bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Potential: Experts' Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence Integration in Higher Education
Authors: Slimi Zouhaier , Villarejo-Carballido Beatriz
Published: May 2024

This article investigates artificial intelligence (AI) implementation in higher education (HE) from experts' perspectives. It emphasises the view of AI's involvement in administrative activities in higher education, experts' opinions concerning the influence of the incorporation of AI on learning and teaching, and experts' views on applying AI specifically to assessment, academic integrity, and ethical considerations. The study used a qualitative method based on an unstructured qualitative interview with open-ended questions. The participants were thirteen individuals currently involved with higher education institutions and had various talents related to AI and education. Findings stress that implementing AI technology in administrative roles within higher education institutions is essential since it cuts costs, addresses problems efficiently and effectively, and saves time. The findings also revealed that AI plays a vital role in learning and teaching by speeding up the learning process, engaging learners and tutors, and personalising learning depending on the learner's needs within an entirely intelligent environment. AI can produce an accurate, objective, and suitable level of assessment. AI aids students in developing a stronger sense of integrity in their academic work by guiding them through AI-powered applications. AI must adhere to ethical laws and policies, ensuring its potential negative aspects are not overlooked or left unchecked.
Care ethics and critical friends: feminist research practice as an insider/outsider
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Biddolph Caitlin , Shepherd Laura J.
Published: May 2024

Building upon its development in educational scholarship, feminist scholars have incorporated the concept of ‘critical friend’ into their methodologies. Within political science, feminists have articulated critical friendship as relational research praxis, applying the concept to relationships between feminist academics and gender experts in institutions. We bring this research into conversation with feminist care ethics, asking how commitments to care ethics interact with commitments to being a ‘critical friend’ in feminist political science research. Based on interviews with feminist researchers, we argue that care is intrinsic to feminist research and underpins friendship. Whether or not it is explicitly articulated, the concept of ‘critical friend’ carries assumptions about the centrality and practice of care. These findings suggest that feminist scholars need to surface care explicitly in methodological discussions and articulate caring strategies, including self-care. Such surfacing must include acknowledging care as a source of depletion and nourishment, as well as fundamentally political.
Emotional remodelling: sketching emotion regimes in the United States since 1900
Authors: Stearns Peter N.
Published: May 2024

This article highlights the concept of emotion regime while discussing available applications. It then applies the regime concept to two distinct periods in 20th-century US history: the first, from early in the century through the 1950s, stressing emotional restraint, and the more recent opening to more vigorous emotional expression. The article ends with a discussion of the causes and significance of the change.
"Willing to Do Anything and to Do It Cheerfully": The Emotional Labor of Wartime Nursing
Authors: Albrinck Meg
Published: May 2024

Abstract: In this essay I situate First World War nursing narratives by Enid Bagnold, Mary Borden, and Lesley Smith within the framework of emotional labor developed by Arlie Russell Hochschild in The Managed Heart: Commercialization of Human Feeling (1983). Although Hochschild's study does not focus on wartime nursing, her model of emotional labor can effectively illuminate the ways in which nurses encountered their peers, supervisors, and patients; managed the emotions that attended those encounters; and documented those experiences in fiction and memoir. I focus on three aspects of Hochschild's framework that directly connect to the affective lives of wartime nurses: establishment of "feeling rules," strategies for emotion management, and the impact of those strategies. I explore expectations and impacts of emotional labor as revealed in a variety of sources, including recruiting and training materials from the British Red Cross Society, nursing textbooks, and literary accounts. Reading these texts through the lens of emotional labor reveals an apparent mismatch between the idealized feeling rules and the actual experiences of the role, allowing us to understand scenes of emotional estrangement in new ways.
Disappearing Acts
Authors: Ferraro Antonio J.
Published: May 2024

