bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PV Connected Grid System Using Modified Boost Converter with AI Based Controller
Authors: M Nivedha
Published: October 2024

Grid connected solar Photovoltaic (PV) system has a fast growing rate and rapidly becoming an essential part in power distribution systems. Solar energy generated through PV array completely depends on atmospheric conditions, changes in weather affects the amount of output energy, and hence the system needs to be improved according to changes in climate. Thereby, this work focuses on Modified Boost Converter (MBC) with AI based controller for optimizing the performance of grid connected PV module. Moreover, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) is used in extracting maximum output power from PV system. The single phase Voltage Source Inverter (1 VSI) is utilized in converting the DC supply into AC. For verifying the performance of grid connected PV, it is implemented in MATLAB. The results demonstrates that the proposed converter results with higher voltage gain compared to the other conventional converters.
A musealização da fonografia “plataformizada”: canção popular brasileira como acervo aural no século XXI
Authors: Garcia Luiz Henrique Assis
Published: October 2024

Neste artigo, parto da premissa de que as mudanças sociais e tecnológicas que envolvem a produção e circulação de música popular hoje, com o declínio de certas mídias, ascensão de outras, como as plataformas de streaming, na tensão entre materialidade e imaterialidade desafiam os museus de tipologia de Imagem e Som (MIS) a desenvolver novas políticas museológicas ante o risco de se formarem lacunas em seus acervos, dificultando a produção da memória e da história referentes à canção popular brasileira do século XXI. Para tanto, proponho-me, num primeiro momento, a examinar historicamente a constituição do que estou denominando “objeto aural”, ou seja, o som – e por consequência, a música popular - capturado enquanto registro pelo advento da fonografia, e sua subsequente inserção nos cenários institucionalizados de salvaguarda patrimonial, conferindo destaque ao contexto brasileiro. Na segunda seção do texto, abordarei sinteticamente as transformações sofridas pela fonografia nos meios digitais. Trarei em caráter experimental e complementar, material empírico recolhido em pesquisa em andamento junto ao MIS-SP, pinçando dentre suas atividades regulares o projeto Estéreo MIS, dedicado a promover apresentações e registros audiovisuais por entrevistas concernentes a artistas associados à dita “música independente” no Brasil. Privilegiando a análise de alguns desses depoimentos, procuro demonstrar a valia desse tipo de política de acervo diante da problemática levantada e dos caminhos que esta pode apontar, aventando como resposta às questões a adaptação de experiências participativas no âmbito das políticas de patrimônio e de musealização associadas a objetos aurais.
A história política do golpe de 1964 e do regime militar: balanços e perspectivas
Authors: Napolitano Marcos
Published: October 2024

Este artigo propõe um balanço historiográfico sobre o campo da história política do golpe de 1964 e do regime militar, ao mesmo tempo em que sugere novas perspectivas de análise centradas não apenas no processo golpista em si, mas também em dois outros temas: o funcionamento do modelo político do regime militar, com destaque para a articulação entre repressão legal e terrorismo de Estado e para o lugar dos Atos Institucionais como instrumentos políticos, para além de uma mera “fachada jurídica”, e o histórico acidentado da “Abertura política”, como resultado da dialética entre o regime autoritário e campo das resistências democráticas. Por fim, o texto também destaca a importância da crítica da memória social do período para o campo da história política, visando à revisão da periodização consagrada pela vertente liberal da oposição que reduz o caráter ditatorial propriamente dito do regime ao período dos “anos de chumbo”.
Notas sobre a poiética como abordagem metodológica de pesquisa em arte
Authors: Ribeiro Henrique Walter , Stumm Rebeca Lenize
Published: October 2024

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar os fundamentos da poiética como abordagem metodológica às pesquisas em Arte. Após uma sucinta separação conceitual e um breve resgate histórico da terminologia e seus usos, averigua a perspectiva proposta pela Dr.ª Sandra Rey para aplicação daquela. Percebeu-se, com isso, que o enfoque poiético, além de flexibilizar trânsitos entre as instâncias de pesquisa em Arte, por vezes, confunde-se com a gênese das pesquisas em poéticas visuais.
Olhar imagens e encontrar fantasmas: considerações sobre um projeto de ensino de História da arte
Authors: Valgas Paulo Henrique Torres , Flores Maria Bernardete Ramos
Published: October 2024

Em 2020, foi realizado o projeto “História da Arte como uma História de Fantasmas para adultos”, no Instituto Federal Catarinense, no campus Ibirama, com alunos do ensino médio. O objetivo do projeto foi ensinar História da Arte, primeiramente a partir dos movimentos artísticos cronologicamente agrupados, para então questionar essa formatação através da produção de montagens de imagens, inspirados no Atlas Mnemosyne de Aby Warburg, aprendendo conceitos como Pathosformel, Nachleben e imagem-fantasma. Esse texto analisa quatro das pranchas produzidas pelos estudantes, relacionadas especialmente ao Pathosformel, conforme a herança desse importante historiador alemão, mostrando a potência da imagem para ampliar o repertório, sensibilidade e capacidade de pensar pelo visual em jovens estudantes através do conhecimento por montagem de imagens.
Quem Está Presente? Pedagogia Performativa e Pesquisa Experimental Em Artes No Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Giordani Maria Virgínia Gapski , Bandeira Denise Adriana
Published: October 2024

