bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FORECASTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF MOISTURE AND TEMPERATURE CRACKS IN CONCRETE BY MODELING VOLUMETRIC FINITE ELEMENTS IN AN ANSYS ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Антон Валерьевич Джапаров , Виктор Григорьевич Теличко
Published: December 2024

Железобетонные конструкции широко применяются в строительстве благодаря своей прочности, долговечности и возможности возводить и эксплуатировать их при разных внешних условиях. Внешние условия такие как влажность и температура сильно влияют на развитие трещин в железобетонных конструкциях. В статье рассматривается метод прогнозирования развития влажностных и температурных трещин в бетоне с использованием объемного моделирования конечных элементов в среде ANSYS. Актуальность темы обусловлена значительным влиянием трещинообразования на долговечность бетона и безопасность конструкций. Работа включает теоретическое обоснование процесса трещинообразования, описание алгоритма моделирования и результаты численных экспериментов. Применение метода конечных элементов позволяет точно учитывать влияние внешних факторов, таких как температура и влажность, на механические свойства бетона. В статье также приведены полученные результаты состояния бетонных конструкций от приложения статической нагрузки с учетом коэффициентов передачи сдвиговых усилий при закрытой и открытой трещинах.

Reinforced concrete structures are widely used in construction due to their strength, durability and the ability to erect and operate them under different external conditions. External conditions such as humidity and temperature strongly influence the cracking in reinforced concrete structures. The article presents a method for predicting the development of moisture and temperature cracks in concrete using volumetric finite element modeling with ANSYS. The relevance of the topic is due to the significant impact of cracking on the durability of concrete and the safety of structures. The work includes a theoretical justification of the cracking process, a description of the modeling algorithm and the results of numerical experiments. The application of the finite element method makes it possible to accurately take into account the influence of external factors, such as temperature and humidity, on the mechanical properties of concrete. The article also presents simulation results of concrete structures from the setting of static load, taking into account the coefficients of shear force transmission in closed and open cracks.
A Rare Case of Skull Base Phosphaturic Mesenchymal Tumor
Authors: Ali Mirza Athar , Babaiah Muntimadugu , Mariappan Prabhakar , Raghuram Saadvik , Thaduri Krishna Reddy , Shunmugavel Muthulingam , YSB Soundarya , Manohar Oviya , Molakala Surya Simhareddy
Published: December 2024

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor (PMT) is a rare type of tumor that presents as a paraneoplastic syndrome causing tumor-induced osteomalacia. So far, close to 500 cases have been reported in the literature, making it a rare entity in clinical practice. The most common sites of PMT involvement are extremities. Here, we report a rare case of PMT involving the skull base.
Exploring the Rarity: A Case of Adenosquamous Carcinoma of the Nasal Cavity With Literature Review
Authors: Bhatnagar Aseem Rai , Favazza Laura A. , Momin Suhael R. , Siddiqui Farzan
Published: December 2024

Adenosquamous carcinoma (ADSC) is a rare tumor of the head and neck region, a phenomenon initially delineated by Gerughty and colleagues in 1968. To our knowledge, only 16 cases have been reported with primary ADSC of the nasal cavity (excluding the paranasal sinuses). ADSC is recognized for its aggressive nature and deep tissue infiltration, possessing distinct histomorphology compared with conventional head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and mucoepidermoid cancers. However, some authors suggest comparable outcomes to conventional HNSCC. Herein, we describe a case report of this uncommon disease and its comprehensive management, along with a brief review of the literature.
CHHiP vs PROFIT for Localized Prostate Cancer: A Retrospective Dosimetric Comparison of Organs at Risk
Authors: Ramia Paul , Kobeissi Jana M. , Mkanna Abbas , Shahine Bilal , Makke Zeinab , Hilal Lara , Mahmoud Dima , Mohammed Mohammed , Olleik Farah , Geara Fady , Youssef Bassem
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Moderate hypofractionation for localized prostate cancer has become a standard of care in many radiation therapy centers worldwide. Several fractionation and planning protocols exist, with CHHiP and PROFIT (60 Gy in 20 fractions) being 2 of the most commonly used. We retrospectively compared the doses received by organs at risk (OARs) using these 2 protocols.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 25 randomly selected de-identified patients treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for prostate cancer in a single tertiary care center. For each patient, we generated 2 sets of contours for target volumes and OARs in accordance with both CHHiP and PROFIT protocols. A total of 50 IMRT plans, using Prowess Panther software version 5.10, were generated and achieved the respective planning targets and normal tissue constraints. The related-samples Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the mean dose, V60, V50, and V40 of each of the bladder, rectum, and penile bulb.

Results

Patients had a mean age of 73 years, average prostate-specific antigen level of 9.8 ng/mL, mostly a Gleason score of 7, and a clinical stage that ranged from T1c to T2c. In the CHHiP plans, the rectum averaged a significantly lower V60 (0.5% vs 4.5%, P < .001) and V50 (13.1% vs 15.7%, P = .026) than with PROFIT. Similarly, the bladder in CHHiP averaged a significantly lower V60 (1.9% vs 7.7%, P < .001) and V50 (13.2% vs 15.5%, P = .035). The penile bulb received a lower mean dose (21.9 Gy vs 30.5 Gy, P < .001), V50 (5.6% vs 14.4%, P = .037), and V40 (11.4% vs 35.2%, P < .001) on average in the CHHiP plans as well.

