bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of the Usage of ChatGPT in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry: A Model Proposal from the Technology Acceptance Perspective
Authors: SÖKMEN Alptekin , ARICI Hasan Evrim , ÇALIŞKAN Gürkan
Published: April 2024

ChatGPT is a generative artificial intelligence technology. It is a technology that is becoming more widely used. This research aimed to identify the determinants of the usage of ChatGPT in the tourism and hospitality industry. For this purpose, a systematic literature review was conducted, and six determinants of ChatGPT usage were identified. These are experience quality, satisfaction, interaction, ethics, reliability, and design features. These determined variables affect the behavioral intention regarding the usage of ChatGPT. Within the scope of the findings, a model for using ChatGPT is proposed from the perspective of the Technology Acceptance Model. Determinants of the use of ChatGPT in the tourism and hospitality industry have been identified. Relevant articles were subjected to thematic analysis and themes were determined. These; quality of experience, satisfaction, interaction, ethics, reliability and design features. In this research, determinants regarding the use of ChatGPT in the tourism and accommodation sector were identified and recommendations were made.
Normative Neighbourhoods
Authors: Talen Emily
Published: April 2024

This paper offers a normative definition of what a neighbourhood should be. Normatively defined, a neighbourhood has identity, a place that functions as its centre, everyday facilities and services, internal and external connectivity, social diversity within it or an openness to its
enabling, and a means by which residents can be involved in its aff airs and speak with a collective voice. This paper argues that there are four reasons why this normative de finition is a worthy goal. First, neighbourhoods that meet this normative definition do exist and are in high demand,
which is evidence that more are needed. Meeting demand has become a significant problem over the last few decades, and cities struggle to find ways to sustain whatever supply they are fortunate to have. Second, normative neighbourhoods are able to foster a sense of ownership and caring. Neighbourhood
tangibility forms the basis of self-governance, evident in the historical record and a century of discourse. In the absence of an explicit definition, neighbourhood is an abstraction, weakening residents' ability to control or change it. Third, normative neighbourhoods cultivate social and
economic connection because they root connectivity in daily experience. From small business success to neighbourhood-based surveillance, to efforts to combat social isolation among the elderly, to increasing success among high-risk children in school, neighbourhood-based engagement is regularly
cited as a factor in addressing social challenges. Fourth, the normative neighbourhood substitutes place for homogeneity as the basis of neighbourhood definition. Place, instead of class or race, forms neighbourhood consciousness and is the basis of collective identity, one capable of transcending
the desire for social sameness, the fear of others, and the distrust of institutions. Social identity based solely on class, race or ethnicity has been harmful because of its exclusionary effects, so an alternative identity basis is needed.
How Learning from Informal Settlements Contributes to the Community Resilience of Neighbourhoods
Authors: Samper Jota
Published: April 2024

Urbanization in the twenty-first century has experienced a significant slowdown, particularly in the Global North. However, population growth continues to escalate, with most of this increase occurring in the Global South. Most of that growth manifests in the urban environment as informal
settlements. These types of neighbourhoods deploy unique strategies to emerge and grow and can teach us much about the value of neighbourhoods as urban units in an uncertain future plagued by the challenges imposed by climate change, political polarization, and urban conflict. However, literature
on neighbourhoods devotes little time to exploring these urban manifestations as areas of exploration and learning; instead, most of the scholarship focuses on ways to eradicate these places from our cities. As a result of this perspective, I argue that we have overlooked three important lessons
that can be gleaned from informal settlements: incrementality, sustainability, and self-reliance. These characteristics contribute to the resilience of the communities, making informal settlements the predominant neighbourhoods of the twenty-first century. This paper examines global informal
neighbourhood practices, unveiling unique community strategies. It reassesses neighbourhood value and offers insights into the urban changes necessary to tackle the next century's challenges.
Effectiveness of Sea Cucumber Viscera Waste to Improve Reproductive Performance of Male Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon)
Authors: Hidayani Andi Aliah , Achmad Marlina , Fujaya Yushinta , Permatasari Nur Umriani , Lante Samuel , Bahruddin Latifa , Suwanmala Jitima , Azzahra Sitti Fatimah , Jannati Alifah Nurul
Published: April 2024

Tiger shrimp has received attention because of the high prices. However, sustainable cultivation of tiger shrimp is still hampered by the low quality of spermatozoa in male broodstock. Sea cucumbers are a type of invertebrate that is very useful because they have many viscera with almost the same nutritional content as fresh food. However, it has other advantages compared to other fresh feeds, namely it has a very high testosterone content so that it can be used to improve the quality and quantity of spermatozoa of male tiger prawns.  The study aims to compare the influence between sea cucumber viscera and fresh squid as well as the combination of sea cucumber and squid viscera against the density of tiger shrimp spermatozoa (Penaeus monodon). Test animals used were 18 male tiger shrimp with an average weight of 80.93 g. Shrimp are kept in tanks with a volume of 1 ton, with a density of 3 broodstock/tank and 3 replications. Feeding was carried out with a frequency of 3 times a day and at a dose of 20% of biomass for 30 days. The test feed used consisted of 100% fresh squid feed as a control, a combination of 50% squid and 50% of sea cucumber viscera, and 100% of sea cucumber viscera. The administration of sea cucumber visceral waste in tiger shrimp tend to increase the quantity of spermatozoa tiger shrimp.
LC-FLD Determination of Glyphosate, AMPA and Glufosinate in Surface Water from the Paraná River Basin
Authors: Gabardo Renata , Cordeiro Gilcélia , Peralta-Zamora Patricio
Published: April 2024