O presente artigo apresenta um relato de experiência a partir da pedagogia performativa (Garoian, 1999) nomeado como: A professora está presente, no intuito de propor uma reperformance (Fornaciari, 2010) baseada no trabalho de Marina Abramovic, intitulado: A artista está presente. A proposta é parte das tentativas de elaboração de um planejamento pedagógico que se distancie das práticas de docilização dos corpos no ambiente escolar, e é parte da trajetória da investigação sobre outros modos de experienciar o corpo e a sala de aula como lugar de criação. Neste recorte, foi proposto uma síntese sobre a pedagogia performativa e sobre os estudos da educadora Rachel (2014) nas escolas que atua em São Paulo. Na sequência, apresenta-se uma análise da vivência, junto com os relatos dos estudantes e da própria experiência, tratando-se da teoria da performance como entrelugar entre arte e escola, aluno e professor. Ainda, com a expectativa de aproximar esses estatutos e a performance, optou-se pelo conceito do limiar (Garoian, 1999), as questões da performance conforme Schechner (2011) e aspectos considerados na abordagem da arte disturbacional (Danto, 2014). Este relato visa problematizar a escola como lugar disciplinarizante (Foucault, 1987) a fim de contribuir com um debate sobre as práticas do ensino em artes tendo em vista a pedagogia performativa.
#QuadrosDiscentes: Research into memes and art in teacher training in Brazil and Spain
Authors: Gaspar Débora da Rocha , Oliveira Sandra Regina , Juanola Mariona Masgrau
Published: October 2024

In this paper we reflect on and present the results of part of a research project we conducted in academic years 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 with students of the Double Degree in Infant and Primary Education of the University of Girona - UdG (Catalonia, Spain) and students of the Degree in Visual Arts of Santa Catarina State University - UDESC (Brazil), concerning Internet memes and their linguistic strategies. In order to bring the two fields of study together and facilitate collaboration, a closed group within the Facebook social network was used as a space of interaction between the research subjects. The researchers took part in the experience, in accordance with the protocols of the action research method. The results point towards reflections and potential modifications that could be introduced in new research into how to learn and teach about volatile images—typical of cyberculture—in educational processes for teacher training.
Caminho entre duas linhas
Authors: Oliveira Joana Ferreira , Marcelino Américo Luís Enes
Published: October 2024

Este trabalho comporta uma reflexão sobre os primeiros resultados da prática artística, obtidos no âmbito do projeto artístico Lugar Habitado e apresentados na exposição individual Caminho Entre Duas Linhas. Através da realização de um percurso pedestre em Lisboa, o ato de caminhar é apresentado como um recurso de investigação para a prática e expressão artística, que permite estabelecer uma reflexão sobre a relação entre o território, memória e a construção da identidade dos indivíduos que nele habitam. Os trabalhos realizados evidenciam uma interação entre o ato de caminhar e a criação de narrativas individuais e coletivas, destacando o papel da memória na construção de um sentido de pertença. Trata-se de uma exposição, que procura colocar a relação pessoal da artista com o território em diálogo com os outros, contribuindo para a construção de uma identidade coletiva.
Despertando sensaciones: experiencias artísticas multisensoriales para aprender a conectar con la infancia
Authors: Rodríguez Martín Caeiro , Cid Sara Fuentes
Published: October 2024

“Despertando sensaciones” ofrece un conjunto de propuestas que, partiendo de la estimulación sensorial de diversos sentidos, activa procesos cognitivos de reconocimiento, memoria y percepción que trascienden el mero sentido de la vista como receptor y generador de información. El objetivo es que las futuras maestras y futuros maestros de infantil aprendan a trabajar con los diferentes sentidos, ampliando así su formación de manera integral para aprovechar las posibilidades perceptivas y expresivas que los niños y niñas les ofrecen según su edad. Este tipo de experiencias contribuye a romper estereotipos y perjuicios relacionados con la forma, el aspecto y el color de las cosas, así como con la percepción que los estudiantes tienen de su propio desempeño y habilidades artísticas.
Um olhar sobre a produção de tintas artesanais no Brasil: Entrevista com Diego Valdevino
Authors: Garcia Fabricio Rodrigues , Lampert Jociele
Published: October 2024

Entrevista realizada como parte da coleta de dados de minha pesquisa de Mestrado (PPGAV-UDESC) com o artista e empresário Diego Valdevino, da Impressionista Art Materials. Durante a entrevista, realizada virtualmente no dia 16 de julho de 2024, por meio da plataforma Zoom, as perguntas foram pautadas a partir de temas tais como: produção de tintas artesanais e o mercado nacional e composição dos pigmentos, além da produção de um novo gouache profissional no país.
Improved krill swarm algorithm and its application in structural optimization
Authors: Fengguo Jiang , Yuming Zhou , Lili Bai , Shuang Liang
Published: October 2024

