bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Validity and Accuracy of Wetland Indicator Status Ratings for Eight Species in Alaska Subregions
Authors: Whitecloud Simone , Philley Kevin , Minkin J. , Antrim Anna , Lichtner Franz , Wuerslin Nicole , Barker Natalie , Gong Ping , Campellone Estrella , Gordon Kyle , Wilson Matthew
Published: January 2025

Preexisting ecological information and plant species occurrence data were used to determine the accuracy and validity of the present regional and subregional wetland indicator status ratings for eight species: Andromeda polifolia, Arctous rubra, Carex canescens, Rhododendron tomentosum, Rubus arcticus, Salix arctica, Salix pulchra, and Viola palustris. Technical documentation was developed to either (1) support the current National Wetland Plant List (NWPL) subregion boundaries and wetland indicator status ratings for the NWPL Alaska Region or (2) support a proposed change to the subregions or wetland indicator status ratings for the NWPL Alaska Region, for inclusion into the next NWPL update. The project developed repeatable, quantitative methods for assignment of wetland indicator status rating. Analyses included multiple correspondence analysis (MCA), analysis of similarities (ANOSIM), nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS), and principal component analysis (PCA). Prevalence index (PI) was used as a numeric approximation of wetland status for comparing observations across subregions. A pilot study on S. pulchra data evaluated regional assignments by machine learning and assessed the feasibility of correlation network analysis and Louvain clustering for wetland indicator status rating assignment as dictated by co-occurring species. The methods developed for this Alaska-specific study may be applied to any future regional or subregional updates to the NWPL.
Plan de negocios para la comercialización vía online de un collar GPS para mascotas en Lima metropolitana
Authors:   , Bautista Meza Leslie Guissel , Sinche Mitac Sandra Sofia , Villanueva Padilla Carlos Octavio , Leon Murga Diego Alonso
Published: January 2025

Cuando volteamos la mirada hacia el pasado, podemos vislumbrar que las mascotas viven entre nosotros de una manera que más parecía “sobrevivir” a la vida misma. Hoy en día el cuidado de las mascotas domésticas ha evolucionado de tal manera que cada familia lo incluye como parte de ella. Por lo tanto, enfoca y destina parte del presupuesto familiar al cuidado de estos seres tan queridos para nosotros ya que forman parte activa de cada familia. En el Perú, el incremento de los productos y accesorios para mascotas crece año tras año de manera considerable, es así como el mercado consumidor de estos productos presenta oportunidades de desarrollo por ello nace la propuesta de crear PETLOC, una empresa que ofrece collares con GPS para mascotas. PETLOC presenta una propuesta de valor en su collar con GPS valiéndose hoy en día en un aliado como es la tecnología. Este collar permite poder ubicar de manera rápida en donde se encuentra su mascota. El collar con GPS responde a una necesidad de poder brindar la seguridad a los propietarios de mascotas a llevar y ejercer un control en tiempo real de su mascota. Dentro de las ventajas con las que cuenta nuestro collar, es la confección con materiales de fácil uso y comodidad para su mascota, de la misma manera es la facilidad de configuración con su dispositivo móvil, el mismo que puede brindar la tranquilidad de saber en donde se encuentra su mascota.
Asociación entre fragilidad según el Índice frágil-VGI y el riesgo de caídas en pacientes adultos mayores del Hospital Central Fuerza Aérea, Lima, Perú
Authors:   , Flores Cauti Lady Thalia
Published: January 2025

Este trabajo tuvo como objetivo evaluar la asociación entre fragilidad según Frágil-VIG y el riesgo de caídas en la base de datos de pacientes adultos mayores del hospital Central FAP, Lima, Perú durante los años 2020 – 2022. El método del estudio fue un diseño transversal analítico que se realizó en una población de 115 adultos mayores atendidos en el periodo 2020 a 2022 en el servicio de geriatría del hospital Central FAP, Lima, Perú. Se empleó el cuestionario para determinar el índice frágil-VIG y el del SARC-F. Los resultados permitieron establecer asociación entre fragilidad según Frágil-VIG y el riesgo de caídas de pacientes adultos del grupo de edad >80 años que presentan deterioro funcional en el dominio AIDs y en el índice de Barthel arrojó dependencia leve-moderada (ABVDs) y según el índice de Barthel presentan dependencia leve a moderada (ABVD) en el 58,3% de la muestra estudiada. Por lo tanto, el índice de fragilidad-VGI se clasifica como ligeramente frágil con una puntuación de 0,35, asociado a un riesgo de caída promedio en el grupo de 70 a 80 años de 0,90 puntos. Los datos están respaldados por la prueba Chi-cuadrado del Índice Frail-VIG y Riesgo de Caídas (SARC-F) con un valor de 8,349 y una significancia de dos colas de 0,499, lo que respalda una asociación entre las variables de vulnerabilidad según Frail-VIG y la caída. riesgos. En conclusión, la fragilidad debe ser evaluada desde la perspectiva holística por ser parte integral del riesgo a caída y poder identificar mejor los elementos que generan las caídas.
Impacto de la infraestructura aeroportuaria en el rendimiento logístico de un operador de comercio exterior (Callao-Perú), 2023
Authors:   , Benites Diaz Franco Jesus , Silvera Huanuco Karen Rosario , Torres Gutarra Aracely Cinthia
Published: January 2025