Natural waters from the Paraná River hydrographic basin in the Brazil-Paraguay cross-border region were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to a fluorescence detector (LC-FLD) after extraction of the analytes in anion exchange resin IRA-900. The method allowed good recovery (91 to 113%) of the studied species (glyphosate, (aminomethyl)phosphonic acid (AMPA) and glufosinate) precision compatible with the requirements of the National Metrology Institute (relative standard deviation < 18%) and limit of quantification (LOQ) values between 0.2 and 0.8 mg L-1. In most of the samples collected between January and September 2022, it was impossible to detect the presence of herbicides, even in regions of intense agricultural activity, probably due to the high adsorption capacity of the soils of the region and due to the higher LOQ of the method. Under these conditions, the main transport route is estimated to be associated with surface runoff, which is only favored by heavy rainfall events.
Research on the influence of vehicle durability vibration on gap flush of exterior trim parts
Authors: Pang Fangchao , Huang Xiangsen , Chen Chao
Published: April 2024

Maintaining the newness of a vehicle is currently significant concern for users and vehicle companies. The gap difference between interior and exterior trims plays a crucial role in the overall appearance of vehicles. Over time, the gap and flush parameters of these trims may change due to the movement of components, putting forward higher requirements for the assembly accuracy and reliability design of automotive products. This article presents a study where a test car is subjected to endurance vibration on a wheel-coupled vibration bench. Through measuring the changes in gaps and flushes between the exterior trim parts at different endurance mileage intervals, the variation patterns are obtained. Using dimensional engineering technology, the effects of durable vibration on the gaps and flushes of the vehicle's exterior trim parts were determined. This study provides a foundation for the design of new interior and exterior decoration parts in automobiles. It also offers valuable insights for product design, development, and quality improvement. Problems can be predicted in advance in the early stage of design, and closely coordinate various aspects of production and manufacturing to obtain products with higher standards, requirements, and quality.
Analysis and optimization of pre-stressed modal features of ship anchor support parts
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Wu Xiangyao , Calderon Aldrin D.
Published: April 2024

In order to solve the problems of excessive weight and unreasonable structure of anchor machine parts caused by traditional design methods, a lightweight optimization method was proposed based on pre-stressed modal analysis. The design variables were determined, and the parameterized model was established by using ANSYS Workbench. Under ultimate load conditions, the strength of wall frame board and lower box bodies was simulated and calculated. Through modal analysis, the discretized natural frequencies under different design variables could be obtained. The multi-objective genetic algorithm and sequence quadratic programming were respectively used to calculate the lightweight analysis model. The results showed that the weight of the supporting components in ship anchor can be reduced by more than 5 % without reducing strength and equivalent stiffness.
Flatness detection of super-flat emery floor based on terrestrial laser scanning
Authors: Li Xianzhe , Li Haiming , Jiao Ting , Chi Changzheng , Huang Mingfeng
Published: April 2024

Traditional flatness detection method with 2-m ruler and feeler gauge can only manually measure to obtain data at sparse locations. Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) has been widely used in the detection task of small-scale components. To overcome the time-consuming and laborious problem of traditional method and extend the application of TLS-based method, an efficient, full-coverage and intelligent TLS-based flatness detection method applicable to large-scale floors is presented in this paper to help with the acceptance of emery floor. An algorithm is designed to find the optimal position of ruler above the ground profile and measure the deviation between ruler and ground. The results of two comparison experiments demonstrates that the TLS-based method proposed in this paper has a high detection accuracy. In the detection task of a super-flat emery floor, floor plan labeled with pass rates can be easily obtained. Color maps marked with unqualified areas can be used as a guide for concrete polishing. By comparing row detection and column detection results, the pass rate is significantly directional in some conditions.
Current advances and algorithmic solutions in speech generation
Authors: Oralbekova Dina , Mamyrbayev Orken , Kassymova Dinara , Othman Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Currently, Text-to-Speech (TTS) technology, aimed at reproducing a natural human voice from text, is gaining increasing demand in natural language processing. Key criteria for evaluating the quality of synthesized sound include its clarity and naturalness, which largely depend on the accurate modeling of intonations using the acoustic model in the speech generation system. This paper presents fundamental methods such as concatenative and parametric speech synthesis, speech synthesis based on hidden Markov models, and deep learning approaches like end-to-end models for building the acoustic model. The article discusses metrics for evaluating the quality of synthesized voice. Brief overviews of modern text-to-speech architectures, such as WaveNet, Tacotron, and Deep Voice, applying deep learning and demonstrating quality ratings close to professionally recorded speech, are also provided.
Experimental study on the effect of cement alkali content on concrete ASR
Authors: Xu Gao , Li Weitong
Published: April 2024