Conclusion

In our dosimetric comparison, CHHiP spared the OARs to a greater degree than PROFIT. While contouring and planning using the CHHiP protocol are usually more demanding, we expect that greater sparing of OARs will minimize clinical toxicity in patients with prostate cancer receiving moderately hypofractionated radiation therapy.
Viral-Mediated Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Review on Mechanisms and Implications for Therapy
Authors: Khandekar Rahul , Shrestha Sabi , Dipko Kawika , Conger Colleen , Newman Neil B.
Published: December 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers in the United States. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are major risk factors of HCC. This review article discusses the pathogenesis behind HBV- and HCV-induced HCC, examining the ways these viruses contribute to the development of liver cancer. Furthermore, we aim to explore the therapeutic implications of viral-mediated HCC, with an interest in preventing chronic infections and subsequent HCC development. By understanding the underlying pathogenesis and therapeutic targets, we aim to contribute to improved outcomes for hepatitis-related liver cancer.
Editorial
Authors: Lymn Jessie , Schilling Angela
Published: December 2024

This issue is the culmination of work across the profession and academia, under the leadership of our Special Issue Guest Editors Dr Mike Jones and Rachel Tropea. Mike and Rachel have worked with authors to produce this special issue over the past 18 months, and the outcome is a collection of papers, reflections and a significant conversation that document the current state of the ‘two sides of the same coin’ in archival research and practice, and looks to the future.
Special issues of Archives and Manuscripts play an important role in creating spaces for focussed discussion on contemporary topics, and for documenting the key issues for the society and profession at a moment in time. Past special issues reflect this temporality – in 2019 the special issue ‘After the Digital Revolution’ considered the challenges of the digital in literary archives, whereas 25 years earlier the journal published a special issue that considered the broader challenge of ‘Electronic recordkeeping: Issues and perspectives’ (1994). The nuanced focus in 2019 on digital literary archives was enabled by the previous decades worth of research and publishing in the field.
We are excited to have more special issues on the horizon, including a 2025 issue planned to document the outcomes of the Tandanya-Adelaide Declaration Symposium, held in Christchurch, Aotearoa in October 2024. We encourage academics and professionals to consider Archives and Manuscripts as a potential home for collaborative ideas and engagement through special issue proposals.
Angela SchillingDr Jessie LymnGeneral Editors
Social vulnerability index, physical frailty and delirium in hospitalized older adults
Authors: Lenardt Maria Helena , Cechinel Clovis , Rodrigues João Alberto Martins , Marques Daiane Maria da Silva , Guedez José Baudilio Belzarez , Binotto Maria Angélica
Published: December 2024

Abstract Objective To analyze the relationship between the social vulnerability index and physical frailty condition and delirium in hospitalized older adults. Methods Cross-sectional analytical study of older adults developed in a hospital in southern Brazil. The collection instruments used were a sociodemographic questionnaire, the social vulnerability index, physical frailty phenotype markers and the Confusion Assessment Method. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results Of the 305 older adults evaluated, 59.4% were female, 40.9% were aged over 80 years and 92.6% had morbidities. There was an association between hospitalization and female sex with low and medium vulnerability (64.8%; 95%CI 55.9-72.7 and 63%; 95%CI 53.2-71.8, respectively, with p=0.0262) . Delirium was observed in 29.5% (95%CI 22.3-38.4) of older adults over 60 years of age with low vulnerability, 17% (10.9-25.5) medium, 14.5% ( 8.6-23.9) high, with p=0.0151. There was no association between delirium and the vulnerability index in older adults aged over 80 years, with p=0.235. Delirium affected 44.3% (32.5-56.7) of older adults with low vulnerability, 35% (22.1-50.5) with medium and 25% (12-44.9) high. There was no association between frailty and social vulnerability, with p=0.927. Among older adults aged 80 years or over, frail people prevailed in the three vulnerability strata (low 59.7%; medium 57.5% and high 56%), p=0.788. Conclusion Hospitalization and delirium were associated with younger, pre-frail women from low and medium social vulnerability. The condition of frailty did not correlate with social vulnerability. The need to better understand the biopsychosocial factors that can increase delirium in hospitalized older adults with low social vulnerability is highlighted.
Manikin fidelity: effect on nursing students’ satisfaction and self-confidence
Authors: Santana Breno de Sousa , Magro Marcia Cristina da Silva
Published: December 2024

