the insulin pump and the wireless monitoring system worked properly and had good performance.
Development of Delta Robot Arm Simulation in ROS2 Foxy Fitzroy Environment
Authors: Saipullah K.M. , Saad W.H.M. , Ramlee F.N.I. , Idris M.I. , Din M.A.F.M.
Published: May 2024

This work demonstrates the methodological steps to simulate a three-degree of freedom (DoF) delta robot arm in the Foxy Fitzroy version of Robot Operating System 2 (ROS2). The mechanical design of the delta robot was represented in the form of Simulation Description Format (SDF), translated from the customised Unified Robotic Description Format (URDF) file generated using SolidWorks to URDF Exporter after the designed mechanism had been finalised. It is necessary to use the SDF instead of URDF for delta robot simulation since this type of file format supports closed-loop linkages, one of the crucial features of a delta robot arm mechanism. The simulation of the delta robot motion was conducted in the Gazebo Robot Simulator, where the positioning of the delta robot end effector was observed when the specific force was applied to each of the robot arms. The mechanism of the delta robot behaviour on forward and inverse kinematic was then simulated to observe the positioning of the end effector toward the motion of motor rotational angle and vice-versa.
Improved Multiband Rectangular Microstrip Patch Antenna for 5G Application
Authors: Elechi P. , John P.O.Richard
Published: May 2024

In this work, a multiband microstrip patch antenna for 5G mobile applications was designed and simulation was conducted using HFSS (High Frequency Simulation structure) software. The frequency range of 3.5 GHz through 11.65 GHz was considered and the antenna dimensions were obtained from a well-established design equations. During simulation, the designed antenna was considered for an antenna without an inset feed and an inset fed antenna using layers of RT/Duroid 5880 substrate with a patch size of 33 mm × 28.8 mm and height of 1 mm. The antenna performance was analyzed in terms of S11 parameters, return loss, Voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), reflected power, and forwarding power. The result showed that the antenna radiates at a frequency of 3.5 GHz, 5.93 GHz, 7.49 GHz, 10.07 GHz and 11.65 GHz with an S11 value of -19.33, -17.40, -25.84, -32.94, -26.25 dB and VSWR of 1.88, 2.35, 1.68, 1.78 and 1.03. The designed antenna can be used for 5G applications that require the frequencies obtained in this research work.
A Comparative Study of Deep Learning Parameters for Arcus Senilis Classification
Authors: AH Nur Farahin , Ramlee RA , Mas’ud MZ , Alias M. A.
Published: May 2024

Deep learning technique has recently yielded positive results that have increased productivity system for artificial intelligent task, especially the digital image processing and advance machine vision. The popularity of deep learning technique  has a major impact on solving complex problems in many fields, particularly the medical science owing to its applications in medical imaging, disease diagnosis, and much more. However, successful application of deep learning depends upon the appropriate setting of the parameters to achieve better result. Therefore, this paper presents a comparative analysis of different base learning rate and batch size configurations for arcus senilis (AS) classification using deep learning techniques. In this analytical study, a dataset of 402 eye images comprising 158 normal and 244 abnormal eye images was employed. Two well-known ResNet-50, VGG-19 and pre-trained convolutional neural network (CNN) models have been trained and validated with 10-fold cross validation using the proposed dataset. Furthermore, base learning rate and batch size were adjusted accordingly to determine the optimal convergence of each model by observing the validation accuracy and error. Experimental result shows that the best combined system has achieved an overall accuracy of 99.78% with a base learning rate of 0.0001 and a batch size of 20 on CNN pre-trained model validation set. Moreover, CNN produces the best result on F1-score and standard deviation of 99.77% and 0.464 respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that CNN requires a considerably smaller number of parameters and reasonable computing time to achieve state-of-the-art performances. This study shows that CNN has the tendency to consistently improve inaccuracy with growing number of epochs, with no signs of overfitting and performance.
React Apps with Server-Side Rendering: Next.js
Authors: A Jartarghar Harish , Rao Salanke Girish , A.R Ashok Kumar , G.S Sharvani , Dalali Shivakumar
Published: May 2024