Abstract: The increasing popularity of academic "quit lit" has energized discussions of the affective difficulties of academia, with much of the focus on the topic of grief. This essay asks whether our conversations about the emotional labor of higher education might benefit from a shift away from understanding this grief as unique to the profession. What new pathways for collective action and care might open up if we understood our work in academia, particularly our teaching, as sharing many qualities with the work performed by others? I argue that if we understand teaching as a performance, and ask what it therefore shares with the performances, labor, and work of others, we can gain an expanded and more productive understanding not just of the affective dimensions of our profession but of our grief as well.
The Political Economy of the Credential Industry
Authors: Peters N. A. , Rensch Adam Theron-Lee
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This paper examines the political and economic role of student debt in higher education. As a result of so-called degree inflation, we argue, graduate degrees became increasingly necessary for academics to distinguish themselves in a competitive and precarious job market. This credential accumulation is a major contributor to the overall student debt balance, as graduate degrees are considerably more expensive and students may borrow the entire cost of the attendance as determined by the school. The increase of student borrowing, combined with a declining number of available academic positions, has created a highly educated but permanently indebted class of professionals. The political and economic implications of this situation are far-reaching, especially in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Condition of the Intellectual Laborer in Academia
Authors: Burnfin Daniel
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This paper presents a critical-philosophical reflection on the state of working conditions and academic production in contemporary higher education. It addresses the concept of "bullshit" advanced by Harry Frankfurt and developed by others as it might apply to those domains. The necessity that professional academics either "publish or perish" is a gentler way of saying one must "work or starve." And this economic condition introduces extraneous motives that undermine the epistemic goals of intellectual inquiry and scientific community. In short, those economic conditions of intellectual work give rise to much of the "bullshit," as Frankfurt might put it, which academics and even those outside of the academy must now endure, given the current institutional situation. The paper concludes, however, that academic work is not exactly what David Graeber has called "bullshit jobs," though it does indeed seem inseparable from the latter.
Fiber-coupled 2 mL vacuum-gap Fabry-Pérot reference cavity for portable laser stabilization
Authors: McLemore Charles , Jin Naijun , Kelleher Megan , Luo Yizhi , Lee Dahyeon , Liu Yifan , Nakamura Takuma , Mason David , Rakich Peter , Diddams Scott , Quinlan Franklyn
Published: May 2024

Vacuum-gap Fabry-Perot cavities are indispensable for the realization of frequency-stable lasers, with applications across a diverse range of scientific and industrial pursuits. However, making these cavity-based laser stabilization systems compact, portable, and rugged enough for use outside of controlled laboratory conditions has proven difficult. Here, we present a fiber-coupled 1396 nm laser stabilization system requiring no free-space optics or alignment, built for a portable strontium optical lattice clock. Based on a 2 mL vacuum-gap Fabry-Perot cavity, this system demonstrates thermal noise-limited performance and 1x10-14 fractional frequency instability. Fiber-integrated optical components have been instrumental in both advancing the field of optics and leveraging those advances across disciplines to facilitate other fields of study. This portable system represents a major step towards making the frequency stability of cavity-based systems broadly accessible.
Inovação organizacional: Validação de uma escala multidimensional para micro e pequenas empresas
Authors: D'anjour Miler Franco , Medeiros Bruno Campelo , Añez Miguel Eduardo Moreno
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: Validar uma escala de mensuração das múltiplas possibilidades de inovação em Micro e Pequenas Empresas (MPEs) que atuam na Região Metropolitana de Natal/RN. Metodologia/ abordagem: A pesquisa é do tipo exploratória, com um levantamento de dados junto a 542 empresas de Natal/RN. Os dados foram analisados por meio de estatísticas descritivas, da técnica de análise fatorial exploratória e análise fatorial confirmatória com a técnica baseada em mínimos quadrados parciais. Principais resultados: A Análise Fatorial Exploratória (AFE) resultou na formação de 5 construtos de inovação. A Análise Fatorial Confirmatória foi modelada por meio da aplicação da PLS-SEM, o qual avaliou o modelo de mensuração confirmatório, a partir dos resultados identificados na AFE. Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: Foi validada a inclusão do construto denominado Inovação em Canais de Conhecimento, contribuindo com uma proposta ampla e multidimensional, sendo capaz de captar a complexidade da inovação, reduzindo a ambiguidade conceitual e se mostrando teoricamente viável para futuras pesquisas. Relevância/originalidade: O estudo mostra-se relevante ao abordar a inovação sob o ponto de vista das Micro e Pequenas empresas, considerando uma escala de mensuração multidimensional, pois as pesquisas empíricas até então pouco evidenciaram a inovação sob a perspectiva de criação de valor para organizações e clientes. Contribuições sociais/para a gestão: Enquanto implicações gerenciais, diferentemente da ótica unidimensional, apoiada em conceitos de inovação tecnológica desenvolvida com grandes estruturas de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento (P&D) em grandes empresas, a presente pesquisa considerou o papel inovador das pequenas empresas, capazes de gerar múltiplos aperfeiçoamentos.
Organizational innovation: Validation of a multidimensional scale for micro and small businesses
Authors: D'anjour Miler Franco , Medeiros Bruno Campelo , Añez Miguel Eduardo Moreno
Published: May 2024

Objective: Validate a scale for measuring the multiple possibilities for innovation in Micro and Small Enterprises (MPEs) operating in the Metropolitan Region of Natal/RN. Methodology/approach: The research is exploratory, with a survey of 542 companies in Natal/RN. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis technique and confirmatory factor analysis using the technique based on partial least squares. Main results: The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) resulted in the formation of 5 innovation constructs. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis was modeled by applying the PLS-SEM, which evaluated the confirmatory measurement model, based on the results identified in the EFA. Theoretical/methodological contributions: The inclusion of the construct called Innovation in Knowledge Channels was validated, contributing with a broad and multidimensional proposal, being able to capture the complexity of innovation, reducing conceptual ambiguity and proving to be theoretically viable for future research. Relevance/originality: The study is relevant, approaching innovation from the perspective of Micro and Small companies, considering a multidimensional measurement scale, as empirical research so far has shown little evidence of innovation from the perspective of creating value for organizations and customers. Social/Management Contributions: As managerial implications, unlike the one-dimensional perspective, supported by concepts of technological innovation developed with large Research and Development (ReD) structures in large companies, this research considered the innovative role of small companies, which are capable of generating multiple innovations.
application of real-time overall equipment efficiency indicator in a medium-sized company
Authors: Novochadlo Yuri Medeiros , Paladini Edson Pacheco
Published: May 2024

