bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROGLIB: Uma Linguagem de Programação Baseada na Escrita de LIBRAS
Authors: Santos Ronnie E. S. , Magalhães Cleyton V. C. , Correia Neto Jorge S. , Paiva Júnior Sergio S. L.
Published: October 2022

Conforme dados do Censo Brasileiro da Educação Superior, em 2009 o número de alunos surdos matriculados no ensino superior chegava a 4.660. Neste contexto, a grande dificuldade dos alunos surdos que frequentam cursos de computação está nos conceitos iniciais da lógica de programação de computadores. O presente trabalho objetivou a construção de uma linguagem de programação baseada na de LIBRAS para o estudo de lógica de programação por deficientes auditivos, utilizando uma abordagem experimental, de caráter exploratório-descritivo e empregando um estudo de caso para a validação do experimento. A principal contribuição da pesquisa foi construção, avaliação e validação do framework simplificado para a criação de programas por deficientes auditivos, apoiado por uma IDE projetada para dar suporte as atividades, através de um intérprete virtual.
Proposta de metodologia para oficinas de informática e cidadania do Mutirão pela Inclusão digital
Authors: Teixeira Adriano Canabarro , Mezzomo Laís , Rossato Adriana Demarqui , Brandão Edemilson Jorge Ramos , Trentin Marco Antônio Sandini
Published: October 2022

Este resumo relata o processo de criação de uma metodologia didática específica para o projeto Mutirão pela Inclusão Digital com base nos conceitos das Arquiteturas Pedagógicas e na teoria Conectivista.
Ensino e Aprendizagem de Educação Ambiental Através de um Jogo Eletrônico
Authors: Azevedo Ryan Ribeiro de , Souza Iael de , Silva Artur R. A. da , Negreiros Gabriel , Freitas Fred , F. Júnior Ivaldir H. de
Published: October 2022

Neste artigo apresentamos um jogo 3D para auxiliar o processo de ensino/aprendizagem de educação ambiental, voltado para crianças e adolescentes, tendo como intuito despertar a consciência ecológica, mudança cultural e preservação ambiental. Foi realizada uma avaliação a respeito do uso do jogo desenvolvido. A avaliação qualitativa consistiu da aplicação de questionários a professores das escolas públicas, a fim de verificar a possibilidade do uso do jogo em sala de aula. Os resultados apresentados demonstram que o jogo UruBurbanos é considerado uma ferramenta computacional educativa útil para auxiliar o processo de ensino aprendizagem de Educação Ambiental.
Aproximando nativos e imigrantes digitais em sala de aula com o uso efetivo das tecnologias: uma análise contextualizada do Estado de São Paulo à luz do IDEB
Authors: Reis Luiz Carlos , Silveira Ismar Frango
Published: October 2022

O presente artigo tem como objetivo, a partir de um estudo exploratório descritivo com base em pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, identificar quais ferramentas de Internet os professores da rede estadual de ensino de São Paulo utilizam como recursos complementares em suas aulas e cruzar essas informações com Índice de Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica (Ideb) se baseando nos jovens nativos digitais.
Especificação e Desenvolvimento de uma Ferramenta voltada ao amadurecimento do vocabulário de crianças surdas
Authors: Carvalho Nathállia Amaral , Ferreira Benedito de J. Pinheiro
Published: October 2022

Este artigo descreve o desenvolvimento parcial de uma ferramenta informatizada relacionada ao desenvolvimento do vocabulário de alunos surdos. A partir de uma verificação da literatura e das necessidades do Instituto Felipe Smaldone, planejou-se tal ferramenta que incluirá um conjunto de atividades, organizadas em fases e níveis com graus crescentes de dificuldade, envolvendo imagens e palavras escritas. Espera-se assim contribuir para a melhoria na capacidade de leitura e interpretação de texto.
Uma Ferramenta de Lógica na Contradição da Avaliação de Ensino-Aprendizado
Authors: Guimarães Rubens dos Santos , Strafacci Júnior Válter , Tasinaffo Paulo Marcelo
Published: October 2022

O presente artigo tem como objetivo prover subsídios teóricos e práticos para uma melhor compreensão dos principais aspectos que envolvem a utilização da Lógica Paraconsistente Anotada – LPA aplicada na avaliação educacional de surdos. Há nesse campo, escassez de ferramentas que auxiliem na avaliação dessas pessoas com deficiência. Foi a partir deste olhar que se criou o Objeto de Avaliação para Surdos – OAS, Ele apresenta um instrumento de auxílio ao processo de ensino e aprendizagem. Ele enfoca também a possibilidade de melhoria do processo de avaliação educacional, por meio da utilização de recursos tecnológicos.
Avaliação do Destino do Lixo Eletrônico do Município de Inhumas
Authors: Costa Renata Luiza da , Vieira Moisés João , Barbosa Ana Flávia da S. , Conceição Paulo Francisco da , Barros Victor F. de A. , P. Junior Joelias da S.
Published: October 2022