Web applications are developed using a variety of different web frameworks, and developers can pick from a wide range of web frameworks when developing a web application. React.js library provides flexibility for building reusable User Interface (UI) Components. It uses the approach of client side rendering, which loads the HTML content using Javascript. The client side rendering causes the page to load slowly and the client communicates with the server for run-time data only. Next.js Framework solves this problem by using server side rendering. When the browser requests a web page, the server processes the web page by fetching the user’s specific data and sending it back to the browser over the internet. Next.js helps the Search engines to crawl the site for better Search Engine Optimization (SEO).
Electromagnetic Analysis of Periodic Iris-Fed Patch Antenna Array Using Fast and Efficient Hybrid Analytical Approach
Authors: Abdi M. , Aguili T.
Published: May 2024

Planar antenna arrays are renowned for their high directivity and ease of implementation, while offering the possibility of controlling the radiation pattern. However, the study of the electromagnetic aspect taking into account the coupling between the array’s elements requires a memory space and a considerable calculation time. To overcome these drawbacks, a fast and rigorous full-wave numerical method for the electromagnetic analysis of a unidimensional periodic iris-fed patch antenna array has been proposed. The spatial electromagnetic calculation of a periodic structure of finite dimensions is reduced to a spectral calculation carried out on a single unit reference cell by applying periodicity conditions to it. The modeling of a unit cell is based on the MOM-GEC flexible formalism, which reduces the resolution of the electromagnetic problem to a simple manipulation of equivalent circuits. Firstly, a validation of the numerical approach took place through the verification of the boundary conditions applied to the current distribution. Next, the mutual coupling between the elements of the antenna array was calculated. Results were validated with those obtained with HFSS commercial software and they yield accurate and efficient solutions. Furthermore, a significant reduction of both memory storage requirement and computational time was observed.
Application of Tuneable Notch Filters for Improved Signal Jamming Protection
Authors: Elechi P. , Okawa E.U. , Cornelius U.B.
Published: May 2024

Adjacent channel interference is an inevitable consequence of the increasing number of radio signals and their widespread accessibility. In addition to this interference, information can be distorted by jamming techniques used by hackers and, in some cases, security services like the military. This research concentrated on enhancing jamming protection using a tunable notch filter, considering the growing need to ensure that accurate information reception. The necessary signal was provided  through a signal source, and a  barrage jammer was used to introduce the jamming signal that would interfere with the original signal. The circuit also featured an adjustable notch filter designed to mitigate the impact of the jamming signal. A spectrum analyzer was used to examine the circuit’s performance. The effectiveness of the notch filter in counteracting the effects of the jammer was examined through simulations using MatLab. Based on the distortion measurement, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the filtered signal, which was 4.92 dB, which was higher than the original signal's 1.92 dB. This finding indicates that the jamming effect was substantially reduced or eliminated. Additionally, it was discovered that without a notch filter,  an increase in the jammer-to-signal noise ratio significantly decreased the signal-to-noise ratio value. However, the implementation of the notch filter prevented a drastic decline in performance, demonstrating that as the jammer-to-signal noise ratio increased, the depth of the notch also increased.
A Deep Learning Model for Malware Multi-Class Classification based on Colored Malware Images
Authors: Yadav B. , Tokekar S.
Published: May 2024

A malicious computer program and its unique attacks have been a source of concern for decades and a major threat to the people of the cyber world. There has been a dramatic increase in malware attacks, their exploration, and the complexity of code and types, which has made malware classification very difficult. With the advent of automated strategies and tools for producing malware, a newly developed malicious program evades detection strategies. Deep Learning (DL) has gained a lot of attention, popularity, and performance in malware analysis. Although DL models reach high-performance levels, they require extensive training samples, high-resolution images, and deep DL structures. This study investigates and highlights the performance of the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) based malware classifier on colored malware images. To test the CNN model, a well-known malimg dataset was used with a classification speed of fewer than three milliseconds per step, achieving 98.394% test accuracy. The test results encourage the usage of color image processing compared to grayscale images and demonstrate good efficiency and accuracy. It emphasizes that even with basic DL structures, remarkable performance can be attained when dealing with low-dimensional images.
Application of COMSOL Multiphysics for Fiber Beam Profiling
Authors: Zaiton A. M. , Jasman F , Hassan W H W
Published: May 2024