This paper improves and perfects the standard Krill herd algorithm (KH), which has the defects of slow convergence speed, insufficient calculation accuracy and easy to fall into local optimal solution for complex problems. An improved Krill herd algorithm (SDEKH) integrating improved differential evolution operator and S-type adaptive inertia weight is proposed. SDEKH, KH and other intelligent algorithms are compared and tested through a variety of standard test functions to verify the excellent performance of SDEKH; SDEKH is used to optimize the design of truss structure. By comparing the optimization results with other methods, it is verified that the optimization efficiency and accuracy of SDEKH are improved, which provides a more efficient and accurate method for the optimization design of engineering structures.
Algorithm for solving multi-objective hybrid flow shop scheduling problem
Authors: Jingyun Wang , Lei Wang , Jincao Cai , Jialu Li , Xueman Su
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the multi-objective unrelated parallel machine hybrid flow shop scheduling problem, a multi-objective mathematical model is established with the goal of minimizing the maximum completion time, total machine energy consumption and machine processing cost. An improved multi-objective evolution algorithm based on decomposition (IMOEAD) is proposed. The uniform design table is used to generate the initial weight vector to improve the population diversity. Normal distribution crossover and adaptive Gaussian mutation are used to improve the global and local search capabilities of the algorithm. Individuals are selected in the neighborhood of the weight vector to generate new solutions. The non-dominated rank and crowding distance are used to update the external archive. The inverse generation distance, generation distance and number of non-dominated solutions are used as performance indicators. Through a large number of case simulations, the algorithm is compared with the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II and the multi-objective evolution algorithm based on decomposition. The results verify the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Improved ant colony algorithm for path planning based on pheromone difference distribution strategy
Authors: Kangkang Ma , Lei Wang , Dongdong Li , Jincao Cai , Xueman Su
Published: October 2024

In view of the problems of blind search in the initial stage, slow convergence speed and easy to fall into local optimum when the traditional ant colony algorithm is used for mobile robot path planning, an improved ant colony algorithm is proposed. Firstly, according to the distance between each node and the line connecting the starting point and the target point, the initial pheromone is unevenly distributed to make it normally distributed, which reduces the blindness of the algorithm search in the initial stage and speeds up the search for the optimal solution; secondly, the volatility factor is improved, and the principle of double volatility factor is adopted to control the volatility of pheromone, which not only reduces the possibility of local optimum but also speeds up the convergence speed; the redundant path is further optimized to make the path better. Simulation results show that the improved ant colony algorithm in this paper converges faster and more stably than the traditional ant colony algorithm and other improved ant colony algorithms.
Fatigue life assessment and verification of turbine joints: current status and prospects
Authors: Dianyin Hu , Nakashima Kenichi , Sato Haruto , Xiaojie Zhang , Kimura Sakura , Yuanxing Gu , Rongqiao Wang
Published: October 2024

The research status of fatigue life assessment technology for turbine joint structures is introduced. The progress, shortcomings and development trends of existing research are discussed from the aspects of multi-field load analysis, crack initiation life assessment, crack propagation simulation and test technology. The evaluation methods of service life and damage tolerance of turbine joint structures are discussed in detail. The results show that the existing analysis and test methods can basically realize the fatigue life assessment of turbine joints, but due to various limitations, the engineering applicability needs to be improved urgently. Robust load reduction analysis methods, life assessment methods based on physical mechanisms and data-driven, load history-related crack propagation life assessment methods and test technologies under complex thermal environments are still needed to establish a fatigue life assessment and verification system for advanced aero-engine turbine joint structures.
Design of unmanned aerial vehicle formation keeping controller based on improved consistency algorithm design
Authors: Ru Wang , Ziyuan Ma , Huajun Gong , Xinhua Wang , Shuai Zhang
Published: October 2024

This article conducts in-depth research on the problems of large gain convergence oscillation and simultaneous application of translational rotation in traditional consistency algorithms. First, based on the traditional consistent formation algorithm, a virtual long machine is introduced, and a new norm is defined to extend the original consistent algorithm to solve the problem of large gain convergence oscillation in the Linearizability algorithm. Secondly, in response to the issue of the inability to maintain the formation caused by the application of translational rotation in traditional consistent formation processes, the maximum distance is introduced as feedback to the reference controller to modify the reference input trajectory to ensure good tracking of the formation during translational rotation. Finally, a joint semi physical simulation was conducted using the open-source flight control Ardupilot and the open-source simulation platform Airsim to further validate the feasibility of the improved algorithm. The results of this study indicate that the proposed algorithm has significant improvements in solving the problems existing in traditional consistency protocols and has good feasibility in practical applications.
Comprehensive evaluation of DC-DC converters based on analytic hierarchy process-entropy method
Authors: Yang Zhang , Dongyuan Qiu , Bo Zhang , Yanfeng Chen
Published: October 2024