La pesquisa tuvo como propósito primordial establecer la repercusión de la infraestructura aeroportuaria en el desempeño logístico de un operador de comercio exterior específico. La aproximación metodológica adoptada se configuró como no experimental, transversal y correlacional-causal, fundamentada en una orientación cuantitativa. La investigación se llevó a cabo entre colaboradores del Área de Operaciones en Plataforma del operador de comercio exterior objeto de estudio, con una muestra de 100 participantes. Los resultados revelaron que la infraestructura aeroportuaria tiene un impacto directo y significativo en el desempeño logístico del operador de comercio exterior objeto de estudio, lo que respalda la hipótesis alterna planteada. Esto se evidenció mediante un coeficiente de Nagelkerke de 0.903 (90.3%)
Relación del estado de somnolencia con el estrés laboral en conductores de buses para minas durante la etapa de cuarentena para COVID-19
Authors:   , Cajacuri Estrella David Francisco , Viñoles Garcia Jose Maria
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre la somnolencia y el estrés laboral en conductores de buses para minas durante la etapa de cuarentena para COVID-19. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal y analítico, con una muestra de 243 conductores de mina durante la primera ola del COVID-19. La somnolencia se midió a través de la Escala de Somnolencia de Epworth y el estrés laboral mediante la Encuesta Javeriana de evaluación de estrés laboral. Para determinar la relación entre ambas variables se realizó el cálculo de la razón de prevalencia. Resultados: El 13.6 % de los conductores presentó somnolencia y el 39.9 % de los conductores presentaron nivel de estrés medio, alto y muy alto. La población en estudio está compuesta por varones, con mayor frecuencia solteros, con 10 a 20 años de experiencia laboral y que trabajaron 48 horas por semana; la asociación entre la somnolencia y el nivel de estrés en conductores con somnolencia mostró un RP de 0.98 (IC 95%: 0.42 - 2.19; p=0.948) lo que no resultó significativo. Conclusiones: No se halló relación significativa del estado de somnolencia con el estrés laboral en conductores de buses para minas durante la primera ola del COVID-19. Es necesario realizar mayor cantidad de estudios en este grupo ocupacional para determinar de forma consistente la magnitud y el impacto de la relación entre la somnolencia y el estrés.
SHMT2 arginine methylation by PRMT1 facilitates esophageal cancer progression by enhancing glycolysis and one-carbon metabolism
Authors: Xu Zhengshui , Ye Changchun , Cheng Yao , Zhao Feng , Li Jianzhong , Jiang Jiantao , Liu Shiyuan
Published: January 2025

Background
Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is the main enzyme that directly responsible for the production of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and upregulation of PRMT1 is observed in a variety of malignancies, including esophageal cancer (ESCA). Dysregulation of arginine methylation caused by PRMT1 overexpression is a driver of poor cancer progression, and the detailed mechanism of modulation is currently unknown.
Results
The present study confirmed a novel oncogenic mechanism of PRMT1 in ESCA. PRMT1 levels were significantly upregulated in ESCA, and its high expression correlated with TNM stage and poor patient prognosis. We continued to find the mechanisms by which PRMT1 expression was more relevant to ESCA progression. RNA-seq and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that differentially expressed genes after PRMT1 silencing in ESCA might modulate serine/one-carbon metabolism. Knockdown of PRMT1 in vitro resulted in a significant reduction in ESCA cell growth, and indicators related to serine/one-carbon metabolism and glycolysis, whereas its overexpression showed opposite results. The catalytic activity of PRMT1 was crucial in mediating these biological processes. We found that PRMT1 mediated the ADMA modification of serine hydroxymethyltransferase 2 (SHMT2) at arginine 415 (R415), which activated SHMT2 activity and enhanced serine/one-carbon metabolism and glycolysis. The R415K mutation largely eliminated the arginine methylation of SHMT2 by PRMT1, and weakened PRMT1-induced glycolysis and serine/one-carbon metabolism.
Conclusion
Our study further confirmed the link between the two proteins, PRMT1 and SHMT2, as well as arginine methylation and glycolysis. The study of deeper molecular mechanisms will reveal a broader role of arginine methylation in the regulation of glycolysis.
WITHDRAWN: Comparison of Upper Arm Ports and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Authors: Xiao Maofang , Li Jia , Xiao Caiqiong , Hu Wen , Fan Yuying , Qin Huiying
Published: January 2025

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn, as it was submitted in error. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
WITHDRAWN: Development and Validation of a Pathomics Model for Accurate Grading of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors Short title: Pathomics Model for Grading of PNETs
Authors: ying li , Chen Chengwei , Zhang Yunshuo , Yu Jieyu , Fang Xu , Liu Fang , Wang Tiegong , Li Jing , Wang Li , Lu Jianping , Jiang Hui , Shao Chengwei , Bian Yun
Published: January 2025