O corrente projeto surgiu de uma preocupação ambiental: para onde levar o lixo eletrônico na cidade de Inhumas. Além dessa preocupação, o projeto analisa como encaminhar ou reaproveitar a maior quantidade possível do lixo eletrônico para diminuir o consumo desenfreado de fontes naturais de matéria-prima que. Logo, o projeto aqui proposto se dedicou a fazer uma pesquisa na cidade de Inhumas sobre o uso e descarte do lixo eletrônico.
Extended Implementation of IFRS 15 Integrated Model in Countries with an Emerging Economy
Authors: Grosu Veronica , Mihaila Svetlana , Jieri Nicolai , Zlati Monica-Laura , Socoliuc Marian , Cosmulese Cristina-Gabriela
Published: October 2022

The mandatory implementation of the International Financial Reporting Standard 15 (IFRS 15) Revenue from Contracts with Customers starting with the 2018 financial year for all those companies using the IFRS has led to a significant change in approaching the accounting policies on profits, especially those related to their evaluation and identification within the financial statement. It is a fact that this significant change has had visible effects on the information disclosed by stakeholders especially given the stressful financial statement when both the costs themselves and the lack of cash flow have amplified these results. Consequently, the aim of the present study is both to evaluate the real impact of the use of the IFRS 15 in different fields of activity and to identify those solutions in terms of solving the issues for each and every significant sector given the stressful financial conditions, especially in those countries with an emergent economy. Thus, the main objectives of the study itself refer to the identification of the framework of applicability of the IFRS 15 and its matrix transposition in the form of a scoreboard based on certain cross-panel correlation keys and the design of an extended modelling methodology for applying the IFRS 15 based on dynamic indicators and indexes. The final results refer to the design of a replicable model of extended usage of the IFRS 15 which will serve all the analysed fields of activity. This up-to-date topic is the result of the implementation of the right model in itself as well as an accurate and objective evaluation of the value of those profits originating from the contracts signed with clients for all those categories of entities using the IFRS irrespective of the type of activity or the business model.
Digital Servitization and Firm Performance: Technology Intensity Approach
Authors: Rakic Slavko , Pero Margherita , Sianesi Andrea , Marjanovic Ugljesa
Published: October 2022

Digital servitization provides radical changes in the offer of products from manufacturing firms. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of digital servitization on manufacturing firm performance and demonstrate the role of technology intensity, product-related services, and digital solutions in different industry sectors. This research collected data from 240 manufacturing firms from the Republic of Serbia under the European manufacturing survey from 2018. Multivariate regression analysis was used to test the impact of product-related services and digital solutions on manufacturing firm performance according to technology intensity.  The findings show that the impact of digital servitization is more significant with the higher technology intensity level of the industry sector. Furthermore, the results show that Data-based services based on Big Data Analysis have the highest impact on manufacturing firm performance in all categories of technology intensity. Moreover, results from the fixed panel regression show production managers which combination of product-related services along with digital solutions make the highest financial performance according to the technology intensity of the firm.
Study of the influence of indoor plants as an indicator of biophilic design on CO2 concentrations in a classroom of higher education institute
Authors: Kavathekar Anita , Bantanur Shaila
Published: October 2022

Urbanization in Indian metropolitan cities deteriorating the outdoor environment by polluting water, soil, and air to a great extent. Some of the cities are at a fatal level of contamination affecting indoor environments. Many studies had reported the impact of a high level of CO2 indoors on the occupants. Its effect depends upon the concentration of CO2, the duration of exposure, and the concentration of oxygen (O2). Still the effects range from increased respiratory rates to cardiac ailments and carcinoses. India is a developing country so the sustainable and affordable approaches will be more applicable in this context. This study tries to find a well-grounded way to improve indoor air quality. The current pilot study focuses on examining the effect of indoor plants on indoor air quality by measuring CO2 levels. This study has used three different species of plants for three different classrooms of higher education institutes. The study was performed in an unsealed environment where air velocity and CO2 were measured. Statistical analysis results show that indoor CO2 concentration has been reduced by 11% than outdoors after placing the plants. This study also shows the correlation between CO2 concentration and the distance from the plant using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Hence indoor vegetation can be considered a sustainable way of purifying the air and altering the microclimate of the classrooms for the well-being of the occupants.
Toward A Conceptual Framework for Evaluating the Quality of Urban Open Spaces
Authors: Eltarabily Sara
Published: October 2022