Abstract Objective To compare the effect of the manikin in the simulation on levels of satisfaction and self-confidence with the learning of undergraduate nursing students in relation to the administration of intravenous medication to critically ill patients. Methods Randomized, parallel, double-blind clinical trial. Study participants were allocated to the Experimental Group (high-fidelity manikin) and Control Group (low-fidelity manikin) and exposed to the simulation session. Before, immediately after and 30 days after the simulation, students filled out the Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale. The Mann Whitney, Chi-square, Wilcoxon test and Fisher’s exact statistical tests were used. A significance level of 5% was adopted, with results considered significant with a p-value ≤ 0.05. Results 60 students were evaluated (31 in the Experimental Group and 29 in the Control Group). There was a significant reduction in satisfaction (p = 0.02) and self-confidence (p < 0.001) over the 30-day period in the control group. In the experimental group, levels of satisfaction and self-confidence were maintained in the different stages of the study. Conclusion The high fidelity of the manikin was not effective for the development of non-technical skills such as satisfaction and self-confidence when compared to low fidelity in the administration of intravenous medications to critically ill patients by nursing students. ClinicalTrials.gov register: NCT03828526
Implementation intention in adherence to oral antidiabetic medications: intervention strategy validity
Authors: Trevisan Danilo Donizetti , Rodrigues Roberta Cunha Matheus , Santos Gabriela dos , Andrade Silmara Nunes , Oliveira Flávia de , Galindo Neto Nelson Miguel , Lima Maria Helena Melo , São-João Thais
Published: December 2024

Abstract Objective To develop and validate a brief intervention strategy based on the concept of implementation intention to promote adherence to oral antidiabetics in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus being monitored in primary care. Method This is a methodological study carried out in a primary health unit in Carmo do Cajuru, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from May 2022 to April 2023. The stages taken involved intervention construction based on the concept of implementation intention, with validity of its content by seven experts and assessment of its comprehensibility by 11 people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. An expert committee assessed the intervention’s relevance, comprehensibility and comprehensiveness, and the target audience exclusively assessed their comprehensibility through a cognitive interview. Agreement among experts was assessed by the item and total Content Validity Index (CVI), with item and total CVI being considered satisfactory ≥ 0.85. Results The intervention strategy was called “Plan for coping with difficulties in taking oral antidiabetics”, and its final validated version was composed of a set of initial instructions, a topic on intended behavior, a column with 13 possible difficulties and a column with 16 possible solutions to the difficulties listed. A total CVI of 0.99 was obtained, and the intervention strategy was understood by the target audience. Conclusion The brief intervention strategy obtained evidence of content validity. This technology can support and motivate healthcare professionals’ practice, especially nurses, to improve their approach to users with type 2 diabetes mellitus in relation to adherence to oral antidiabetic medications.
Use of the Practical Approach to Care Kit Adult by nurses: a systematic review
Authors: Celuppi Ianka Cristina , Pires Denise Elvira Pires de , Mendes Mariana , Amadigi Felipa Rafaela , Martins Maria Manuela Ferreira Pereira da Silva , Landeiro Maria José Lumini , Brehmer Laura Cavalcanti de Farias
Published: December 2024

Abstract Objective To analyze scientific production about the Practical Approach to Care Kit Adult application in nurses’ work process in Primary Health Care. Methods A systematic review carried out in the PubMed®, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE® and CINAHL databases on July 17, 2023. Articles were included that demonstrate the Practical Approach to Care Kit Adult use in nurses’ work process in Primary Health Care, in countries where this technology has been implemented in the format of original studies, case reports, opinion articles and reviews. Articles that dealt with old versions of the Practical Approach to Care Kit or did not detail how the technology was used, were characterized as editorials, comments, news, conference abstracts, research protocols, theses and dissertations or were unavailable in full were excluded. The analysis of the risk of bias of studies was carried out in pairs, using the JBI checklists for qualitative studies, opinion and randomized clinical trials. Results Six articles were selected that highlighted the Practical Approach to Care Kit use as a technology to support nurses’ clinical decision-making. Its application in permanent education actions of the teams in Primary Health Care services also stood out. Conclusion This review contributes to public health nursing knowledge by highlighting the use of an innovative and low-cost technology in nurses’ care process.
Telessaúde na assistência ao paciente por enfermeiros de prática avançada: revisão sistemática
Authors: Costa Isabelle Cristinne Pinto , Costa Alice Silva , Garbuio Danielle Cristina , Zamarioli Cristina Mara , Eduardo Aline Helena Apolloni , Carvalho Emilia Campos de , Chaves Erika de Cassia Lopes
Published: December 2024

Resumo Objetivo Analisar os resultados da aplicação de telessaúde na assistência ao paciente por enfermeiros de prática avançada. Métodos Revisão sistemática de estudos de intervenção, conforme recomendações do Joanna Briggs Institute I e do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A busca foi conduzida em 23 de agosto de 2023, utilizando os descritores “telemedicine”, “nurse practitioner”, “patient care” e as palavras-chaves correlatas. Foram acessadas sete bases de dados: Lilacs, PubMed®, Cinahl, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews e Web of Science Core Collection. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos, randomizados ou não; estudos pré-pós testes ou tipo antes e depois, sem restrição de data de publicação ou idioma, que responderam à questão/PICO “Qual o resultado da aplicação da telessaúde realizada por enfermeiros de prática avançada na assistência ao paciente?” Foi realizada a análise da qualidade metodológica, tendo sido incluídos apenas os estudos de moderada e de alta qualidade metodológica; não foi possível realizar metanálise. Resultados Foram selecionados 15 artigos, com população de pacientes adultos, idosos e familiares de crianças com doenças crônicas. As intervenções envolveram telefonemas, combinações de diferentes dispositivos ou programas para educação, monitoramento ou aconselhamentos. Foram identificados, em 12 estudos, efeitos positivos para os desfechos primários: custos; autogestão do cuidado, satisfação do cuidador com gestão da saúde; qualidade de vida, conforto, adaptação ao tratamento, recuperação funcional, indicadores clínicos e sinais vitais. Conclusão Os efeitos positivos do emprego da telessaúde para obtenção de dados clínicos e gestão do cuidado e seu uso seguro, evidenciados no presente estudo, permitem recomendá-la.
Telehealth in patient care by advanced practice nurses: a systematic review
Authors: Costa Isabelle Cristinne Pinto , Costa Alice Silva , Garbuio Danielle Cristina , Zamarioli Cristina Mara , Eduardo Aline Helena Apolloni , Carvalho Emilia Campos de , Chaves Erika de Cassia Lopes
Published: December 2024