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors while they make corrections to the work. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Comparing the Performance of OvaCyte and Traditional Techniques in Detecting Canine Gastrointestinal Parasites
Authors: Elghryani Nagwa , McAloon Conor G. , lahan Geetika , McOwan Trish , de Waal Theo
Published: January 2025

Background Companion animals are infected with a range of helminth and protozoan parasites which can have a significant effect on the health and welfare of animals. While several diagnostic techniques are available to detect parasitic infection in animals, they all vary in sensitivity and specificity. This study aims to estimate the diagnostic performance of the OvaCyteTM Pet Analyser by comparing it with established benchmarks commonly used in reference laboratories.
Methods A total of 141 canine faecal samples, containing at least one species of parasite after screening using double centrifugation, were tested using 4 index tests: centrifugal flotation (faeces weighing both 1 g and 2 g), passive flotation, and the OvaCyteTM technique. The true status of each sample was determined on the basis of the initial screening test and the aggregated result of the 4 index tests. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for each of the 4 index tests.
Results The OvaCyteTM Pet Analyser displayed high sensitivity ranging from 90% to 100% in detecting various parasite species in canines. Its sensitivity for roundworm and hookworm detection differed significantly from centrifugal flotation using 1 g and passive flotation techniques (P < 0.05). The OvaCyte™ demonstrated higher sensitivity and specificity (100%) compared to all flotation techniques (centrifuged or not) in detecting Cystoisospora spp. and Capillaria spp. (P < 0.001).
Conclusion These results highlight the variability in sensitivity across different diagnostic methods, underscoring the importance of selecting the most reliable technique for accurate parasite detection in veterinary practice. However, the OvaCyteTM Pet Analyser exhibits an elevated level of sensitivity compared to other techniques.
Intraoperatively preventive intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy with lobaplatin in colorectal cancer：a prospective, randomized, controlled, multicenter study
Authors: S Hao , Zhan Rui , L Yunfeng , L Yanke , Pe Wei , Ji Zhigang , Li Zhimin , Huan Meijin , Zhuan Jing , Jian Qian , Xi Ming , Wan Guiying , Zhan Wenbin , Li Ming , Che Jiansi , Wan Zejun , Wan Kang , Zhan Xinghong , L Guoxin , Zen Xiangfu , L Xinxiang , Su Xuejun , Wan Ju , Zen Dongzhu , Zhuan Changlong , Zho Haitao , Wan Xishan
Published: January 2025

Background
Peritoneal metastases (PM) after radical surgery is an important reason for the treatment failure in colorectal cancer (CRC). The intraoperatively intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy may be an effective method to prevent postoperative PM of CRC. We aimed to explore the safety and feasibility of intraoperatively preventive intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy with lobaplatin for CRC.
Methods
Between December 12, 2017 and October 17, 2019, 720 eligible CRC patients of which the clinical TNM stage was T4 or N + were recruited from 25 hospitals in China. Eligible patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to resection of CRC only (control group) or to resection of CRC with intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy with lobaplatin intraoperatively (lobaplatin group). The primary end point of this trial was the rate of PM after surgery; secondary end points included safety, overall survival (OS) time, progression free survival (PFS) time, peritoneal metastases recurrence free survival (PRFS) time, and the rate of liver metastasis.
Results
Of 716 patients included in the full analysis set (FAS), 352 cases were assigned in the lobaplatin group and 364 cases in the control group. For FAS population, adding intraoperatively preventive intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy with lobaplatin decreased the primary end point of the rate of PM (3.56% vs 8.75%), and the second end points of the rate of liver metastasis (5.81% vs 11.70%). There was no statistically significant difference in the 3-year OS between the groups (93.2% vs 90.4%). The 3-year PFS rate (88.1% vs 81.6%) and 3-year PRFS rate (96.6% vs 91.5%) were significantly higher in the lobaplatin group than the control group. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups for the incidence (69.77% vs 64.75%) and severity of adverse events (AEs) for safety set (SS) population.
Conclusions
Initiation of the intraoperatively preventive intraperitoneal perfusion chemotherapy with lobaplatin in CRC patients had the tendency to reduces peritoneal seeding and liver metastasis in CRC and showed a trend towards prolonged PFS and PRFS. Treatment was well tolerated, and there were no increased safety findings.
Trial registration:
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800014617
Prostatic surgery with preservation of the supramonticular tissue versus standard surgery in benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review
Authors: Chuctaya Giuston Mendoza , Ramos Kevin Rodrigo , Centeno Lucely Aycachi , Rondan Alvaro Taype
Published: January 2025

