bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using team service-learning projects in environmental science
Authors: Sanford Robert M.
Published: February 2024

This paper describes the rationale and means used to guide students in developing, presenting, and assessing civic engagement projects done as teams. Team projects and other forms of groupwork are effective tools for improving student learning. This paper presents a ‘roadmap’ of different environmental courses with descriptions of possible group products, evaluation schemes for effective grading, and forms of student feedback. Team learning promotes creative, dynamic responses to community opportunities. The result of team learning enhances student performance and skills, in addition to benefitting the community.
The professional advancement of recreation therapy through groupwork and service-learning
Authors: Jones David B.
Published: February 2024

Career training and education for active citizenship involving students in service to the greater community need not be viewed as distinct and juxtaposed pedagogies. Through systematic curriculum development, that includes groupwork fundamentals, experiential-learning activities, and service-learning experiences, these two educational approaches can be quite complementary and provide students with a deeper understanding of practice-based knowledge, as well as skills and knowledge to effectively respond to broader based contextual factors. Recreation therapy students at the University of Southern Maine, with background in these knowledge areas, were not only able to become effective practitioners but also obtained a broader worldview, and increased their willingness to actively engage with their professional organization and the clientele served, thus impacting both the profession and their communities.
Merging athletic training and nursing clinical education
Authors: Towne Ben , Keith Anne B.
Published: February 2024

Combining nursing and athletic training clinical experiences can serve to better prepare the health care student for future team work with other disciplines and a diverse patient population. International service-learning courses can enhance the undergraduate student experience while also serving those most in need. Athletic Training and Nursing students at the University of Southern Maine blend together as an interdisciplinary group to participate in a community based health care initiative to rural citizens in the Dominican Republic. This unique experience assists students to better understand their role as global citizens, introduces cultural competency, and affords the student the opportunity to better identify both the background of the patients they treat, and the differing health care providers they work alongside. A review of literature suggests that incorporating both cultural competency and service learning into existing educational programs increases affective learning and personal development. Service-learning via groupwork benefits students, faculty and the communities involved, enabling students to gain insight into other populations and/or cultures with which they lack familiarity. There are both advantages and disadvantages to integrating cultural competency and service learning into undergraduate programs.
Exploring the Gurteen Knowledge Café approach as an innovative teaching for learning strategy with first-year engineering students
Authors: Brijlall Deonarain
Published: February 2024

This study explored a learning approach based on the Gurteen Knowledge Café to encourage collaborative learning in a first-year Mathematics module. The rationale for carrying out this exploration was to empower students to become active, responsible and critical learners. The study was carried out with 32 first-year Electrical Engineering students at a South African university of technology, who were divided into five groups and engaged in mathematics tasks structured in the form of activity sheets and the general pedagogy was guided by social constructivism. Written responses, classroom activity observations and questionnaires contributed to the data. The activities involved five tasks on hyperbolic functions in preparation for first-year Calculus. Findings emanating from the data analysis indicated that this approach to collaborative learning provided positive attributes which aided effective Mathematics learning and learning in general.
Editorial
Authors: Fleming Jennie
Published: February 2024

The editorial to Groupwork 25(1)
Construindo um Futuro Eficiente: a contribuição da TI nos processos de trabalho
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Rosso Girlene Otaviano Costa de , Manoel Cintia Brenelli Sartori ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campos Sidney Pio de ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas
Published: February 2024

Introdução: Otimização dos processos de trabalho com um sistema desenvolvido para a Faculdade de Engenharia Química da Unicamp (FEQ). Objetivo: Desenvolvimento de sistemas informatizados que simplifiquem as atividades administrativas e ao mesmo tempo retenha as informações relevantes armazenando num único banco de dados. Metodologia: A ideia de otimizar os processos de trabalho[1] se deve ao fato da FEQ ser uma Unidade enxuta. A revisão da estrutura organizacional[2] deve estar acompanhada de melhorias dos processos com uso de ferramentas de gerenciamento informatizado. As atividades são registradas e a informação é retida num banco de dados que será utilizado para alimentar outras bases. Resultados: O benefício desta ferramenta é a informação ser prestada uma única vez e os setores recorrem a este banco quando necessitam de informações. Conclusão: O projeto atende as expectativas da Unidade e tem alcance em várias áreas internas. Os usuários deste sistema são servidores docentes e não docentes e alunos de graduação e pós-graduação; e o projeto pode ser replicado para outras Unidades. O sistema está em produção e com bons resultados e continuamos implantando e propondo melhorias continuas. Como as atividades eram realizadas manualmente não temos as métricas anteriores ao sistema.
Adoção de pareceres jurídicos referenciais na UNESP
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Ribeiro Marilda de Pontes , Queiroz João Eduardo Lopes ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista
Published: February 2024