Abstract Objective To analyze the results of application of telehealth in patient care by advanced practice nurses. Methos This is a systematic review of intervention studies, in accordance with recommendations from the JBI and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The search was conducted on August 23, 2023, using the descriptors “telemedicine”, “nurse practitioner”, “patient care” and related keywords. Seven databases were accessed, such as LILACS, PubMed®, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Web of Science Core Collection. Clinical trials, randomized or not, pre-post testing or before and after studies, without restrictions on publication date or language, that answered the question/PICO “What is the result of the application of telehealth carried out by advanced practice nurses in patient care?”, were included. An analysis of methodological quality was carried out, only studies of moderate and high methodological quality were included, and it was not possible to perform a meta-analysis. Results A total of 15 articles were selected, with a population of adult patients, older adults and family members of children with chronic diseases. Interventions involved phone calls, combinations of different devices or programs for education, monitoring or counseling. In 12 studies, positive effects were identified for the primary outcomes: costs; self-management of care, caregiver satisfaction with health management; quality of life, comfort, adaptation to treatment, functional recovery, clinical indicators and vital signs. Conclusion The positive effects of using telehealth to obtain clinical data and care management and its safe use, evidenced in the present study, allow us to recommend it. PROSPERO Register: CRD42023465566
Digital Financial Inclusion and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Growth in Akure Metropolis, Ondo State
Authors: Ibosiola Joseph Oluwasola , Dada Durotimi Amos
Published: December 2024

Ondo State has witnessed growth in digital financial inclusivity especially among the Small and Medium scale Enterprises (SMEs), therefore the need to determine whether the introduction of digital financial inclusion in the State has affected the growth of SMEs. The central objective of this study is therefore to assess the impact of digital financial inclusion on the growth of SMEs in Ondo State. In order to achieve this objective, the impact of digital financial accessibility, digital financial usage and digital financial service quality on sales growth, profit margin and customers’ growth were explored. In this study, a total of four hundred questionnaires were administered to the respondents who were SMEs owners/managers in Ondo State, the analysis was therefore conducted using 385 responses representing a response rate of 96.25%. The data collected were processed and analyzed using multiple linear regression through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS v 26). The findings indicate that firstly: both digital financial usage and digital finance service quality have positive and significant impact on sales growth but digital financial accessibility showed otherwise. Secondly, that both digital financial accessibility and digital financial service quality have positive and significant impact on profit margin while digital financial usage indicate otherwise. Lastly, while digital financial usage showed negative and insignificant impact on customers’ growth both digital financial accessibility and digital financial service quality have positive and significant impact on customers’ growth. This study concludes that the digital financial inclusion of SMEs has led to the growth of the SMEs in Ondo State. This study therefore recommends business policymakers in Ondo State to adopt a comprehensive policy for digital financial inclusion in order to help the SMEs to develop and grow faster especially those in the rural areas.
Estrés laboral, diagnóstico y recomendaciones para una cultura corporativa saludable. Estudio de Caso
Authors: González Legorreta Ana Paula , Noverola Ramírez Citali Isabel , De la Fuente Pérez Claudia Soledad , Pérez Shiels Ivet , García Cupil Rigoberto
Published: December 2024

El estrés es una de las enfermedades más nocivas del siglo XXI, se define como “estado que se caracteriza por altos niveles de excitación y la sensación de angustia de no poder hacer frente a la situación” (Comisión Europea,2000). El estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar el nivel de estrés y burnout, y sus causas, así como promover una cultura corporativa saludable en colaboradores del área de Recursos Humanos en una empresa automotriz en Villahermosa Tabasco México. La metodología es de corte mixto, descriptivo, transversal, se utilizaron: test Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) con variables (agotamiento, despersonalización y realización personal), entrevistas y observaciones; participan 20 colaboradores activos. Los resultados indican un nivel de burnout bajo, expresan sentirse cansados, estresados, aunado que la carga de trabajo es pesada, manifiestan la falta de comunicación como principal problema. Se desarrolló una propuesta con medidas específicas para abordar las causas subyacentes del estrés, así como estrategias para mejorar el bienestar emocional y la resiliencia de los empleados. Entre las acciones propuestas se encuentran programas de capacitación en gestión del estrés, promoción de un equilibrio entre el trabajo y la vida personal, implementación de políticas de apoyo al bienestar y la creación de una cultura corporativa saludable.
Guía de Actividades Terapéuticas para un Envejecimiento Activo
Authors: Carrera López Lorena Cecilia , Perozo Marín Fátima , Quevedo Aguas Gisela Alexandra , Piedra Zuriaga Israel , Chanchay Pillajo Lidia Leonor , Riera Recalde Alba Yolanda , Zúñiga Carrasco Dani , Minango Méndez Víctor Hugo
Published: December 2024

En el transcurso de la vida, cada uno de nosotros enfrenta desafíos únicos y se embarca en un viaje lleno de experiencias que moldean nuestra existencia. Sin embargo, hay un capítulo particular en esta gran historia de la vida que merece una atención especial: la etapa del envejecimiento.