Objective: To compare modified surgery with supramonticular tissue preservation versus standard prostate surgery.
Methods: For this systematic review, we conducted searches in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies that compared modified surgery with standard surgery were included. Two reviewers independently selected the studies. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4, and the GRADE approach was used to assess the certainty of the evidence.
Results: We identified six studies (three RCTs and three quasi-experimental) with 336 participants. The meta-analyses showed that the modified technique may result in greater preservation of antegrade ejaculation (OR=3.12; 95% CI: 2.31 to 4.20) and may increase post-micturition residual volume (OR=4.54; 95% CI: -20.83 to 29.91). Additionally, it may have no effect on IPSS, maximum flow, and QoL. However, all these results had very low certainty of evidence.
Conclusion: In patients undergoing endoscopic surgery for BPH, surgery performed with the modified technique (preserving supramonticular tissue 1 cm above the verum montanum) may result in increased preservation of antegrade ejaculation, may increase post-micturition residual volume, and may have no effect on IPSS, maximum flow, and QoL. However, the evidence for these effects is very uncertain.
Effect of Liposomal Bupivacaine for Sciatic Nerve Block on Opioid Use in Patients Undergoing Maxillofacial Reconstruction with Free Fibular Flap: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Wu Hai-Yin , Wang Xiao-Dong , Xiong Guo-Li , Yang Xu-Dong , Wang Li-Kuan
Published: January 2025

Background
We investigated the efficacy and safety of preoperative popliteal sciatic nerve block (PSNB) using liposomal bupivacaine (LB) to reduce preoperative opioid consumption and improve recovery quality in patients undergoing maxillofacial reconstruction with a free fibular flap.
Methods
Patients were randomly allocated into two groups. The PSNB group received ultrasound guided PSNB using 133 mg of LB after anesthesia induction. In the control group, patients underwent nerve block preparation procedures without puncture or drug injection. The primary endpoint was cumulative opioid consumption during the perioperative period (from anesthesia induction to 48 h post-surgery).
Results
A total of 74 patients were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. There was no significant difference in cumulative opioid consumption between the control group (3020 [2163,3570] µg of remifentanil equivalents) and the PSNB group (2856 [2204,3771] µg; p = 0.863). The incidence of moderate to severe pain at the donor site within 48 h after surgery was significantly lower in the PSNB group (3 [8.1%] of 37 patients) than in the control group (18 [48.6%] of 37 patients; p < 0.001). The consumption of rescue opioids was significantly reduced in the PSNB group (0 [0, 50]) compared with that in the control group (50 [0, 100]; p = 0.007). The subjective sleep quality numeric rating scale score was significantly lower in the PSNB group than in the control group (day of surgery: 6 [5, 8] vs. 8 [6, 9], p = 0.029; postoperative day 1: 5 [4, 5] vs. 7 [6, 8], p < 0.001; postoperative day 2: 5 [4, 6] vs. 6 [5, 8], p = 0.001). The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was significantly lower in the PSNB group (0 [0.0%]) compared with that in the control group (5 [13.5%]; p = 0.021). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups.
Conclusion
Preoperative administration of PSNB by LB did not spare opioids during the intraoperative period, but significantly relieved postoperative pain at the donor site, reduced rescue opioid consumption, and improved postoperative sleep quality, without additional adverse events.
Trial registration
Clinicaltrials.gov. Identifier ChiCTR2400080944
Electrolyte imbalance and its determinants between low and high dose of furosemide in patients admitted to tertiary care hospital of Nepal: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Khanal Hari , Sharma Sujan , Bhandari Govinda , Bhurtyal Nishan , Gaihre Siddhartha , Acharya Anush
Published: January 2025

Background Electrolytes imbalances are common complications observed in patients admitted to hospital. Furosemide, a loop diuretic, is frequently prescribed to enhance diuresis and manage fluid overload. However, the use of furosemide has been associated with the potential for electrolyte disturbances, particularly at higher doses.Methods The study employed an observational prospective cohort design with age and gender as cohort defining characteristics. The patients were followed over a defined period and divided into two groups based on their furosemide dosage: a low-dose group (less than 40 mg/day) and a high-dose group (40 mg/day or more). Longitudinal data on electrolyte levels were collected at regular intervals to compare electrolyte disturbance over the time between two groups.Results At baseline, sodium and potassium levels were similar between the low-dose and high-dose groups. Over time, both groups experienced decreases in sodium and potassium levels. Sodium levels showed significant variations over time (p < .001) and an interaction effect with the dose of furosemide (p < .001), with significant linear trends (p < .001) but non-significant quadratic (p = 0.873) and cubic trends (p = 0.169). Potassium levels also showed significant linear (p < .001) and quadratic trends (p = 0.023) over time, with a significant interaction effect of furosemide dosage (p < .001).Conclusion Furosemide dosage significantly affects sodium and potassium levels over time, with notable linear trends in both electrolytes and additional quadratic trends in potassium levels. This highlights the importance of monitoring electrolyte balance in patients on furosemide therapy.
Undifferentiated connective tissue disease: the diagnoses critically revised - experience of a single center.
Authors: Cavazzana Ilaria , Semeraro Paolo , Kessler Elena Sofia , Piantoni Silvia , Caproli Alessia , Fredi Micaela , Franceschini Franco
Published: January 2025