Conduct alkali silica reaction (ASR) tests on concrete by using cement with different alkali contents and according to different test standards. The influence of cement alkali content on the alkali-silica reaction of concrete was explored, and the effects of different test methods on the results of alkali-silica reaction tests were compared. The results indicate that: the type of cement and the testing method used have no significant impact on the experimental results of the alkali silica reaction. The rate of alkali silica reaction accelerates with the increase of cement alkali content. When the alkali content of cement is greater than 2.0 %, there is no potential harm of alkali silica reaction in the aggregate, which will cause harm of alkali silica reaction. The research conclusion can provide reference for the control value of alkali content in engineering cement.
The relationship between initial retroreflective luminous coefficient, thickness and retroreflection attenuation of thermoplastic markings
Authors: Duan Weidang , Guo Haoqin , He Rui , Wang Xiamang , Lu Xiaosong
Published: April 2024

This study aims to investigate the effect of thickness and initial retroreflective luminous coefficient (RL) on the retroreflection attenuation of thermoplastic road marking. The road marking with a thickness range of 2.5-3.7 mm were divided into six groups with a 0.2 mm interval to assess the relationship between the initial RL and the retroreflection attenuation. The settlement pattern of glass beads was also investigated for road markings with different thicknesses. Furthermore, the road markings with an initial RL range of 457-492 mcd·lx-1·m-2 and a thickness range of 2.46 ~ 3.42 mm were divided into four groups. The RL values at 7, 15, 30, 60 and 90 days were measured and compared to assess the impact of thickness and initial RL on retroreflection attenuation. It is concluded that the change of RL value is due to the change of glass bead embedment. When the thickness is 3.08 mm and the initial RL is 465.5 mcd·lx-1·m-2, there is a noticeable delay in the retroreflection attenuation.
Multi-scale reconstruction of rolling mill vibration signal based on fuzzy entropy clustering
Authors: Wang Yunlong , Sun Jie , Chen Shuzong , Peng Wen , Zhang Dianhua
Published: April 2024

The mill vibration signals collected during mill operation are often affected by complex working conditions and various disturbances, thus presenting strong non-stationary characteristics. After the vibration signal is processed by noise reduction, although the noise interference and modal aliasing phenomenon are solved, the extracted vibration signal of the rolling mill still has the problems of strong non-stationarity, high complexity, and great difficulty in analyzing, which largely affects the prediction model construction. To address the above problems, this study proposes a multi-scale signal reconstruction method based on Fuzzy Entropy and Gath-Geva fuzzy clustering algorithm, which effectively reduces the complexity of the original sequence, reduces the number of predictive modellings, and improves the signal predictability and prediction accuracy. The sequence reconstruction of such non-stationary vibration signals based on their internal characteristics has obvious advantages for the problem of mill vibration prediction and analysis.
Analysis of climate-meteorological and technological factors affecting electricity consumption of mining enterprises
Authors: Jumayev Zavqiyor Ismatilloyevich , Karshibayev Asqar Ilashovich , Sayidov Muzaffar Karimtoshevich , Shirinov Sohibjon G’ulom O’g’li
Published: April 2024

Electricity consumption of mining enterprises depends on many factors. The influence of factors on the process of electricity consumption is complex and diverse, and it is impossible to describe it within the framework of deterministic methods, due to the uncertainty of the conditions that determine the influence of factors. These factors include mining geological, mining technological, climate-meteorological, energetic, organizational, operational and others. Energy consumption regimes of mining enterprises depend on many mining technological factors, most of which are insufficiently taken into account in the analysis and planning of electricity consumption.
Launching dynamics of terminal guidance projectile considering barrel erosion and mechanical wear
Authors: Guo Cheng Yuan , Wang Li Qun , Yang Guo Lai
Published: April 2024

This paper simulates the launching dynamics of the Terminal-guidance projectile considering the barrel thermo-chemical erosion wear and mechanical wear. A thermochemical erosive material degradation model that considers the rise in friction temperature is first introduced. Moreover, the wear state of barrel rifling at different periods is calculated using the erosion wear model. A three-dimensional model of the worn barrel is established, and the coupled barrel– terminal-guidance projectile launch dynamics are simulated for different wear periods. Finally, the projectile's bore overload and attitude are analyzed to explore the effect of barrel wear on launch.
Antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant potential of Olea europaea L. leaves: An experimental study in vivo, in vitro and in silico
Authors: Amraoui Abdelatif , Djerrou Zouhir , Ali Haimoud Safia , Zerouki Khayra , Elmokli Soumia
Published: April 2024

Hyperlipidemia is an enduring metabolic ailment that affects glucose and lipid processing.