Introdução: A necessidade de uniformização de procedimentos de aquisições e contratações, visando maior celeridade nos processos administrativos com redução de custos, detectados pela Coordenadoria de Administração e a Assessoria Jurídica (AJ), motivaram a adoção dos Pareceres Jurídicos Referenciais no âmbito da Unesp, para demandas recorrentes e com requisitos que possam ser aferidos de forma objetiva, considerando a boa-fé administrativa em relação aos servidores públicos. Objetivo: Apresentar os resultados obtidos pela Unesp com a aplicação de Pareceres Jurídicos Referenciais, para os procedimentos inerentes de aquisição ou contratação de bens e serviços em seu âmbito. Metodologia: Aferição dos quantitativos e do tempo de processamento de processos de aquisições e contratações no âmbito da Unesp, antes e depois da adoção dos Pareceres Jurídicos Referenciais. Resultados: Com a utilização dos Pareceres Jurídicos Referenciais, nos casos de aquisições e contratações por dispensa de licitação para pesquisa, por inexigibilidade de licitação, para prorrogação de contratos de natureza contínua, entre outros, todos com base na Lei Federal 8.666/93, teve seu tempo de processamento reduzido em 30 dias (tempo de devolutiva da AJ) e o quantitativo de processos que foram tramitados na AJ foi reduzido de cerca de 1.000 para 400 processos/ano. Além disso, a instrução processual tornou-se mais uniforme, visto a necessidade de atendimento dos requisitos obrigatórios. Conclusão: As melhorias nos processos de aquisições e contratações obtidas com a utilização de Pareceres Jurídicos Referenciais foram muito vantajosos garantindo segurança jurídica, celeridade dos processos, em conformidade ao princípio da eficiência, e uniformidade na instrução processual.
Votação-rápida: otimizando votações em colegiados
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo, Neto Masaki Kawabata , Veríssimo Thiago Gomes ,   Universidade de São Paulo
Published: February 2024

Introdução: os colegiados da USP são instâncias de discussão e deliberação nos diversos níveis da administração. A votação das pautas é muitas vezes manual, demorada e suscetível a erros. Nesse contexto, em 2020, a direção da EESC solicitou uma forma de otimizar o processo de votação. Objetivo/metodologia: Este trabalho analisa o desenvolvimento, implementação e utilização do sistema Votação-rápida. Com o levantamento de requisitos e análise de soluções disponíveis no mercado, optou-se pelo desenvolvimento de um novo sistema. Resultados: Impulsionado pela necessidade iminente por conta da pandemia, quando as reuniões passaram a ser on-line, foi possível iniciar a utilização em tempo hábil para as reuniões da EESC e completar o desenvolvimento mínimo necessário em poucos meses. Com a apresentação dessa solução aos assistentes acadêmicos de outras unidades da USP, houve boa aceitação e adoção significativa. Finalmente são apresentadas estatísticas de uso que demonstram a eficácia do sistema e permitindo maior fluidez no decorrer das reuniões, manutenção da transparência e segurança dos resultados. Conclusão: O sistema trouxe agilidade para diversos colegiados que o adotaram, mantendo transparência e segurança.
Ações do Restaurante Universitário - Campus de Campinas: implantação pioneira do modelo de distribuição de refeições no enfrentamento da COVID-19
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Lopes Graciela Cristina , Paulo Cassia Maria Leme de x ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Silva Sandra Maidel Soares da ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Paffrath Alessandra Bortoletto Dimiras ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Kikumoto Maria Antonieta Jardine ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Sakajiri hika Fukui ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Turquetto Carolina Murari Scarazzato ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Oliveira Josilene Lopes de ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas
Published: February 2024

Introdução: Com a suspensão das atividades presenciais em 13/03/2020, a Divisão de Alimentação iniciou as alterações no modelo de serviços dos Restaurantes para minimizar a transmissão da COVID-19 e manter o fornecimento das refeições para as áreas essenciais. A redução no número de refeições gerou urgência na revisão dos cardápios para evitar o desperdício de alimentos. Objetivo: Descrever a reestruturação do atendimento da Divisão de Alimentação com a implantação do fornecimento de refeição em marmitex seguindo as diretrizes da Vigilância Sanitária durante a pandemia. Metodologia: Houve mobilização da equipe para adequação de cardápios, atualização do modelo de serviço diante da necessidade de distanciamento, uso de máscara, revisão do cardápio para remanejar alimentos. O serviço modificou-se para o fornecimento de marmitex. Criaram-se planilhas de monitoramento para aumentar a frequência da higienização das mãos, aumento dos pontos disponibilizando álcool em gel, marcações no piso durante o porcionamento dos alimentos. Participação na elaboração de protocolos de combate à COVID-19 específicos aos restaurantes e na Cartilha de Orientações de uso dos RUs e planilhas de controle para a retomada parcial de alunos. Resultados: O RU manteve-se em funcionamento ininterruptamente ao longo da pandemia para atender às áreas essenciais e alunos bolsistas de forma segura através do fornecimento de marmitex. Conclusão: A DA acompanhou a evolução da pandemia e legislação pertinente e adaptou-se gradualmente para a retomada das atividades de forma segura. A elaboração da Cartilha de Orientações de Uso dos RUs foi de fundamental importância para a utilização segura dos restaurantes universitários.
Análise de Perfil para Gestão de Talentos e Potencial para Ocupação de Cargo Gerencial nas Equipes Administrativas
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faria Eduardo Bueno de , Miguel Joseane Antonia dos Santos ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Oliveira Lucas Rafael de ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas
Published: February 2024

