bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Timeliness in Tracking Infections
Authors: Bastopcu Melih , Ulukus Sennur
Published: June 2022

We consider real-time timely tracking of infection status (e.g., COVID-19) of individuals in a population. In this work, a health care provider wants to detect both infected people and people who have recovered from the disease as quickly as possible. In order to measure the timeliness of the tracking process, we use the long-term average difference between the actual infection status of the people and their real-time estimate by the health care provider based on the most recent test results. We first find an analytical expression for this average difference for given test rates, infection rates and recovery rates of people. Next, we propose an alternating minimization-based algorithm to find the test rates that minimize the average difference. We observe that if the total test rate is limited, instead of testing all members of the population equally, only a portion of the population may be tested in unequal rates calculated based on their infection and recovery rates. Next, we characterize the average difference when the test measurements are erroneous (i.e., noisy). Further, we consider the case where the infection status of individuals may be dependent, which occurs when an infected person spreads the disease to another person if they are not detected and isolated by the health care provider. In addition, we consider an age of incorrect information-based error metric where the staleness metric increases linearly over time as long as the health care provider does not detect the changes in the infection status of the people. Through extensive numerical results, we observe that increasing the total test rate helps track the infection status better. In addition, an increased population size increases diversity of people with different infection and recovery rates, which may be exploited to spend testing capacity more efficiently, thereby improving the system performance. Depending on the health care provider’s preferences, test rate allocation can be adjusted to detect either the infected people or the recovered people more quickly. In order to combat any errors in the test, it may be more advantageous for the health care provider to not test everyone, and instead, apply additional tests to a selected portion of the population. In the case of people with dependent infection status, as we increase the total test rate, the health care provider detects the infected people more quickly, and thus, the average time that a person stays infected decreases. Finally, the error metric needs to be chosen carefully to meet the priorities of the health care provider, as the error metric used greatly influences who will be tested and at what test rate.
Recent Advancements in Chalcogenides for Electrochemical Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Mensah-Darkwa Kwadwo , Nframah Ampong Daniel , Agyekum Emmanuel , de Souza Felipe M. , Gupta Ram K.
Published: June 2022

Energy storage has become increasingly important as a study area in recent decades. A growing number of academics are focusing their attention on developing and researching innovative materials for use in energy storage systems to promote sustainable development goals. This is due to the finite supply of traditional energy sources, such as oil, coal, and natural gas, and escalating regional tensions. Because of these issues, sustainable renewable energy sources have been touted as an alternative to nonrenewable fuels. Deployment of renewable energy sources requires efficient and reliable energy storage devices due to their intermittent nature. High-performance electrochemical energy storage technologies with high power and energy densities are heralded to be the next-generation storage devices. Transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) have sparked interest among electrode materials because of their intriguing electrochemical properties. Researchers have revealed a variety of modifications to improve their electrochemical performance in energy storage. However, a stronger link between the type of change and the resulting electrochemical performance is still desired. This review examines the synthesis of chalcogenides for electrochemical energy storage devices, their limitations, and the importance of the modification method, followed by a detailed discussion of several modification procedures and how they have helped to improve their electrochemical performance. We also discussed chalcogenides and their composites in batteries and supercapacitors applications. Furthermore, this review discusses the subject’s current challenges as well as potential future opportunities.
A Day-Ahead Energy Management for Multi MicroGrid System to Optimize the Energy Storage Charge and Grid Dependency—A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Iqbal Saqib , Mehran Kamyar
Published: June 2022

Microgrid (MG) is a combination of distributed generators (DGs), energy storage systems (ESSs), and loads connected to distribution network that can either be in islanded mode or grid-tied mode. Similarly, a multi-microgrid (MMG) system is a number of interconnected MGs connected with a larger and complex distribution network. Recently, the MMG energy management has created new challenges due to the inherent intermittency, uncertainty, and probabilistic nature of renewable based DGs output and varying load demands. To ensure the efficient operation and optimal energy management in the MMGs, this work proposes a two-stage, a day-ahead, simultaneous energy management strategy (EMS) of the MMG system as well as the MG system. At the first stage, each MG assumes a day-ahead predicted load demand and DGs output. At the second stage, through EMS, the energy scheduling, minimization of the main grid dependency, and maximization of the stored energy in the ESS are managed simultaneously. Four case studies are considered with four interconnected MGs with different DGs output and different initial state of charge (SOC) of ESS along with varying load demand. The proposed optimization model is formulated in the standard form using MATLAB OptimProblem, and compared with heuristic state flow-based EMS. Results show that the total grid dependency will be reduced to zero and ESS depth of discharge (DoD) will be increased up to 50% with the proposed optimization model.
Variable Support Segment-Based Short-Term Wind Speed Forecasting
Authors: Zhang Ke , Li Xiao , Su Jie
Published: June 2022