Fiber optic beam profiling is essential across scientific and engineering realms, demanding precise characterization of light beams for optimized system performance, accurate alignment, and efficient resource utilization. This study employs COMSOL Multiphysics to comprehensively analyze single-mode and multimode fiber beam profiles, encompassing diverse parameters such as wavelengths and modal distributions.  The investigation of beam profiles is based on 850nm, 1310nm and 1550nm wavelengths; with three different modes (1, 5, and 20). COMSOL Multiphysics enhances beam profiling by providing precise numerical techniques, multiphysics modeling, and flexible parameter analysis. Its user-friendly interface facilitates efficient research, while validation and innovative possibilities underscore its value in photonics advancements.  The research addresses the need for advanced profiling techniques, offering a robust methodology that captures intricate modal interactions and boundary conditions. Key findings include distinctive beam waist evolution, mode distribution patterns, and beam shaping behaviors, impacting data transmission, medical procedures, and manufacturing. By integrating computational power, this study advances our understanding of photonics, providing practical insights for future fiber optic technologies and their broader implications.
A Proposed Framework for the Implementation of a Business Intelligence System
Authors: Gangiah Moonish , Cadersaib Zarine
Published: May 2024

A lot of focus can be attributed to the rising importance of Business Intelligence Systems (BIS), which have been viewed as a broad category of technologies, applications, and processes for analyzing data to help its users make better decisions.  Although Business Intelligence (BI) can help improve a company’s performance, many companies often fail to realize the expected benefits of BI, and these projects are considered failures in themselves.  Hence, it is essential to consider Critical Success Factors (CSFs) to obtain a successful implementation.  However, very few existing research papers have associated CSFs with the various implementation stages and roles. This research study aims to design a framework that will embed various CSFs for BIS, categorized by the different stages, categories, priorities, and roles involved.  Following the evaluation process, the study’s main results show that the proposed framework was beneficial for BI implementation as there was no such framework that interconnects multiple components such as CSFs, implementation stages, categorization of CSFs, prioritization of CSFs and implementation roles.
Implementation of digital technologies in logistics systems of low-income countries : an assessment based on case studies in Ethiopia
Authors: Tadesse Mahlet Demere
Published: May 2024

Digital technologies have significant potential in enhancing logistics performance. However, the adoption of digital technologies is limited in low-income countries. Therefore, it is important to investigate their potential impact on logistics performance and how they can be introduced. Using Ethiopia as a case study, this thesis evaluated the possibilities of adopting digital technologies in logistics systems in low-income countries and analysed factors influencing their adoption. An assessment of current practices in digital technologies adoption in logistics identified transport and warehouse performance indicators (PIs) relevant to lowincome countries. In a logistics audit, the performance of the Ethiopian coffee and dairy supply chains was evaluated in terms of digital technologies implementation. A technology acceptance model (TAM) was then used to estimate stakeholder acceptance of digital technologies. Finally, a framework for digital technology adoption was developed. Security and order lead time were identified as important PIs in low-income countries. Further analysis revealed limited adoption of digital technologies in the coffee and dairy supply chains, although the coffee supply chain performed better in terms of digital technology implementation. Optimisation of facilities, routes and resources in the dairy supply chain led to reduced distance and travel time. Stakeholder perceptions of digital technologies and factors such as infrastructure, finance, technology access, human resources and supportive policies contributed to successful adoption. A framework for digital technology adoption using two approaches, gradual digitalisation and end-to-end digitalisation, was developed. These findings can assist policy-makers and practitioners in assessing the current adoption level and in identifying challenges to advance implementation of digital technologies in low-income countries.
Urban Tree Detection in Historical Aerial Imagery of Sweden : a test in automated detection with open source Deep Learning models
Authors: Klobucar Blaz
Published: May 2024

Urban trees are a key component of the urban environment. In Sweden, ambitious goals have been expressed by authorities regarding the retention and increase of urban tree cover, aiming to mitigate climate change and provide a healthy, livable urban environment in a highly contested space. Tracking urban tree cover through remote sensing serves as an indicator of how past urban planning has succeeded in retaining trees as part of the urban fabric, and historical imagery spanning back decades for such analysis is widely available. This short study examines the viability of automated detection using open-source Deep Learning methods for long-term change detection in urban tree cover, aiming to evaluate past practices in urban planning. Results indicate that preprocessing of old imagery is necessary to enhance the detection and segmentation of urban tree cover, as the currently available training models were found to be severely lacking upon visual inspection.
Complementary advantages of microsurgical treatment for vertebral artery dolicoarteriopathies: Mitigating symptoms of restless leg syndrome in refractory vertebrobasilar insufficiency
Authors: Cekic Efecan , Daltaban İskender Samet , Ustun Mehmet Erkan
Published: May 2024