Introduction
Although anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) are considered the main entry criteria for a diagnosis of undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD), many patients show different rate of ANA positivity and questionable diagnoses. Aim of the study was to revise the UCTD diagnoses and analyse the main predictors of evolution in a monocentric cohort.
Method
we retrospectively revised the diagnoses of 331 ANA positive patients, with at least one year of follow-up, classified as UCTD from 2009 and 2017.
Results
The diagnosis of UCTD was confirmed in 180 cases (54.4%). The evolution occurred in 18% of cases, after a follow-up of 6.9 (SD: 4.4) years. Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) (OR: 2.39), puffy hands (OR: 6.3), anti-ENA (OR: 2.34), anti-Topoisomerase I antibodies (OR: 4.93), rheumatoid factor (RF) (OR: 2.86) were associated with evolution.
Evolution in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) occurred in 5 patients (2.78%) and associated with the addition of new autoantibodies, compared with other evolutions (p: 0.034; OR: 12; 95CI: 1.4-103.4). Evolution in Systemic Sclerosis and pSS was found in 14 (7.8%) and 8 cases (4.4%), respectively. Multivariate analysis defined puffy hands and RF positivity as the predictors of SSc and pSS evolution, respectively.
Conclusions
A confirmed diagnosis of UCTD, according with the available criteria, was assessed in about a half patients. The occurrence of puffy hands since the onset defines a patient with a potential evolution into SSc, while the addition of new specific autoantibodies represents a typical “fingerprint” of patients developing SLE.
Trial registration: Studio ANACTD np 1318
Changes Of Lung Ventilation And Perfusion After Lung Transplantation Based On Electrical Impedance Tomography
Authors: Dong Yan , XU Zhongping , Wang Dapeng , Tian Jing , Xu Hongyang
Published: January 2025

Background Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) based on pulsatility method and the saline bolus injection method has become more mature in recent years. However, clinical studies about the use of EIT in patients after lung transplantation has not emerged. We used EIT to observe the changes of lung ventilation and perfusion after lung transplantation, and combined with blood gas analysis, lung ultrasound score (LUS), and other clinical indicators to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of lung transplantation.
Methods Patients who received lung transplantation at the Lung Transplant Center of Wuxi People's Hospital affiliated to Nanjing Medical University from December 2023 to January 2024 were included in this retrospective review. Patients were divided into prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) group and control group according to whether invasive mechanical ventilation lasted more than 72 hours after surgery. General data, arterial blood gas results, ultrasonic LUS score were recorded. The lungs were divided into region of interest (ROI) 1 to 4. Ventilation and perfusion data of each region during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) combined mechanical ventilation (H1), during mechanical ventilation (H2), and post-extubation (H3) were also recorded.
Results 1. Low/high-speed passband index (LHI) during H2 and H3 was significantly higher in control group than in PMV group, with statistical difference (P < 0.05). 2. Center of ventilation (COV) showed a downward trend in postoperative patients, while COV in control group was closer to the gravity-dependent area. 3. At each stage, LUS in PMV group was significantly higher than that in control group, with statistical significance (P < 0.05).
Conclusion It is safe and reasonable to use EIT to monitor pulmonary ventilation and perfusion after lung transplantation.The use of relevant EIT parameters (e.g. GI,LHI) can be supplemented with lung relevant information to understand individual patient physiological trends.
Molecular Simulations of the Lid Motion in Chimeras of Candida Antarctica Lipase B in Organic Solvents
Authors: Vokáčová Zuzana Sochorová , Fárníková Karolína , Pluhařová Eva
Published: January 2025

The lid motion and the overall structure of Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) and its mutants CALB-G.zeae and CALB-N.crassa in water, acetonitrile and toluene were investigated by molecular dynamics simulations employing all-atom force fields. This study very likely represents the first systematic application of the umbrella sampling to the lid motion of CALB and its mutants in various solvents. The simulations show that their structures are stable in all solvents. The lid-constituting helixes of the CALB – wild type adopt parallel arrangement, but they tend to be tilted for the mutants and can even change direction of the orientation in case of CALB-N.crassa. Water favors closed lid with contacts between the non-polar side chains of the helixes, mutations shift the corresponding free energy minimum towards slightly larger distance. Toluene causes the lid opening, the open structure of the wild type is stabilized by a salt bridge between the charged Asp145 and Lys308 or Arg309. The effect of the polar organic solvent acetonitrile on the lid opening is less pronounced and seems to be more force field dependent. These detailed insights into the lid opening and specific interactions are relevant for protein and medium engineering of a widely used lipase.
Influence of pristine and oxidized MWCNT fillers on ferroelectricity and dielectric dispersion of a classical ferroelectric of Rochelle salt
Authors: Nguyen Hoai Thuong , Chau Minh Thuyen , Thao Phan Thi Bich
Published: January 2025