Urban open spaces have frequently been a vital destination for people to connect with one another. The efficiency of urban open spaces depends on their social, health, environmental, and economic benefits. However, little attention has been given to the impact of the relationship between the spatial environment and social interactions on the quality of urban open spaces to be vibrant spaces responding to the change in users’ needs. This study examines the integration between placemaking and space syntax approaches where overlapping relationships between the social and spatial aspects are found. This study aims to extract a conceptual framework with specific stages that can be followed for evaluating “quality” in urban open spaces and then can enhance the weaknesses. Thus, it is to direct the designers’ attention to rediscovering social and recreational uses in these spaces according to people’s needs and spatial configurations. The De Lesseps Bay project in Port Said city, in Egypt, was firstly analyzed through a quantitative method using the space syntax tool “DepthmapX” to understand social decisions and behaviors based on the selected spatial indicators, and secondly through a qualitative method using face-to-face interviews and field observations checklists to understand users’ needs in the place using the Pareto principle and a scoring system. The findings revealed the quality indicators of the place as the most needed factors for users such as attractiveness, vitality, clustered and integrated activities, visual appeal, safety, people connectivity, and accessibility. The spatial relations directly affected the “access and image” and “comfort and image” attributes of the placemaking approach, as well as indirectly affected the “uses and activities” and “sociability” attributes. This paper suggests expanding the concept of “quality” to include the comprehensive principles of creating vibrant spaces to continue responding to the change in community needs and renewal of other things in an urban environment.
Device for Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 Using UVC LEDs
Authors: Dziubenko Oleksandr , Arhun Shchasiana , Hnatov Andrii , Bogdan Dmytro , Patlins Antons
Published: October 2022

In connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an urgent need for disinfecting devices that can be used both indoors and in transport. Currently, the most common of these devices are ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lamps. However, they have significant disadvantages, such as short service life, presence of mercury, lack of flexible control, large dimensions, etc. The paper analyzes the sources of UV radiation to find an alternative to UV lamps. Although these elements currently have low efficiency and high cost, etc., it is proposed to use UVC LEDs as a UV source. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the general interest in the fight against viruses, as well as the ban on the use of mercury, investments have been attracted in the development of UVC LEDs, which will make them competitive in the future compared to germicidal lamps both in cost and efficiency. The paper presents a disinfection device developed on the basis of UVC LEDs. The principle of operation is described; the control system, the drawing, and the design of the UVC LED-based disinfection device are presented. Due to the described limitations of UVC LEDs, this design can be used for disinfection of small surface areas where frequent on/off switching is required and high power is not required.
Improvement of Automotive Sensors by Migrating AUTOSAR End-to-End Communication Protection Library into Hardware
Authors: Caprita Horia V. , Selisteanu Dan
Published: October 2022

This paper explores new methods to increase the level of safety of data transfer between sensors and electronic control units (ECUs) in automotive communication. A new model of basic sensors to be used in automotive electronics is proposed. This model contains hardware modules that implement the end-to-end communication protection (E2E) mechanism, as defined by the Automotive Open System Architecture (AUTOSAR) standard. By adding this feature inside the sensors, it is possible that, in addition to increasing the safety level, these sensors can be directly connected to the network ECUs via standard communication buses (e.g., Local Interconnect Network (LIN), Controller Area Network (CAN), Flexray, etc.). This paper describes the model, design, and mapping (in a Field Programmable Gate Array device (FPGA)) of the hardware E2E module capable of generating the Cyclic Redundancy Code (CRC) and counter signal for a customized message. This message represents the output of the new sensor E2E module used in a safety communication as requested by the automotive E2E standard. The model is validated also by comparing the data output of the E2E hardware with the data output of the AUTOSAR software E2E library. Finally, future needs and directions are suggested in this area.
Cardiac and Cancer-Associated Cachexia: Role of Exercise Training, Non-coding RNAs, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Rocha de Avila Pelozin Bruno , Felipe Rodrigues Luis , Menezes De Oliveira Edilamar , Fernandes Tiago
Published: October 2022

Sarcopenia has been defined as the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength that occurs with advancing age and has also been related to many metabolic diseases. In late stages, sarcopenia precedes cachexia, defined as a multifactorial syndrome characterized by an ongoing skeletal muscle wasting, with or without loss of fat mass, associated with poor prognosis in diseases, worsening quality of life and survival. Heart failure and cancer-associated cachexia represents a progressive involuntary weight loss and is mainly the result of an imbalance in the muscle protein synthesis and degradation, inflammation, and oxidative stress, causing muscle wasting. Importantly, both diseases are still the main causes of death worldwide and the molecular basis of cachexia is still poorly understood. Recently, non-coding RNAs have been described to regulate the cardiac and cancer-associated cachexia. On the other hand, exercise training is a promising ally in slowing down cachexia and improving the quality of life of patients. New studies demonstrate that exercise training, acting through non-coding RNAs, may be able to mitigate muscle wasting, as protein turnover, mitochondrial biogenesis, and antioxidant capacity improvement. This review will therefore discuss the molecular mechanisms associated with the muscle wasting in both cardiac and cancer cachexia, as well as highlighting the effects of exercise training in attenuating the loss of muscle mass in these specific conditions.
Attenuating Cancer Cachexia-Prolonging Life
Authors: Lambert Charles
Published: October 2022