Introdução: O serviço de desenvolvimento de pessoal é responsável pela utilização e implementação de métodos de gestão de pessoas, conduzindo programas de identificação, desenvolvimento e acompanhamento. A partir do projeto da década de 90, o órgão reestruturou e ofereceu edições em 2021 e 2023, utilizando ferramentas automatizadas e validadas para análise de perfil mais objetiva. Objetivo: Desenvolver e potencializar as competências dos servidores, formando um banco de talentos, com potencial para assumir funções estratégicas e/ou cargos gerenciais no órgão. Metodologia: As gerencias imediatas indicam os participantes e servidores para compor a comissão de avaliação. O processo, conduzido pela equipe de psicologia, conduz a aplicação de teste de personalidade, prova situacional, entrevista, análise de perfil comportamental e devolutiva individual, entrega de relatório de análise de perfil comportamental e proposta de Plano de Desenvolvimento Individual com pontos de controle por 12 meses. Resultados: Os participantes se sentem valorizados, reconhecidos e motivados a aprimorarem e potencializarem suas competências para uso mais desafiador e estratégico. O projeto possibilita ter perfis bem definidos para indicações mais assertivas e seguras. Conclusão: O órgão afirma seu compromisso e responsabilidade na valorização do capital humano, investindo em desenvolvimento técnico-teórico mas também em ações de capacitação que agregam valor, gerem resultados e mantem a qualidade dos processos. A utilização da gestão por competências é prevista na Lei 14.133/2021- Lei de Licitações e Contratos Administrativos.
As quatros décadas do NIED [recurso eletrônico] : projetos, memórias e reflexões
Authors: Valente José Armando , Baranauskas Maria Cecilia Calani , D'Abreu João Vilhete Viegas , Linhalis Flávia , Reis Julio Cesar dos
Published: February 2024

O livro resgata a trajetória do Núcleo de Informática Aplicada à Educação, instituição pioneira na implantação da Informática na Educação no Brasil, desde a sua criação em 1983 até os dias atuais (2023). O livro tece reflexões sobre 25 projetos realizados no Núcleo, com legado e reflexões sobre cada um, destacando memórias, livros publicados, vídeos, sistemas desenvolvidos e publicações científicas.
Os índios Bella-Coola do Capitão Jacobsen
Authors: Boas Franz , Vieira Marina Cavalcante
Published: February 2024

O texto a seguir é uma tradução inédita, do alemão para o português, de um pequeno artigo de jornal escrito em 1886 por Franz Boas. Nele, o futuro pai da antropologia cultural descreve o seu primeiro encontro com nativos da costa noroeste do continente americano, que aconteceu em Berlim, durante as exibições da trupe Bella-Coola em turnê pela Alemanha.
Protocolo para garantia da segurança alimentar e nutricional de estudantes com Fenilcetonúria através da pesquisa translacional
Authors: Siqueira Cláudia Gonçalves , Alves Isabela Cristina de Castro , Mayrink Flávia Diniz , Amorim Rivadávio Fernandes Batista de
Published: February 2024

Introdução: A fenilcetonúria é caracterizada pela mutação da enzima fenilalanina hidroxilase, que metaboliza a fenilalanina, um aminoácido presente em quase todos os alimentos. A perda da atividade dessa enzima resulta em um aumento da concentração de fenilalanina, em níveis tóxicos. O tratamento padrão para esse quadro compreende principalmente duas estratégias: a dieta restrita em fenilalanina o uso de fórmula metabólica rica em aminoácidos, porém isenta de fenilalanina. Objetivo: No Brasil existem protocolos para garantia da segurança alimentar e nutricional em escolares com condições específicas, mas aqueles portadores de fenilcetonúria não são contemplados. A alimentação desse grupo é de alto custo e para garantia do consumo adequado de nutrientes pode ser necessária apoio governamental, principalmente para aquelas famílias em situação de vulnerabilidade social. O objetivo do trabalho é propor um protocolo, através da pesquisa translacional, que garanta a segurança alimentar e nutricional de estudantes com fenilcetonúria nas escolas públicas do Distrito Federal (DF), podendo servir como base para a criação de um protocolo nacional. Métodos: O trabalho revisou as políticas existentes por meio de buscas em bases de dados (PubMed, BVS e Embase) e em sites governamentais. O protocolo sugerido foi criado a partir de uma nova abordagem e adaptação de protocolos já em andamento, o que torna viável sua implementação. Conclusão: O protocolo é de extrema importância para o manejo adequado dessa população e irá assegurar a ingestão necessária de aminoácidos para que ocorra o pleno desenvolvimento fisiológico e cognitivo dos estudantes com fenilcetonúria.
El conocimiento de los emprendedores inmigrantes en el sector turístico de territorios insulares: Un análisis en las Islas Canarias orientales
Authors: Calero- Lemes Pedro M. , García-Almeida Desiderio Juan
Published: February 2024

Debido al proceso migratorio, los empresarios inmigrantes suelen acumular conocimientos de distintos orígenes y fuentes. La combinación de ese conocimiento acumulado puede hacerles destacar en el posicionamiento competitivo. Para el sector turístico de los destinos insulares, ello puede aportar innovación y diferenciación. Con datos de una encuesta realizada a empresarios inmigrantes de las Islas Canarias orientales, su principal fuente de conocimiento es la experiencia, especialmente la obtenida en el país de acogida. Además, se han identificado dos tipos diferentes de emprendedores inmigrantes en función de sus conocimientos: los emprendedores inmigrantes con conocimientos integrados y los empresarios inmigrantes en comunidades extranjeras.