Accurate short-term wind speed forecasting plays an important role in the development of wind energy. However, the inertia of airflow means that wind speed has the properties of time variance and inertia, which pose a challenge in the task of wind speed forecasting. We employ the variable support segment method to describe these two properties. We then propose a variable support segment-based short-term wind speed forecasting model to improve wind speed forecasting accuracy. The core idea is to adaptively determine the variable support segment of the future wind speed by a self-attention mechanism. Historical wind speed series are first decomposed into several components by variational mode decomposition (VMD). Then, the future values of each component are forecast using a modified Transformer model. Finally, the forecasting values of these components are summed to obtain the future wind speed forecasting values. Wind speed data collected from a wind farm were employed to validate the performance of the proposed model. The mean absolute error of the proposed model in spring, summer, autumn, and winter is 0.25, 0.33, 0.31, and 0.29, respectively. Experimental results show that the proposed model achieves significant accuracy and that the modified Transformer model has good performance.
Fuzzy Logic and Linear Programming-Based Power Grid-Enhanced Economical Dispatch for Sustainable and Stable Grid Operation in Eastern Mexico
Authors: López-Garza Esmeralda , Domínguez-Cruz René Fernando , Martell-Chávez Fernando , Salgado-Tránsito Iván
Published: June 2022

Sustainable, stable, and cost-optimized operation of power grids must be the main objectives of power grid operators and electric utilities. The energy transition towards a preponderant green energy economy requires innovative solutions to enhance the power grid economic dispatches looking for a better allocation of the energy demand among the diverse renewable and fossil fuel energy plants. Green renewable energy systems must be preferred over fossil fuel generators when they are available. However, fossil plants are still required to be kept operational due to the variability and uncertainty of renewable energy plants. This study proposes a hybrid rational economic dispatch model that combines a cost minimization linear model enhanced with a fuzzy logic system for decision-making on wind and hydropower minimum and maximum generation levels. The model considers the intermittency of wind energy and recognizes the strategic value of hydropower as energy storage. The results of the model with real data taken from wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, nuclear, bioenergy, and fossil fuel power plants in the eastern region of Mexico show that a fairer, rational, and cost-optimized power grid economic dispatch can be achieved with the proposed approach.
Harmonics Constrained Approach to Composite Power System Expansion Planning with Large-Scale Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Gbadamosi Saheed Lekan , Nwulu Nnamdi I. , Siano Pierluigi
Published: June 2022

Renewable energy sources (RES) are becoming more attractive due to the global demand for the utilization of clean energy and their easy accessibility. The integration of renewable energy technologies into power systems has been made easy, such that RES can be incorporated into small distribution systems or power grids. This integration of RES has negative impacts on power quality, system reliability, and network security. This could affect the RES performance and causes power quality-related problems such as harmonics, voltage flickers, swell, and sag. This paper presents a generation and transmission expansion planning model with the integration of large-scale RES considering harmonic emissions constraints. This method uses a weighted sum approach to combine the multi-objective optimization problems, thereby minimizing the total costs, active power loss, and harmonic power loss. An analytical technique was developed to estimate and quantify the harmonic emissions from the RES components. The proposed AC mixed-integer non-linear optimization problem was solved using algebraic modeling language. The proposed model is demonstrated on non-distorted Garver’s test bus system and 48-bus of Nigeria’s power system. The results obtained from the sensitivity analysis can be used as a decision-making tool to determine the best approach to minimize harmonic emissions from RES integration into the grid.
Frequency Modulation Control of Hydraulic Wind Turbines Based on Ocean Used Wind Turbines and Energy Storage
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Zheng Pengfei , Gao Wei , Jiang Jishang , Chang Jiafei , Wu Rukang , Ai Chao
Published: June 2022

Based on the energy storage type of hydraulic wind turbines (HWTs) and in view of the unit frequency drop problem under high wind power proportion conditions, this paper proposes a method of primary frequency control under maximum power point tracking (MPPT). HWT power output is affected by wind speed randomness and volatility. In addition, traditional wind turbines do not have inertial adjustment ability, leading to a decrease in the frequency stability of the power system caused by the increase in wind power permeability. In the paper, a hydraulic energy storage system and synchronous generator are combined to carry out primary frequency modulation, and a mathematical model of the hydraulic energy storage system, the hydraulic main transmission system, and the generator active power regulation system after grid connection is established. By analyzing the load changing rules of power systems and frequency fluctuation caused by the power system load after the wind turbine is grid-connected, the variable parameter frequency modulation compensation control strategy of combined turbine-energy storage systems is established, and simulation verification under different load fluctuations is carried out, verifying the effectiveness of the frequency modulation control strategy, which achieves a good control effect for improving the frequency modulation ability of hydraulic wind turbines.
Implementing a New Electronic Health Record System in a University Hospital: The Effect on Reported Medication Errors
Authors: Lindén-Lahti Carita , Kivivuori Sanna-Maria , Lehtonen Lasse , Schepel Lotta
Published: June 2022