Objective: This retrospective study examines the impact of microsurgical treatment on vertebral artery (VA) dolicoarteriopathies and
associated restless leg syndrome (RLS) in patients with refractory vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI).
Patients and Methods: We analyzed 78 patients with grade 2 and 3 kinks, and found out that the targeted microsurgical interventions,
primarily designed to address VBI, improved secondary RLS symptoms in 12 patients. Procedures included arteriolysis and, depending
on severity, grafting. Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata 16 (StataCorp LP, Texas, USA).
Results: In twelve patients aged 55 to 72 years with refractory VBI and drug-resistant RLS, micro-neurosurgical correction of V1
segment dolicoarteriopathy, abnormal elongation and kinks in the artery, demonstrated promising outcomes. Postoperatively, 83.33%
(10 patients) reported complete resolution of RLS symptoms, and 16.66% (2 patients) experienced partial symptom relief (p<0.05).
Overall, 86.8% of various VBI-related symptoms were significantly improved or resolved (p<0.05). The microsurgical technique,
avoiding traditional flow-arresting procedures, proved to be highly effective in this preliminary study with no mortality and minimal
temporary complications, underscoring its potential treatment avenue for such complex neurovascular conditions.
Conclusion: This study illuminates the relationship between VBI and RLS, proposing a potential vascular etiology for RLS, and
highlights the need for a broader diagnostic approach for patients with refractory VBI.
Effect of methylglyoxal on Parkinson’s disease pathophysiology in the rotenone model
Authors: Çulpan Yekta , Ozden Lara , Gozderesi Yakup , Kocak Beril , Baltaci Zeynep Hazal , Denizli Ayberk , Yılmaz Betul , Gülhan Rezzan
Published: May 2024

Objective: Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients have been reported to have a higher incidence of Parkinson’s disease. This study aimed to
explore the effect of advanced glycation end products precursor methylglyoxal (MGO) on the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease
in a rotenone model.
Materials and Methods: Adult female Wistar rats (n=42) were divided into four groups. Rotenone toxicity was assessed by daily weight
measurements and mortality rates. Effect of MGO on blood glucose was evaluated. Locomotor activity, rearing, and rotarod tests
were performed to evaluate motor functions, and for neurodegeneration, tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the striatum and
substantia nigra regions was assessed.
Results: The mortality rate was 9% in the rotenone-applied rats. The mean weight, locomotor activity, rearing activity, and longest time
spent on a rotarod were lower in the MGO+Rotenone group than in the Control group. Tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the
striatum rostral to the anterior commissure in the MGO+Rotenone group was lower than that in the Control and MGO groups. The
number of tyrosine hydroxylase positive cells in the substantia nigra pars compacta was comparable among the groups.
Conclusion: When nigrostriatal degeneration was triggered, MGO was found to worsen motor dysfunction and increase damage to
dopaminergic neuron projections.
APLICABILIDADE DE BIORREATORES ANAERÓBIOS DE MEMBRANA DINÂMICA PARA O TRATAMENTO DE EFLUENTES CONTENDO CONTAMINANTES DE PREOCUPAÇÃO EMERGENTE
Authors: Soroka Vinícius Duarte , Silva Maria Cristina de Almeida
Published: May 2024