Due to the migration process, immigrant entrepreneurs often construct knowledge from different origins and sources. The combination of that cumulated knowledge could make them outstand in the competitive positioning. For the tourism sector of island destinations, it can provide innovation and differentiation. With data from a survey of immigrant entrepreneurs on the eastern Canary Islands, their main knowledge source is experience, especially the one obtained in the host country. Moreover, two different kinds of immigrant entrepreneurs based on their knowledge have been identified: integrated knowledgeable immigrant entrepreneurs, and the immigrant entrepreneurs in foreign communities.
Pre-school children's literacy development in the Kazakh home learning environment
Authors: Zhakim Assel
Published: February 2024

The home environment and experiences before a child enters formal schooling have a significant impact on their educational progress and results. Most research in this area has been conducted in Western countries and may differ across different countries and cultures. The purpose of this study is to investigate how literacy skills are developed in Kazakh homes and the kinds of social interactions that take place between parents and children to foster this development. An ethnographic case study design through participant observations and interviews was used to further understand the relationship between the Kazakh home learning environment (HLE) and literacy development in four affluent and highly educated families. The findings of this study suggest that parent-child social interactions play an important role in the development of literacy skills in Kazakh families. The parents purposefully used play, joint book reading and storytelling to focus on oral language development and to establish skills in one language first despite the fact that Kazakhstan is a bilingual country that is gradually moving towards a trilingual policy (Kazakh, Russian and English). The study highlights the types of regular and high-quality literacy-related social interactions parents engage in to help their children succeed educationally in school and beyond. The findings of this study suggest that children would benefit from regular parent-child interactions and policymakers and other stakeholders responsible for early years learning and development should encourage parents to be actively involved in their children's learning and literacy development in the home environment.
Diagnostics of primary school teachers’ creative potential in Kazakhstan
Authors: Alsitova Assemgul , Kuzembayeva Gulzhana , Zhazykova Makpal , Maydangalieva Zhumagul
Published: February 2024

A teacher's creative potential (CP) is recognised as an integrative personality trait that includes the ability to develop innovative teaching ideas, find practical solutions to non-standard teaching tasks, select the most effective methods for engaging in creative pedagogical activities and contribute to the development of students' creativity. The purpose of the study is to identify the primary school teachers’ level of CP and to explore barriers to its development. The study employed a mixed-methods research design, analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data collected by means of a survey and interviews with primary school teachers.  The literature review has shown that teachers may foster their students' creativity if they have the necessary CP, ample knowledge, resources and tools, apply creativity-development techniques and create an environment that encourages creative collaboration. The survey's results showed that across all age groups and qualification levels, primary teachers' CP development was at a medium level. The interviews revealed the conditions and barriers to CP development such as psycho-emotional and educational factors and resources. The study findings will contribute to further comprehension and improvement of teachers’ CP development in higher and vocational education.
Incidence of Stroke Cases at Blambangan General Hospital of Banyuwangi in January-December 2022: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Hastuti Riani Dwi , Setyawan Andar , Handayani Indah Ari , Khalisha Putri Nabila
Published: February 2024

Highlight:

The majority of stroke cases at Blambangan General Hospital in Banyuwangi are ischemic strokes.
The age group that experienced the most strokes was >40 years.
The gender that experienced the most strokes was female.

 
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity in Indonesia. It significantly contributes to the overall burden of disease and places a substantial impact on the health of the population in Indonesia. Objective: The purpose of this study was to show the incidence of stroke cases in the Blambangan General Hospital in Banyuwangi. Understanding the prevalence of strokes at this particular hospital is critical for identifying patterns, improving patient care, and taking preventive actions to deal with this important health issue. Methods: This study used a retrospective cross-sectional sampling method to look at all 342 inpatient stroke cases that were treated in the neurology department of Blambangan General Hospital in Banyuwangi in 2022. All of their data was collected and analyzed. Results: Most cases of stroke in this study were ischemic strokes, with a total of 212 cases (62.0% of all cases). The age group that experienced the most strokes was over 40 years old (96.2%) and female (56.4%). More than half of stroke patients had hypertension, and 80.1% had diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: This study found that ischemic stroke survivors, mostly female and aged over 40, were frequently associated with diabetes mellitus and hypertension. These findings provide insights into the frequency of these stroke types within the examined population.
Successfully Procedure Endovascular Carotid Angioplasty Stent in a Case of Neck Stab Wound with Pseudoaneurysm, Recurrent Transient Ischemic Attack, and Horner Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Ramadhoni Pinto Desti , Martanusa Hawari
Published: February 2024

Highlight:

Uncommon Presentation and Diagnosis: The case report presents a unique and rare clinical scenario involving a 14-year-old boy who sustained a neck stab wound, leading to the development of a pseudoaneurysm within the common carotid artery.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Treatment: The case highlights the complexity of managing such casesm where a multidisciplinary approach is paramount. The manuscript underscores the significance of involving neurology, interventional neurology, and vascular surgery teams to provide comprehensive and tailored patient care
Efficacy of Endovascular Intervention: The successful outcome of the endovascular carotid angioplasty stent procedure highlights its effectiveness as a treatment option for addresing complex vascular conditions like pseudoaneurysm or dissection of the carotid artery.