El envejecimiento, lejos de ser un punto final, representa el comienzo de una nueva fase llena de oportunidades para el crecimiento, la exploración y la realización personal. Es en esta etapa de la vida donde la Terapia Ocupacional emerge como un faro de esperanza, ofreciendo herramientas y actividades diseñadas para promover el mantenimiento funcional y el bienestar integral de los adultos mayores desde la perspectiva de un envejecimiento activo.

Este libro es el resultado de una profunda dedicación hacia la misión de mejorar la calidad de vida de nuestros seres queridos en su viaje por la vejez. A través de la lente de la Terapia Ocupacional, exploraremos un vasto universo de actividades terapéuticas diseñadas para fortalecer los componentes cognitivos, motores y psicosociales, que constituyen los pilares fundamentales del bienestar de nuestros adultos mayores.

Cada página de este libro está impregnada de conocimientos científicos, experiencias prácticas y un profundo amor por la noble tarea de acompañar a nuestros mayores en su camino hacia la plenitud y la felicidad. Desde ejercicios diseñados para estimular la memoria y la concentración, hasta actividades físicas que fortalecen el cuerpo y el espíritu, estas páginas son un tesoro de recursos para todos aquellos que deseen brindar una atención integral y amorosa a quienes más lo necesitan.

A medida que te adentres en las páginas de este libro, te invito a explorar, a experimentar y a descubrir el poder transformador de la Terapia Ocupacional en la vida de nuestros adultos mayores. Que este libro sea una guía inspiradora en tu camino hacia una atención terapéutica más compasiva, efectiva y significativa.

¡Que cada actividad propuesta sea un paso más hacia el mantenimiento funcional, la felicidad y la plenitud de nuestros seres queridos en su viaje por la vejez!
Socio-economic evaluation and technical efficiency of soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) production in North-West Nigeria: A parametric approach
Authors: Alabı Olugbenga Omotayo , Maharazu Ibrahim , Aluwong Jeremiah , Atteh Paul Akınwumı , Obida Augustine
Published: December 2024

This aim of study examined socioeconomic evaluation and technical efficiency (TE) of soybean (Glycine max) production with a parametric approach in North West, Nigeria. The multistage sampling method was used to select 160 soybean farmers. Primary data were used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the stochastic production efficiency frontier model (SPEFM). The result shows that the mean age of a soybean farmer was 46 years. Soybean production was profitable with an estimated Gross Margin and Net Farm Income of 899,237.80 and 824, 468.22 Naira respectively. The Gross Margin Ratio and Rate of Return on Investment was calculated at 0.583 and 1.15 respectively. The significant socio-economic factors that increase the TE of soybean production include household size, age, years of experience, level of education, members of cooperatives, and number of extension contacts. The mean TE scores of soybean farmers was 53.77%, leaving a gap of 46.23% for improvement. This study recommends that credit with single-digit interest rates should be made available to soybean farmers.
A Comparative Study on User Satisfaction from Manual to Online Information System Using Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) in Service Administrative Process
Authors: Sutam Eh Di , Pei Fang Lee , Jia Joo Tan , Muhammad Nur Amalina , Ab-Samat Hasnida , Jeng Feng Chin , Prakash Joshua , Muhammad Noorhafiza , Sirivongpaisal Nikorn
Published: December 2024

Efficient application processes are crucial for enhancing user satisfaction in organizational systems. However, manual processes often result in inefficiencies, user dissatisfaction and delays, as observed in this case study. This research aimed to improve the application process by leveraging the Online Information System (OIS) and utilizing the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control (DMAIC) methodology to address identified inefficiencies systematically. The study adopted a structured approach through the DMAIC phases to identify root causes of dissatisfaction, prioritize issues and implement targeted solutions. Key findings indicated significant improvements in user satisfaction metrics, with usability increasing by 70.21 %, accessibility by 61.04 %, consistency by 44.12 % and response time by 51.95 %. The implementation of OIS played a significant role in these outcomes by automating processes, reducing errors, eliminating redundant steps, simplifying the application process and making it more reliable and accessible. The discussion highlighted the critical role of DMAIC in guiding the improvement efforts, particularly in aligning solutions with user needs and ensuring sustainability through standardization and training. Despite these successes, the study faced limitations such as the restricted scope of user testing to a specific context and potential adaptability issues in broader applications. Future research should explore the scalability of the OIS and its integration with other organizational processes to ensure comprehensive usability and effectiveness.
Comparative Analysis of Mechanical Response in Epoxy Nanocomposites Reinforced with MXene and Other Carbon-Based Nano-Fillers: An Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Mohd Shahneel Saharudin  , Syafawati Hasbi  , Emy Zairah Ahmad  , Sadia Sagar  , Walid M.Daoush  , Fawad Inam
Published: December 2024