Closed-loop electronic medication management systems (EMMS) have been seen as a potential technology to prevent medication errors (MEs), although the research on them is still limited. The aim of this paper was to describe the changes in reported MEs in Helsinki University Hospital (HUS) during and after implementing an EPIC-based electronic health record system (APOTTI), with the first features of a closed-loop EMMS. MEs reported from January 2018 to May 2021 were analysed to identify changes in ME trends with quantitative analysis. Severe MEs were also analysed via qualitative content analysis. A total of 30% (n = 23,492/79,272) of all reported patient safety incidents were MEs. Implementation phases momentarily increased the ME reporting, which soon decreased back to the earlier level. Administration and dispensing errors decreased, but medication reconciliation, ordering, and prescribing errors increased. The ranking of the TOP 10 medications related to MEs remained relatively stable. There were 92 severe MEs related to APOTTI (43% of all severe MEs). The majority of these (55%, n = 53) were related to use and user skills, 24% (n = 23) were technical failures and flaws, and 21% (n = 21) were related to both. Using EMMS required major changes in the medication process and new technical systems and technology. Our medication-use process is approaching a closed-loop system, which seems to provide safer dispensing and administration of medications. However, medication reconciliation, ordering, and prescribing still need to be improved.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Malaria Test Positivity Outcomes and Programme Interventions in Low Transmission Settings in Southern Africa, 2000–2021
Authors: Oyegoke Olukunle O. , Akoniyon Olusegun P. , Ogunsakin Ropo E. , Ogunlana Michael O. , Adeleke Matthew A. , Maharaj Rajendra , Okpeku Moses
Published: June 2022

Malaria is one of the most significant causes of mortality and morbidity globally, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries. It harmfully disturbs the public’s health and the economic growth of many developing countries. Despite the massive effect of malaria transmission, the overall pooled proportion of malaria positivity rate in Southern Africa is still elusive. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to pool estimates of the incidence of the malaria positivity rate, which is the first of its kind in South African countries. A literature search is performed to identify all published articles reporting the incidence of malaria positivity in Southern Africa. Out of the 3359 articles identified, 17 studies meet the inclusion for systematic review and meta-analysis. In addition, because substantial heterogeneity is expected due to the studies being extracted from the universal population, random-effects meta-analyses are carried out to pool the incidence of the malaria positivity rate from diverse diagnostic methods. The result reveals that between-study variability is high (τ2 = 0.003; heterogeneity I2 = 99.91% with heterogeneity chi-square χ2 = 18,143.95, degree of freedom = 16 and a p-value < 0.0001) with the overall random pooled incidence of 10% (95%CI: 8–13%, I2 = 99.91%) in the malaria positivity rate. According to the diagnostic method called pooled incidence estimate, the rapid diagnostic test (RDT) is the leading diagnostic method (17%, 95%CI: 11–24%, I2 = 99.95%), followed by RDT and qPCR and RDT and loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), respectively, found to be (3%, 95%CI: 2–3%, I2 = 0%) and (2%, 95%CI: 1–3%, I2 = 97.94%).Findings of the present study suggest high malaria positive incidence in the region. This implies that malaria control and elimination programmes towards malaria elimination could be negatively impacted and cause delays in actualising malaria elimination set dates. Further studies consisting of larger samples and continuous evaluation of malaria control programmes are recommended.
Ginsenoside Rc Promotes Bone Formation in Ovariectomy-Induced Osteoporosis In Vivo and Osteogenic Differentiation In Vitro
Authors: Yang Nan , Zhang Xiao , Li Lingfeng , Xu Tongtong , Li Meihui , Zhao Qi , Yu Jinling , Wang Jue , Liu Zhihui
Published: June 2022

Ginsenoside Rc is one of the active components used in traditional Chinese medicine. We aim to explore how ginsenoside Rc can be used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Micro-CT demonstrated that the treatment of ovariectomized (OVX) mice with ginsenoside Rc significantly inhibited the decrease in bone mineral density, bone volumetric fraction, and trabecular number, and the increase in trabecular separation. Histological staining, qRT-PCR, and Western blot demonstrated that ginsenoside Rc enhances the microstructure of trabecular bone, and promotes the expression of bone formation-related genes. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, Alizarin Red staining, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting demonstrated that ginsenoside Rc dose-dependently promoted the osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. A ginsenoside Rc-induced increase in the expression of β-catenin, p-GSK-3β, collagen-1, ALP, and RUNX-2 family transcription factor-2 was significantly attenuated upon 10 μM XAV-939 treatment, while the decrease in the expression of GSK-3β and p-β-catenin was significantly enhanced. Ginsenoside Rc promotes bone formation in ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in vivo and promotes osteogenic differentiation in vitro via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
A Possible Way to Relate the Effects of SARS-CoV-2-Induced Changes in Transferrin to Severe COVID-19-Associated Diseases
Authors: Telek Elek , Ujfalusi Zoltán , Kemenesi Gábor , Zana Brigitta , Jakab Ferenc , Hild Gabriella , Lukács András , Hild Gábor
Published: June 2022

SARS-CoV-2 infections are responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Transferrin has been found to explain the link between diseases associated with impaired iron transport and COVID-19 infection. The effect of SARS-CoV-2 on human whole blood was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The analysis of the thermal transition curves showed that the melting temperature of the transferrin-related peak decreased in the presence of SARS-CoV-2. The ratio of the under-curve area of the two main peaks was greatly affected, while the total enthalpy of the heat denaturation remained nearly unchanged in the presence of the virus. These results indicate that SARS-CoV-2, through binding to transferrin, may influence its Fe3+ uptake by inducing thermodynamic changes. Therefore, transferrin may remain in an iron-free apo-conformational state, which depends on the SARS-CoV-2 concentration. SARS-CoV-2 can induce disturbance in erythropoiesis due to toxicity generated by free iron overload.
Exosome Carrier Effects; Resistance to Digestion in Phagolysosomes May Assist Transfers to Targeted Cells; II Transfers of miRNAs Are Better Analyzed via Systems Approach as They Do Not Fit Conventional Reductionist Stoichiometric Concepts
Authors: Askenase Philip W.
Published: June 2022