Goal: This research investigated the application of real-time Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) at three assembly work centers in a medium-sized company. The objective was to demonstrate the feasibility of integrating Industry 4.0 technologies, such as the Internet of Things, Big Data, and Cloud Computing, in manual work center environments. It aimed to underscore the potential improvements achievable through data-driven actions facilitated by Industry 4.0 technologies, while emphasizing the significance of acquiring real-time OEE data.
Design / Methodology / Approach: The research involved theoretical exploration, implementation, data collection (Nov 2022–May 2023), and analysis on assembly workstations in a medium-sized Brazilian eyewear manufacturer.
Results: Based on the captured data, the factory implemented a series of corrective actions, leading to a reduction in unplanned stops. The obtained results were significant, as the average efficiency of the studied work centers improved by 12.3% in 7 months, with an increase in performance and in availability.
Limitations of the investigation: The analysis faces challenges due time constraints, potentially limiting the full assessment of IoT impact. Seasonal variations in eyeglass production and style-specific demand complicate evaluating the true benefits of Industry 4.0 tools, making effective OEE improvement hard to determine.
Practical implications: The study demonstrates a method to gauge manual labor efficiency through Industry 4.0 technologies.
Originality / Value: This study shows how Industry 4.0 technologies (IoT, Big Data, Cloud Computing) can be integrated into manual workforces, enhancing efficiency and providing real-time OEE for workers to self-assess.
Erosion behaviour of B4C/TiB2/Mo ceramic nozzles
Authors: Li Tong , Zhang Kai , Liu Qiancheng , Feng Yutong , Chen Kairuo , Lin Yijie , Zhao Yichen , Sun Junlong , Liu Changxia
Published: May 2024

B4C/TiB2/Mo ceramic nozzles were obtained by uniaxial hot-pressing. The mechanical properties and erosion behaviour of B4C/TiB2/Mo ceramic nozzles were investigated. Volume erosion rate was used to rank the erosion behaviour of the B4C/TiB2/Mo ceramic nozzles. The relationship between mechanical properties and the volume erosion rate of the nozzles was discussed. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that in-situ reaction to form TiB2 happened during sintering. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to observe the fracture surfaces and eroded surfaces of B4C/TiB2/Mo ceramic nozzles. A model of erodent particles and nozzle during the erosion test was established using the JH2 model. The maximum von Mises stresses on the entry, middle and exit surfaces of the nozzle were calculated. The result showed that the hardness played a key role in influencing the erosion behaviour of B4C/TiB2/Mo ceramic nozzles. Erosion mechanisms of B4C/TiB2/Mo ceramic nozzles at the entry, middle and exit bore area were mainly brittle fracture, fracture & plowing and micro-plowing, respectively.
Effects of translaminar edge crack and fiber angle on fracture toughness and crack propagation behaviors of laminated carbon fiber composites
Authors: Asan Ahmet Murat , Kaman Mete Onur , Dag Serkan , Erdem Serkan , Turan Kadir
Published: May 2024

In this study, the translaminar fracture toughness of carbon fiber laminated composites with different layer sequences was investigated experimentally and numerically for different crack directions. In the numerical study, first of all, the critical stress intensity factor was determined by using the M-integral method. Three-dimensional model and M-integral analysis were achieved in the ANSYS finite element package program. The non-local stress fracture criterion was used to in order to find failure curves of the materials. Then, in order to find the crack propagation directions numerically, the solid model was transferred to the LS-DYNA program and progressive failure analysis was performed. Fracture toughness decreased by 9.92 % with the change of crack angle from 15° to 90°. As the fiber angle changed from 0° to 45°, it decreased by 9.17 %. The biggest error between the experimental and numerical study results was found at α = 45°, with a rate of 12.3 %.
Correlation between rate of TEC index and positioning error during solar flares and geomagnetic storms using navigation with Indian constellation receiver measurements
Authors: Swamy Katepogu C. T. , Devanaboyina Venkata Ratnam , Nallagarla Ramamurthy , Shaik Towseef Ahmed , Turpati Suman
Published: May 2024

