bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AVALIAÇÃO FÍSICA E FÍSICO-QUÍMICA EM CASCAS DE CAFÉ ORGÂNICO TIPO ARÁBICA
Authors: Tavares Maria Érica da Silva , Silva Elisandra Rabêlo da , Silva Samanta Rayelly de Souza , Silva Weverton Siqueira Mota , Silva Suzana Pedroza da
Published: May 2024

O café é a segunda bebida mais consumida no mundo, sendo este produto de grande importância para economia brasileira. Durante seu processamento o principal subproduto gerado são as cascas de café, as quais são produzidas cerca de 1 kg de casca para cada 1 kg de grão beneficiado. Esse resíduo ainda tem pouca aplicabilidade, gerando problemas ambientais quando descartados indevidamente no meio ambiente, devido a presença de componentes tóxicos. Diante disso, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo a caracterização físico e físico-química das cascas de café orgânico especial (Coffea arabica L. var typica) da região de Taquaritinga do Norte Pernambuco, com o intuito de analisar sua viabilidade para enriquecimento e produção de novos produtos alimentícios. As análises físico-químicas realizadas nas cascas de café de manejo orgânico processada via seca foram: pH, condutividade elétrica, sólidos solúveis Totais, cor, atividade de água, umidade, cinzas, lipídios, proteínas, açúcares redutores e cafeína. Todas as análises foram realizadas em triplicata. A partir das análises realizadas foram obtidos valores de 5,44 para pH, e de 0,585 para atividade de água, classificando esse resíduo como um material de baixa acidez e quantidade de água livre, sendo esses fatores desfavoráveis para proliferação microbiológica. Quanto à composição centesimal, evidenciou-se baixo teor de proteínas (0,48%) e cafeína (não detectado) inviabilizando sua utilização para enriquecimento protéico e produção de alimentos e bebidas estimulantes. No entanto, foram satisfatórios os teores de lipídios (11,08 %) e carboidratos (73,20%), dos quais 19,16% são compostos pela fração dos açúcares redutores, possuindo grande potencial como aditivo ou matéria prima para elaboração de produtos e suplementos alimentares. Palavras-Chave: Cascas de café, Café orgânico, Caracterização físico-química.
OCORRÊNCIAS DE NÃO CONFORMIDADES NO ABATE DE BOVINOS NA REGIÃO METROPOLITANA DO CARIRI CEARENSE
Authors: Cruz Francisca Giselle da , Machado Maria Inês Rodrigues , Pavani Caren , Liziere Thaís Michelle da Silva , Brito Rommel Furst
Published: May 2024

O Brasil configura-se como o maior exportador de carne bovina e o segundo maior produtor do mundo. Dessa forma, o processo de produção da carne bovina envolve várias operações, sendo o abate intencional para fins de consumo da carne. Objetivou- se com este trabalho avaliar as não conformidades identificadas durante o abate de bovinos de corte, provenientes de um abatedouro frigorífico localizado na Região Metropolitana do Cariri cearense, entre setembro e outubro de 2021. Para este estudo, 100 bovinos de corte foram escolhidos aleatoriamente. As seguintes não- conformidades foram identificadas: o tempo mínimo de permanência dos animais no banheiro de aspersão; a eficácia da insensibilização por meio da contagem do número de disparos em cada animal com o uso de pistola de dardo cativo penetrante com acionamento pneumático; o tempo gasto (em minutos) entre a insensibilização e a sangria e o tempo gasto (em minutos) de cada carcaça animal içada pelo membro esquerdo traseiro, na canaleta de sangria, a fim de verificar a eficiência desta operação. Quanto a identificação das não conformidades avaliou-se que a permanência dos bovinos no banheiro de aspersão, 100 % encontraram- se em desacordo com os padrões preconizados por legislação. Sobre os parâmetros tempo gasto entre a insensibilização e a sangria e para o tempo da carcaça içada na canaleta de sangria, 93 % encontraram- se em desacordo com os padrões. Observou-se que 44 % dos animais foram insensibilizados apenas com um disparo, indicando a necessidade de treinamento in loco dos colaboradores, em abate humanitário, a exemplo o programa STPES WPA, que visa evitar dor e estresse desnecessários aos animais, podendo interferir na qualidade da carne comercializada na região. Palavras-Chave: carne bovina; qualidade; segurança dos alimentos.
High Risk Pregnancy and its Outcome in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bhandari Sunita , Dwa Yam , Maharjan Meenu , Bajracharya Manisha
Published: May 2024