Nas últimas décadas, passaram a ser investigados os “contaminantes de preocupação emergente” (CPE), substâncias capazes de provocar efeitos deletérios à saúde e/ou ambiente e que muitas vezes não são removidas de forma efetiva nos tratamentos convencionais de água e esgoto. Para a remoção de contaminantes dessa natureza, a melhor abordagem consiste na combinação de métodos físicos, químicos e biológicos. Nesse contexto, têm ganhado relevância os biorreatores anaeróbios de membrana dinâmica (BRAnMD), que acoplam processos de biodegradação com filtração através de uma complexa membrana biológica. Comparados aos biorreatores de membrana convencionais (BRM), BRAnMD apresentam como vantagens custo reduzido, menor requerimento energético, maior facilidade de operação e menor propensão à incrustação da membrana. Essa tecnologia permite, ainda, o aproveitamento múltiplo do efluente tratado (i.e., recuperação da água e nutrientes, além de energia, na forma de metano contido no biogás) com ajustes de configuração e operacionais. Nesse contexto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo realizar uma análise bibliométrica a respeito da utilização de BRAnMD para o tratamento de efluentes contendo CPE. Para isto, foram conduzidas buscas no banco de dados Scopus, com a obtenção dos metadados para processamento no programa VOSviewer. Os resultados indicam que essa tecnologia tem potencial para depurar efluentes concentrados em contaminantes, porém segue largamente inexplorada na investigação da degradação e remoção de CPE, mais especificamente. Nos próximos anos, haverá a implementação de políticas públicas mais restritivas para o controle de emissão e monitoramento de CPE; nesse cenário, BRAnMD se apresentam como alternativa de tratamento promissora a ser estudada.
CONHECIMENTO DOS PROFISSIONAIS DE SAÚDE SOBRE OS CUIDADOS PALIATIVOS
Authors: Piza Ana Beatriz Prados , Franciosi Giovanna Gonzalez Puga , Morinigo Maria Clara Araújo , Pardellas Nathália de Farias , Cordeiro Layra Thayse Coelho , Fernandes Pedro Glioche , Rodrigues Saullo Coelho , Giordano Mario Vicente
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: O presente estudo tem como objetivo identificar o conhecimento de médicos e enfermeiros que atuam em Unidades de Saúde do Estado do Rio de Janeiro sobre o conceito do cuidado paliativo (CP) e sua aplicabilidade em pacientes. Métodos: Foi utilizado como instrumento de pesquisa um questionário online adaptado dos estudos de (Costa BGS et al., 2018) e (Souza GM et al., 2019). Algumas questões foram selecionadas e adaptadas para utilização no questionário final acerca dos CP .Esta pesquisa se encontra registrada no Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da UNESA/RJ sob o número de CAAE 34102720.1.0000.5284. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 57 profissionais de saúde, destes, 41 (71,9%) médicos e 16 (28,1%) pertenciam à enfermagem; vinte e três (40,4%) profissionais da rede pública, 12 (21,1%) da rede privada e 22 (38,6%) de ambas as redes. Com relação ao questionário, no que diz respeito a primeira afirmativa: “os cuidados paliativos não devem ser combinados com tratamentos curativos” (77%) acertaram, (19,5%) erraram e (3,5%) não souberam responder; em relação à segunda afirmativa: “a obstipação deve ser aceita como um efeito secundário, pois a gestão da dor é mais relevante neste momento (cuidado paliativo)”, a maioria equivocou-se em relação a mesma (47%); no que tange a terceira afirmativa: “Nos cuidados paliativos preconiza-se que não sejam realizadas intervenções destinadas a prolongar a vida”,  (38,5%) discordam da afirmativa e (62%) não souberam opinar ou opinaram de forma equivocada; o “cuidado paliativo deve ser indicado desde o diagnóstico de doença que ameace a continuidade da vida”, (70%) acertaram, (23%) erraram e (7%) não souberam responder; por fim, referente a última afirmativa do questionário: “Em momentos finais da vida do paciente em cuidados paliativos, alimentar por meio de sondas enterais pode ser considerada uma medida danosa”, (32%) concordaram e (54%) discordaram da afirmativa. Conclusão: O estudo constatou que o conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde referente à técnica em CP ainda mostra-se pouco favorável. Isso se deve à recente implementação dessa prática no Brasil somada à defasagem de publicações e ao currículo escasso dos cursos de medicina e enfermagem sobre o tema.
A CONSTRUÇÃO DA LEITURA E ESCRITA NOS ANOS INICIAIS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL
Authors: Silva Anne Emanuelle de Oliveira da , Santos Adriano Christian Reis dos , Morais Renata Alves do Nascimento
Published: May 2024

Este artigo analisa o processo de construção da aprendizagem da leitura e escrita no 1º ciclo do ensino fundamental, num contexto político de exigências sobre a escola para que cumpra com o compromisso de alfabetizar os alunos até o 3º ano, último ano do 1º ciclo, a partir das práticas de alfabetização. O objetivo é compreender como se desenvolve o processo de construção da aprendizagem da leitura e escrita, observar as práticas pedagógicas dos professores que atuam neste ciclo e identificar as dificuldades encontradas na alfabetização. O estudo foi desenvolvido a partir de referencial bibliográfico que trata da construção da escrita, leitura e da alfabetização, principalmente a partir das duas últimas décadas do século XX e início do século XXI e estudo de caso, com abordagem etnográfica. A aprendizagem da língua escrita e leitura é resultado de um lento processo de construção. Essa construção depende da vivência dos alunos em contextos sociais que valorizam estas práticas sociais. A escola não é uma mera transmissora desses conhecimentos, mas um lugar onde as crianças podem ampliar os conhecimentos adquiridos fora dela. Para isso, é necessário que os professores alfabetizadores revejam suas estratégias e participem de formações continuadas que acrescente em sua formação de alfabetizador.
Criteria and levels of development of the reflexive competence in a foreign language teacher
Authors: Orynbayeva Ulserik , Kulgildinova Tulebike , Zhaitapova Altynai , Mukanova Saulesh , Zhumanova Gauhar
Published: May 2024

Relevance. The relevance of the study is conditioned by the fact that pedagogical education faces huge problems, since modern changes impose higher requirements on future foreign language teachers, where special attention is paid to the development of reflexive competence in the context of a continuous learning system. Reflexive competence is an important driving force of pedagogical activity, through which internal experience is reflected upon when one's own knowledge can be sublimated and one's practical behaviour tends to be deliberate.