In order to more comprehensively compare a series of DC-DC converters with similar topological structures and functions and achieve optimal selection, a comprehensive evaluation method for DC-DC converter topology based on hierarchical analysis-entropy method is proposed. By summarizing the common performance indicators of DC-DC converters, a hierarchical evaluation index system is constructed. The indicators in the index system are weighted by the hierarchical analysis method and the abstract value method, respectively, and the combined weight is obtained by adopting a strategy focusing on the hierarchical analysis method. The linear weighted synthesis method is further used to obtain the score of each DC-DC converter. Finally, taking 11 D2DC-DC converter topologies with the same voltage gain as an example, the proposed method is used for comprehensive evaluation, and the feasibility of the evaluation results is analyzed.
Analysis of contamination and jamming characteristics of fuel metering device based on OMEGA theory
Authors: Wenqiang Li , Bin Wang , Junjie Yang , Keke Li , Zhifeng Ye
Published: October 2024

In order to obtain the quantitative law of the influence of pollution particles in fuel on the working characteristics of fuel metering devices and explore an analytical method for the pollution sticking characteristics of non-standard fuel components, the effect of pollution particles on fuel components is converted into sticking force based on the OMEGA theory, and the dynamic model of fuel components and devices under fuel pollution conditions is established. The working characteristics of the fuel metering device when the solid contamination level is GJB450B-7/8/9 is simulated, and the influence of each grade of fuel on the performance of its key components is obtained. The results show that the load flow response obtained by the servo valve contamination sticking model is basically consistent with the results of the standard servo valve contamination sticking model. The maximum sticking force of the metering valve in the 9-grade fuel is about 140 N, the response time is more than twice that of the non-polluting state, and the maximum relative error of the metered fuel quantity increases by more than 4 times. The method proposed in this paper can provide a reference for the pollution sticking modeling of non-standard fuel components and systems.
Construction and analysis of the EMC evaluation model for vehicular communication systems
Authors: Zhang Guangshuo , Zhang Shiwei , Qin Yangzhen , Wu Fulin , Jiang Bo
Published: October 2024

With the development of wireless communication technologies, vehicle-mounted wireless communication systems are changing with each passing day, and their EMC has become the key to constraining vehicles to adapt to complex electromagnetic environments. Aiming at the limitations of existing EMC evaluation methods or models for wireless communication systems and the actual needs of EMC evaluation and analysis for vehicular communication systems, a five-level novel evaluation model including working environment, signal spectrum, receiver sensitivity, antenna isolation and communication performance is constructed considering the completeness and accuracy of EMC evaluation for vehicular communication systems. The performance of the constructed model is validated using the vehicular communication system of an armored vehicle as an example. The model can evaluate whether there is interference between the working environment and the signal spectrum of the vehicle-mounted radio station. error in the reduction of the receiver sensitivity between calculation and measurement is 5.8%. The calculated isolation of the vehicle-mounted antenna is in good agreement with the measurements. The modulation mode and coding mode of the vehicle-mounted digital communication system with better performance are simulated and analyzed. When the receiver sensitivity is reduced by 6 dB, the vehicle communication distance is reduced by 50%. The simulation and measurement results show that the proposed model is suitable for the evaluation of electromagnetic compatibility of vehicular communication systems for armored vehicles.
Multi-scale context-aware and boundary-guided image manipulation detection method
Authors: Chen Haipeng , Zhang Yingzhi , Han Chenyu , Zhang Shibo
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the problems of traditional image manipulation detection methods, such as fuzzy boundaries, single scale of extracted features, and ignoring background information, this paper proposes an image manipulation detection method based on multi-scale context-aware and boundary-guided. First, spatial details and base features of manipulated images are extracted using an improved pyramid vision transformer. Second, information related to the edge of the falsified region is explored by an edge contextaware module to generate an edge prediction map. Again, the edge guidance module is utilized to highlight the key channels in the extracted features and reduce the interference of redundant channels. Then, the rich contextual information of the manipulated region is learned from multiple sensory fields through the multi-scale context-aware module. Finally, the feature fusion module is utilized to accurately segment the manipulated region by focusing alternately on the foreground and background of the manipulated images. Comparing this paper's method quantitatively and qualitatively on five commonly used public image manipulation detection datasets, the experimental results show that this paper's method can effectively detect manipulated regions and outperforms other methods.
Progress and challenges in airport slot allocation
Authors: Wang Yanjun , Shui Xiaoyu , Wang Mengyin
Published: October 2024