 
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Neck stab wounds can lead to various vascular complications, including pseudoaneurysm or carotid artery dissection. Proper diagnosis and management can prevent recurrent strokes. Case: We reported a case of a 14-year-old boy with a previous left neck stab wound who developed recurrent transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) accompanied by Horner's syndrome and headache following a traumatic common carotid artery dissection. An angiographic examination revealed a pseudoaneurysm or dissection of the left common carotid artery. The patient was initially treated with oral anticoagulant therapy, but he continued to experience recurrent TIA. The patient was then treated endovascularly with a carotid angioplasty stent to restore the compromised carotid artery. Following the endovascular procedure, the patient experienced no complications, showed improvement in Horner syndrome, and had no headache. During the follow-up period, the patient had no more TIAs. Conclusion: Endovascular carotid angioplasty stents are an effective and safe way to treat pseudoaneurysm or dissection of the carotid artery, especially in cases presenting with recurrent TIAs and Horner syndrome. The observed clinical improvement following the procedure indicates significant benefits in enhancing the patient's quality of life and preventing complications from recurrent TIA episodes.
Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease and It’s Genetic Consequences
Authors: ÖMERCİKOĞLU ÖZDEN Hatice , GÜNAL Dilek
Published: February 2024

Genetic and environmental factors play an important role in the development and progression of Parkinson’s Disease(PD). In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the genetic test results and clinical findings of early-onset Parkinson's Disease (EOPD) followed up in the movement disorders outpatient clinic of our hospital by comparing them with the literature. Patients who were followed up with the diagnosis of EOPD in the Movement Disorders Outpatient Clinic of Neurology Department, Marmara University Faculty of Medicine and whose genetic tests were performed; demographic characteristics, clinical findings and genetic test results were analyzed retrospectively. Forty-three EOPD patients (13 females, 30 males) who were genetically tested were enrolled in the study. The mean age was 52.3 (range; 31-64 years), and the mean age of disease onset was 42.8 (range; 25-49 years). Seven different mutations for PARK-2 and PINK-1 were detected in 93% of the patients for whom genetic testing was requested. Genetic mutation was not detected in 7% of the patients. While 57.5% of the patients with a positive genetic test had prodromal symptoms such as hyposmia, constipation and Rapid Eye Movement(REM) Sleep Behaviour Disorder (RBD), none of the patients with a negative genetic test had prodromal symptoms. It has been shown that some of the benign allelic mutations detected in EOPD patients may be genetic risk factors for EOPD. In our study, we wanted to draw attention to the need for multicenter studies with larger numbers of patients and healthy controls to determine the relationship between benign allelic mutations and EOPD.
Mandatory Necessity Theory: Elements and Facts Influenced by Space
Authors: Cardoso Carlos Eduardo Ramos
Published: February 2024

Theory says that the first things to exist in the universe and the current moment were driven by compelling necessity; that is, physical spaces influence the existence of elements and facts based on the numerous observations in physical spaces in relation to elements and facts.The existence of obligatory elements in the space is motivated by the characteristics of the spaces that offer conditions for such obligation. The theory states that the universe did not come about by chance; that is, the universe came about by determination influenced by what surrounds it. The purpose of the study is to help explain the elements and facts of the universe from the origin to the present.
PixieGPT: Design and Implementation of a Generative Pre-Trained Transformer for Universities of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Hasan Mahmood Aminul , Hasan Mehedi , Ahmed Sumiaya , Fardin Ariful Islam , Nabil Mehedi Hasan
Published: February 2024

In a densely populated country like Bangladesh, universities grapple with the challenge of efficiently addressing myriad queries from a large student body, leading to a heightened workload for university stakeholders. To tackle these challenges, we introduce PixieGPT, a tailor-made Generative Pre-Trained Transformer for Bangladeshi universities. PixieGPT significantly mitigates workload by adeptly handling common university-related queries, thereby enhancing user experience. The hierarchical structure plays a crucial role in managing diverse queries from thousands of students about the university system. The solution introduces a modular hierarchical knowledge base (KB) with simpler complexities, addressing the intricacies of efficiently managing large volumes of queries. PixieGPT is designed in a modular way so that the solution is also adaptable for the implementation of other universities worldwide based on the requirements of a particular administrative system. The modular nature facilitates easy adaptation with minor changes based on specific university requirements, ensuring a seamless integration process. This paper delves into the intricacies of PixieGPT's design, emphasizing its pivotal role in mitigating workload challenges for university stakeholders in Bangladesh. The incorporation of BERT for Natural Language Understanding(NLU) and GPT models for Natural Language Generation(NLG) enhances PixieGPT's capabilities, contributing to the scalability and efficiency of the system. The presented use case underscores the practical benefits of PixieGPT, positioning it as a promising solution for universities globally with similar operational frameworks.
Microbial Transformation of Total Saponins from Panax notoginseng Flower by the Fungus Talaromyces flavus
Authors: Li Fixing , Liang Yingzhong , Lin Dongmei , Li Xiaolong , Yang Lian , Cui Xingming , Lou Dengji , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2024