Death by cancer cachexia is dependent on the time allotted to cancer to cause muscle and fat wasting. If clinicians, nurses, researchers can prolong the life of a cancer patient other therapeutic interventions such as radiation and chemotherapy may be given the time to work and rid the cancer patient of tumors and save lives. Three areas by which cancer induces cachexia is through impaired insulin-like growth factor signaling, elevations in the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 and subsequent reductions in muscle protein synthesis and increases in muscle protein degradation. Therefore, it is important to augment the IGF-1 signaling, block TNF-α and IL-6 in cancer cachexia and in other ways augment muscle protein synthesis or decrease muscle protein degradation. Ghrelin like growth hormone secretagogues, monoclonal antibodies to TNF-α and IL-6, testosterone, and anabolic steroids, the beta 2 agonist albuterol, resistance exercise, and creatine monohydrate (with resistance exercise) are beneficial in increasing muscle protein synthesis and/or reducing muscle protein breakdown. With these muscle augmenting agents/interventions, the duration that a cancer patient lives is prolonged so that radiation and chemotherapy as well as emerging technologies can rid the cancer patient of cancer and save lives.
Cryoablation: From Techniques to Tips and Tricks
Authors: Papelbaum Bruno , Sbaraini Brambilla André , Kioshi Kimura Numata Bruno
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, readers will be able to know a better mechanism of lesion formation, the benefits of the technique for specific arrhythmias, practical uses, and tips and tricks on the procedure. The chapter will also contain the first trials that validated the technique showing recent trials comparing cryoablation of atrial fibrillation versus medical treatment. The main idea is to explore how it works for clinical cardiologists and to show electrophysiologists how to use it practically. Readers will see a comparison of cryoablation versus radiofrequency versus laser to decide which one to be used, comparing total procedure time, success rates, and clinical experience.
Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases
Authors: Holman Ryan , Lorton Orane , C. Guillemin Pauline , Peloso Andrea , Ricoeur Alexis , Salomir Rares
Published: October 2022

Liver metastases often result secondary to colorectal cancer and curative prognosis is poor. Magnetic resonance high intensity focused ultrasound is a bur-geoning technique with the potential to provide a new image-guidance modality for focused ultrasound ablation of both primary and secondary liver tumors. This is particularly important for colorectal liver metastases cases ineligible for surgical resection, as chemotherapy can often be ineffective at bridging the patient for surgery, and liver transplant has generally been inadequate. At least one system for focused ultrasound ablation of primary and secondary tumors has previously been approved in the European Union, under ultrasound guidance. Magnetic resonance guidance offers many benefits, such as: integration with pre-existing imaging systems, real-time temperature mapping, and ability to assess treatment with MRI during the procedure. This chapter reviews the main aspects in treatment of this disease using this new therapy, including: focused ultrasound physics, magnetic resonance physics, magnetic resonance sequences and protocols in liver imaging, protocols and sequences in magnetic resonance thermometry, standard treatment options and limitations, relevant ongoing clinical trials, previous pilot studies, and outlooks for potential translation of this image-guidance modality as a novel ablative therapy for colorectal liver metastases.
Nutrition: A Natural and Promising Option in Colorectal Cancer Intervention
Authors: Bolaji Adewale Olusola
Published: October 2022

Nutrition: a natural and promising option in colorectal cancer intervention Nutrition plays a significant role in the intervention of colorectal cancer (CRC) by decreasing the risks of colorectal carcinogenesis. Products from both plant and animal origins have been involved in the prevention and/or treatment of CRC. Intake of dietary products including fibre-rich foods, nutraceuticals, wholegrains, dairy products, and limited consumption or avoidance of red/processed meat and alcohol could reduce the risk of CRC. These nutritional compounds, in CRC intervention, could be in form of folklore/alternative medicine or isolated compounds used in the production of many chemotherapeutic agents. Monitoring of individual’s nutritional status could serve as a possible preventive or therapeutic measure against CRC, majorly by interaction with intestinal microbiota, thereby potentiating host anti-cancer immune response and/or interfering with mechanisms of carcinogenesis.
Recent Advances in Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation and Non-pharmacological Stroke Prevention
Authors: Kaushik Nayanjyoti , Arter Chapman James , Gillaspie Andrew , Ackerman Stephen , Gallagher Peter , Mallick Deobrat , J. Bailin Steven
Published: October 2022