Carrier effects of extracellular vesicles (EV) like exosomes refer to properties of the vesicles that contribute to the transferred biologic effects of their contents to targeted cells. This can pertain to ingested small amounts of xenogeneic plant miRNAs and oral administration of immunosuppressive exosomes. The exosomes contribute carrier effects on transfers of miRNAs by contributing both to the delivery and the subsequent functional intracellular outcomes. This is in contrast to current quantitative canonical rules that dictate just the minimum copies of a miRNA for functional effects, and thus successful transfers, independent of the EV carrier effects. Thus, we argue here that transfers by non-canonical minute quantities of miRNAs must consider the EV carrier effects of functional low levels of exosome transferred miRNA that may not fit conventional reductionist stoichiometric concepts. Accordingly, we have examined traditional stoichiometry vs. systems biology that may be more appropriate for delivered exosome functional responses. Exosome carrier properties discussed include; their required surface activating interactions with targeted cells, potential alternate targets beyond mRNAs, like reaching a threshold, three dimensional aspects of the RNAs, added EV kinetic dynamic aspects making transfers four dimensional, and unique intracellular release from EV that resist intracellular digestion in phagolysosomes. Together these EV carrier considerations might allow systems analysis. This can then result in a more appropriate understanding of transferred exosome carrier-assisted functional transfers. A plea is made that the miRNA expert community, in collaboration with exosome experts, perform new experiments on molecular and quantitative miRNA functional effects in systems that include EVs, like variation in EV type and surface constituents, delivery, dose and time to hopefully create more appropriate and truly current canonical concepts of the consequent miRNA functional transfers by EVs like exosomes.
Copper Modulates Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation to Enhance Dermal Papilla Cells Proliferation in Rex Rabbits
Authors: Li Fan , Liu Hongli , Wu Xiaojing , Liu Mengqi , Yue Zhengkai , Liu Lei , Li Fuchang
Published: June 2022

Copper (Cu) is an important coenzyme factor in cell signaling, such as cytochrome c oxidase (Complex IV). Metabolism plays an important role in regulating the fate of mammalian cells. The aim of this study is to experimentally investigate the effect of copper on cell metabolism in the dermal papilla cells of the Rex rabbit. In this study, Cu promoted proliferation of dermal papilla cells (p = 0.0008) while also increasing levels of cellular CIII, CIV, Complex IV and ATP. Moreover, fifty metabolites that were significantly different between Cu and controls were identified as potential biomarkers of Cu stimulation. Copper-stimulated cells had altered levels of arachidonic acid derivatives, S-glutamic acid, and citric acid, which were primarily linked to two different pathways: arachidonic acid metabolism (p < 0.0001) and alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism (p = 0.0003). The addition of Cu can increase the proliferation of Rex rabbit dermal papilla cells. Increased levels of ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase complex core protein 2 (CIII) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CIV) were associated with the increased levels of cellular cytochrome c oxidase (Complex IV) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). In a word, copper promotes cell proliferation by maintaining the function of the cellular mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) pathway.
T.S. Eliot in the 1918 Pandemic: Abjection and Immunity
Authors: Liu Huiming
Published: June 2022

The influence of the 1918 pandemic was overshadowed by the catastrophe of the First World War. The current COVID-19 pandemic leads the academic attention to how the 1918 pandemic shaped literature of that period. Elizabeth Outka’s book brings the history of the pandemic into the study of modernism. The vast scale of a sudden outbreak of pandemic disease had made decent burials and mourning very difficult. Outka argues that The Waste Land mourns the deaths during the pandemic. The traumatic experience of the pandemic can also be found in the difficulty of speech and the fragmentation of ghostly existence in The Waste Land. Building upon Outka’s work, this essay will engage with the cultural influences of the pandemic in Eliot’s other works and reveal how the famous touchstones of modernisms are shaped by such an event. I will specify how the war and the pandemic were connected in the following section on historical backgrounds. Immunity aims to fight against foreign invaders such as viruses on a micro-level. However, on a macro-level of politics, the logic of the immune system often wrongly identifies certain groups as the scapegoats for contagious diseases. My article aims to reveal the underlying metaphor of immunity in Eliot’s writing of the abject in the late 1910s. By doing so, I hope to contribute to current academic discussions of Eliot and the writing of the pandemic, anti-Semitism and post-colonialism.
Using Iron Ore Ultra-Fines for Hydrogen-Based Fluidized Bed Direct Reduction—A Mathematical Evaluation
Authors: Wolfinger Thomas , Spreitzer Daniel , Schenk Johannes
Published: June 2022