Panax notoginseng is a traditional Chinese medicine, and saponins are its main active ingredients. The content of saponins in flower of P. notoginseng is the highest in the whole plant. Minor ginsenosides have stronger pharmacological activity than main ginsenosides, but its content in nature is very low. We can use extracted total saponins from P. notoginseng flower as the substrate to produce minor ginsenosides by biotransformation method. In this study, we used the fungus Talaromyces flavus and its crude enzymes to transform the extracted total saponins of P. notoginseng flower. Through the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the transformation substrates and products, it was found that minor ginsenosides Gyp-XVII, ginsenosides C-Mc1, C-Mx1, F2, Rg3, 20(R)-Rg3, Rk1 and Rg5 were found in the products and the conversion rate of the major saponins in P. notoginseng flower ranged from 44.16 to 55.22%, the yields of the minor ginsenosides ranged from 0.05 to 3.24%. This study provided a good experimental idea, greatly increased the utilization rate of total saponins in P. notoginseng flower, and laid a foundation for promoting the wide application of minor saponins.
How to Censor a Board Game
Authors: Wiśniewska-Grabarczyk Anna
Published: February 2024

This paper describes a case of censorship of a board game in post-war Poland. The source material is the classified Bulletin [Biuletyn] for censors from March 1954 in which the board game Przygody w dżungli [Jungle Adventures] is described. The game was banned for its imperialistic messages. However, a modified version of the game was published only two years later.
Efecto del tipo de galpón sobre el desempeño productivo de la pollita Hy-Line Brown durante la etapa de levante
Authors:   , Gagliuffi Blas Silvana
Published: February 2024

El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el efecto del tipo de galpón sobre el desempeño productivo de la pollita Hy-Line Brown durante la etapa de levante. Se evaluaron 1600 aves durante las primeras catorce semanas de vida, éstas fueron seleccionadas con el peso inicial homogéneo y distribuidas aleatoriamente en dos grupos, 800 aves en cada uno respectivamente, el primer grupo fue criado en un galpón climatizado automático, el segundo grupo fue criado en un galpón tradicional, proporcionando a ambos el mismo manejo productivo y sanitario, se tuvieron 4 repeticiones y 200 aves por repetición. Para evaluar el desempeño productivo de las aves, se recopiló datos de peso inicial (g.), peso final (g.) uniformidad (%), consumo de alimento total acumulado (g.), conversión alimenticia (g/g/peso vivo) y viabilidad (%) de cada tipo de galpón. Los datos se tabularon en el programa Excel, se utilizó el programa estadístico SAS, para realizar la prueba T de Student, con un nivel de significancia de 5%. La normalidad de los datos fue obtenida mediante la prueba de Kolmogórov-Smirnov y la homogeneidad de varianzas mediante la prueba de Levene. En los resultados se obtuvieron diferencias significativas (p < 0.05) sobre el peso final, consumo total de alimento, conversión alimenticia, uniformidad y viabilidad; presentando mejores resultados productivos las pollitas Hy-Line Brown criadas en el galpón climatizado, en comparación con las pollitas criadas en galpón tradicional.
Intelligent Inversion Analysis of Drilling Gas Kick Characteristic Parameters and Advanced Predictions of Development Trends
Authors: Yin Hu , Li Gaocheng , Xiao Jinchao , Cui Hongwei , Fan Tao , Li Qian
Published: February 2024

Gas kicks are a common and complex occurrence in oil and gas exploration and development. Obtaining the characteristic parameters promptly and accurately after a gas kick occurs is of utmost importance. The kick characteristic parameters are essential foundational data for accurately understanding the multiphase flow state within the wellbore, analyzing kick development trends, and formulating well-killing design. Traditional methods for determining gas kick characteristic parameters often involve trial estimation, a process that can introduce significant arbitrariness. Alternatively, using specialized equipment for measurement and analysis is an option, but it can be time-consuming and limited by technology and cost constraints. This paper proposes an intelligent inversion method for kick characteristic parameters based on surface logging data, including standpipe pressure and mud pit volume. First, a gas kick simulation model is developed based on wellbore multiphase flow theory. This model can accurately simulate the changes in surface logging parameters that occur when a gas kick occurs. Next, the particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to optimize the kick parameters, such as the gas-influx index and pore pressure, in conjunction with the gas kick simulation model. The optimization evaluation criterion is the Fréchet distance, which is used to identify the calculated curve that is most similar to the actual logging parameter change curve. Subsequently, kick trends can be predicted using the simulation model based on these kick parameters. The case analysis demonstrates that the method proposed in this paper can rapidly acquire the gas kick characteristic parameters based on the early change characteristics of logging parameters. It effectively simulates and reproduces the true distribution of wellbore fluids, enabling advanced prediction of kick development. This approach helps in preparing preventive measures in advance, reducing the risk of accidents, and minimizing financial losses.
Intestinal parasitic infections are related to micronutrient status and body composition in Mexican school-age children: results from a cross-sectional study
Authors: García Olga P. , Zavala Gerardo A , Campos-Ponce Maiza , Doak Colleen M. , Brito Alex , Polman Katja , Allen Lindsay H. , Rosado Jorge L.
Published: February 2024