Most of Level 3 airports worldwide face severe congestion and flight delays. Optimal allocating airport slots is one of the most effective ways in airport demand management. Here we systematically review the progress of research in airport slots allocation, as well as the main techniques in setting airport declared capacity and allocating slots.
Mechanism and modeling of car-following behavior under local multi-vehicle influence
Authors: Lanfang Zhang , Genze Li , Tingyu Liu , Bo Yu
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the limitations of single-dimensional car-following model to describe vehicle car-following behavior in local multi-vehicle environment, the mechanism of vehicles in adjacent lane influencing the subject vehicle car-following behavior is explored, and a vehicle car-following model more suitable for local multi-vehicle environment is attempted to be established. The driving behavior variable reflecting the influence of vehicles in adjacent lane was determined by correlation analysis. Vortisch indicator of similarity(VIS) was used to characterize the influence of vehicles in adjacent lane on car-following behavior. Chi-square independent test and kernel density curve were used to determine the VIS demarcation threshold reflecting whether the influence is significant. Recursive feature elimination was used to screen the variables related to car-following samples significantly affected by vehicles in adjacent lane. The influence mechanism of variables was determined according to the statistical analysis results. Based on the mechanism proposed, the car-following model suitable for local multi-vehicle environment was constructed and its prediction effect was evaluated. Results show that VIS between the speed of subject vehicle and following vehicle in adjacent lane can characterize the influence and the VIS threshold is 0.668. It is concluded that the attention mechanism and memory effect can explain the influence mechanism of car-following behavior in multi-vehicle environment. Considering the attention mechanism and memory effect, RMSE decrease by 65%in Full Velocity Difference Model (FVD) model and 62%in Intelligent Driver Model (IDM) model, MAE decrease by 65%and 59%and R2 increased by 180%and 288%respectively, which proved the rationality of the attention mechanism and memory effect in explaining the car following behavior of subject vehicle in local multi-vehicle environment.
Inteligencia Artificial para la promoción turística de la Amazonía y la percepción del usuario digital
Authors: Zambrano Salazar Cinthya Monserrate , Cárdenas Vela Mónica Elena , Góngora Cheme Dany Wilson
Published: October 2024

La promoción turística de la Amazonía ecuatoriana presenta varios desafíos como: la necesidad de preservar su entorno natural, el acceso limitado y la competencia con otros destinos turísticos internacionales. Esta investigación tiene un enfoque descriptivo y exploratorio, con el objetivo de identificar las distintas aplicaciones de la Inteligencia Artificial (IA) para la promoción turística y reconocer la percepción de los usuarios digitales sobre el empleo de estas herramientas para promover el turismo en la Amazonía. Para el levantamiento de información, se utilizó un cuestionario que fue distribuido en línea a través de Google Forms. Los resultados refieren que la mayoría de los usuarios no se encuentran completamente familiarizados con el uso de la Inteligencia Artificial en la promoción turística. Se concluye que, aunque la IA tiene el potencial de impulsar la promoción turística, es necesario educar más a los usuarios sobre sus ventajas y aumentar su visibilidad.
Formulation and Evaluation of Vancomycin Loaded Chitosan/Aloe Vera Hydrogel: A Novel Antibacterial Biopolymeric System
Authors: Ghandali Elham Varnaseri , Rastegari Ali , Mohammadi Zohreh
Published: October 2024

The combination of herbal and biopolymeric agents holds significant potential for enhancing wound healing. Aloe vera, known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and regenerative properties, has long been used to treat wounds and burns. Chitosan, as a well-known biopolymer, promotes collagen synthesis, fibroblast recruitment and aiding granulation tissue formation. This study explored the formulation of a chitosan/Aloe vera hydrogel loaded with vancomycin, as a potential wound care product. The hydrogel was prepared using chitosan and aloe vera in 1:1 and 1:2 ratios. After homogenization, 1% vancomycin was incorporated. All physical characterizations, drug loading and drug release studies were performed on prepared formulations. Antimicrobial activity also was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, both physical and performance properties of gels were assessed over three months under room temperature and refrigerated conditions. The study found that the gels remained stable, with no changes in color, flowability, uniformity, or viscosity during stability assessments. Both formulations released their entire drug content within two hours when kept at room temperature and in the refrigerator. No signs of separation or degradation were observed over the three-month period, demonstrating the gel’s stability. Formulations showed acceptable antimicrobial activity against both mentioned bacterial strains. In conclusion, the chitosan/Aloe vera gel containing vancomycin showed desirable properties, making it a promising candidate for wound healing. Its antimicrobial activity and ability to support tissue regeneration suggest it as a valuable treatment for accelerating the wound-healing process.
Initial evaluation of waste phosphogypsum for its use as a precursor for bioceramic materials
Authors:  Bajorinaitė Elžbieta , Michailova Laura  ,  Jurevičiūtė Simona , Sokol De­nis , Stankevičiūtė Živilė , Grigoravičiūtė Inga  , Kareiva Aivaras 
Published: October 2024

In this study, the phosphogypsum waste taken from various places in the factory dump located in Kėdainiai (Lithuania) was reinspected and characterised by different physico-chemical characterisation methods. The results of X-ray diffraction analysis, thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, elemental analysis using inductively coupled plasma optical emission and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy confirmed that the main crystalline phase of the phosphogypsum waste is gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O). The surface morphology of the investigated materials was analysed using scanning electron microscopy. The specific surface area was determined by the Brunauer–Emmet–Teller method. The pore size distribution of the material produced was obtained using the Barrett–Joyner–Halenda method. This study also demonstrated that the phosphogypsum waste could be successfully used as a precursor for the dissolution-precipitation synthesis of high quality bioceramic calcium hydroxyapatite.
Innovative Strategies for English Language Learning in Ecuador: A Focus on Playful Learning
Authors: Riera Fernando Patricio , Estrada A Diana , Lozano A Carla , Zambrano Jorge , Recalde Frans , Ledesma A Brigita
Published: October 2024