The real-time position accuracy of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)/Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) receiver is limited by the dynamic behavior of the ionosphere, particularly in adverse conditions like solar flares and geomagnetic storms. The NavIC satellites broadcast dual coherent radio beacon signals on L5 (1,164.5 MHz) and S (2,472.5 MHz) bands for providing position, velocity, and timing services in all weather conditions. The Total Electron Content (TEC) and Rate of TEC Index (ROTI) are the potential indicators for characterizing the ionosphere and its irregularities. In this research work, the TEC and ROTI are computed from the code and carrier phase observations of the NavIC receiver located at Kurnool low latitude station (15.79° N, 78.07° E) with geomagnetic coordinates (7.30° N, 151.65° E). This paper presents a statistical study of TEC, ROTI, and the correlation between ROTI and NavIC positioning error during highly intense solar flares (X9.3 and X2.2) and geomagnetic storm conditions. Compared to quiet days mean TEC, the enhancement is 3 TECU due to X9.3 flares, and the maximum peak of TEC on storm day (September 8, 2017) is 80.92 TECU. Moreover, the correlation coefficient between ROTI and position error is 0.76 on a quiet day (September 4, 2017), 0.54 on an intense solar flares day (September 6, 2017), and 0.24 on a storm day (September 8, 2017), this indicates positional accuracy degradation on a geomagnetic storm day. The outcome of this research work would be helpful for investigating characteristics of the northern low latitude ionospheric irregularities and, in turn, useful for developing suitable ionospheric nowcasting/prediction models for GNSS applications.
Facile sol–gel synthesis process and electrochemical performance of MgNiO2 act as an electrode for supercapacitor
Authors: Selvakumar Meiyazhagan , Thirumalaisamy Kiruthika , Kaliyappan Perumal , Ansar Sabah , Kaliamurthy Ashok Kumar , Viji Arangarajan
Published: May 2024

In this work, MgNiO2 material is prepared by a facile sol–gel method as an electrode material for supercapacitor application. The prepared MgNiO2 material is characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and elemental analysis (EDS). The electronics conductivity is 1.9 × 10−4 S cm−1. The electrochemical performance of the prepared MgNiO2 material was examined in an aqueous electrolyte of 1 M KOH. The electrochemical reaction of the prepared MgNiO2 material shows the EDLC behaviour from the shapes of the CV curves. The prepared MgNiO2 nanomaterial revealed good electrochemical performance with a maximum specific capacitance of 78 F/g at a rate of current density of 0.1 A/g. The above result delivered a simple, low cost and high-performance approach for a supercapacitor application.
Factors Influencing Peer Victimization from the Perspective of Home-School Partnership: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Hou Jinqin
Published: May 2024

This study aims to explore the overlapping influences of the home and school on peer victimization in adolescents under the notion of home-school partnership and to investigate how the parent-child relationship, teacher-student relationship, teenage depressive symptoms are related to peer victimization by constructing a moderated mediation model. It surveyed 1,710 students in 5-8 grades, using the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment, Student-Teacher Relationship Scale (brief version), Multidimensional Peer Victimization Scale, and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (brief version). Research findings show that the parent-child relationship had a direct impact on peer victimization and indirectly affected peer victimization via the mediation of teenage depressive symptoms; and that teacher-student relationships had moderating effects on the three paths in the mediation model, playing roles in enhancing the protection effect of the parent-child relationship against peer victimization, weakening the possible impact of the parent-child relationship on teenager depression, and alleviating the predictive effect of depressive symptoms on peer victimization. The research suggests that home-school partnership is a viable avenue for the prevention of school bullying.
Inclusive Education in China: Complications and Causes
Authors: Zhou Ming
Published: May 2024

Inclusive education is aimed at giving children with disabilities equality of opportunity in education. The Chinese government has released a host of regulations and action plans concerning inclusive education, defining its direction and setting forth the principle of respect for differences in its implementation. Nevertheless, there remain many challenges in inclusive education development. Among them is the low level of popularization of inclusive education in compulsory education. This article delineates the complications of the implementation of inclusive education in China and analyzes their causes with the intent of contributing to its high-quality development in this country.
Uso de la etimología en la enseñanza y aprendizaje de conceptos biológicos y taxonómicos de fauna nativa chilena
Authors: Fuentealba-Cruz Marta , Miño-Gonzalez Luis , Cisternas-Velásquez David
Published: May 2024