Introduction: High-risk pregnancy is defined as one which is complicated by factors or factors that adversely affect the pregnancy outcome (maternal, perinatal or both). Early detection and effectivemanagement of high risk pregnancy helps in achieving favorable maternal and perinatal outcomes. This study aimed to find the prevalence of high risk pregnancy and its outcome among pregnant women admitted for delivery in the obstetrics and gynecology department of a tertiary care hospital
Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital among high risk pregnant women admitted for delivery using structured proforma, from April 2023 to September 2023 after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee. Convenience sampling was used among pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria. Data was entered in excel and analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics. Point estimate was calculated at 95% Confidence Interval
Results: Among 350 deliveries, high risk pregnancy was seen in 91 (26%) (16.15-32.00, 95% Confidence Interval). The high risk factors were previous history of cesarean section 25 (27.47 %) followed by hypothyroidism 19 (20.87%) and gestational diabetes mellitus 15 (16.48%). Out of 90 high risk pregnancy, 84 (92.30%) had term delivery. Lower segment cesarean section was done in 69 (75.82%) patients of which 26 (28.57%) underwent emergency cesarean section. The total number of births among high risk preganancies were 93 with two sets of twin births. A total of 13 (13.97%) of the babies had low-birth weight.
Conclusions: The prevalence of high risk pregnancy was found to be similar as compared to studies done in similar settings.
Organizational barriers to service quality failures: The case of hotel businesses
Authors: Kasap Gülsüm , Samur Arif Nihat , Yılmaz İbrahim
Published: May 2024

The success of hotel businesses primarily hinges on delivering quality service, and achieving this is possible through the measurement of the provided quality. In the context of measuring service quality, the Service Quality Gap Model developed by Parasuraman, Zeithaml, and Berry (1985) is commonly utilized. Subsequently, in 1988, Parasuraman, Zeithaml, and Berry expanded this model and identified five fundamental gaps between customers' expectations and perceptions of service quality. The first four gaps are related to factors within the organization, while the fifth gap focuses on the disparity between customer expectations and perceptions and is a function of the first four gaps. In previous research, it has been observed that researchers often concentrate on the fifth gap, neglecting the viewpoints of the service providers. Within this context, the aim of this study is to investigate the underlying causes of the gap between customers' expectations and perceptions of service quality in the context of hotel businesses. The population of the study comprises managers and employees working in 4 and 5-star hotels in Antalya. Non-probability sampling, specifically convenience sampling, was used in the research. Data was collected from 217 managers and 217 employees using a questionnaire. Validity and reliability analyses were conducted in the data analysis process. The findings of the study indicate that the abundance of hierarchical levels between management and employees, perceived control issues, paperwork negatively impacting service quality, independent efforts in promotional activities, and making excessive promises to customers are significant factors affecting service quality.
Війна в Україні в контексті діяльності українських івент-агенцій (2022–2023 рр.)
Authors: Кузьменко Тарас , Самагала Володимир
Published: May 2024