This mathematical evaluation focuses on iron ore ultra-fines for their use in a novel hydrogen-based fluidized bed direct reduction process. The benefits of such a process include reduced CO2 emissions and energy consumption per ton of product, lower operational and capital expenditure, and a higher oxide yield. Typical samples of iron ore ultra-fines, such as pellet feed, are given and classified for a fluidized bed. An operating field for a hydrogen-based fluidized bed direct reduction process using iron ore ultra-fines is shown in the fluidized state diagram following Reh’s approach and compared to other processes. The effects of the process conditions and the agglomeration phenomenon sticking were analyzed and evaluated with mathematical case studies. The agglomeration phenomenon sticking was identified as the most critical issue; thus, the dependencies of the fluid dynamics on the characteristic diameter were examined.
TiNi-Based Bi-Metallic Shape-Memory Alloy by Laser-Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Chen Yitao , Ortiz Rios Cesar , McLain Braden , Newkirk Joseph W. , Liou Frank
Published: June 2022

In this study, laser-directed energy deposition was applied to build a Ti-rich ternary Ti–Ni–Cu shape-memory alloy onto a TiNi shape-memory alloy substrate to realize the joining of the multifunctional bi-metallic shape-memory alloy structure. The cost-effective Ti, Ni, and Cu elemental powder blend was used for raw materials. Various material characterization approaches were applied to reveal different material properties in two sections. The as-fabricated Ti–Ni–Cu alloy microstructure has the TiNi phase as the matrix with Ti2Ni secondary precipitates. The hardness shows no high values indicating that the major phase is not hard intermetallics. A bonding strength of 569.1 MPa was obtained by tensile testing, and digital image correlation reveals the different tensile responses of the two sections. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to measure the phase-transformation temperatures. The austenite finishing temperature of higher than 80 °C was measured for the Ti–Ni–Cu alloy section. For the TiNi substrate, the austenite finishing temperature was tested to be near 47 °C at the bottom and around 22 °C at the upper substrate region, which is due to the repeated laser scanning that acts as annealing on the substrate. Finally, the multiple shape-memory effect of two shape-memory alloy sides was tested and identified.
Agar Biopolymer Films for Biodegradable Packaging: A Reference Dataset for Exploring the Limits of Mechanical Performance
Authors: Hernández Valentina , Ibarra Davor , Triana Johan F. , Martínez-Soto Bastian , Faúndez Matías , Vasco Diego A. , Gordillo Leonardo , Herrera Felipe , García-Herrera Claudio , Garmulewicz Alysia
Published: June 2022

This article focuses on agar biopolymer films that offer promise for developing biodegradable packaging, an important solution for reducing plastics pollution. At present there is a lack of data on the mechanical performance of agar biopolymer films using a simple plasticizer. This study takes a Design of Experiments approach to analyze how agar-glycerin biopolymer films perform across a range of ingredients concentrations in terms of their strength, elasticity, and ductility. Our results demonstrate that by systematically varying the quantity of agar and glycerin, tensile properties can be achieved that are comparable to agar-based materials with more complex formulations. Not only does our study significantly broaden the amount of data available on the range of mechanical performance that can be achieved with simple agar biopolymer films, but the data can also be used to guide further optimization efforts that start with a basic formulation that performs well on certain property dimensions. We also find that select formulations have similar tensile properties to thermoplastic starch (TPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polypropylene (PP), indicating potential suitability for select packaging applications. We use our experimental dataset to train a neural network regression model that predicts the Young’s modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation at break of agar biopolymer films given their composition. Our findings support the development of further data-driven design and fabrication workflows.
Seroprevalence in Argentinian healthcare workers after vaccination with Sputnik V
Authors: Santonato Daniela , Malvicini María A. , Novau Andrea , Torres Silvio F. , Siaba Serrate Alejandro , Romano María V. , Brenzoni Pablo G. , Fabbro Leonardo , Paulosky Laura , Cornistein Wanda
Published: June 2022

Background: Healthcare workers (HCW) were deeply affected by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, vaccination of this population is crucial. However, data on Sputnik V vaccine are sparse. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate serological responses in HCWs following two doses of Sputnik V vaccine. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary-care private teaching hospital between April and May 2021. HCWs without a history of COVID-19 3 or more weeks after the second dose of Sputnik V had a fresh serum sample extracted and processed using Abbott® SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant. Values equal to or over 50 arbitrary units (AU)/mL were considered positive. Primary outcome was the proportion of participants who developed antibodies 21 or more days after the second dose of Sputnik V. Secondary outcomes were concentration of anti-spike IgG antibodies and comparison of such concentrations between samples taken 3–5 weeks and more than 5 weeks after the second dose. Results: The entire population developed anti-spike IgG antibodies. The median antibody concentration was 1234.8 AU/mL. When analysing days to extraction from second vaccine dose, there was no statistical difference between 21 and 35 days versus more than 35 days. Conclusion: Vaccination with Sputnik V in HCW at our institution demonstrated an efficacy of 100% in achieving quantifiable anti-spike IgG antibodies 21 or more days after the second dose.
A avifauna do Parque da Rua do Porto e seu potencial para o turismo de observação de aves (birdwatching)
Authors: Navega-Gonçalves Maria Eliana Carvalho
Published: June 2022