Background
The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the relationship between intestinal parasitic infections and micronutrient status, and whether these differ according to the body composition in 269 school-aged children from rural Mexico.
Methods
Serum concentrations of zinc, iron, ferritin, vitamins A, E, C, D, folate, B12 and CRP, were determined. Infection with soil transmitted helminths (STHs) and intestinal protozoa was screened in a fecal sample. Anthropometric and body composition measurements were taken.
Results
Lower ferritin, zinc and vitamin C concentrations were found in children infected with any STHs or A. lumbricoides compared to parasite-free children (p < 0.05). Children infected with any intestinal protozoa, Endolimax nana or Entamoeba coli had higher concentrations of ferritin and B12 than parasite-free children (p < 0.05). Vitamin E:lipid concentration was higher in children infected with any intestinal protozoa and E. nana. Among the children with high body fat percentage, those infected with STH had lower zinc, and those infected with intestinal protozoa had lower vitamin A than parasite-free children (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
STH infection was associated with lower concentrations of ferritin, zinc and vitamin C, whereas intestinal protozoa infection with higher concentrations of ferritin, vitamin E:lipids, and B12. These associations differed according to body fat percentage.
Feeding habits and preferences of southern gelada (Theropithecus gelada obscurus, Heuglin 1863) in Abune Yoesf Zigit Community Conservation Area, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Ewnetu Setie , Girma Zerihun
Published: February 2024

Background Geladas are mainly found in afro-alpine grasslands and rocky terrains across different provinces in Ethiopia, ranging in altitude from 1,800 to 4,400 meters above sea level. They mainly feed on graminoids, forb leaves, forb roots, corms, and other resources. Despite regional variations in feeding behaviors, there has been no prior scientific study in the Abune Yosef Zigit Community Conservation Area. Therefore, this study focuses on investigating the dietary composition and preferences of southern geladas in this specific conservation area.
Results On average, Southern geladas consumed a total of 22 plants, three insect species, and unidentified tubers. Their diet embraced approximately 55.11% forbs, 41.71% graminoids, 1.61% insects, and 1.59% unidentified tubers. Festuca richardii (12.55%) and Rumex nepalensis(10.80%) emerged as the top two preferred fodder species. Its dietary preference are notably impacted by the availability of plants and the frequency of utilization (P≤0.05).
Conclusion The dietary patterns of Southern gelada in the Abune Yosef area reveal distinctive features in its food composition, characterized by a predominant consumption of forbs, grasses, and tubers. In contrast to regional comparisons highlighting a reduced diversity of consumed plant species, the persistence of a consistent diet throughout both dry and wet seasons emphasizes a level of dietary stability within this primate population. Festuca richardii stands out as the most desired diet for geladas, suggesting that supporting its plantation could be beneficial to increase its availability.
Physical parameter measurement and discrete element simulation parameter calibration with fresh Rhizoma polygonati
Authors: Zheng Jiaxin , Hu Chi , Yang Wencai , Jin Zhiwei , Yan Yi , Yang Shengchao , Zhu Longtu
Published: February 2024

This study is aimed to solve the parameter shortage during discrete element method (DEM) simulation in mechanized deseeding of fresh Rhizoma polygonati, and to calibrate DEM simulation parameters of fresh R. polygonati using physical measurement and simulation trials. First, the physical properties of fresh R. polygonati from picking to 15 days of stacking, and the contact parameters between fresh R. polygonati and different materials along with the prolonging of stacking days were measured through physical experiments. Based on the physical test results, the parameters significantly affecting the repose angle of fresh R. polygonati were screened out via Plackett-Burman test. The collision recovery coefficient, static friction coefficient, and rolling friction coefficient between fresh R. polygonati fruits all significantly affected the repose angle of fresh R. polygonati. On basis of Plackett-Burman test, a steepest ascent test was designed to further clarify the ranges of the significant parameters. Targeting at the actual repose angle of fresh R. olygonati (27.23°), we conducted Box-Behnken test and obtained the optimal parameter combination for DEM simulation of fresh R. polygonati. Verification tests showed the relative errors between the simulated values and measured values of repose angle in fresh R. polygonati were less than 3%, which proves the DEM simulation parameters are reliable.
Spatiotemporal patterns and influencing factors of carbon emissions from different industrial counties in China
Authors: Zhu Wanyang , Zhang Xueyuan , Pei Xiutong , Liu Jiamin , Li Yueshi , Jiao Jizong
Published: February 2024