Atrial Fibrillation is a common arrhythmia affecting 6 million people in the United States and 33 million people worldwide, associated with significant morbidity. Whereas restoration and maintenance of sinus rhythm can translate into clinical benefit, early intervention in course of the disease can influence success and efficacy of intervention has been speculative and uncertain over past decade despite several literature and scientific studies. During past three decades catheter and surgical ablation of AF have evolved from an investigational status to a widely offerred definitive treatment now. With recent advances in mapping technology, ablation energy delivery, better understanding of pathogenesis and mechanism of AF there has been a paradigm shift in clinical decision making, patient selection, patient-physician discussion about various rhythm control strategy due to an ever improving safety and efficacy of the procedure. In this chapter we will briefly review the landmark clinical trials that has changed the outlook towards rhythm control strategy beginning from early trials such as AFFIRM, telling us rhythm control was no better than rate control to recent studies and EAST AFNET, which showed benefits of rhythm control. We will discuss differences in ablation strategy, safety and efficacy between paroxysmal AF vs. Persistent/Longstanding Persistent AF from a trigger and substrate view and pulmonary vein and non pulmonary vein targets for ablation. We will also elaborate on different energy sources for ablation such as Radiofrequency (RF), Cryoablation, newer ablation techniques such as Vein of Marshall alcohol ablation, High Power short duration ablation, Pulsed Field Ablation, Surgical ablation and Hybrid Convergent Ablation etc. Since this chapter is mostly intended towards diagnosis and management of AF in twenty-first century, authors have restricted mainly to recent developments only and purposefully have not expanded on already established preexisting knowledge about topics such as pharmacological rhythm control, rate control, Atrio-Ventricular node ablation with pacemaker implantation, direct current cardio version etc. In conclusion, with recent emerging evidence, importance of rhythm control is being increasingly recognized. Catheter ablation is more commonly performed with improving safety and efficacy. There are newer technology and ablation strategy available and should be offered to patient while discussing a comprehensive management of AF with careful review of risk benefit analysis.
Optic Neuritis Following COVID-19 Vaccination: Real-World Ophthalmic Presentation
Authors: Roy Madhurima , Shrotriya Charuta
Published: October 2022

After being plagued by COVID-19 for nearly 2 years, the whole world wishes for little more than the complete eradication of the disease. Our country, India commenced the much-awaited vaccination drive in Jan 2021. Ophthalmic manifestations have appeared in many forms post-COVID, amongst which neuro-ophthalmic manifestations are infrequent. This is a short series of three cases that presented with optic neuritis (ON). On further inquiry, all had received the Covishield vaccine within 5–12 days before the presentation, with no history of COVID-positive RT-PCR. All patients improved after pulse steroid therapy and are still under follow-up. Nevertheless, it’s hard to determine whether post-COVD vaccine ON is a coincidence or cause. This series highlights the importance of taking the history of recent vaccination, especially in patients presenting with ON in the COVID 19 pandemic era.
Genetics of Thalassemia
Authors: Tripathi Poonam
Published: October 2022

β-Thalassemia is a common genetic disorder caused by mutations in β-globin gene that results in reduced β-globin production. There are more than 200 different mutations that have been reported till date affecting the diverse levels of β-globin gene expression and causing β-thalassemia. Nucleotide substitutions and frameshift insertion-/deletion-type mutations interfere with the molecular mechanism like transcription of the β-globin gene, splicing process and translation of mRNA of β-globin gene, thus resulting in either absence or reduction of synthesis of β-globin chains. Molecular analysis is a must for all thalassemia patients. Definitive diagnosis and counseling of these patients will help in better management of disease.
Multidisciplinary Management of Early Rectal Cancer
Authors: Ramcharan Sean , Cubas Vanessa , Linder Cortland , Evans Thomas , Merchant Julia , Sinha Rakesh
Published: October 2022

The incidence of colorectal cancers detected at an early stage, that is stage T2 or less, has increased over the last decade, driven primarily by better access to screening and diagnostic pathways. Consequently, timely treatment leads to better outcomes. Early stage rectal cancers (ERC), by virtue of their location, allows for alternative treatment strategies towards organ (rectum) preservation. Local excision techniques have evolved and improved with advances in radiological assessment and minimally invasive surgery. However, decisions on treatment to mitigate local recurrence remain a challenge. This chapter explores the current understanding of the management of ERC and offers insights to the multidisciplinary team to aid treatment strategies.
Nigeria Root Vegetables: Production, Utilization, Breeding, Biotechnology and Constraints
Authors: O. Ajayi Emmanuel , E. Akin-Idowu Pamela , R. Aderibigbe Olaide , O. Ibitoye Dorcas , Afolayan Gloria , M. Adewale Oluyemisi , A. Adesegun Esther , E. Ubi Benjamin
Published: October 2022

This chapter describes the various facets, from agronomy to marketing, of Nigerian root vegetables including garlic, onion, turmeric, ginger and carrot being the world’s most significant and vital root vegetables which have high culinary and medicinal value. The chapter commences with their origin and history, universal spread, production figures, areas under cultivation and goes on to explain the botany, diversity, conservation, production practices, pests and diseases management, utilization, post-harvest technology and their uses as nutraceuticals. This chapter also presents the socio-economic, market analyses, export potential of these crops in Nigeria. It would be an important reference material for researchers, agricultural and food science students at both undergraduate and postgraduate level and policy makers; and be of great interest to experts and industries involved in root vegetables and spices trade. The in-depth information and knowledge about the genetic conservation, socio-economics, production, pests and diseases management and post-harvest technology of root vegetables in Nigeria provided in this chapter would greatly help in efforts towards improving their production and utilization for enhanced nutrition and healthy living.
Influence of Sewage Sludge and Heavy Fertilization on Nitrate Leaching in Soils: An Overview
Authors: Sohail Sidra , Fraz Ali Muhammad , Zulfiqar Usman , Hussain Saddam , Khosa Shaharyar
Published: October 2022