The research objective was to measure the total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents in Olea europaea L. leaves and to to identify their antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic potential. The study included an in silico model of interaction for hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and xanthine dehydrogenase. The in vivo experiment involved rabbits that received olive leaves (150 mg/kg) and 10 mL of egg yolk as a high-fat diet. At the end of the experimental period, blood samples were tested for lipid profile, and tissue specimens were used for liver histology.

The total phenolic content was 119.84 ± 3.86 mg GAE/g, the total flavonoid content was 2.22 ± 0.07 mg CE/g, and the total tannin content was 21.25 ± 1.24 mg REQ/g dry weight. According to DPPH and FRAP analyses, the antioxidant capacities were 0.34 ± 0.06 μg/mL and 6.35 ± 0.52 μmol Fe(II)/g dry weight, respectively. In the experimental animals, O. europaea leaves reduced such parameters as total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, total triglycerides, total cholesterol vs. high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein vs. high-density lipoprotein. The histopathological liver assay showed no signs of tissue damage while the samples obtained from the control group demonstrated steatosis deposits and cellular necrosis. Based on the energy and RMSD results, hydroxytyrosol proved an effective xanthine dehydrogenase inhibition.

These findings constitute a good scientific basis for the complementary future research on the potential of O. europaea leaves as ingredients of functional foods or medical drugs.
Onboarding Model to Integrate Newcomers into Scrum Team at an Insurance Company
Authors: Pramudya Mahardhika  , Budiardjo Eko K. , Mahatma Kodrat , Larasati Shinta Dewi
Published: April 2024

PT XYZ applies the Scrum framework to meet application’s user demands quickly. The average percentage of IT employee turnover that occurred at PT XYZ from 2020 to 2022 was 14.5%. Every time a company recruits a new employee, the company must help that employee to adapt the Scrum method used for the company's system development process. However, PT XYZ information technology division does not yet have a specific onboarding method to help new employees adapt to the implementation of Scrum effectively without disrupting the ongoing sprint. Qualitative methods are used in the case study to collect data from a hybrid working Scrum team through interviews. The interview data was analyzed thematically with a determined model from an existing onboarding theory. Onboarding practices and adjustments are described and delivered consisting of onboarding activities, newcomer adjustments, and workplace adjustments. A combination of general and specific onboarding practices related to agile helps the successful onboarding of new members to a Scrum team. A practical guide is also described to improve successful onboarding practices into Scrum teams.
Assessment of non-revenue water in the urban water distribution system network in Cameroon (Central Africa)
Authors: Ngueyim Nono Karel Josy , Dang Mvongo Victor , Defo Celestin
Published: April 2024

This paper aims to assess non-revenue water (NRW) in the urban water distribution system in Cameroon. The methodological approach used in this study was based on online searches using the databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, and the International Water Association. These online searches have been completed through field observations and interviews with institutional and non-institutional stakeholders in the urban water sector. Results indicate that the total volume of NRW in the urban area of Cameroon was 100.26 million m3/year, which represents 52.5% of the total system input volume. About 2 million people could be supplied by cutting Cameroon's NRW to half the present level. Findings also suggest that the water utility (Camwater) practices passive leakage control, meaning that Camwater repairs only those leaks that are visible. Reducing NRW can be achieved through leakage detection and pipe replacement, pressure management, water metering, and a program to identify, remove, and replace illegal connections.
Enhancing hydrological modeling with transformers: a case study for 24-h streamflow prediction
Authors: Demiray Bekir Zahit , Sit Muhammed , Mermer Omer , Demir Ibrahim
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we address the critical task of 24-h streamflow forecasting using advanced deep-learning models, with a primary focus on the transformer architecture which has seen limited application in this specific task. We compare the performance of five different models, including persistence, long short-term memory (LSTM), Seq2Seq, GRU, and transformer, across four distinct regions. The evaluation is based on three performance metrics: Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), Pearson's r, and normalized root mean square error (NRMSE). Additionally, we investigate the impact of two data extension methods: zero-padding and persistence, on the model's predictive capabilities. Our findings highlight the transformer's superiority in capturing complex temporal dependencies and patterns in the streamflow data, outperforming all other models in terms of both accuracy and reliability. Specifically, the transformer model demonstrated a substantial improvement in NSE scores by up to 20% compared to other models. The study's insights emphasize the significance of leveraging advanced deep learning techniques, such as the transformer, in hydrological modeling and streamflow forecasting for effective water resource management and flood prediction.
Conceptual Overview of Prevalence of Prediabetes
Authors: Monika  , Arora Pragi , Kumar Varun , Popli Pankaj
Published: April 2024