Este estudo teve como objetivo demonstrar o potencial do Parque da Rua do Porto, em Piracicaba (São Paulo, Brasil), para a observação de aves incentivando o ecoturismo local. O parque possui cerca de 200 mil m² com extensas áreas gramadas, arborizadas e um lago central. Um levantamento qualitativo da avifauna do local contabilizou 106 espécies, o que equivale a aproximadamente 28% das aves registradas no município, sendo parte delas facilmente visualizadas, em um percurso plano ao longo da pista de caminhada, favorecendo a atividade com iniciantes, crianças e idosos. A localização do parque dentro do Complexo da Rua do Porto, que oferece alternativas de lazer, se constitui como mais um atrativo ao observador de aves. Cinco pontos principais de observação são sugeridos, com base nos resultados dos trabalhos e avistamentos ali realizados. Assim, informar a população sobre a diversidade de aves encontradas no local e incentivar à realização de atividades de birdwatching podem despertar o interesse pelas aves e fortalecer o ecoturismo na região, incluindo o Parque da Rua do Porto como um dos roteiros turísticos de observação de aves. Para tanto, faz-se necessário o manejo adequado do parque, considerando os recursos utilizados pela avifauna; bem como a instalação de placas educativas, com o intuito de sanar problemas ali detectados e chamar a atenção do público frequentador para medidas de conservação e uso da área.
O birdwatching na Caatinga: o potencial ecoturístico do Parque Nacional de Ubajara (CE)
Authors: Nascimento Muryllo dos Santos , Guzzi Anderson , Andrade Ivanilza Moreira de , Siqueira Airton Janes da Silva , Gomes Irene Suelen de Araújo
Published: June 2022

Aliando turismo, ciência e educação, a prática de observar animais em seu habitat natural é o hobby de milhões de pessoas espalhadas por todo o mundo. A observação de aves (birdwatching), por exemplo, já é consolidada em diversos países do hemisfério norte, e vem apresentando contínua adesão de ecoturistas brasileiros. Apesar do Brasil apresentar uma rica avifauna distribuída entre os seus biomas, a prática do birdwatching ainda é subestimada em diversas regiões, como acontece no Nordeste. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo analisar o potencial da atividade de observação de aves em um parque nacional inserido dentro do bioma Caatinga, no estado do Ceará, com enfoque na avaliação da infraestrutura local e na riqueza de espécies. Para tanto, foram adotados procedimentos metodológicos que envolveram a coleta de dados in situ, através do levantamento da avifauna e da exploração da área. Os resultados apontaram que o Parque Nacional de Ubajara possui uma avifauna diversa e abundante, abrangendo tanto espécies típicas de florestas úmidas, como aquelas comuns nas matas secas da Caatinga. Aliado a isso, apresentou uma infraestrutura local bastante propícia para a realização de atividades ecoturísticas, contando com um mobiliário valoroso para a atividade de observação de aves, o que o destaca entre as unidades de conservação do bioma Caatinga para o birdwatching.
Turismo de observação de Aves na APA do Ibirapuitã (RS)
Authors: Rodrigues Suelen de Leal , Soares Oziel Figueira
Published: June 2022

O Turismo de observação de aves é um setor em amplo crescimento no Brasil. Portanto, o objetivo do presente trabalho consiste em realizar uma análise do potencial ecoturístico da atividade de observação de aves em uma propriedade da Área de Proteção Ambiental (APA) do Ibirapuitã. O inventário qualitativo e quantitativo da avifauna foi realizado através do método de listas, que consiste em anotar as espécies observadas tanto visualmente quanto auditivamente. As espécies foram classificadas como residentes ou migratórias, bem como o status de conservação. Para análise turística foi utilizada a matriz SWOT. O trabalho identificou 183 aves distribuídas em 53 famílias, existe, portanto uma alta riqueza de espécies como um ponto forte a ser explorado pelo ecoturismo. No entanto, existem fatores internos e externos que precisam ser pensados coletivamente envolvendo, sobretudo uma ação educativa para posteriormente a implantação do ecoturismo como uma ferramenta de desenvolvimento.
Percepções sobre comedouros para aves de vida livre: implicações para o turismo de observação de aves no Brasil
Authors: Alcantara Maristela Camolesi , Alexandrino Eduardo Roberto
Published: June 2022