Sewage sludge is now widely used for production of crops throughout the world. Utilizing the sewage sludge for crop production has various advantages such as nutrient recycling, reducing the need for mineral fertilizer, increasing organic matter amount in soils, and improving physical properties of soil. A large amount of sludge is generated during the sewage treatment process, and it is disposed off on land in the form of fertilizer or soil conditioner. In this, heavy metals are usually in greater concentration than in soil, which is one of the main problems which restricts its utilization as a fertilizer. Nitrate leaching and heavy fertilization cause serious problems for the groundwater and this issue of nitrate leaching is usually neglected. Continuous used of swage sludge cause contamination of soil and water and affects plant growth and soil microorganisms. In this chapter, we have focused on i) various factors which affects nitrate leaching in soil, it includes soil texture, rate of fertilization, season and climate, ii) strategies to reduce nitrate leaching and iii) nitrogen conversion mechanism in sewage sludge.
SARS-COV-2 Pandemic: How to Maintain a COVID-free Hospital
Authors: Bassanello Marco , Coli Ugo , Tegon Antonio , Teresa Pasqualini Maria , Farencena Aldo , Geretto Matteo , D’Aquino Maurizio
Published: October 2022

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome type 2 coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and its complications have demonstrated the devastating impact of a new infectious pathogen since the first months of 2020, especially on Health Systems. The work to maintain a COVID-free hospital in terms of reorganization of operational processes and surveillance against SARS-CoV-2 has allowed us to maintain the structure suitable for activities for non-positive patients. The commitment related to this reorganization (not only in terms of costs) is largely satisfied by the responses to the health needs of non-COVID patients. The results obtained during the First Pandemic phase at the Giovanni XXIII Hospital in Monastier di Treviso have allowed the maintenance of the status of a COVID-free hospital. These results are supported by multiple studies in other parts of the world.
Erosion-Corrosion in Pipe Flows of Particle-Laden Liquids
Authors: J.K. Wood Robert , D.C. Cook Alexander
Published: October 2022

The transmission of particle-bearing liquids in pipes has motivated continuing research into erosion mechanisms and the distribution of erosion rates over wetted surfaces. This chapter covers these initiatives with particular reference to erosion-corrosion modelling within bends and straight sections of cylindrical pipes manufactured in a variety of materials and transporting a variety of liquids. Erosion-corrosion modelling techniques such as submerged slurry jets and rotating cylinder electrodes have been used to study factors influencing material degradation. Improvements in computational fluid dynamics (CFD), such as the development of a moving deforming mesh (MDM) have improved the accuracy of CFD models in predicting pipe wall erosion rates. Combined discrete phase tracking approaches such as the CFD-DPM-DEM (discrete phase-discrete element model) have helped improve computational efficiency. Wall impact erosion models are calibrated using laboratory scale tests. Validation of CFD models using full-scale test data is rare, meaning their accuracy is still largely unreported. Material testing has helped to identify the resilience of prospective pipeline materials to erosion-corrosion, while modifications to internal geometry and pipe section have shown potential to improve erosion-corrosion resistance.
Low-Doped Regime Experiments in LaMnO3 Perovskites by Simultaneous Substitution on Both La and Mn Sites
Authors: Mendoza Aminta , Guzmán Octavio
Published: October 2022

Although extensive substitution studies exist on LaMnO3 perovskites, simultaneous substitution at the La and Mn sites in the low-doping regime is not as common and provides important insights into the subtle balance of various competing effects acting on the crystal structure and the magnetic properties. This chapter presents a study of the evolution of the crystal structure and magnetic properties by simultaneous substitution of magnetic and non-magnetic ions at the perovskite A and B sites, respectively. It will examine some of the ways in which experiments on the evolution of magnetic properties provide a suitable balance scenario between the competitive effects arising from doping at each site. The work discusses the evolution of the Curie-Weiss behavior and the formation of ferromagnetic (FM) clusters above the Curie temperature, whose structure is also dependent on doping.
A Path to Happiness
Authors: Spowart Sara
Published: October 2022