Мета статті — cхарактеризувати діяльність івент-агенцій під час збройної російської агресії, розкрити їхню переорієнтацію з культурно-мистецьких заходів на соціально-культурні та громадські проєкти. Проаналізувати вплив подієвих заходів на підтримку інформаційного та культурного простору України та її популяризацію у світі. Результати дослідження. У статті досліджено діяльність та призначення івент- агенцій під час збройної російської агресії та в умовах воєнного стану, класифікувавши їх за такими напрямами, як: докорінне перепрофілювання роботи івент-агенцій або їх припинення, переорієнтація діяльності завдяки новим форматам роботи у зв’язку з війною, перетворення на івент-агенції закладів культури. Розкрито основні напрями діяльності івент-агенцій та їхній вплив на популяризацію української культури і мистецтва. Проаналізовано соціальні і культурні проєкти в контексті волонтерської допомоги. Наукова новизна роботи полягає в комплексному аналізі діяльності івент- індустрії в сучасних умовах війни. Виокремлено та систематизовано переорієнтацію івент-агенцій на соціальні та волонтерські проєкти, окреслено специфічні умови, які впливають на їхню діяльність. Висновки. З огляду на повномасштабне вторгнення та воєнний стан з’ясовано роль івент-агенцій у переорієнтації на соціально-політичні громадські проєкти, зокрема в питаннях підтримки війська, патріотичного виховання, громадського єднання та соціальної активності. Підкреслено активізацію на освітні, соціальні та благодійні івенти, що впливає на розвиток національної культури. Розкрито активну участь івент-агенцій у волонтерських і доброчинних акціях. Це дає змогу стверджувати, що івенти є важливими регуляторами соціального та політичного життя під час війни.
ОЦІНКА ПЕРСОНАЛУ: СУЧАСНІ ПІДХОДИ ТА ПРАКТИЧНІ АСПЕКТИ
Authors: БАБЧИНСЬКА Олена , ЛОЗОВСЬКИЙ Олександр
Published: May 2024

Розглянуто сучасні наукові напрацювання з питань оцінки персоналу сфери послуг і, зокрема, послуг ветеринарної медицини. Оскільки ветеринарна діяльність – це не лише послуги з профілактики, діагностики та лікування хвороб тварин, але й робота із запобігання їх передачі людям, консультаційна та племінна діяльність, робота в напрямі збереження здоров’я та продуктивності тварин, реалізація програм вакцинації тощо, то питання оцінки персоналу у даній сфері є надзвичайно важливим не лише в контексті досягнення цілей діяльності певного суб’єкта господарювання, а й в контексті забезпечення захисту тварин та населення певних територій від поширення хвороб, сприяння зростанню рівня обізнаності населення з питань організації належного догляду та профілактики захворювань тварин, то особливого значення набувають питання ефективного оцінювання персоналу ветеринарних установ.
Запропоновано шляхи розбудови методики оцінки медичного персоналу ветеринарних закладів та перелік можливих напрямів і показників оцінки, застосування яких дасть можливість оцінити не лише рівень компетенцій і результативність роботи кожного окремого працівника, а й ефективність командної взаємодії та роль кожного індивіда у результатах командної роботи.
СУЧАСНІ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНІ ТЕХНОЛОГІЇ В ТУРИЗМІ
Authors: ГЕЙДАРОВА Олена , ГРИЗОВСЬКА Лілія
Published: May 2024

Розглянуто актуальність впровадження сучасних  інформаційних технологій в діяльність туристичних фірм. Наведена класифікація інформаційних технологій. Відмічені основні переваги впровадження сучасних інформаційних технологій. Розглянуто систему інформаційних технологій індустрії гостинності. Наведено основні туристичні портали, що використовуються вітчизняними суб’єктами туристичного бізнесу.
THE PROHIBITION OF ABSENTEE OWNERSHIP OF AGRICULTURAL LAND AND THE LEGAL LIABILITY OF THE NATIONAL LAND AGENCY
Authors: Dewi Shintyana , Soediro  , Bin Muhamad Amin Amjad Majdi
Published: May 2024

Absentee ownership of agricultural land is a situation where agricultural landowners are not directly involved in the agricultural activities carried out on their land. This often occurs when the landowner lives outside the farming area. The provision of absentee ownership of agricultural land can affect farmland management, and agricultural productivity. This abstract aims to evaluate the legal aspects of absentee ownership of agricultural land by considering several factors. First, we analyze the application of Government Regulation Number 41 of 1964 in Plaosan Village regarding absentee land. Several studies have shown that the absence of a landowner can hinder growth and innovation in the agricultural sector. However, the factor depends on the skill level of the farmer. Furthermore, we analyze the legal liability of the National Land Agency (BPN) in resolving absentee land ownership issues. The existence of landowners who are not involved in agricultural activities can lead to legal uncertainty, low agricultural productivity, and difficulties for interested parties in obtaining benefits from the land. In this context, the role of the National Land Agency (BPN) as a government agency responsible for land management and registration becomes very important. This research uses a normative legal research method by conducting a literature study of laws and regulations related to absentee ownership of agricultural land. The results of this research are expected to provide a basis for better policies in managing agricultural land ownership involving absentee owners, so as to increase productivity, efficiency, and welfare for all parties involved in the agricultural sector.
SUBURBAN BAY AREA CITY APPROACHES TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION (DEI)
Authors:   , Bush Arianna
Published: May 2024