A prática de observar aves cresce constantemente no Brasil, favorecendo o turismo de observação de aves, um segmento consolidado do ecoturismo no país. Nos últimos anos, o uso de comedouros para aves de vida livre tem sido visado por empreendimentos ecoturísticos para atrair o público observador de aves já que estas estruturas elevam as chances de visualização de diferentes espécies. No entanto, o uso de comedouros ainda gera discussões entre os brasileiros, pois todo conhecimento sobre impactos negativos é proveniente do exterior, enquanto que alguns brasileiros defendem que impactos sociais positivos são potenciais. Assim, este estudo acessou a percepção de diferentes brasileiros entusiastas por aves de vida livre quanto ao uso de comedouros. Para isso, um questionário semiestruturado contendo perguntas abertas e fechadas, foi aplicado a diferentes cidadãos entre julho de 2020 e janeiro de 2021 (público alvo - residente na região Sul, Sudeste e Nordeste). Ao todo 416 cidadãos responderam ao questionário, sendo 41,5% considerado ‘admirador de aves/leigo – perfil 1’, 45,6% ‘familiarizado com aves, mas sem preparo prévio em bases ornitológicas/ecológicas - perfil 2’ e 12.7% como ‘familiarizado com aves, mas com preparo prévio em bases ornitológicas/ecológicas - perfil 3’. Ainda, 58,4% indicaram possuir comedouros próprios e 41,5% não possuíam. Os resultados apontaram que, independentemente do perfil, a maior parte dos entrevistados possuíram maior facilidade em perceber os potenciais impactos positivos causados pelo uso de comedouros (educação ambiental e possível benefício na manutenção de serviços dispersão de sementes e manutenção florestal), enquanto potenciais impactos negativos ainda não são facilmente reconhecidos (proliferar patógenos e atrair outros animais). A maior parte dos entrevistados também apontou preferência por comedouros feitos com materiais naturais ao invés de industrializados. O público do perfil 1 apresentou propensão em pagar valores mais baixos a um guia de observação de aves quando comparado com o público dos perfis 2 e 3, enquanto todos os perfis pagariam valores semelhantes (até R$50,00) ao proprietário de um local que oferecesse a atividade de observação de aves apoiada ao uso de comedouros. Este estudo traz dados que poderão ajudar tomadas de decisões no planejamento do turismo de observação de aves em empreendimentos ecoturísticos, em especial dentro da região que compreende o bioma da Mata Atlântica.
Promovendo o Birdwatching no sudeste do Brasil: A trajetória do Clube de Observadores de Aves de Sorocaba (SP)
Authors: Campos-Silva Lucas Andrei , Rosa Márcio de Camargo , Souza Letícia Santos de , Leonetti Marcos Antonio , Garcia Viviane Aparecida Rachid , Franchin Alexandre Gabriel
Published: June 2022

Simpatizantes do mundo das aves têm crescido numericamente e vêm exercendo, cada vez mais, a prática da observação de aves, também conhecida como “Birdwatching”. O birdwatching é uma atividade de lazer que consiste, na sua forma mais simples, de observar as aves nos ambientes naturais. Essa prática é uma das mais sustentáveis atividades do ecoturismo. No Brasil, existem muitas instituições ligadas à promoção do birdwatching, entre elas os chamados Clubes de Observadores de Aves-COAs. Embora o Brasil possua diversos COAs, ainda temos uma lacuna de conhecimento na literatura sobre como essas instituições atuam na promoção do turismo ecológico de observação de aves. Além disso, carecemos de informações sobre como ocorre a trajetória histórica que leva a formação dos COAs, a dinâmica e tipos de atividades que desenvolvem e os produtos vinculados ao birdwatching que essas instituições produzem. Para preencher essa lacuna de conhecimento, nós buscamos caracterizar um COA a fim de descrever a sua trajetória histórica, as atividades e as dinâmicas desenvolvidas, os produtos de ciência cidadã que produz, bem o seu papel no desenvolvimento do ecoturismo de observação de aves na região. Para alcançar esses objetivos, o COA escolhido foi o Clube de Observadores de Aves de Sorocaba-COAVES, localizado no município de Sorocaba-SP. Esperamos que essa caracterização preencha uma lacuna de conhecimento voltado ao entendimento de como um COA pode promover o ecoturismo de observação de aves, a dinâmica de suas atividades, bem como produção e divulgação de conhecimentos vinculados à biodiversidade local. Utilizamos uma metodologia qualitativa via observações diretas dos autores desse artigo que fazem parte como membros frequentes do clube, e através de conteúdos documentais, como fotos, capítulos de livros, artigos publicados, folders entre outros meios para alcançar os objetivos propostos. Verificamos que o COAVES promove o ecoturismo de birdwatching não apenas no seu município de origem, como nos municípios da região. Identificamos que esse clube possui um papel importante na promoção da Educação Ambiental na comunidade local. Além disso, registramos que o clube produziu, ao longo de sua trajetória, vários produtos relacionados à ciência cidadã, como guias, capítulos de livro, listas oficiais de aves, placas informativas de birdwatching, encartes de jornal entre outros produtos. Assim, por meio desse panorama apresentado, verificamos que os COAs brasileiros, retratados aqui por meio do COAVES, possuem um importante papel social na mediação de conhecimentos e práticas voltados ao meio ambiente e promoção do ecoturismo da região.
O perfil do observador de aves do Estado do Rio de Janeiro: uma análise preliminar
Authors: Silva Tatiane Rodrigues da , Rajão Henrique , Santori Ricardo Tadeu
Published: June 2022