Happiness may be viewed as a subjective state where one feels generally content with their life condition and levels of wellbeing. However, happiness can be a complex and vague topic that requires clarity, questioning and discernment. Important factors that impact happiness include authentic connection, mental illness, cultural values, compassion, gratitude and social support. These factors and others are explored throughout this chapter. A theory titled the “Integrative Theory of Happiness” is proposed that encompasses multiple aspects of wellbeing. A comparison of United States and Latin America cultural values is compared to better understand foundations of happiness. This chapter provides insight, overview and a deeper understanding of some of the most noteworthy factors of happiness from a global perspective.
Updates on Software Usability
Authors: Mateen Buttar Ahmed , Majid Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Network security ensures that essential and accessible network assets are protected from viruses, key loggers, hackers, and unauthorized gain. Interruption detection system (IDS) is one of the most widespread significant network tools for network security management. However, it has been shown that the current IDS is challenging for network professionals to use. The interface, which assists users in evaluating the software usability, is a crucial aspect that influences the effectiveness of IDS, while security software such as IDS is effective. Usability testing is essential for supporting users in successful interaction and IDS utilization because the user finds it difficult to assess and use the output quality. Usability engineers are responsible for the majority of usability evaluations. Small and large business software engineers must master multiple usability paradigms. This is more difficult than teaching usability engineers how to write software. The Cognitive Analysis of Software Interface (CASI) technology was created as a solution for software engineers. Furthermore, this system aids software engineers in evaluating IDS based on user perception and evaluation perspectives. This study also discusses a large body of research on software interfaces and assessment procedures to evaluate novel heuristics for IDS. Finally, additional interface challenges and new ways for evaluating programmed usability are discussed. Topic Subject Areas: Intrusion Detection System (IDS) Usability.
Conflict Settings and COVID-19’s Effects on Psychological Health
Authors: Madoro Derebe
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 epidemic’s ongoing effects on the conflicted, disturbed environment tend to exacerbate mental health issues. People from areas afflicted by conflict are put under double stress as a result. The majority of displacement due to conflict has occurred in Ethiopia. Mental disturbance among those affected by conflict has been recognized as a significant public health issue. Therefore, this study’s objective was to assess how the COVID-19 outbreak in Ethiopia’s conflict-affected population affected people’s mental health and its correlates. Mental distress was reported at about 49.4% with a 95% CI of 47 to 52.9%. Being female gender (AOR = 3.01, 95% CI 1.61, 5.44), fired house materials when present (AOR = 3.49, 95% CI 1.61, 5.44), Living in a host community (AOR = 1.8, 95%CI 1.97, 3.35), living alone (AOR = 3.57, 95%CI 2.06, 6.19), and sexual assault (AOR = 4.1, 95% CI 2.37 to 6.94) were found to be substantially correlated. Conflict-affected people have a high risk of mental distress during COVID-19 era. Therefore, the ministry of health and humanitarian organizations should work collaboratively in providing consistent; psychosocial support and appropriate intervention for conflict-affected people.
Emergency Department Restraint Safety
Authors: White Abby , Kustera Christopher
Published: October 2022

Restraint use during patient care is a serious and important safety topic because it is often utilized in high stress, rapidly evolving, and unique situations in which patients not only pose harm to themselves, but harm to others. The scope of patient safety topic is a threefold approach: initiation, maintenance, and discontinuation. First, a briefly literature pertaining to evidence-based criteria for the initiation of patient restraints will be constructed. Secondly, restraint types and the resources required to maintain restraints will be explicated. Finally, the chapter will conclude with patient evaluation methods pertaining to the safe discontinuation of restraints and resource de-escalation. A succinct, pragmatic discussion on restraint utilization - a method that mitigates a patient’s threat to themselves and others – will be presented in this manuscript.
Uveal Melanoma: Factors Determining Metastatic Process, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Lysková Darina , Plesníková Paulína , Horvathova Kajabova Viera , Demkova Lucia , Smolková Božena , Valášková Jela
Published: October 2022

Uveal melanoma (UM) is an ocular tumor with a dismal prognosis. It is the most frequent primary intraocular tumor in adults. The primary goal of treatment for uveal melanomas is to prevent metastasis. Despite outstanding advances in the diagnosis and treatment of primary UM, nearly 50% of patients develop metastases via hematogenous dissemination. Estimation of prognosis for patients with UM can be achieved by detecting genetic alterations or epigenetic changes in the tumor tissues. However, these techniques are not always available. The clinicopathological characteristics with limited accuracy are widely used instead to predict metastatic potential. Identifying novel markers with prognostic potential can help refine the prognosis of UM patients. As we know, no existing therapy has a significantly better impact on preventing metastasis. Based on published theories, the key role is existing micrometastasis before therapy starts. Researchers are focusing on developing adjuvant systemic therapy for metastatic UM. Getting to know the cause of metastatic uveal melanoma is crucial in it.
Choice and Personality: Leadership in Turbulent Times on Way to New Vision of Organization
Authors: Rudnev Evgeny
Published: October 2022

The chapter discusses the problem of leadership and its understanding in various theories, and studies of technological changes in organization. On the basis of longitudinal case studies and applied analysis of HR practices, the changes in the personnel composition, products, and differences in the strategies of external communications with consumer of three Russian organizations—business school, consulting company, and dental clinic are investigated. It is shown that the strategy of reducing and hiring staff with inclusion in new social channels is the most effective. The image of new vision of organization and promising practices in managing people is described, taking into account the results obtained and the analysis of the history of business development, which are based on choice and development of both leader and staff in an informal structure and ability to self-renaissance of organization.
The Personality Traits as Risk Factors for the Development of Cognitive Impairment and Affective Symptomatology in Patients with COVID-19: The Pilot Study
Authors: V. Kalinin Vladimir , A. Zemlyanaya Anna , V. Damulin Igor , A. Fedorenko Ekaterina , A. Syrtsev Maxim
Published: October 2022