This paper reports a comparative study on the influence of pristine and oxidized multiwalled carbon nanotubes on ferroelectricity and dielectric dispersion of a classical ferroelectric of Rochelle salt in a range of 10− 2 − 107 Hz with an amplitude of electric field strength of 2 V/cm. For the study, phase transition, polarization switching, frequency dependencies of dielectric permittivity and electrical conductivity of two composites based on Rochelle salt combined with each of the fillers were considered at different temperatures. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to explore the influence of fillers on the functional groups of Rochelle salt. The morphologies of the samples were examined using scanning electron microscopy. It was revealed that the oxidized form of multiwalled carbon nanotubes showed less influence on the dielectric dispersion, but stronger effect on the phase transition and polarization switching than those of pristine ones. At the same time, the high electrical conductivity of both carbon nanotubes resulted in a strong dielectric dispersion and overshadowed the contribution of functional groups of Rochelle salt. Theoretical models will also be used to analyze experimental data.
Reluctance to Change: Key Factors of Foreign Labours’ Safety Non-Compliance Behaviours
Authors:   School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Putrajaya, MALAYSIA, Zulkeflee Azreen Ariff , Faisol Nasruddin ,   Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, MALAYSIA, Ismail Faridah ,   Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, MALAYSIA, Ismail Noor Akmal Adillah ,   Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, MALAYSIA, Qurtubi Qurtubi ,   Department of Industrial Engineering, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, INDONESIA
Published: January 2025

Cultural and behavioural differences are the main aspects of reluctance to practise proper safety in the workplace in Malaysia. This is because foreign labourers have monopolised the Malaysian construction sector at the operational level since the early 1980s. Accordingly, the current study examined the key factors of reluctance in practising proper safety from a construction foreign labourers’ behavioural perspective. A total of nine semistructured interviews were conducted with selected construction professionals working closely with foreign labourers at the operational level. Their responses were analysed using thematic analysis through familiarisation of the data coded to determine the main factors and subfactors. The results revealed that age, cultural diversity, callowness, ignorance, overconfidence, carelessness, oversight and misjudgement were the eight key factors in reluctance to practise safety among foreign labourers in Malaysian construction sites. This study believes that a high level of safety compliance among foreign labourers can be achieved when these factors are assessed in greater depth.
Pedagogical Strategies in Developing Competency Profile for Enhancing Performance Level among Malaysian Building Surveying Graduates: Developing a Research Methodology
Authors:   School of Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, MALAYSIA, Husain Siti Hamidah , Ani Adi Irfan Che ,   Department of Architecture and Built Environment, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, MALAYSIA, Mohd Affandi Haryanti ,   Department of Engineering Education, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, MALAYSIA, Mohamad Nasri Nurfaradilla ,   Centre of Education Leadership and Policy, Faculty of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, MALAYSIA
Published: January 2025

The performance of building surveying graduates should be defined and tailored to address the unique industry’s requirements. This research aimed to propose a comprehensive research methodology, techniques and processes to develop a well-defined set of competencies that may effectively improve the performance of building surveying graduates in a specific Malaysian context. The suggested procedures for conducting future competency studies involve inquiry within a mixed-method design that combines both quantitative and qualitative methods. This blended methodology enables a comprehensive examination of competencies, supported by a strong epistemological foundation and a selection of appropriate research designs. The findings of this study could develop a robust and valid competency profile that is specifically tailored to Malaysian building surveying graduates by enriching the existing research methodology knowledge concerning the surrounding competence studies, thus, potentially enhancing the overall quality of the industry’s workforce. This study will pave the way for further research that is aimed at establishing a competency profile that deals with both non-technical and technical skills for Malaysian building surveying graduates. Engaging in such an endeavour has the potential to enhance a holistic approach towards fostering competency in the subject, therefore, equipping graduates with the necessary skills to thrive in their future professional responsibilities.
Barriers to the Adoption of Electronic Procurement in Public Sector Construction Projects in Zimbabwe
Authors:   Department of Construction Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, ZIMBABWE, Sakutemba Netsai , Muvungani Rangarirai ,   Department of Construction Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, ZIMBABWE, Moyo Tirivavi ,   Department of Quantity Surveying, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth 6031, SOUTH AFRICA
Published: January 2025

The construction business has evolved worldwide, with private and public entities increasingly adopting modern technology. Construction procurement constraints have partly been resolved by adopting electronic procurement systems. However, the use of electronic procurement has faced a myriad of barriers. Therefore, this study sought to determine barriers affecting the adoption of e-procurement by public construction entities in Zimbabwe. A pragmatic philosophy was adopted, with a questionnaire survey administered to registered construction consultants and contractors to collect quantitative data and interviews were conducted with procurement practitioners. The data was analysed using the normality test, chi-squared test, thematic analysis and factor analysis. The results of the univariate revealed that the top three issues affecting e-procurement adoption in public sector construction projects are the unavailability of e-procurement software, negative attitude towards the use of the technology and unavailability of information technology (IT) infrastructure. Procurement practitioners revealed similar barriers that included the lack of top management support, technical expertise, inadequate supporting infrastructure/lack of IT infrastructure for e-procurement adoption, lack of adequate procurement personnel training and inadequate legal frameworks supporting e-procurement adoption. Results from the factor analysis revealed six components that included “Training, practice and management support inadequacies”, “Organisational policy aspects”, “Technical and budgetary concerns”, “Teamwork and change issues” and “Inadequate government technical support system”. The findings revealed that public entities still need to fully embrace e-procurement in construction projects as there is much dependency on paper-based processes. Vital e-government reforms should precede the launch of e-procurement. Also, full participation and involvement of publicprivate partnerships and expertise are required to assist in the adoption of e-procurement by public construction entities.
Nanoscale Insights into Weathering of Ti-Bearing Minerals and Heterogeneous Crystal Growth Mechanisms of Ti nano minerals in Altered Volcanic Ash
Authors: Liu Chen , Fang Qian , Hong Hanlie , Zhao Lulu , Yang Yanling , Chen Shuling
Published: January 2025