This research introduces a finite element model tailored explicitly to assess the mechanical characteristics inherent in MXene/polymer nanocomposite. The primary focus revolves around elucidating the performance attributes through numerical simulations and subsequently aligning these findings with experimental data. The numerical analysis not only predicts mechanical behaviours but also aims to correlate these insights with experimental results obtained from fabricated epoxy nanocomposites within the study's scope. By employing this simulation-driven approach, the study investigates a deeper understanding of the mechanical response, particularly focusing on the materials' tensile properties. From the experimental results, the MXene/epoxy nanocomposite sample exhibited the highest tensile strength and modulus, measuring 50.1 MPa and 7.13 GPa, respectively. The simulation results were 50.08 MPa and 6.95 GPa, showing a difference of less than 3%. Small discrepancies in Young's modulus between the experimental and simulation results may arise from inherent sample heterogeneity. This heterogeneity, which includes microstructural variations, impurities, or defects, contrasts with the idealized homogeneous structures assumed in simulations. This research endeavours to advance predictive modelling techniques, offering valuable insights that can potentially streamline the manufacturing process and optimize MXene-based polymer composites. The goal is to tailor these materials with precise mechanical properties, ensuring their enhanced performance in various applications.
Design Low-Cost IoT Smart Home System with Comfort and Humidity Control using NodeMCU ESP 32 Microcontroller
Authors: Che Munira Che Razali  , Suzanna Samsudin  , Noratikah Zawani Mahabob  , Muhilendran Aalayamani
Published: December 2024

More recently, there has been growing interest in research about energy consumption, improved energy efficiency and saving electricity due to sustainability growth and improved quality of life. This paper aims to propose a Smart Home System built with a NodeMCU ESP 32 microcontroller board that allows for remote control and monitoring of electrical devices using App Blynk. This system operated with a sensor such as PIR Sensor to detect humans dan DHT 11 to detect temperature and humidity. The Smart Home System also support solar panel as renewable energy to reduce electricity usage. The prototype of the Smart Home System can control and monitor electrical appliance, sockets, air-conditioning, fan, comfort and humidity through a smartphone with the help of an internet connection via Blynk App. The results revealed the difference reading of the temperature and percentage of humidity in room before and after trigger the sensor with hair dryer. The humidity results in a room and hall before testing is higher than after triggering the sensor with a hair dryer, which from 79% to 53% and 72% to 48%.
Mitral valve prolapse
Authors: Amosova K.M. , Zhadan A. V.
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the definition of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), its geterogenity, clinical picture, diagnostics of different variants with besonders attention on EchoCG. Different complications and management are analyzed based on the latest international guidelines. Special attention is payed to the arrhythmogenic MVP as a cause of the sudden cardiac death, it’s risk factors and prevention
Diagnostic search for long-term fever states
Authors: Kopcha V. S.
Published: December 2024

By terms «protracted subfebrilitet» and «fever of unknown genesis lasted» (FUGL) mark situations which quite often arise up in clinical practice, at which a fervescence is the basic or unique sign of different diseases the diagnosis of which remains unknown after a leadthrough ordinary, and in a number of cases and additional inspection. The spectrum of diseases which are underlaid protracted subfebrilitet and FUGL is wide enough and includes different illnesses of infectious nature, malignant tumours, system vasculitis, and also other various after the origin diseases. Protracted fever ordinary diseases are underlaid with unusual motion. Diagnostic search under these conditions requires identification of additional clinical and laboratory features, which determine the features of a focused examination of patients using the most informative for a concrete situation diagnostic methods. Question about the advisability of treatment, including testing, to decrypt of protracted subfebrilitet and FUGL must decide individually, depending on the specific clinical situation.
Primary hyperaldosteronism (Kohn’s syndrome)
Authors: Pocheptsova O. H. , Radchenko O. V. , Zhadan A. V.
Published: December 2024

The article presents the definition of primary aldosteronism, its causes, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and treatment approaches. The article will be usefull for doctors general practitioners and cardiologists.
Occupational Health and Safety Practices in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in The Construction Sector and A New Model Proposal
Authors: Altuntaş Fatih , Ghasemlounıa Redvan
Published: December 2024

The aim of the conducted study is to create a model that examines the average occupational safety performance level by considering both occupational health and safety performance in the workplace and occupational health and safety management system performance to improve the level of occupational health and safety in small and medium-sized construction companies. For this purpose, 34 small and medium-sized construction companies located in various cities in the Marmara Region constitute the sample group of the study. The data obtained from the sample group were analyzed using factor analysis and descriptive analysis in the SPSS program, and fuzzy logic method in the MATLAB program. With the fuzzy logic approach, two input variables and one output variable were created and defined with five parameters each. Subsequently, with 25 rules created using the fuzzy approach, the calculated average safety index was obtained as 5.69. It is observed that 18 construction companies, constituting 52.8% of the examined 34 small and medium-sized construction companies, have a low safety performance, while 16 construction companies, constituting 47.2%, exhibit high performance.
Indicadores quantitativos da OCDE e o Brasil : volume V : meio ambiente
Authors: Abbade Eduardo , Basso Larissa , Mota Catherine Rebouças , Paulsen Sandra
Published: December 2024