The current pilot study has been carried out in order to find the possible relationships between premorbid personality traits and cognitive impairments and affective symptomatology in patients recovered from COVID-19. Thirty subjects with so-called post-COVID-19 syndrome have been included into study. The diagnosis of COVID-19 has been previously confirmed by laboratory tests in each person. The control group included 30 healthy persons. For the assessment of depression and anxiety, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale has been used. For the assessment of cognitive impairment, Verbal Fluency test, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test, and Wisconsin Card Sorting test (WCST) were used. The Munich Personality Scale and Toronto Alexithymia Scale were used for the assessment of premorbid personality. The multiple stepwise regression analysis has been used for the assessment of relationships between premorbid personality constructs and cognitive tests results and affective and anxiety symptomatology. Obtained results have shown that Frustration Tolerance test decreased the number of wrong answers in WCST and reduced the latency of the answers with positive reinforcement and also reduced the depression level and by that had the positive effects. On the other hand, Extraversion reduced the score of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test and increased the percentage of perseverative wrong answers in WCST-2 test and by that had negative effect on cognitive functions. Similarly, constructs of Adherence to Social Norms and Tendencies to Isolation both reduced the final MOCA score and by that predisposed to post-COVID-19 syndrome development. Esoteric tendencies construct reduced the latencies of answers with positive and negative reinforcement in WCST-3 and WCST-4 and by that had protective influence on cognitive functions. Alexithymia score correlated positively with Depression, while Neuroticism correlated positively with Anxiety.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Pediatrics
Authors: Leticia Coronel Martínez Diana , Augusto Moya Barquín Luis
Published: October 2022

The scope of this chapter would be describing bacterial sexually transmitted diseases that are of interest in pediatric population such as gonorrhea and syphilis. Currently, this diseases has been reported an increased incidence mostly in adolescents in different regions around the world such as Australia and United States. These diseases sometimes considered anecdotal are always difficult to manage because they are considered taboos; diagnosis and treatment are challenging because of the interaction with the child and his/her parents. Other diseases such as chlamydia are also taking a great importance in populations from 10 to 24 years old due to the high transmission, high incidence, and complications such as infertility, almost 80% or chlamydia infections are asymptomatic in women being one of the leading causes of infertility that could be permanent. In this chapter, we will be discussing about the main factors of this diseases, how to manage from pediatric perspective, the most novel diagnostic tests and treatments (if available), and any vaccine development possibilities.
Medical Implications of the Relationships among Protein Denaturation, Necrosis and Inflammation: An Intriguing Story
Authors: Silvestrini Bruno , Silvestrini Mauro
Published: October 2022

This story deals with the role of protein denaturation in inflammation. The starting point was the description of the necrotizing action of inflammatory proteins, followed by the discovery of the antidenaturant action of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Hence, the idea is that the antidenaturant action accounted for the action of NSAIDs. This hypothesis was dropped following the discovery of the antiprostaglandin action of NSAIDs, which shifted the focus to the arachidonic acid cascade. It was revived by assuming that protein denaturation is a process in its own, suitable for separate medical treatment. This approach led to bendazac and bindarit, the first selective antidenaturant drugs. This experience shows that protein denaturation has two main pathological sequelae. The first concerns the so-called primary (innate) inflammation. The second sequela concerns the so-called secondary (acquired) inflammation. Natural antidenaturant agents represent a promising alternative to the synthetics bendazac and bindarit. Within this framework, tendinitis finds a separate but significant place.
Perspective Chapter: Multiple Functions of Fukutin, the Gene Responsible for Fukuyama Congenital Muscular Dystrophy, Especially in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Yamamoto Tomoko , Okamura Yukinori , Tsukui Ryota , Kato Yoichiro , Onizuka Hiromi , Masui Kenta
Published: October 2022

Fukuyama congenital muscular dystrophy (FCMD), accompanying central nervous system (CNS) and ocular anomalies, is the second common muscular dystrophy in Japan, and the responsible gene is fukutin. The lesions are mainly caused by fragile basement membrane/cell membrane due to hypoglycosylation of α-dystroglycan (α-DG), and astrocytes play a crucial role for CNS malformation. On the other hand, since fukutin is expressed almost ubiquitously, diverse functions of fukutin, besides the glycosylation of α-DG, can be considered. As for the CNS, fukutin possibly upregulates cyclin D1 expression as a cofactor of activator protein-1 in astrocytoma. Moreover, fukutin may be involved in the phosphorylation of tau, one of the key proteins of dementia represented by Alzheimer’s disease, in glutamatergic neurons. A presynaptic function in GABAergic neurons is also suggested. Owing to the recent advances of molecular and biochemical techniques, new therapeutic strategies are under consideration, even for brain malformation, which begins to be formed during the first trimester in utero. Recovery of hypoglycosylation of α-DG supposed to be a main therapeutic target, but to know various functions and regulation systems of fukutin might be important for developing suitable therapies.