Prediabetes increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, chronic renal
disease, and cardiovascular disease in a person. In current practice, five alternative definitions of
prediabetes are utilized, each based on different HbA1c, fasting glucose, and 2-hour glucose cut
points. Prediabetes is a common condition that occurs between normal glycemia and diabetes. It
is more common in elderly and obese people. The prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes can be
influenced by a variety of individual, family, and societal variables. Additionally, as diabetes is
the primary contributor to non-communicable diseases (NCD), it is crucial to identify the key
temporal variables for diabetes early diagnosis. In turn, effective prediabetes and diabetes
awareness, control, and preventive programs may be created by policymakers and public health
professionals worldwide. Popular pathogenic pathways in prediabetes include insulin resistance,
inflammation, and sensitivity to insulin. HBA1c, OGTT, and FPG are discussed as the diagnostic
criteria in order of frequency. The most commonly researched therapies in the realm of prediabetes
are metformin, exercise, and physical activity. Physiological markers including BMI, blood
pressure, and waist circumference prompted relatively significant concern. Despite declining
trends, the study demonstrates that prediabetes and diabetes are widely prevalent. In order to
prevent non-communicable illnesses, the research suggests encouraging healthy lifestyles and
regular screenings.
Diabetic Retinopathy: Diverse Perspectives of Available Herbal
Resolutions
Authors: Pal Rashmi Saxena , Pal Yogendra , Chaitanya MVNL , Bhasin Aparajita , Srivastava Preeti
Published: April 2024

Uncontrolled blood sugar levels bring on an eye condition known as diabetic retinopathy.
If untreated, the damage to the blood vessels in the retina can result in blindness. Early symptoms
include impaired vision, difficulties distinguishing colours, and dark patches of vision. Since ancient
times, people all around the world have utilized herbs to manage diabetes and the various additional
problems it might cause. Numerous herbs, including Salvia, Ginseng, Gingko, and Scrophularia ningpoensis,
have unique qualities that make them capable of lowering the various pathological incidences
of hyperglycemia-related retinal disease. Biomolecules, known as carotenoids, such as lutein, beta
carotene, and zeaxanthin, have a significant anti-oxidant capability that aids in visual recovery. In
addition to acting as a natural and safe treatment for diabetic retinopathy, herbal remedies in the form
of herbs, concentrated extracts, and isolated phytoactives can also operate as a viable alternative to
prevent the destruction brought on by laser-based photocoagulation and vitrectomy. The goal of the
current study is to analyze the natural herb-based alternatives for diabetic retinopathy that are now
available.
The Inhibitory Effects of Propofol on Colorectal Cancer Progression through the
NF-κB/HIF-1α Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yao Liuxu , Zhai Wen , Jiang Zongming , He Rui , Xie Weiying , Li Yuhong , Hu Yiyang
Published: April 2024

Background and Objective:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a neoplastic disease that gradually develops
due to genetic variations and epigenetic changes. Surgical excision is the first-line treatment for CRC. Accumulating
evidence has shown that total intravenous anesthesia has beneficial effects for CRC patients as it decreases
the probability of tumor recurrence and metastasis. Propofol is one of the most frequently used intravenous anesthetics
in clinical practice. However, it remains unknown whether it can reduce recurrence and metastasis after
surgery in cancer patients.

Methods:

CRC cell lines (HCT116 and SW480) were cultured in vitro, and different concentrations of propofol
were added to the cell culture medium. The proliferation effect of propofol on CRC cell lines was evaluated by
CCK-8 assay. The effect of propofol on the migration and invasion of CRC cells was evaluated by scratch healing
and Transwell experiments. The inhibitory effects of propofol on NF-κB and HIF-1α expressions in CRC cell
lines were determined by Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays to further clarify the regulatory effects
of propofol on NF-κB and HIF-1α.

Results:

Compared to the control, propofol significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities
of CRC cells (HCT116 and SW480) (p < 0.0001). The expression levels of NF-κB and HIF-1α gradually
decreased with increasing propofol concentration in both cell lines. After activation and inhibition of NF-κB, the
expression of HIF-1α changed. Further studies showed that propofol inhibited LPS-activated NF-κB-induced
expression of HIF-1α, similar to the NF-κB inhibitor Bay17083 (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

In vitro, propofol inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells (HCT116 and
SW480) in a dose-dependent manner, possibly by participating in the regulation of the NF-κB/HIF-1α signaling
pathway.
Immunological Implications in Diabetes: A Review on Various Diseases and Conditions
Authors: Upadhyay Sanskriti , Mazumder Avijit , Pentela Bhavani , Bansal Priyanka , Agarwal Neeraj , Singh Baghel Dileep
Published: April 2024

:

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a long-term metabolic condition that has significant social,
health, and economic consequences. There are various forms of diabetes mellitus, but the two most
common varieties are type I and type II. Insulin-dependent diabetes (IDDM) is one of the most wellknown
autoimmune illnesses that cause insulin insufficiency and hyperglycemia by either damaging
or destroying Langerhans' beta cells. Available scientific data evidenced the greatest genetic contribution
of Human Leukocyte Antigen class II in the IDDM. Hyperglycemia and individual components
of the insulin resistance (metabolic) syndrome put people with type II diabetes at increased risk
for microvascular consequences (retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy) as well as macrovascular
issues (cardiovascular comorbidities). A number of pathophysiological abnormalities, including
obesity, poor diet, and physical inactivity, as well as genetic variables, are involved in the disturbed
glucose homeostasis associated with type II diabetes. Diseases like lipid abnormalities contribute to
the progression of diabetes, whereas obesity and its related medical disorders (such as hypertension,
diabetes, insulin resistance, and sleep apnea syndrome) are eventually linked to an elevated cardiovascular
risk. Diabetes raises the incidence, intensity, and duration of peri-densities in people with
diabetes compared to healthy persons, making it a risk factor for periodontal disease. Diabetes conditions
in patients concurrently also increase the progression or risk of other diseases, i.e., cardiovascular-
related diseases (hypertension, oxidative stress, hyperlipidemia), nervous system-related diseases,
and COVID-19, by increasing the overall infection rate. There is widespread evidence that correlates
the direct connection between diabetes and other diseases, including immunity disorders, CVS disorders,
etc. This review provides a correlation between diabetes and another disease with an overall
impact on the progression of cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases, COVID-19, and periodontal
diseases. This current review focuses on the collation of some plants that show antidiabetic
activity, including plant part, family, chemical constituent, mechanism of action, and chemical used
for extraction. Studies on the role, causes, clinical management, prevention, and treatment of diabetes
heavily rely on epidemiological evidence. This review also explains different factors responsible
for diabetes, like genetic factors, environmental factors, and viral infections.
Framework for Image Denoising Employing Different Thresholding
Techniques
Authors: Bharti Monika , Jain Shruti , Jindal Himanshu
Published: April 2024

Background:

Noise represents a lack of data in the image which can be removed using
Image denoising. Image denoising can be achieved by Gaussian filtering, anisotropic filtering,
wavelet Thresholding, etc.

Objective:

In this paper, authors have used Wavelet-based denoising because it can effectively remove
both additive and multiplicative noise from images, and preserve fine details and edges in the
image.

Methods:

The different thresholding techniques like Visu Shrink and Bayes Shrink for Hard
Thresholding (HT) and Soft Thresholding (ST) employing different standard deviations ranging
from 0.05-0.3 with a difference of 0.05 is used.

Results:

The peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) is evaluated as a performance parameter. For grayscale
images, the maximum value of PSNR is obtained as 29.483 dB while for RGB images,
34.324dB using Bayes Shrink considering ST at 0.05 variance is achieved. 2.2% improvement is
observed for grayscale images while 8.6% improvement is observed for RGB images considering
Bayes Shrink ST over Bayes Shrink HT.

Conclusion:

While comparing PSNR values of other Thresholding techniques, ST results better
over HT. The PSNR values for images produced by Bayes Shrink are high which therefore states
that the quality of reconstructed images is better for Bayes Shrink than Visu Shrink.
Non-Invasive Specimen Collection in COVID-19 RT-PCR Testing: An Observational Study at an Indonesian Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Putra Andika Chandra , Zaini Jamal , Ningrum Ratih Asmana , Ridwanuloh Asep Muhammad , Nugroho Herjuno Ari , Setyawan Ryan Haryo , - Idris , Setiawan Ruby , Sushadi Pangda Sopha , Wulandari Ari Sulistyo , Zannati Anky , - Indriawati , Erdayani Eva , - Wahyuni , Agustiyanti Dian Fitria , Wisnuwardhani Popi Hadi , Saniyyah Zahrah , Haryanto Budi , Utomo Ahmad Rusdan Handoyo , Setyaputri Novia Ayu Rahma
Published: April 2024

Background:

COVID-19 is a disease of SARS-CoV2 beta coronavirus infection. One way
to control the progression of COVID-19 symptoms is a rapid and accurate diagnosis. The current
gold standard of COVID-19 diagnostic method uses RT-PCR from nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs and
sputum specimens.

Objective:

To assess the efficacy of saliva and rectal swabs as non-invasive alternatives to the conventional
nasopharyngeal swab for RTPCR testing in COVID-19 diagnosis, with a focus on the potential
benefits for healthcare providers and patient comfort.

Methods:

This observational study was conducted with 80 confirmed cases at a tertiary hospital in
Indonesia, the study compared RTPCR positivity rates among different collection methods.

Results:

A high positivity rate of 92% for nasopharyngeal swabs, with saliva and rectal swabs yielding
36% and 34%, respectively. Notably, the positivity rates for saliva and rectal samples increased
to 60% and 50% when testing occurred between five to seven days post-symptom onset. Crucially, in
older patients, both saliva and rectal swabs demonstrated higher positivity rates than in younger patients
within the initial four days of symptom onset, with rates of 43% and 17%, respectively. Furthermore,
a significant correlation was found between rectal swab positivity on day one and mortality
in the older cohort, where lower Ct values on day seven were significantly associated with the
deceased group.