Objective. Evaluate the impact of a didactic sequence, incorporating the use of the etymology of biological taxonomic concepts in the acquisition of knowledge about the Chilean native fauna. Methodology. To carry this out, the brief conceptualization technique (one-minute paper), the metacognitive self-assessment scale instrument known as the Knowledge and Prior Study Inventory (KPSI), a knowledge test, as well as an open question test were applied to 42 third year high-school students, before and after implementing the sequence remotely. Results. From the analysis of the results, a lexical diversity value (TTR) of 0.398 and 0.421 was obtained before and after the intervention, respectively. On the other hand, significant differences (p < 0.001) in the students´ level of knowledge were detected before (8.5 points) and after (11.4 points) the didactic implementation. This suggests that the use of the etymology of biological taxonomic concepts contributed to the students’ increase in vocabulary and level of knowledge about the Chilean native fauna by incorporating the characteristics of these animals into their cognitive repertoire, promoting the development of scientific skills such as deep understanding of concepts and deduction, in addition to encouraging interest and motivation in the conservation of this fauna and its environment. Conclusion. It can be concluded that it is advisable to incorporate etymology systematically in the teaching of different biological subjects at high-school level, since it contributes to increasing the scientific literacy of secondary students.
Analysis of the treatability, water repellency efficiency, and dimensional stability of maritime pine after microwave drying
Authors: Mascarenhas Fernando Júnior Resende , Dias Alfredo Manuel Pereira Geraldes , Christoforo André Luis , Simões Rogério Manuel dos Santos , Cunha André Eduardo Palos , Carneiro Lucas Cardoso Pereira , Dias André Manuel Alves
Published: May 2024

The impregnability of Portuguese maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) subjected to microwave (MW) drying was tested, and the hydrophobicity, anti-swelling efficiency (ASE), and water repellence efficiency (WRE) were evaluated. Small wood heartwood samples of Portuguese maritime pine and two distinct MW treatment settings were employed. The levels of ASE and WRE of the wood elements were evaluated throughout four cycles of drying in an oven and soaking in water. Because of MW applied energy, the wood pine samples were satisfactorily impregnated with the preservative product. Regarding the absolutely dry densities of the samples, very subtle reductions were measured, and they were statistically equivalent to the average density of the non-MW-treated group. Slight improvements were identified in the WRE values of wood samples dried in the microwave. In terms of ASE, both MW-treated groups had a statistically significant increase. The MW treatment decreased the volumetric swelling of the maritime pine wood specimens. Hence, this study raises new insights and previously unexplored paths that can contribute to the expansion and greater application of MW technology in maritime pine and other species.
Enhanced activity of Ru-based catalysts for ammonia decomposition through nitrogen doping of hierarchical porous carbon carriers
Authors: Wang Rui , Chen Xiuxiu , Hao Han , Wang Bing , Yu Hewei , Wang Meng , Xie Yongjun , Wang Jianmei , Si Hongyu
Published: May 2024

Activated carbon (AC) materials, renowned for their high specific surface area, excellent conductivity, and customizable functional groups, are widely employed as catalyst carriers. However, enhancing the activity of Ru-based catalysts supported on AC (Ru/AC) for ammonia decomposition remains a challenge. In this study, commercial AC was utilized as a substrate, with glucose and urea employed as modifiers. Specifically, the surface of the AC was modified via a hydrothermal pyrolysis method, resulting in the successful post-treatment in situ co-doping of nitrogen (AC-GN). Experimental results revealed that Ru/AC-GN exhibited a hydrogen production rate 46% higher than that of Ru/AC at 475 °C, indicating improved activity and stability. The characterization of AC-GN demonstrated that nitrogen doping primarily occurred on the external surface and macropores of the AC, increasing the nitrogen content in the carrier, particularly pyrrolic nitrogen content, while preserving the original structural and morphological integrity of the AC. The enhanced dispersion of Ru, combined with the improved electronic transmission capabilities and strengthened interactions between the metal and the modified carrier, were identified as pivotal factors contributing to the enhanced low-temperature efficacy of Ru/AC-GN. This paper presents a novel direction for the large-scale preparation of efficient catalysts for ammonia decomposition.
Chemical reagent for detecting tension wood in selected tree species
Authors: Vilkovská Tatiana , Klement Ivan , Vilkovský Peter , Čunderlík Igor , Geffert Anton
Published: May 2024

Reaction wood is a wood defect arising during the growth of the tree in the part of the trunk that is under tension (hardwood tree species) or compression (coniferous tree species). Beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) tension wood has different anatomical and chemical characteristics than normal (opposite) wood. The difference in density is conditioned by the percentage of the gelatinous layer (G-layer). Fibre cells in reaction beech wood have a different cell wall structure and a different chemical composition. Tension wood cannot be detected by the naked eye. It is only possible to assume its occurrence based on the macroscopic characteristics of the logs, such as a woolly surface, taper or eccentric pith, and so forth. However, these are imprecise and unreliable methods that have minimal effectiveness, especially when shortening the length of the log for cut-outs. This study aimed to create a unique chemical reagent for the detection of tension wood in logs and timber and wood products immediately. The present research can contribute to the mitigation of flaws resulting from the reaction of wood in timber production while addressing noticeable constraints in manufacturing, such as energy resources and the availability of wood raw materials. This can be achieved through the efficient identification of reaction wood in materials. The colour change is only temporary and will fade over time. After the chemical reagent has dried on the surface, the surface can be milled. The colour change extends to a depth of approx. of 3 to 5 mm.
COVID-19 pandemic management: a multi parameter portable healthcare monitoring device
Authors: AR Zubair , AL Onyeije , AP Adedigba
Published: May 2024