Education is a universal right that extends beyond core subjects to include cross-curricular content essential for preparing students for a competitive global landscape. In this context, English serves as a critical tool, recognized as both the first official language for 370 million users and a second language for 978 million (Eberhard et al., 2021). Despite its global importance, Ecuador faces challenges in English language proficiency, ranking low in Latin America due to inadequate methodologies and a lack of qualified teachers (Education First, 2021; Banegas & Sanchez, 2024). This project aims to implement a playful program tailored to middle school students (5th to 7th grades) at Eugenio Espejo Basic Education School, addressing their unique educational needs through the development of didactic materials and training for non-specialized teachers. A descriptive quantitative approach will guide the methodology, focusing on communicative competence through structured tutoring sessions that utilize reusable educational resources. The study will assess students' prior knowledge through a pre-test, which will inform the creation of a tailored curriculum designed to enhance vocabulary and overall language skills. This initiative not only seeks to improve English proficiency among students but also aims to equip teachers with effective pedagogical strategies, fostering a more conducive learning environment in Ecuadorian classrooms.
A Geriatric Hip Fracture Care Pathway: An Operational Approach to Quality Improvement
Authors: Donegan Derek , Bonilla Kelsey , Kleinman Rachel , Mehta Samir
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Geriatric hip fractures are a devastating injury that decrease patient independence, increase morbidity and mortality, and have a significant economic impact. Although early operative intervention decreases mortality, hospitals often do not meet these benchmarks. The purpose of this study was to use a methodological approach to optimize the care and outcomes of patients sustaining geriatric hip fractures at a single level I trauma center by minimizing time to surgery and length of stay (LOS).

Methods: A process map that outlined the paths that a hip fracture patient could take through our system from the time of injury to discharge was created. Classical operations management tactics known as Lean Synchronization and Six Sigma were used to identify bottlenecks in the system that led to delays in time to surgery or discharge. The pathway was systematically revised to address additional inefficiencies.

Results: The initial process map revealed that time to surgery was increased by extensive preoperative testing and LOS was increased by admission to a non-orthopaedics service. By creating a standardized protocol for risk stratification and admitting all hip fracture patients to the orthopaedics service, improvements were seen within 6 months, including reductions in time to surgery (32.4 vs 17.5 hours), LOS (7.1 vs 5.6 days), 30-day readmissions (14.29% to 8.33%), and in-hospital mortality (2.79% vs 0%). Additional areas for improvement were later identified to reduce delirium rates and cost of care.

Discussion: We conclude that the use of an operational management approach to address the inefficiencies in a clinical care pathway produced substantial and sustainable improvements in relevant outcome measures in patients sustaining geriatric hip fractures. By systematically identifying the bottlenecks in the system, we generated an ideal state pathway, which has allowed us to deliver higher quality care to our patients while simultaneously decreasing cost of care.
Spread Too Thin: How has the COVID-19 Pandemic Contributed to Burnout Among Academic Orthopaedic Surgeons?
Authors: Kale Nisha N. , Stamm Michaela A. , Higgins Margaret J , Mulcahey Mary
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Burnout is a syndrome characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment in the work environment. Limited data are available to assess how orthopaedic surgeons have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in regard to symptoms of burnout.

Methods

A 28-question multiple-choice anonymous online survey was distributed via email to 2,002 orthopaedic surgeons practicing at academic institutions in the United States. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) was used to evaluate burnout.

Results

2,025 emails were distributed; 227 valid questionnaires were analyzed. 155 participants (68%) showed burnout. Emotional exhaustion and depersonalization correlated with age, gender, years of practice, and whether participants had children (all p < 0.05). Female surgeons (especially single and childless surgeons) had significantly higher emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. COVID-19 had a negative impact on surgeons’ personal well-being (79%, p < 0.001). Significantly more surgeons who indicated that, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they were under financial distress (17 of 18, p = 0.015), mental/emotional distress (123 of 154, p < 0.001), had deteriorating home situations (37 of 39, p < 0.001), and had to change their practice dynamics (52 of 62, p = 0.002) had burnout.

Discussion

Orthopaedic surgeons experienced high levels of burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. Younger orthopaedic surgeons or those in early stages of practice were more susceptible to burnout. Female orthopaedic surgeons, especially childless and unmarried female surgeons, experienced more emotional exhaustion and depersonalization.

Level of Evidence

Level III, Therapeutic Study
Peripheral nerve block compared to peri-articular injection for postoperative pain control in total ankle arthroplasty: A randomized, controlled, non-inferiority trial
Authors: Strasser Nicholas , Owen Erin , Bigouette John Paul
Published: October 2024

Background

Peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) are widely used for postoperative pain management, including total ankle arthroplasty (TAA), but introduce potential neuropathic complications. This study evaluates the effectiveness and tolerability of peri-articular injections (PAI) compared to PNB in TAA, measured by narcotic consumption and pain scores.

Methods

A prospective, non-inferiority trial randomized 51 adults undergoing primary, unilateral TAA, to either PAI (n=26) or a popliteal fossa with distal femoral nerve block (n=25). Outcomes included mean difference (MD) in postoperative morphine milligram equivalents (MME) consumption and Visual Analogue Pain Scale (VAS, 0-100mm) at 24 hours and two weeks, and complications through three months. Non-inferiority margins were MD in narcotic consumption less than 30 MME (24 hour) and 75 MME (two weeks), and MD less than 15mm on VAS using the upper limit of one-sided 95% confidence intervals (UCI).