Conclusion:

These findings support the potential of saliva and rectal swabs in predicting disease
severity and patient outcomes, suggesting a safer and more convenient testing strategy for COVID-
19.
The NLRP3 Inflammasome as a Target for Antiinflammatory Drugs
Authors: Babajide Rowaiye Adekunle , Oluwasunmibare Oni Solomon , Suleiman Abubakar Umar , Aondona Priscilla , Chinonye Emenyeonu Lorretha , Agbalalah Tarimoboere
Published: April 2024

The Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays a vital role in
the nonspecific immune response to inflammatory triggers such as cellular infections,
injury, or stressors, and it has also been associated with several inflammation-related
diseases. NLRP3 inflammasome activation results in the production of
proinflammatory cytokines, contributing to an increased risk of inflammatory
conditions, such as cardiovascular, metabolic, infectious, and neurodegenerative
diseases. Several signaling pathways and cellular events involved in the NLRP3
inflammasome assembly and activation have been studied, and inhibitory mechanisms
have been identified. NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition decreases inflammation and
inflammasome-mediated cell death. In prospecting for novel anti-inflammatory
therapeutics, signaling molecules upstream or downstream on the NLRP3
inflammasome pathway can serve as viable drug targets. Effective inhibition of these
molecules culminates in the downregulation of the expression of proinflammatory
cytokines like interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) and IL-18. This chapter elucidates the various classes of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, their resultant anti-inflammatory effects,
and various mechanisms of action.
No rasto das Inquirições I: Introdução
Authors: Fontão Diana , Rodrigues Miguel
Published: April 2024

The Inquirições Gerais are a theme of great relevance for the study of political, social and economic history in Portugal. Conducted between 1220 and 1343, during the reigns of Afonso II, Afonso III, Dinis and Afonso IV, these registries had different purposes with each king. It was mostly through this process of royal inquiry that, in a decisive way, a governmental policy executed from a centralized power was built, which began in the first half of the 13th-century, and that was later heavily recovered halfway through the same century, having been an important tool for the same policy. The results of the Inquiriçõeswere copied, organized and archived in codexes, of which twenty-four still exist today. These manuscripts are among the most relevant written artefacts from the Portuguese Middle Ages. The livros de inquiriçõesrepresent not only copies of the original documents but were also recompiled, reorganized and even altered, containing marks of the many recastings and of systematic use through the centuries.
Challenges for junior high school mathematics teachers in preparing to implement the independent curriculum
Authors: Suripah Suripah , Pratiwi Aisha Widya , Agustyani Anggit Reviana Dewi
Published: April 2024

This research aims to describe the challenges of junior high school mathematics teachers in Pekanbaru in preparing to implement the independent curriculum. This type of research is a mixture of quantitative and qualitative research. The subjects of this research were 10 teachers from 5 schools in Pekanbaru. Data was collected using interviews, FGD, and questionnaires. Based on the results of data analysis, the challenges for mathematics teachers in preparing an independent curriculum are as follows. First, training and socialization have not been able to provide complete understanding for teachers in preparing the Independent Curriculum. Second, teachers try to overcome difficulties in planning learning in the Independent Curriculum. Third, the implementation of learning is not appropriate and the facilities and infrastructure at school are not yet supportive, coupled with differences in the cognitive background of students. Fourth, teachers need to improve their understanding completely regarding the system for assessing and reporting learning outcomes in the Independent Curriculum. Then, if we trace it based on the questionnaire, we can conclude that the preparation for implementing the Independent Curriculum by junior high school mathematics teachers in Pekanbaru, even though they are still experiencing various challenges, is in the Good category (70% score 84%.), with details, 5 teachers are in the adequate category while 5 people are in the Good category.
Enchanting Math AudibleBook: Insights from Teachers, University Students, and Young Learners
Authors: Alim Jesi Alexander , Oktaviani Cici , Hermita Neni , Putra Zetra Hainul
Published: April 2024

Reading is an essential activity of learning. In this study, the researchers investigated the opinions of elementary school teachers, university students majoring in elementary school teacher education, and elementary school students on the mathematics audible book "Asyiknya Bermain Setatak”. The researchers distributed questionnaires to collect the data. Data collection was carried out randomly using the random sample method. The respondents comprised 75 people (9 elementary school teachers, 53 university students majoring in elementary school teacher education, and 13 elementary school students) in Pekanbaru, Riau. The data were analyzed using  Rasch Model with item response theory (IRT). Based on the data analysis, all statements are valid and reliable, and it means that the items can be used to judge the design of the audible book "Asyiknya Bermain Setatak".Based on the results of the study, it was found that the audible book math media was in accordance with the learning of elementary school students. The use of math audible book is also easy to do by students, teachers, and prospective teachers. Math audible books also provide positive benefits in learning mathematics. Based on this, it can be concluded that teachers should consider using audible books as a media for mathematics learning.
Plac Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego – trwały element w przestrzeni Warszawy. Geneza powstania
Authors: Wieczorek Anna , Gorzelak Magnolia
Published: April 2024