Overcrowding of patients at hospitals is among the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Medical staff are over tasked and Medical facilities are overwhelmed. Medical Staff in the front line are exposed to risks. The reduction of overcrowding at Hospitals and healthcare centers with the introduction of portable systems for remote monitoring of patients using the Wireless Sensor Networks, specifically for those who are suffering from cardiac diseases is therefore an essential part of COVID-19 pandemic management. Patients with heart failure are at the highest risk during COVID-19 pandemic and the mortality rate of infected patients with heart failure is the highest. The development of a Personal health monitoring device (PHMD) for ECG display, SpO2 and pulse rate (beat per minute) measurements is presented. An Electrocardiogram (ECG) is a graphical presentation of the heart activity over time. The graphical presentation of the ECG can be interpreted, so that normal and abnormal rhythms of the heart can be detected and diagnosed. Pulse oximetry is the non-invasive measurement of the oxygen saturation which is the percentage of SpO2 concentration. It is used for a rapid assessment of a patient’s respiratory function to determine the onset of hypoxemia (oxygen starvation) or COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). The aim of the portable healthcare monitoring device is to continuously monitor and measure the patient vital signs in order to detect and prevent a heart attack before it occurs. The sensors convert the detected physiological parameters into electrical signals which will be processed using the digital signal processor (DSP) according to an algorithm. The processed data is transferred to the android application interfaces via serial port Bluetooth communication. The android studio further processes the received data, plots the Electrocardiogram (ECG) graph and displays the SpO2 using algorithms written in java programming language. The android application offers data storage in a cloud server and communication between the patient and the doctor through a chat system. The developed Personal health monitoring device (PHMD) functions satisfactorily and is ready for clinical trial. The mass production of this device will reduce overcrowding of patients at the healthcare centers as monitoring which is part of patient healthcare services can be done remotely and effectively.
Review on AirQ models and air pollutants
Authors: Mohammed Atef MF
Published: May 2024

Air pollution modeling can describe air pollution, including an analysis of emission sources, physical and chemical changes, meteorological processes, and forecast human outcomes. This review presents a short review about Air Quality Softwares (AirQ 2.2.3 and AirQ+ models) which assess the health risks (such as mortality and morbidity) caused by exposure to ambient air pollutants and household air pollutants.
Spontaneous acute subdural hematoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Assoumane Ibrahim Issa , Wilfried Dossou Mèhomè , Agada Kpègnon Nicaise , Lawson Laté Dzidoula , Amadou Moussa Abdoul Wahabou , Hamma Ousmane Issouffou
Published: May 2024

Background: Subdural hematoma is very often associated with head trauma. There are few documented cases of spontaneous acute subdural hematoma without a history of Case presentation: A 50-year-old man was admitted for a mild-intensity headache in helmet-like, which occurred in the night without any cause waking him up from his sleeping. He denied any drug taken, mainly anticoagulant, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The neurological exam was absolutely normal. The head CT Scan performed showed a thick left fronto-temporal spontaneous acute subdural hematoma The blood investigations were normal. Brain angio-CT didn’t show any The patient benefited fromconservative treatment under observation and experienced a progressive regression of the headache throughout the hospitalization stay. He was discharged an eleventh day later. Conclusion: Spontaneous acute subdural hematoma is a rare entity. It requires painstaking clinical, biological, and imaging and a strict follow-up for its management.
Exploring fibromyalgia: insights from generative reprocessing therapy (TRG) for a comprehensive understanding of treatment and management
Authors: Pereira Annamaria Gomes , Lima-Verde Juliana  Bezerra , dos Santos Jair Soares
Published: May 2024

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating condition that significantly impacts the quality of life of many people worldwide. Little is known about its origins, but it is understood that the emotional component plays a crucial role. Treatments aim to improve patients' quality of life, but there is never talk of a definitive cure. However, Generative Reprocessing Therapy (TRG) has shown positive results in cases where the emotional component leads to unresolved conditions. The aim of this study is to report the case of a patient treated with TRG after conventional therapies failed to yield results. The patient signed a consent form to participate in the study and completed questionnaires about her quality of life before and after TRG, rating from 0 (poor) to 6 (excellent). The results covered various parameters: satisfaction with romantic relationships (0 to 5), sexual satisfaction (2 to 6), enjoyment of life (2 to 6), satisfaction with physical appearance (2 to 6), confidence in professional competence (3 to 6), feelings about the past (1 to 6), and optimism about the future (2 to 6). The results presented are promising and consistent with others found not only in cases of fibromyalgia but also in depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and panic disorder that used TRG as the primary therapy. Thus, TRG has proven to be an excellent alternative for patients who have not succeeded with conventional therapies.
Marital violence and religiosity/spirituality
Authors: Porreca Wladimir , Marra Magnabosco Marlene , Pereira de Souza Beatriz de Frias , Maria da Silveira Dal Bello Laura
Published: May 2024