Este volume apresenta o status do alinhamento do Brasil com os indicadores da Organização para a Cooperação e o Desenvolvimento Econômico (OCDE) para mudança do clima, meio ambiente e biodiversidade. O tema é um dos mais relevantes no processo de acessão do Brasil à organização econômica, por ao menos dois motivos principais. Primeiro, porque os temas climáticos e ambientais vêm ganhando cada vez mais expressão na política internacional e nas políticas públicas domésticas. Isso ocorre por conta da transversalidade da questão climático-ambiental neste início de século: a ciência já demonstrou que estamos extrapolando os limites planetários para uma existência segura no planeta, portanto é preciso repensar o crescimento econômico para incorporar questões outrora consideradas externalidades. Segundo, porque o Brasil, além de estar entre os grandes emissores de gases de efeito estufa – fenômeno natural que é dos principais responsáveis pelo aumento da temperatura na Terra no longo prazo –, tem recursos ambientais cuja preservação é relevante para toda a comunidade internacional. Por essa razão, em diversos foros de negociação, o Brasil é cobrado por sua performance em relação ao clima, ao meio ambiente e à biodiversidade. Não é diferente na OCDE, e as duas revisões da performance ambiental feitas pela organização para o Brasil, em 2015 e 2021, comprovam a assertiva.
Indicadores quantitativos da OCDE e o Brasil : volume IV : economia digital
Authors: Nonnenberg Marcelo José Braga , Thorstensen Vera , Cechin Alicia , Arima Júnior Mauro Kiithi , Mota Catherine Rebouças , Megale Tiago Matsuoka , Thomazella Fábio Jorge de Toledo , Taverna Matteo
Published: December 2024

O volume com o tema economia digital é constituído de três capítulos, além desta introdução e das conclusões. No capítulo 1, primeiramente, analisa-se o projeto Going Digital, principal iniciativa da OCDE no tema digital, e, em seguida, trata-se do tema governo digital. Dois temas relacionados ao comércio digital são abordados nos capítulos 2 (Índice de Restrição ao Comércio de Serviços Digitais, do inglês Digital Services Trade Restrictiveness Index – STRI Digital) e 3 (Inventário de Comércio Digital). Por fim, tecem-se as conclusões gerais sobre o tema.
On the Stellar Disk Vertical Scale Height of Edge-on Galaxies from S4G
Authors: Ranaivoharimina Notahiana , Randriamampandry T. , Wang Jing , Menéndez-Delmestre K. , Gonçalves T. S.
Published: December 2024

Disk galaxies viewed as thin planar structures resulting from the conservation of angular momentum of an initially rotating pregalactic cloud allow merely a first-order model of galaxy formation, but the presence of vertically extended structures has allowed us to gather a deeper understanding of the richness in astrophysical processes (e.g., minor mergers, secular evolution) that ultimately results in the observed diversity in disk galaxies and their vertical extensions. We measure the stellar disk scale height of 46 edge-on spiral galaxies from the Spitzer Survey of Stellar Structure in Galaxies (S4G) project. This paper aims to investigate the radial variation of the stellar disk vertical scale height and the existence of the so-called thick disk component in our sample. The measurements were made using one-, two-, and three-dimensional profile fitting techniques using simple models. We found that two-thirds of our sample show the presence of a thick disk, suggesting that these galaxies have been accreting gaseous material from their surroundings. We found an average thick-to-thin disk scale height ratio of 2.65, which is in good agreement with previous studies. Our findings also support the disk flaring model, which suggests that the vertical scale height increases with radius. We further found good correlations between the scale height h

z
and the scale length and between h

z
and the optical de Vaucouleurs radius R
25.
Detection Rate of Galaxy Cluster-lensed Stellar Binary Black Hole Mergers by the Third-generation Gravitational-wave Detectors
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Xie Yushan , Lu Youjun , Shan Huanyuan , Li Nan , Luo Yuchao , Guo Xiao
Published: December 2024

Gravitational waves (GWs) from stellar binary black hole (sBBH) mergers can be strongly gravitational lensed by intervening galaxies/galaxy clusters. Only a few works have investigated cluster-lensed sBBH mergers by adopting oversimplified models, while galaxy-lensed ones have been intensively studied. In this paper, we estimate the detection rate of cluster-lensed sBBH mergers with third-generation GW detectors and its dependence on the lens models. We adopt detailed modeling of galaxy cluster lenses by using the mock clusters in the Synthetic Sky Catalog for Dark Energy Science with LSST (cosmoDC2) and/or approximations of the pseudo-Jaffe profile or an eccentric Navarro–Frenk–White dark matter halo plus a bright central galaxy with singular isothermal sphere profile. Considering that the formation of sBBH mergers is dominated by the evolution of the massive binary star (EMBS) channel, we find that the detection rate of cluster-lensed sBBHs is ∼5–84 yr−1, depending on the adopted lens model and uncertainty in the merger rate density, which is about