The ultimate goal of government is to serve the community for the greater good. Creating an inclusive and representative environment for those working in government and for the population they serve will improve many aspects of public service. In recent decades, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have been increasingly prioritized as America has become increasingly diverse. However, this effort intensified in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests. “Three years after Floyd's death and the movement hit the streets, 74% of Black executives said they saw positive change in hiring, retention, and promotion of Black employees... 88% said their companies made a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies after Floyd's murder” (Tilo, 2023, para. 3 & 5). Despite considerable efforts to implement DEI frameworks into government policy and action, research examining the efforts made by local governments is noticeably absent. This project will attempt to provide perspective on what steps that Bay Area municipalities are beginning to execute in response to the recent public outcry for more representative and responsive governments. Additionally, this research will provide insight highlighting the backlash and difficulties associated with implementing DEI policies and programs.
Bodily and Visual-Cognitive Navigation Aids to Enhance Spatial Recall in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Tuena Cosimo , Serino Silvia , Goulene Karine Marie , Pedroli Elisa , Stramba-Badiale Marco , Riva Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

Background:

Individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) syndrome often report navigation difficulties, accompanied by impairments in egocentric and allocentric spatial memory. However, studies have shown that both bodily (e.g., motor commands, proprioception, vestibular information) and visual-cognitive (e.g., maps, directional arrows, attentional markers) cues can support spatial memory in MCI.

Objective:

We aimed to assess navigation cues for innovative spatial training in aging.

Methods:

Fifteen MCI patients were recruited for this study. Their egocentric and allocentric memory recall performances were tested through a navigation task with five different virtual reality (VR) assistive encoding navigation procedures (bodily, vision only, interactive allocentric map, reduced executive load, free navigation without cues). Bodily condition consisted of an immersive VR setup to engage self-motion cues, vision only condition consisted of passive navigation without interaction, in the interactive allocentric map condition patients could use a bird-view map, in the reduced executive load condition directional cues and attentional markers were employed, and during free navigation no aid was implemented.

Results:

Bodily condition improved spatial memory compared to vision only and free navigation without cues. In addition, the interactive allocentric map was superior to the free navigation without cues. Surprisingly, the reduced executive load was comparable to vison only condition. Moreover, a detrimental impact of free navigation was observed on allocentric memory across testing trials.

Conclusions:

These findings challenge the notion of an amodal representation of space in aging, suggesting that spatial maps can be influenced by the modality in which the environment was originally encoded.
Recalibrating the Risk-Benefit Profiles of Lecanemab and Donanemab: Scales, Immunoreactivity, and Changes in Amyloid-β42
Authors: Espay Alberto J. , Herrup Karl , Imbimbo Bruno P. , Kepp Kasper P. , Daly Timothy
Published: May 2024

Three recent anti-amyloid-β antibody trials for Alzheimer’s disease reported similar effect sizes, used non-reactive saline as placebo, and showed large numbers of adverse events including imaging anomalies (ARIA) that correlate with cognitive changes. Conversely, all previous antibody trials were less reactive and pronounced ineffective. We argue that these observations point to unblinding bias, inflating apparent efficacy and thus altering the risk-benefit balance. Further, we highlight data demonstrating that beyond reducing amyloid, monoclonal antibodies increase monomeric amyloid-β42 in cerebrospinal fluid, which may explain potential benefits. We should recalibrate the efficacy of these antibodies and devote more resources into strategies beyond removing amyloid.
An enhanced MADM with Lq* q-Rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set in healthcare supplier selection
Authors: Pethaperumal Mahalakshmi , Jayakumar Vimala , Edalatpanah Seyyed Ahmed , Mohideen Ashma Banu Kather , Annamalai Surya
Published: May 2024