A deep understanding of the formation and alteration mechanisms of titanium minerals in volcanic sedimentary sequences is crucial for a clear recognition of the Ti element cycle on Earth. Here we use micro- to nano-scale characterization techniques focus ion beam (FIB), high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), and nano-computed tomography (Nano-CT) to investigate nano mineralogical characteristics and formation mechanisms of authigenic Ti minerals and altered Ti-Zr-O minerals (srilankite) in altered volcanic ash across a Permian-Triassic boundary. The results indicate that the growth of anatase and brookite (both polymorphs of TiO2) nanoparticles within the volcanic ash matrix (in acidic condition) is regulated by Ostwald ripening with minor semi-oriented attachment and recrystallization. Meanwhile, the growth of brookite crystals in altered srilankite particles (ZrTi2O6) is predominantly controlled by the oriented attachment mechanism. This phenomenon suggests that the growth mechanisms of TiO2 nanoparticles are highly sensitive to the microenvironments surrounding the particles, with different growth behaviors possibly occurring even within the same layer. According to the EELS results, under chemical weathering, the edges of TiO2 crystals tend toward amorphization, gradually reducing to the Ti3+ valence state at the edge. Following the alteration of srilankite, primary brookite crystals form in situ (particle size about 10 nm), initially growing into incomplete oriented particles through oriented attachment. Subsequently, these oriented particle fragments further grow by attaching to primary crystals in the matrix, forming large (particle size along the long axis around 300 nm) brookite crystals with consistent crystallographic orientations. This phenomenon demonstrates that during the alteration process of unstable Ti minerals, the migration of Ti does not occur across particle scales.
Catastrophe Handbook
Authors:   Association of Anaesthetists, Sparrow Louise , Redfern Nancy , Diprose Paul , El-Ghazali Sally , Kapoor Ritoo
Published: January 2025

This handbook is designed to be a readily accessible and pragmatic quick reference for handling anaesthetic catastrophes. It is tailored to be useful to all staff who might be impacted.
Formação de professores que ensinam ciências: Contextos de diversidade e decolonialidade em atos teatrais
Authors: Freitas Nívia Magalhães da Silva , Vieira Eduardo Paiva de Pontes , Gonçalves Terezinha Valim Oliver
Published: January 2025

Este artigo traz reflexões e análises de uma pesquisa-formação envolvendo o teatro, na abordagem de temas socialmente relevantes, de um grupo de quatro discentes de uma licenciatura, no desenvolvimento do tema “Relações entre Ciência, Sociedade e Cidadania II”, investigando as contribuições para a construção de narrativas e de subjetividades vinculadas ao racismo, na consideração das relações em torno de uma característica fenotípica como o “cabelo crespo”. Recorremos à perspectiva decolonial como lentes analíticas, na leitura do texto de cena produzido e intitulado “Pensando em CTS e lavando os cabelos: respeito!”. O teatro tem o potencial para contribuir com as abordagens descolonizantes dos efeitos coloniais. As narrativas teatrais estabeleceram fronteiras entre ficção e realidades vividas (vivências reais e subjetividades construídas). Avaliamos que o peso das diferenças e dos preconceitos, em face do racismo, têm movido a população negra a manifestar dificuldades de autoaceitação, buscando alternativas para a sua aparência, como o alisamento e o tingimento de cabelos, como apresentado no enredo teatral, aproximações a um padrão de beleza branca ou com traços da branquitude – manifestações da colonialidade do ser. É importante que na formação de professores apresente-se a compreensão de raça como uma entidade cultural e não natural, privilegiando, assim, práticas pedagógicas críticas e criativas, mediadoras de processos de aprendizado social, em uma perspectiva desestabilizadora, questionadora e problematizadora, como o teatro.
Education through human rights lens: Psychosocial development and student engagement in school
Authors: De Carvalho Nuno Archer , Veiga Feliciano Henriques
Published: January 2025

The right to education entails a specific quality of education that summons full personality development and educational processes. However, the pressing need for a theoretical framework to address these aspects at the student level, particularly during adolescence, a crucial period for promoting lifelong well-being, thriving, and active participation, cannot be overstated. The study aims to present a theoretical perspective to address full personality development and educational processes at the student level. Following initial considerations, we suggest two sound theoretical and empirical approaches highly relevant to education research: Erikson’s psychosocial development to address full personality development; student engagement in school to address educational processes. For each approach, prospects and challenges are presented. The discussion section focuses on the feasibility of a framework using these approaches to address the right to education at the level of students’ experience. The study presents a practical and constructive framework to actualize the right to quality education and advocates for its significance in both research and intervention. While the perspectives hold promise, this work serves as a starting point for debate and issue presentation. Further empirical endeavors are imperative, given the urgent need to consider education's role in adolescent’s thriving. However, the potential of the presented perspectives gives us hope for the future of education.
Campanas y campaneros en la transición entre el periodo altomedieval y los inicios del moderno
Authors: Alepuz Chelet Joan
Published: January 2025