Religiosity/spirituality exerts an influence over conjugal relations and may represent a resource for coping with domestic violence. This study sought to identify and understand the religious and spiritual elements that play a significant role in combating domestic violence. Through qualitative interviews, comprising open questions and narratives, carried out in digital format, involving 10 Brazilian couples aged between 40 and 60, married for more than 15 years and who claimed to have some religious affiliation. The results of this study showed that religiosity/spirituality plays an important role in dealing with marital violence, mainly by highlighting the importance of social groups and in providing and motivating relational elements between spouses that generate Family Social Capital, such as: respect, belonging, tolerance, dialogue, persistence, perseverance, love, among others, enhanced and justified by what is sacred and by members of religious groups, while also taking into consideration the risk factors that these may generate.
The effects of agentic and communal traits and conspiracy beliefs on covid-19 beliefs and behaviors
Authors: Nagurney Alexander , Sauceda Elizabeth , Mendoza Laura
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath that have swept across the world from 2020 through the present has provided an abundance of often conflicting ideas about how to protect the self and others, including issues related to misinformation and conspiracy theories. This study sought to investigate how belief in conspiracy theories interacted with the personality traits of agency, communion, unmitigated agency (UA), and unmitigated communion (UC) to predict the extent to which participants felt that COVID-19 presented a real threat to society and the extent to which mitigation efforts such as masking and social distancing could help stop the spread of the disease. Participants (n = 105) were recruited via social media posts and represented a diverse sample in terms of age, ethnicity, and gender. Results generally indicate that conspiracy beliefs are associated with not believing that COVID-19 poses a threat to well-being and that mitigation efforts are not efficacious, however higher levels of agency and communion are protective against these beliefs whereas higher levels of UA exacerbate them. UC was not significant in these analyses. Implication will be discussed.
Collective psychodrama in death by disease
Authors: Camilo Arias Castrillón Juan
Published: May 2024

The article presents a collective psychodrama session on death by disease within the framework of the Fernando González New School of Thought. Four roles appear: the patient, the companion, the doctor and the family. Each character brings meaning to the situation and allows us to understand the death situation from each perspective.
Determination of prickle effect detection thresholds in Llama fiber knitted fabrics
Authors: EN Frank , MF Castillo , Gutierrez A Flores , A Prieto , MVH Hick
Published: May 2024

The study delves into determining the detection thresholds for the prickle effect in Llama fiber knitted fabrics, crucial for fabric acceptability assessment, by consumers of garments made from natural fibers. Employing standard evaluation methods involving moistened skin and perception scoring, coupled with the identification of objectionable (coarse) fiber content as a pivotal variable, the research using 41-invited panelist elucidates the intricate interplay between fiber characteristics (diameter) and prickle perception. Despite efforts to mitigate hairiness through finishing processes, the study unveils the nuanced impact of fiber protrusion on the prickle effect, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation approach. Through pairwise comparisons and perception scales, the study unveils strong associations between prickle perception and expression degrees, reaffirming panelists' sensitivity in detecting subtle variations. Statistical analyses underscore significant differences in coarse fiber content and diameter between paired samples, further corroborating panelists' discernment. It can be clearly concluded, from this analysis, the prickle effect detection thresholds in llama fiber fabrics range from 2.36 to 2.42% in coarse fiber differences and from 0.11 to 1.63 microns in fiber diameter difference, in the 95% of the tested cases or more probability. In conclusion, the study delineates critical thresholds (2.36%) for prickle detection in Llama fiber fabrics, offering invaluable insights for fabric evaluation and refinement processes, and emphasizing the heightened sensitivity of finished fabric samples in prickle perception.
Strategies for targeted cancer therapy
Authors: Krishnan Krishnan Nair Cherupally , Sreeja S
Published: May 2024

Numerous therapeutic measures have been developed in oncology to combat various types of cancer, which is a leading cause of death worldwide. These therapies range from conventional approaches to high-end precision medicines, all aimed at ensuring therapeutic efficacy and the patient's survival. However, drug resistance and off-target side effects continue to hinder treatment efficacy. In the case of solid tumors that have hypoxic regions that cause treatment resistance and a high risk of tumor recurrence. To address this, advanced therapies have been designed or under pipeline to specifically target cancer cells by considering their unique features. This review article primarily focuses on different treatment methods developed using the peculiar properties of the tumor microenvironment.
Challenges in municipal solid waste management-A comparative case study between selected metropolitan areas Brazil and Portugal
Authors: Gama Ana , Russo Mário
Published: May 2024