Purpose. The purpose of the study is to reveal the problems of university preparation of future teachers of a foreign language for reflexion and to consider the main aspects of the development of a future teacher's reflexive competence.

Methodology. To achieve research goals, the following methods were used: structural and functional, theoretical, and experimental.

Results. The results of the study have determined that the training of a future foreign language teacher with reflexive competence today is one of the most important and significant tasks of pedagogical universities and the education system in general. The analysis showed that future foreign language teachers are not sufficiently prepared to work with reflection methods, and universities have serious shortcomings in understanding the essence of this concept. The development and improvement of the ability of future foreign language teachers to recognise problems and reflect on them play an important role in changing educational concepts, which contributes to their growth and development.

Conclusions. The practical significance lies in the analysis of the current state of teaching, the formulation of criteria and levels of development of reflexive competence in a future foreign language teacher, and the formulation of criteria and appropriate levels of development of reflexive competence in the process of professional education in higher education, which determines the level of development of self-reflection.
The formation of the discursive competence of future CLIL teacher: components aspect
Authors: Assanova Assel , Solovyova Natalya , Segizbayeva Kenzhegul , Evdokimova Olga , Radchenko Tatyana
Published: May 2024

Relevance. The authors consider the essence of the discursive competence of the future CLIL (content and language integrated learning) teacher.

Purpose. The main goal of the discursive competence is based on the idea of acquiring and mastering speech skills and the ability to use a foreign language correctly in situations of professional communication. Due to the discursive competence, the future CLIL teacher activates his pedagogical subjectivity and becomes a determinant of his professional and social development.

Methodology. The authors note that the successful development of the discursive competence is due to the use of various methods aimed at developing knowledge and skills not only for editing and creating written texts, but also for participating in their oral multilateral discussions.

Results. Distinctive features of the discursive competence of the future CLIL teacher are sociality, unity, value orientation, the ability to carry out a dialogue, integrativity, dynamism, problematicness, continuity, practicality, and consistency.

Conclusions. The results of the study showed that most students speak English at an elementary level, which may, in turn, affect the inability to build discourses in a foreign language. In this regard, the development of communication skills in these students, the ability to speak in a foreign language is becoming as an important aspect.
Self-education of future teachers in education of primary school children through national values
Authors: Kussainova Marzhangul , Kenesbekova Saltanat , Alshynbayeva Zhuldyz , Nugman Bakhredden , Tleugabylova Kair
Published: May 2024

Relevance. Relevance of the study is due is a pedagogical conditions, the implementation of which in the educational process of universities, taking into account the aspect of transformation of the content of education from knowledge-centered to competence-based, wich will be contribute to the effective preparation of future primary school teachers for successful professional and pedagogical self-education through national values in today's rapidly changing world.

Purpose. The aim of the study is to provide theoretical justification and develop pedagogical conditions for the successful formation of professional and pedagogical self-educational competence of future primary school teachers through national values in the educational process of higher education institutions.

Methodology. As part of the study, we formulated the following hypothesis: if the process of professional training of future primary school teachers through the national values of the Republic of Kazakhstan will take place taking into account the pedagogical conditions developed and justified by us, this will lead to the successful formation of professional and pedagogical self-educational competence of future primary school teachers, since professional and pedagogical self-educational competence is not formed by default, for its formation, it is necessary to create adequate pedagogical conditions in the educational process of the university.

Results. At present, there is an obvious contradiction between the need to prepare future primary school teachers through national values in the educational process of universities for successful professional and pedagogical self-education in a rapidly changing world, taking into account the transformation of the content of education from knowledge-centered to competence-based, and its insufficient development in modern higher pedagogical educational institutions and specialized scientific literature.

Conclusions. National values allow the state to ensure its sovereignty, the continuity of generations, the identity and traditions of the people, so future primary school teachers through continuous self-education should be able to develop and apply current technologies for instilling them in younger schoolchildren.