O warszawskim Placu Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego i otaczających go budynkach można przeczytać w wielu książkach i artykułach dotyczących dziejów stolicy oraz historii architektury i urbanistyki. Istnieją również spore zasoby kartograficzne i ikonograficzne w muzeach i archiwach. Analiza materiałów źródłowych wskazuje na duże rozproszenie informacji. Brakuje kompendium wiedzy dotyczącej genezy powstania Placu, zmian w jego wyglądzie i związanej z tym myśli projektowej. Tym zagadnieniom poświęcony jest cykl artykułów o wspólnym tytule Plac Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego – trwały element w przestrzeni Warszawy. Celem niniejszego artykułu, pierwszego w tym cyklu, jest przybliżenie genezy powstania Placu oraz wyjaśnienie skąd wzięły się nazwy Pałac Saski i Pałac Brühla. Słowa kluczowe: Plac Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego, Pałac Saski, Pałac Brühla
A Health Information Technology Protocol to Enhance Colorectal Cancer Screening
Authors: Baus Adam , Boatman Dannell D , Calkins Andrea , Pollard Cecil , Conn Mary Ellen , Subramanian Sujha , Kennedy-Rea Stephenie
Published: April 2024

This study addresses barriers to electronic health records–based colorectal cancer screening and follow-up in primary care through the development and implementation of a health information technology protocol.
Evaluation of an e-Learning Program for Community Pharmacists for Dispensing Emicizumab (Hemlibra) in France: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Chamouard Valérie , Freyssenge Julie , Clairaz-Mahiou Béatrice , Ferrera Bibas Felicia , Fraticelli Laurie
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Since June 2021, patients with hemophilia A with antifactor VIII inhibitors and those with severe hemophilia A without antifactor VIII inhibitors treated with Hemlibra have had to choose between a community or hospital pharmacy. The French reference center for hemophilia developed the HEMOPHAR e-learning program for community pharmacists for dispensing emicizumab. 

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the efficiency and safety of this new care pathway by assessing the HEMOPHAR e-learning program. 

METHODS

The methodology is based on Kirkpatrick’s model for evaluating the immediate reaction of trained community pharmacists (level 1), their level of acquired knowledge (level 2), and their professional practice after 3 months of dispensation (level 3). 

RESULTS

The HEMOPHAR e-learning program reached a large audience, with 67% (337/502) of the eligible community pharmacists following it. The immediate reaction was overall satisfying. High rates of engagement were reported with 63.5% (214/337) to 73.3% (247/337) of completed training modules, along with high rates of success with quizzes of 61.5% (174/337) to 95.7% (244/337). We observed that 83.9% (193/230) of the community pharmacists needed less than 2 attempts to pass the quiz of the module related to professional practice, while the other quizzes required more attempts. Advice on compliance and drug interactions were most frequently provided to patients by the community pharmacists. 

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests ways to improve the training of community pharmacists and to optimize coordination with treatment centers. This study also reports on the feasibility of switching to a community pharmacy in a secure pharmaceutical circuit, including in the context of a rare bleeding disease. 

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05449197; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05449197

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/43091
Unobtrusive Nighttime Movement Monitoring to Support Nursing Home Continence Care: Machine Learning Study (Preprint)
Authors: Strauven Hannelore , Wang Chunzhuo , Hallez Hans , Vanden Abeele Vero , Vanrumste Bart
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The rising prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) among older adults, particularly those living in nursing homes (NHs), underscores the need for innovative continence care solutions. The implementation of an unobtrusive sensor system may support nighttime monitoring of NH residents' movements and, more specifically, the agitation possibly associated with voiding events.

OBJECTIVE

This study explores the application of an unobtrusive sensor system to monitor nighttime movement, integrated into a care bed with accelerometer sensors connected to a pressure redistributing care mattress.

METHODS

Six participants followed a seven-step protocol. The obtained dataset was segmented into 20s windows with a 50% overlap. Each window was labelled with one of the four chosen activity classes: in bed, agitation, turn and out of bed. A total of 1416 features were selected and analyzed with an XGBoost algorithm. At last, the model was validated using ‘leave one subject out cross-validation’ (LOSOCV).

RESULTS

The trained model attained a trustworthy overall F1-score of 81.51% for all classes, and, more specifically, an F1-score of 83.87% for the class 'Agitation'.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from this study provide promising insights in unobtrusive nighttime movement monitoring. The study underscores the potential to enhance the quality of care for NH residents, via a machine learning model based on data from accelerometers connected to a viscoelastic care mattress, thereby driving progress in the field of continence care and AI-supported healthcare for older adults.

CLINICALTRIAL

Ethical approval to conduct the research was obtained from the KU Leuven Social and Societal Ethics Committee with protocol number G-2020-2214.