The global healthcare systems have encountered unparalleled difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the crucial significance of effective management within healthcare supply chains. This research contributes to the field of healthcare supply chain management by presenting a robust MADM methodology called lattice ordered(Lq*) q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set(Lq* q-ROMFS-MADM) for supplier evaluation and ranking amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking inspiration from multi-fuzzy soft set and q-rung orthopair fuzzy set, the present research article proposes a novel framework known as Lq* q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set (Lq* qROMFSS), which incorporates lattice ordering in q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set. The effectiveness of the proposed model is confirmed through successful experimentation on various important operations, including union, intersection, complement, restricted union and intersection. Moreover, the verification of De Morgan’s laws for Lq* qROMFSS is carried out specifically for these operations mentioned above. To highlight the significance of the proposed Lq* qROMFSS, a multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) problem is presented, showcasing its application in the domain of healthcare supply chain management. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is conducted to elucidate the advantages of this model in comparison to existing models.
Medical diagnosis based on lattice ordered q-rung linear diophantine fuzzy hypersoft matrices
Authors: Annamalai Surya , Jayakumar Vimala
Published: May 2024

The Hypersoft set (HSS) theory was created by extending the soft set (SS) theory. The q-Rung linear diophantine fuzzy set (q-RLDFS) is a major development in fuzzy set theory (FS). By fusing q-RLDFS with HSS, the concept of q-rung linear diophantine fuzzy hypersoft set (q-RLDFHSS) is presented in this study. This study also discusses the concepts of lattice ordered q-RLDFHSS (LOq-RLDFHSS) and LOq-RLDFHS Matrix (LOq-RLDFHSM) as well as some standard operations of LOq-RLDFHSM. A medical diagnosis methodology based on LOq-RLDFHSM is proposed to evaluate multi-sub-attributed medical diagnosis difficulties incredibly well along with a diagnosis problem based on patients with comorbidities. Further, between the proposed and current theories, comparison analysis and discussion have been given in this study.
An Amalgamated Kruskal’s Algorithm to ascertain the shortest route in the futuristic smart world
Authors: Kather Mohideen Ashma Banu , Jayakumar Vimala , Pethaperumal Mahalakshmi , Kannan Jeevitha
Published: May 2024