∼

13

−
2.0

+
28

yr−1 if adopting relatively more realistic galaxy clusters with central main and member galaxies in the cosmoDC2 catalog, close to the estimated detection rate of sBBH mergers lensed by galaxies. In addition, we also consider the case in which the production of sBBH mergers is dominated by the dynamical interactions in dense stellar systems. We find that the detection rate of cluster-lensed sBBHs from the dynamical channel is about 1.5 times larger than that from the EMBS channel, and the redshift distribution of the former peaks at a higher redshift (∼3) compared with that from the latter (∼2).
Planet Mass Function around M Stars at 1–10 au: A Plethora of Sub-Earth Mass Objects
Authors: Chachan Yayaati , Lee Eve J.
Published: December 2024

Small planets (≲1 M
⊕) at intermediate orbital distances (∼1 au) represent an uncharted territory in exoplanetary science. The upcoming microlensing survey by the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will be sensitive to objects as light as Ganymede and unveil the small planet population at 1–10 au. Instrumental sensitivity to such planets is low, and the number of objects we will discover is strongly dependent on the underlying planet mass function. In this work, we provide a physically motivated planet mass function by combining the efficiency of planet formation by pebble accretion with the observed disk mass function. Because the disk mass function for M dwarfs (0.4–0.6 M
⊙) is bottom heavy, the initial planet mass function is also expected to be bottom heavy, skewing toward Ganymede and Mars mass objects, more so for heavier initial planetary seeds. We follow the subsequent dynamical evolution of planetary systems over ∼100 Myr varying the initial eccentricity and orbital spacing. For initial planet separations of ≥3 local disk scale heights, we find that Ganymede and Mars mass planets do not grow significantly by mergers. However, Earth-like planets undergo vigorous merging and turn into super-Earths, potentially creating a gap in the planet mass function at ∼1 M
⊕. Our results demonstrate that the slope of the mass function and the location of the potential gap in the mass function can probe the initial architecture of multiplanet systems. We close by discussing implications on the expected difference between bound and free-floating planet mass functions.
On the Influence of the Solar Wind on the Propagation of Earth-impacting Coronal Mass Ejections
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Srivastava Nandita , Gopalswamy Nat , Dash Ashutosh
Published: December 2024

Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are subject to changes in their direction of propagation, tilt, and other properties as they interact with the variable solar wind. We investigated the heliospheric propagation of 15 Earth-impacting CMEs observed during 2010 April to 2018 August in the field of view (FOV) of the Heliospheric Imager (HI) on board the STEREO. About half of the 15 events followed self-similar expansion up to 40 R
⊙. The remaining events showed deflection either in latitude, longitude, or a tilt change. Only 2 events showed significant rotation in the HI1 FOV. We also use toroidal and cylindrical flux rope fitting on the in situ observations of interplanetary magnetic field and solar wind parameters to estimate the tilt at L1 for these 2 events. Although the sample size is small, this study suggests that CME rotation is not very common in the heliosphere. We attributed the observed deflections and rotations of CMEs to a combination of factors, including their interaction with the ambient solar wind and the influence of the ambient magnetic field. These findings contribute to our understanding of the complex dynamics involved in CME propagation and highlight the need for comprehensive modeling and observational studies to improve space weather prediction. In particular, HI observations help us to connect observations near the Sun and near the Earth, improving our understanding of how CMEs move through the heliosphere.
PMN J1310–5552: A Gamma-Ray-emitting Blazar Candidate Harboring a Cosmic Monster
Authors: Paliya Vaidehi S.
Published: December 2024

Relativistic jets manifest some of the most intriguing activities in the nuclear regions of active galaxies. Identifying the most powerful relativistic jets permits us to probe the most luminous accretion systems and, in turn, the most massive black holes. This paper reports the identification of one such object, PMN J1310−5552 (z = 1.56), a blazar candidate of uncertain type detected with the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT) and Swift Burst Alert Telescope. The detection of broad emission lines in its optical spectra taken with the X-Shooter and Goodman spectrographs classifies it to be a flat-spectrum radio quasar. The analysis of the Goodman optical spectrum has revealed PMN J1310−5552 harbors a massive black hole (log scale M
BH = 9.90 ± 0.07, in M
⊙) and luminous accretion disk (log scale L
disk = 46.86 ± 0.03, in erg s−1). The fitting of the observed big blue bump with the standard accretion disk model resulted in the log scale M
BH

=

9.81

−
0.20

+
0.19

(in M
⊙) and L
disk

=

46.86

−
0.09

+
0.09

(in erg s−1), respectively. These parameters suggest PMN J1310−5552 hosts one of the most massive black holes and the most luminous accretion disks among the blazar population. The physical properties of this enigmatic blazar were studied by modeling the broadband spectral energy distribution considering the data from NuSTAR, Swift, Fermi-LAT, and archival observations. Overall, PMN J1310−5552 is a powerful “MeV” blazar with physical parameters similar to other members of this unique class of blazars. These results provide glimpses of monsters lurking among the unknown high-energy emitters and demonstrate the importance of ongoing wide-field sky surveys to discover them.