Results

Complete data were available for 23 participants with PAI and 18 with PNB. Mean 24 hour MME was 53.6 (sd = 47.5) in PAI versus 57.2 (sd = 44.0) in PNB (p=.711) with 3.6 MME MD (UCI 32.6). Mean VAS at 24 hours was 25.1 (sd = 24.7) in PAI compared to 25.2 (sd = 29.4) in PNB (p=.991) with MD -0.09 (UCI 17.0). At two-weeks, MD in MME was 80.8 (UCI 363.3). Non-inferiority was not supported for these outcomes. Mean two week VAS was 14.6 (sd = 24.7) in PAI versus 16.4 (sd = 21.0) for PNB (p=.828) with MD of -1.9 (UCI 10.4), supporting non-inferiority.

Conclusion

PAI offers a simple approach to pain control in TAA that should be considered. There were no significant differences in 24 hour or two week postoperative pain, or complications for patients randomized to PAI compared to PNB. Further research will likely demonstrate PAI is no worse than PNB for postoperative pain control and avoids potential neuropathic complications.
SHBG and Insulin Resistance - Nexus revisited
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalapet, Pondicherry, India, Dinakaran Asha , Srinivasan AR , Rajagambeeram Reeta ,   Department of Biochemistry, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Deemed to be University, Pillaiyarkuppam, Pondicherry, India, Nanda Sunil Kumar ,   Department of Biochemistry, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalapet, Pondicherry, India, Daniel Mary ,   Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalapet, Pondicherry, India
Published: October 2024

Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a liver-synthesized glycoprotein. Low SHBG levels are associated with insulin resistance (IR). Specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the SHBG gene are linked to IR. Therefore, it is of interest to provide a review on the comprehensive overview for SHBG related to IR.
Study on morphometry of distal humerus and its clinical correlations
Authors:   Department of Anatomy, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Porur, Chennai-600116, Tamil Nadu, India, Azhagiri Shivani , Venkatesh Purvi , Ramasamy Srimathi , Ramachandran Kalpana ,   Department of Anatomy, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Porur, Chennai-600116, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: October 2024

Morphometric analysis of bones gives essential information for reconstructive surgeries and prosthetics. It is also useful in forensic medicine to identify and estimate age, sex and height from skeletal remains. We have measured and analyzed the following parameters in 100 distal humerii: the maximal length of the humerus, transverse distance between medial epicondyle and lateral epicondyle, horizontal diameter of trochlea, antero-posterior diameter of trochlea, and horizontal distance from medial epicondyle to capitulum. Distal humeral fractures are often challenging and difficult to treat which requires knowledge of distal humeral anatomy. Data from this study and the comparisons made will help in this.
Ethics on academic procurement of cadavers
Authors:   Department of Anatomy, Gujarat Adani Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhuj, Gujarat, India, Bala Ganesh KSV Angu , Panda Payal , Gurawa Tanushree ,   Department of Anatomy, C.U.Shah Medical college & Hospital, Surendranagar, Gujarat, India, Gopalakrishna Prarthana Kalerammana ,   Physiology discipline, Human Biology division, School of Medicine, IMU University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Jagadeesan Saravanan ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Lakeside Campus, Taylor’s University, Selangor, Malaysia, Vishnumukkala Thirupathirao ,   Anatomy discipline, Human Biology Division, School of Medicine, IMU University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: October 2024

Anatomy is a vital discipline in the realm of Medicine, and its primary means of study is through the use of cadavers. Experts in the medical, legal, and ethical domains have discussed the use of cadavers or their anatomical parts for educational purposes, which are considered a severe drawback. The advantages of using cadavers include their contribution to medical education, research, the investigation of innovative surgical procedures or techniques, the detection of anatomical differences at an individual or population level, the enhancement of surgical skills, and the support of other anatomical investigations. This review highlights the issues like consent, respect for the deceased and cultural beliefs on cadaver procurement practices and also it emphasizes the need for better body donation initiatives and public awareness campaigns to ensure sustainable cadaver procurement practices, ensuring consent, respect for the deceased and cultural beliefs.
Volumetric analysis of maxillary sinuses for gender determination: Manual vs. 3D segmentation
Authors:   Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, School of Dentistry, DY Patil (deemed to be university), Navi Mumbai, India, hetty Naveen Kumar , Vhatkar Bhavika Pol , Rode Shweta , Mukherjee Abhishek ,   Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, School of Dentistry, DY Patil (deemed to be university), Navi Mumbai, India
Published: October 2024