This research was aimed at analysing the management of urban solid waste in Brazil and Portugal, with an emphasis on the metropolitan areas of Lisbon and Porto and the Recife/PE/Brazil Metropolitan Area. An exploratory research project was conducted with a survey of secondary data, technical visits to institutions and companies in the waste sector, and a comparative analysis of the situation in the areas studied. In Portugal, the management of municipal solid waste in the period before 1995 was predominantly municipal, which evolved into a consortium of municipalities with the entry of Portugal into the European Union in 1986. The country adapted its legislation to the EU Directives, and from 1997, the waste sector suffered a boost with the adoption of the first Strategic Plan for Urban Solid Waste, which was constituted by 40 public waste management companies that associated several municipalities, and some of them also had the state's share in their share capital. However, due to the lack of economic scale of some of these companies, there were mergers, and at the end of 2010, the total number of companies was 23, grouped into entities of a multi-municipal character (when the state enters into the composition of the share capital of the society) and inter-municipal (only constituted by municipalities), currently responsible for the management of waste in Portugal. In Brazil, the National Solid Waste Policy was approved by law in 2010, establishing lines and guidelines for integrated waste management with defined time targets. However, it is not yet fully implemented because about 45% of municipalities still dispose of waste at dumping sites. With regard to the municipalities of the Recife Metropolitan Area, the disposal of waste has already been environmentally appropriate since 2019. According to 2022 data from Brazilian Association of Public Cleaning and Special Waste Companies, the average rate of selective collection in the country is approximately 4%. The research results reveal that Brazil needs to increase selective collection, eliminate approximately 3,600 existing landfills and finally regulate urban solid waste services. While in Portugal, management is well organized as a result of the implementation of PERSU in 1995, there are still challenges to be overcome in order to meet the goals set in the New Legislative Framework, which have not yet been achieved. The specificities and the context are obviously different between the countries, drawing attention to the difference in effectiveness in the implementation of public policies edited by the legal diplomas of the two countries for solid waste management.
Chemical composition and sensory analysis in hamburgers made from laying quails at the end of productive life
Authors: Dantas Filho Jerônimo Vieira , Marcato Simara Marcia , Euzebio Tainara Ciuffi , Zancanela Vittor , Barbosa Marcos Adriano Pereira , Grieser Daiane de Oliveira , Oliveira Gislaine Gonçalves , García-Núñez Ricardo Ysaac , Schons Sandro de Vargas , Cavali Jucilene Braitenbach , de Souza Maria Luiza Rodrigues
Published: May 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate chemical composition and sensory analysis in hamburgers prepared with meat from laying quaiTls at disposal age. Main Body: The design was completely randomized, with four treatments of quail hamburger, represented by the inclusion of bacon in its preparation, as follows: quail meat without the inclusion of bacon; 5% inclusion of bacon, 10% inclusion of bacon and 15% inclusion, and three replicates. The quails were cleaned, ground and seasoned for each product. There was a significant difference in sensory acceptance for aroma and flavor characteristics. In all variables, acceptance increased following the level of bacon inclusion. In the purchase intent test, hamburgers with 10 and 15% inclusion of bacon were the most accepted. For the chemical analysis, there was a difference for the variables, lipids, protein, moisture, ash and caloric value. The products were accepted by the consumer, highlighting the highest levels of bacon inclusion.
Study on functional properties of protein-rich composite flour utilizing foxtail millet and flaxseed
Authors: Chowdhury Aditi Roy , Maji Mousumi
Published: May 2024

The residue after extraction of oil from flaxseed contains many nutrients and bioactive components, though it is not used that much in the development of food. On the other hand, foxtail millet is a non-conventional source of food, which can be a supplement of wheat flour or flour-made products. The objective of this work is to incorporate flaxseed oil cake into the common food with a non-conventional source of flour and also to check the functionality of differently pre-processed foxtail millet. In utilizing oil industry waste, i.e., de-oiled flaxseed, for developing a value-added product, the concept of green technology was applied. Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) oil cake flour was mixed in a 1:1 ratio with Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) flour, prepared in three forms: raw, germinated, and microwave treated. The study mainly focused on utilizing the non-thermal processes to investigate the functional properties of the flour blends. Also, an analysis of functionality among three forms of foxtail millet has been done in this study. The mixed flours were further evaluated for nutrient composition and functionality. The results of the developed flour blends are compared with the conventional wheat flour and raw foxtail millet flour to determine the importance of Oil Cake Waste and pre-processing of Millet. The functional properties of mixed flour increased compared with raw foxtail millet flour.
Challenges in diagnosing and treating urachal abscess in adults
Authors: Amine Malki Mohamed , Asmae Sekkat , Bouh Khatraty Saad , Mustapha Ahsaini , Soufiane Mellas , FADL TAZI Mohammed , Jalal El-Ammari , Jamal El-Fassi , Hassan Farih My
Published: May 2024

Urachal abscess, a rare condition from fetal allantoic canal remnants, presents diagnostic challenges. We report a case in a 40-year-old man, emphasizing clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic nuances. Imaging aids diagnosis, with prompt surgical intervention following antibiotic therapy. Early recognition is vital to prevent complications. Multidisciplinary management improves outcomes.