A observação de aves não é uma atividade restrita ao público acadêmico ou especializado. Então, uma pergunta que se faz é sobre quem é o observador de aves e qual é o seu perfil. Este estudo traça o perfil do observador de aves do estado do Rio de Janeiro por meio de dados coletados, do dia 04 de julho a 04 de agosto de 2018, utilizando-se um questionário eletrônico enviado para grupos de observadores cadastrados no Facebook. Foram analisadas as respostas de 58 indivíduos. Os indivíduos apresentaram média de idade de 44 anos, majoritariamente do sexo masculino, no geral com uma renda de até cinco salários mínimos, com profissões variadas e ensino superior. Cerca de noventa e um por cento dos observadores de aves realizam a atividade por lazer, investem e utilizam diversos equipamentos, principalmente câmeras fotográficas. Uma pequena porcentagem já viajou para fora do Brasil para a observação de aves e mais da metade contribuem para projetos de ciência cidadã. Um pequeno grupo de indivíduos procura por tipos específicos de aves e 91,4% gostam de conhecer sobre a história natural das aves. Todos os respondentes adotam algum tipo de cuidado com a sua saúde e bem estar para a realização da atividade e afirmam que a sua prática é afetada quando a mesma ocorre em áreas com risco de assalto. A totalidade dos indivíduos já visitou o bioma Mata Atlântica, tem como ambiente mais visitado o de florestas e o local são as Unidades de Conservação. Cerca de setenta e sete por cento participam de grupos de observadores de aves, realizam a observação principalmente sozinhos ou com o grupo de observador, com a maioria saindo mais de duas vezes ao mês para realizar a atividade. Trinta e sete observadores de aves não têm preferência por alguma estação do ano e o tempo de dedicação a esta atividade com maior frequência foi o de indivíduos que realizam a prática entre um e cinco anos. Os resultados sugerem que o perfil socioeconômico do observador de aves do estado do Rio de Janeiro, é restrito a um público seleto de uma faixa limitada da população. Portanto, conhecer o perfil do observador de aves para conhecer seus roteiros, o tipo de equipamento que utiliza, quanto ele investe na atividade e os motivos que o levam a tal prática, pode auxiliar no planejamento de instituições educativas e de turismo ampliar a observação de aves.
Roteiro Integrado para o Turismo de Observação de Aves na Rota Bioceânica: Brasil, Paraguai, Argentina e Chile
Authors: Mamede Simone , Benites Maristela , Mangini Giselle , Esquivel Alberto
Published: June 2022

Este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar como a geografia territorial da Rota de Integração Latino-Americana contribui para a construção e a formatação de roteiro para o turismo de observação de aves, com enaltecimento de paisagens, de práticas culturais, de territorialidades e da sociobiodiversidade como um todo representadas na Rota. A área de estudo envolve municípios brasileiros, paraguaios, argentinos e chilenos atingidos diretamente por esse Corredor Rodoviário. O território abarcado pela Rota de Integração Latino-Americana é contemplado por vários ambientes propícios para a prática do turismo de observação de aves, em especial aqueles contemplados por Áreas Protegidas e arredores. O roteiro proposto percorre diferentes topografias, ecorregiões e ecossistemas singulares da América do Sul, tais como: Cerrado, Pantanal, Mata Atlântica, Chaco (seco e úmido), Yungas, Deserto de Montanhas, Campos de Altitude, Puna, Lagoas Altoandinas, Deserto e Vales desérticos, Costa do Pacífico e Tamarugales. Em cada localidade a biodiversidade compõe o espaço junto das práticas culturais e de territorialidades singulares.  Tamanha riqueza e diversidade projeta esse percurso como um excelente roteiro para o turismo de observação de aves, pronto a ser percorrido, contemplado e apreciado em suas múltiplas possibilidades.
Turismo de Observação de Aves: um novo olhar sobre o meio ambiente em Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Kmitta Ilsyane do Rocio , Arakaki Susana
Published: June 2022

O estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, privilegiado pela ocorrência dos biomas Pantanal, Cerrado, Mata Atlântica e Chaco, sendo este último limitado ao município de Porto Murtinho, tem se constituído como espaço ímpar para a atividade de observação de aves. Atividade relativamente recente no estado, vem se destacando como possibilidade de exploração do ecoturismo. Prática consolidada no mundo e nacionalmente, o estado acolhe observadores de vários estados e do exterior, interessados nas mais de 800 espécies de aves já catalogados. Todavia, a observação de aves pela população local ainda é recente e teve início após declínio da caça e pesca predatória e a necessidade de viabilizar novas formas de exploração sustentável do turismo no estado.  Este trabalho apresenta as características históricas da formação das propriedades rurais e suas formas de exploração econômica. Apresenta a atividade de observação de aves no estado, além de histórico de ações e atores que vêm construindo esse novo segmento a ser explorado interna e externamente. Apresenta o protagonismo feminino na condução das iniciativas que dão visibilidade à atividade.
O potencial do turismo de observação de aves no município de Goiás (GO)
Authors: Jesus Shayana de , Buzzato Adriano César
Published: June 2022

O turismo de observação de aves (birdwatching) vem crescendo no Brasil, sendo ainda incipiente no estado de Goiás e restrito a poucas regiões. Este trabalho avalia e discute o potencial do município de Goiás como um destino para o turismo de observação de aves. Realizou-se um levantamento do número de espécies de aves no município e analisou-se a composição de espécies, destacando aquelas que podem ser atrativas aos observadores. Também foi feito o levantamento dos locais com potencial para o birdwatching, com destaque das espécies atrativas, descrição da infraestrutura básica e específica e proposição de medidas para a melhoria da estrutura. Foram registradas 313 espécies, das quais oito são endêmicas do Cerrado, três são ameaçadas, cinco migratórias e 32 parcialmente migratórias. Foram identificadas oito áreas com potencial para a observação de aves. A riqueza e composição de aves e a presença de locais propícios ao birdwatching indicam que Goiás tem potencial para a atividade. No entanto, para que tenha êxito, é necessário um cuidadoso planejamento envolvendo a administração pública, a iniciativa privada e demais interessados. O estímulo a este turismo em Goiás poderá contribuir para o crescimento do ecoturismo no município e trazer benefícios socioeconômicos e ambientais.