Counties are important geographical units as relates to energy conservation and the reduction of CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, it is of great significance to investigate the spatiotemporal patterns and impacting factors of county scale carbon emissions in different regions for various leading industries in China, toward the achievement of "carbon peaking and carbon neutrality" goals. A total of 1912 counties in China were selected as research areas, for which the carbon emission patterns were analyzed from 2000 to 2015. Subsequently, they were classified by industry, which was combined with night light data, energy consumption data, land use data, and other relative data. The Random Forest algorithm was employed to study the influencing factors of county carbon emissions in China in 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015. The results revealed that: (1) For the 16 years under study, carbon emissions grew most rapidly in North China, followed by East China, with the lowest increase observed in Northeastern China. The counties with high carbon emissions were concentrated in the eastern coastal areas. (2) The Moran index showed that the carbon emissions of counties in China had an obvious aggregating effect, which was strongly correlated with the Chinese economy over the studied time scale; (3) The changes and development of various industrial counties in different regions were primarily demarcated by their reduction in services year by year. Further, the industrial counties initially increased and then decreased, which clearly illustrated the series of processes involved in China’s economy "extensive development -- industrial transfer -- paying attention to environmental protection"; (4) The impacting factors of carbon emissions for different regions and various types of industrial counties in China exhibited variable characteristics at different development stages, which reflected the complex developmental attributes of different counties. The general trend was that the increased carbon emissions from various industrial counties in China since 2000 were mainly impacted by the surge in government investment. This study provides theoretical guidance for various localities to implement energy conservation and emission reduction strategies according to local conditions.
Anthropogenic changes of the vegetation in the Kilyan arm of the Danube Delta (Ukraine)
Authors: Dubyna Dmytro V. , Dziuba Tetiana P. , Borsukevych Liubov M.
Published: February 2024

At the beginning of the last century, natural complexes of the Danube Delta underwent significant anthropogenic transformations. Catastrophic and successive changes occurred in the last three decades as a result of the damming of the riverbed and near-channel ridges of individual islands and floodplain territories and their subsequent de-damming, the construction of the large-scale deep-water Danube-Black Sea shipping channel, the transformation of significant areas of delta into agricultural land, as well as quarrying of sand, grazing, mowing of reed straw in industrial scale, spontaneous burning, afforestation, pollution of water and terrestrial environment, etc. The coastal ecosystems of the eastern part of the Kilyan arm of the Danube Delta have also been catastrophically impacted by the military actions of the Russia. The paper highlights the main anthropogenic changes of vegetation identified based on long-term comparative phytocoenotic surveys, stationary studies, and the use of the successional series method. Strategy for optimizing the vegetation cover of the delta is offered. The established patterns can be used to develop methods for assessing the risk of ecosystems, and the intensity of their degradation, for the purpose of protection, management, and sustainable use of the biodiversity in the delta areas of the Northern Black Sea region.
Environmental Impacts Assessment of Shipping Activities on Water Quality of Apapa Bay, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: SALAMI Taofeek Mayowa , AKINHANMI Temilade Fola , ODUKOYA Olukayode Olusegun , ADEMUYIWA Oladipo , ADEYEMI Adebayo Samson , ADEGUNLE Matthew Adewale , ADEBESIN Hassan Omoniyi
Published: February 2024

Activities at seaports could contribute to ecological hazards such as water pollution. In this study, the environmental impacts of shipping activities at Apapa Bay, Lagos, Nigeria, in relation to the water's physicochemical and potentially toxic metal characteristics, were investigated. Water and sediment samples were collected at four different points, each from four different terminals in Apapa Bay and, similarly, at Takwa Bay, which served as control due to its non-use for shipping. The surface water of the Apapa bay was characterized by the following ranges: 26.35–27.38ºC, 7.03–7.85, 1100–1588 µScm− 3, and 77.28–72.85 ± 0.41 mg/L, for temperature, pH, conductivity, and total alkalinity respectively. The biochemical oxygen demand, BOD5, and the chemical oxygen demand, COD, values 72.4–36.5 mg/L and 199.1–236.7 mg/L, respectively, were above the permissible limits. Low concentrations of phosphate, 0.363–0.652 mg/L, and sulphate, 36.92 ± 14.10–11.10 mg/L were recorded. Potentially toxic metals concentrations ranged: Cd (1.210–3.024 mg/kg); Fe (30.000–35.625 mg/kg); Pb (1.756–65.902 mg/kg); and Cu (10.859–13.423 mg/kg) and were compared with Takwa bay concentrations: 0.600 mg/kg; 6.876 mg/kg; 8.585 mg/kg and 10.859 mg/kg. Different Sediment Quality Guidelines (SQGs) were applied to assess the metal toxicity risk. Significant (p < 0.05) correlations were observed among Cd, Pb, Fe, and Cu suggesting similar sources for the metals. The SQGs classified Apapa Bay as heavily polluted in terms of Cd and Fe and non-polluted with Pb and Cu. These findings provide baseline data for future policies protecting Apapa Bay marine environments.