Bells are one of the most important heritage assets of the Valencian cultural heritage. Since their origins, in addition to their utilitarian character, they have had a wide symbolic value that justified the presence of texts and images on them. In the present study we intend to approach the case of Valencian bells in the transition between the 16th and 17th centuries, paying special attention to the changes and continuities, as well as to the artisans who cast them.The process of change was slow and the wake of the medieval tradition, through its texts and images, survived almost until the mid-seventeenth century, leaving a unique heritage of bells that shows the symbolic complexity of the bells and their relationship with the historical, artistic and cultural context of the time.
Os dois sinos da Igreja de Santiago, do Castelo de Palmela
Authors: Correia António , Correia Miguel
Published: January 2025

We present the description and information contained in the two bells of the Church of Santiago, in the Castle of Palmela: one dated 1673 (cast again in 1946), the other dated 1768.
Notas do sítio arqueológico da biobibliografia: desvelando velhos edifícios e arquitetando novos horizontes
Authors: Mata Diogo Xavier da , Saldanha Gustavo Silva
Published: January 2025

The work seeks to deepen critical epistemological-historical research in biobibliography, which still lacks greater investment in the contemporary informational debate. Exploresand highlight a history of biobibliography, based on the documentary materiality of these sources. Describesthe epistemic bibliographic and documentalist soils on which biobibliography is supported. Pointsout its socio-political effects and reflectson the potential of biobibliographic work in the contemporary world. This is critical epistemological-historical research based on a selection and exploration of documents classified as bibliographic between the 15th and 20th centuries. Elements and notions from Michel Foucault's archaeological-discursive procedures are used. Inspects some works recognized as biobibliographical and seeks to describe the discursive formations between these different artifacts. It proposes, in an experimental way, that biobibliography has worked historically, in the period studied, based on three distinct epistemic notions, selection, reference and measurement. From the artifacts presented, from the description of the historical functioning of the biobibliographic discourse, critical perspectives for the biobibliographic exercise are based. Biobibliography is the product of the action of representation and organization of people in a modern bibliographic culture of rationalization of the world, despite its historical-epistemic formation being of a positivist and hegemonic nature, it, biobibliography, can be invested with a critical character for representation of subordinated groups.
Memória acadêmica em foco: estratégias de gestão documental, conservação e preservação em instituições de ensino superior (IES)
Authors: Silva Suely Ferreira da , Korobinski Raquel Rutina , Hino Marcia Regina Martelozo Cassitas
Published: January 2025

This study carries out a comprehensive investigation of academic memory document management practices in Brazilian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), with an emphasis on document organization, conservation and preservation strategies. This study, carried out in the second half of 2023, adopts a comparative methodological approach to examine document management projects implemented in several Brazilian HEIs, seeking to understand the diversity of approaches and identify recurring practices. The study stages included: selection of cases, data collection, data analysis, identification of common points between the cases studied and synthesis of results. Administrative, technical and operational aspects were examined, such as physical and technological infrastructure; cleaning, cataloguingand archiving activities; institutional preservation policies; and qualifications and training for professionals responsible for document management. The results obtained provide valuable insights into the improvement of document management policies and procedures, strengthening the promotion of academic memory in higher education institutions. Furthermore, the comparative analysis highlights good practices and persistent challenges, contributing to the broader discussion on the preservation of academic documentary heritage in a diverse context of higher education institutions.
Performance Analysis in Quantitative Local Ducks in Kediri Regency East Java
Authors: Nurwahyuni Eka , Febriyanti Siti Alfina Aura , Azarine Dewita Yanna , Gozali Kanaya , Atmaja Indra Maulana
Published: January 2025

The livestock sector is one of the potentials in Indonesia, including duck farming. The duck population in Kediri District in 2022 amounted to 367,987 heads. This research was conducted in 5 subdistricts in Kediri District including Mojo Subdistrict, Ringinrejo Subdistrict, Wates Subdistrict, Ngasem Subdistrict, and Gampengrejo Subdistrict. The variables observed in this research include quantitative traits (femur length, tibia length, shank length, shank circumference, wing length, sternum length, chest width, and chest depth). The differences in the results of this study are influenced by environmental factors and genetics. The conclusion of this study is that the morphometric measurement interval (quantitative traits) of local ducks in each sub-district in Kediri District varies greatly because it is influenced by several factors including the environmental conditions of each sub-district, feed consumption, maintenance methods, and age. The measurement results show that local ducks in Kediri District are still cultivated by farmers and have a variety of sizes. The suggestion of this research is that morphometric measurements (quantitative traits) of local ducks should be carried out in all sub-districts in Kediri District so that it can be known that the body size of ducks in Kediri District is very diverse.