As the globe enters a new era, web applications will become indispensable to managing business. Businesses can easily grow, become simpler, and accomplish their objective much faster by employing web applications. Creating a web application in cloud computing allows for the more affordable leveraging of cloud-based services. This makes it easier to avoid setting up and maintaining several servers. To get around cloud computing’s built-in restrictions such as scalability, security, and bandwidth limitations, the future smart world of cloud computing will be coupled with LiFi connectivity. Beyond creating the web application, it is important to promote this web application among the network of users as quickly and effectively as possible. This manuscript proposes a strategy to address these challenges. There are two primary components to this MCDM technique. The first step is to model the problem as a graph and weigh the edges by employing the Hamacher aggregation operator. The second step involves using a fresh iteration of Kruskal’s technique in conjunction with this approach to discover a Minimum Spanning Tree as a resolution. This manuscript adds to the literature by solving real-world Minimum Spanning Tree problems by combining existing algorithms with MCDM techniques. This technique is demonstrated for marketing a web application(created via cloud service) in a future smart world using LiFi technology.
Effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with balance training on improving balance function in patients with Parkinson’s disease: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liao Jiaquan , Wu Bo , Yang Zhen , Tang Changmin
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: An increasing amount of research has supported the positive role of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation(rTMS) in improving functional impairments in Parkinson’s patients. PURPOSE: To explore the effectiveness of using rTMS n and Balance Apparatus training to improve the balance function of Parkinson’s patients. METHODS: Patients were divided into 3 groups of 20 patients in each. All patients received routine rehabilitation training. The rTMS group received low-frequency rTMS therapy, while the balance apparatus group incorporated balance apparatus exercises. The observation group received both interventions. The three groups of patients were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment using the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor section, Berg balance scale (BBS), Time up and go test (TUGT), and Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scales. Additionally, all participants were tested for movement ellipse area, and Average Trace Error (ATE) using the balance apparatus. RESULTS: The observation group achieved better treatment results. The UPDRS score was better than that of the balance apparatus group after treatment, and the ABC score was superior to other two group. Moreover, the observation group outperformed the other two group in terms of motion length, and open-eye elliptical area, with statistical significance. CONCLUSION The combined application of TMS and Balance Apparatus training effectively improves enhances balance function, and boosts self-confidence in balance perception among Parkinson’s patients.
The evolution of new and emerging occupational health and safety risks: A qualitative review
Authors: Lindholm Maria , Reiman Arto , Tappura Sari
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Work itself and occupational health and safety (OHS) have evolved through industrial revolutions and will also continue to evolve in the future. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this qualitative literature review was to examine how the scientific discussion on new and emerging risks (NERs) related to OHS has evolved in recent decades in developed and newly industrialized countries. METHODS: A search of the Scopus database yielded 34 articles published before 2000 and from 2020 onwards. RESULTS: A review of the articles identified NERs themes related to changes in work patterns, changing workforce and growth in some sectors, climate change, new materials or increased use of materials, new technology and technological development, and viruses. In both article collection periods, possible adverse OHS effects discussed included musculoskeletal disorders, exposure to toxic agents, chemical compounds and hazardous materials, increased stress, increased likelihood of errors and accidents, psychosocial problems, mental fatigue, and increases in work-related illnesses and accidents. CONCLUSIONS: The articles published during both periods discussed similar themes. The main differences were regarding specific time-related cases, such as climate change and COVID-19. Based on the findings of this review, points to consider in OHS management and future studies are discussed.
The impact of negative affects on the high prevalence of anxiety, depression and stress in healthcare professionals
Authors: Kernkraut Ana Merzel , Diniz Nagem Janot de Matos Luciana
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Psychiatric disorders are the conditions that most contribute to incapacity worldwide. While many healthcare professionals adapt in dealing with various demands, others do not. How much of these conditions is associated with affective experience needs to be studied. OBJECTIVE: Assess the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress while investigating the relationship between the presence of positive and negative affect in healthcare professionals. METHODS: This study’s convenience sample consisted of 975 providers (including nursing, physicians, and multidisciplinary team) and administrative professionals (service and supervision teams) working at a general private hospital in Brazil. Data were collected in 2019 through a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS-X). The results are shown through multinomial regression with odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, and P-value. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 49.4%, 46.1%, and 49.8%, respectively, showing high prevalence. It was observed that a high presence of negative affect is associated with a greater likelihood of developing anxiety, depression, and stress, while a high presence of positive affect is associated with a lower likelihood of depression and stress prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of anxiety, depression and stress in healthcare professionals is associated with the presence of negative affects. Mental disorders should be measured, and practices adopted to ensure well-being and job performance.
Lifestyle, meal times, and sleep patterns changes in higher education professors during COVID-19: Association with non-communicable chronic diseases
Authors: Garcês Caroline Pereira , Soares Camila Faleiros Veloso , Sisconeto Tássia Magnabosco , Martins Guilherme Cabral Borges , Dias Marina Abreu , Vivenzio Rafaella Andrade , Moreira Thiago Ferreira , Camargo Yanne da Silva , Crispim Cibele Aparecida , Balieiro Laura Cristina Tibiletti , Cheik Nadia Carla
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions had to swiftly adapt and transition to remote teaching in order to maintain academic activities. However, these changes presented a number of challenges for professors, which could have negative effects on their health. OBJECTIVE To analyze the association between changes in dietary and sleep habits, physical activity level, and sedentary behavior with the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among Brazilian higher education professors during the pandemic period. METHODS This is a cross-sectional and retrospective study conducted using an online form. Generalized linear models, adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index, were used to verify the difference between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Logistic regression models were used to predict the odds ratio (OR) for the development of NCDs according to physical activity time, sedentary behavior time, dietary and sleep patterns. RESULTS A total of 936 professors residing across Brazil participated in the survey. The duration of sedentary behavior increased, sleep duration slightly decreased, and meal times shifted to earlier during the pandemic. A total of 22.9%of the participants reported the diagnosis of some NCDs during this period. Physical activity practice was associated with a lower risk of diseases during the pandemic, regardless of the intensity performed. On the other hand, late eating habits and excessive food consumption during the pandemic were associated with a higher risk. CONCLUSION The results provide data that can help in the development of public policies that promote health actions to minimize the consequences associated with the pandemic period.
Epidemiology of neuromuscular injuries in guitar players living in Portugal: Associated risk factors
Authors: dos Santos Raquel Marreiro , Minghelli Beatriz
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Playing guitar involves several physical demands, most inclusive of which are long hours of practice, which can make musculoskeletal symptoms common. OBJETIVE: To determine the epidemiology of neuromuscular injuries in guitar players residing in Portugal and risk factors. METHODS: The sample consisted of 105 guitar players, being 103 (98.10%) men, aged between 30–75 years (29,83±10,23). The measurement instrument used was a digital survey, shared by email, on social networks and in person. RESULTS: Fifty-six (53.30%) guitar players had injuries throughout their musical practice, totaling 132 injuries, 13 (12.40%) guitar players were injured at the time of assessment and 31 (29.5%) guitar players had injuries in the last 12 months, totaling 63 injuries. The value of injury proportion was 0.29 (CI 95% : 0.14–0.44) and the injury rate was 0.42 injuries per 1,000 hours of music practice. The most common types of injury were: tendinopathy (22; 34.92%) and low back pain (9; 14.29%). The most affected anatomical sites were: wrist (18; 28.57%) and lumbar spine (10; 15.87%). Repetitive movement was the injury mechanism most mentioned by guitar players (24; 35.29%) followed by maintaining postures for a prolonged period of time (15; 22.06%). Guitar players who did not warm up before practicing were 0.33 (CI: 0.13–0.79; p = 0.013) more likely to have an injury. CONCLUSIONS: There was a high percentage of injuries in guitar players and failure to warm up was a risk factor for the development of injuries. This type of study can help in creating injury prevention strategies in this type of population.
Ergativity in the reconstruction of Ukraine. Towards the analysis and assessment of spatial processes in the state
Authors: Dyomin Mykola , Habrel Mykhaylo
Published: May 2024