The effectiveness of manual calculations versus 3D segmentation techniques in volumetric analysis of maxillary sinuses for gender determination is of interest. Maxillary sinuses, which vary anatomically due to factors like age, ethnicity, and gender, are crucial in forensic and anthropological contexts. Traditional methods, relying on two-dimensional imaging, are often time-consuming and prone to errors, whereas 3D segmentation offers a more precise and efficient approach. This research evaluates both methods in terms of reliability, accuracy, and practical use, potentially influencing their application in clinical and forensic settings. The findings may also enhance understanding of anatomical variations in maxillary sinuses across populations, contributing to more accurate gender determination.
Prevalence of co-morbidities among periodontitis and non-periodontitis Indian patients
Authors:   Department of Periodontology, Maharishi Markandeshwar College of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, India, Saini Dinesh , Dhawan Shivani ,   Department of Periodontology, Maharishi Markandeshwar College of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, India, Dhawan Rajan ,   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Maharishi Markandeshwar College of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, India, Kiranmayi Javvadi , Singh Rishika ,   Department of Periodontology, Maharishi Markandeshwar College of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, India, Gupta Paras ,   Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Maharishi Markandeshwar College of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, India
Published: October 2024

Periodontitis being an immuno-inflammatory disease can act as an aggravating factor for various systemic diseases. Therefore, it is of interest to document the prevalence of comorbidities among periodontitis and non-periodontitis Indian patients. 680 patients were enrolled, categorized into non-periodontitis group (Group A) and periodontitis group (Group B). Each group was again sub-grouped into comorbidities and non-co-morbidities. Periodontitis patients were found to have significantly more co-morbidities than non-periodontitis patients. Osteoporosis and obesity showed statistically higher levels in periodontitis patients. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and COVID-19 infection showed higher prevalence in periodontitis group, though the difference was statistically non-significant.
A espiritualidade frente aos cuidados paliativos de adultos jovens com câncer
Authors: Silvestre Daiane Letícia
Published: October 2024

Cuidados Paliativos referem-se a uma abordagem para melhoria da qualidade de vida de pacientes e familiares que enfrentam uma doença ameaçadora da vida, através da prevenção e do alívio do sofrimento, iniciando pela identificação precoce, avaliação, tratamento da dor e de outros problemas, físicos, psicossociais e espirituais. A espiritualidade acaba tornando-se parte integrante dos cuidados paliativos, pois favorece a abertura do sentido do adoecimento na vida do paciente, além de oportunizar o autodesenvolvimento, onde o sofrimento humano e a morte ganham um novo significado. Este estudo tem por objetivo identificar a importância da espiritualidade no processo do tratamento oncológico paliativo em adultos jovens, descrevendo a percepção do paciente paliativo sobre o prolongamento da vida e a relação com a espiritualidade e avaliar a participação da família nos cuidados paliativos e a aceitação da mesma frente a espiritualidade do paciente. A pesquisa de cunho qualitativo foi realizada em um hospital de uma cidade do norte do Rio Grande do Sul, com 3 pacientes oncológicos de 20 anos a 40 anos, em tratamento paliativo; os instrumentos utilizados foram um Questionário Sociodemográfico e uma entrevista semiestruturada. Como resultado, pode-se perceber que os pacientes oncológicos veem a espiritualidade como uma aliada nesse processo tão doloroso de enfrentamento e aceitação de um quadro limitador da vida e a família tem um papel incentivador neste processo.
 
Palavras-chave: espiritualidade; cuidados paliativos; adultos jovens; câncer.
Colecistite aguda durante a pandemia de Covid-19: Existiu alguma diferença?
Authors: Kunkel da Costa Guilherme , Marcante Carlotto Jorge Roberto , Olszanski Acrani Gustavo
Published: October 2024

Objetivo: comparar o perfil clínico dos pacientes submetidos à colecistectomia por colecistite aguda pré e durante a pandemia de coronavírus, além do manejo e sua relação com o prognóstico do paciente. Métodos: estudo de coorte retrospectivo, realizado em um hospital terciário. Os pacientes foram divididos em grupo pré-pandemia e pandemia, sendo analisados e comparados dados relacionados aos fatores estruturais e clínicos. Resultados: houve mais pacientes na pré-pandemia, predominando o sexo feminino e a cor branca. O tempo entre os primeiros sintomas e a admissão hospitalar foi maior na pandemia. Em ambos os grupos houve o predomínio de estágios Grau II da doença. Ainda, na pandemia houve uma maior incidência de complicações. Conclusão: este estudo proporciona uma melhor compreensão acerca dos aspectos clínicos e estruturais acerca da colecistite aguda no cenário da pandemia por coronavírus.
Terapias complementares no tratamento oncológico: Revisão integrativa
Authors: Fussinger Letícia
Published: October 2024

Objetivo: analisar as evidências da literatura acerca das possibilidades de terapias complementares no tratamento oncológico. Método: revisão integrativa desenvolvida a partir da identificação, análise e síntese do conhecimento produzido pela literatura. Os dados foram coletados em diferentes bases de dados. Incluíram-se oito artigos para revisão e síntese do conhecimento, os quais resultaram duas categorias temáticas. Resultados: dentre as abordagens identificadas, encontram-se: os efeitos adversos da quimioterapia comprometem a qualidade de vida dos pacientes oncológicos; estratégias não farmacológicas para alívio dos efeitos adversos da quimioterapia: ir além da medicação. Conclusão: as evidências científicas vêm mostrando os benefícios das terapias complementares no cuidado aos pacientes oncológicos em tratamento quimioterápico e a importância da sua implementação quando se propõe uma assistência integral.