The destruction of Ukraine's spatial potential by the war has changed the processes of life in the country and has made it necessary to find models for reconstruction and spatial revitalisation (return to life) of destroyed territories and cities. The article expresses the idea of ergatonicity in substantiating the decisions of Ukraine's reconstruction, which considers the state and its space as a "system-process", which is characterised by behaviour, the ability to self-organise and self-development in the face of changing situations. The authors examine the processes related to: functional and urban changes in the territories of the state; connections and multidimensional dynamics of the territory; placement of new elements and investments in the existing spatial structure; spatial-temporal and structural-parametric processes in the space of the state. The factors that influence processes in space are structured in a five-vector representation: "person L - functions F - conditions U - geometry G - time T", which made it possible to analyse the interactions between dimensions, establish patterns and features of processes in the system, and assess their consistency and efficiency. The territories are distinguished by: social processes; conditions, features and technological processes; and the emotional component of the perception of events. Taking into account the classification of the importance and location of processes in the space of the state, an ergatic map (map of processes) in Ukraine is constructed and four clusters are identified according to the selected criteria. A substantiated methodological toolkit for taking into account the requirements of ergatonicity in the spatial organisation of territorial systems of different hierarchies makes it possible to eliminate uncertainties, intensify positive trends in evolution and effective development of space at different levels.
Prospects for the development of the system of architectural and planning organisation of special preschool education institutions in Ukraine
Authors: Osychanskyi Viktor
Published: May 2024

The publication considers the prospects for the development of the main aspects of reforming the legislative and regulatory framework of Ukraine's special preschool education institutions, which needs to be modernized, in relation to the needs of children's inclusive groups. Four main aspects are identified: regulatory, financial and economic, architectural and planning, and socio-cultural. According to the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, as of 2020, there are 101 special preschool education institutions, but many of them lack comfort and inclusiveness. The study also identified the main problems that hinder the introduction of the necessary changes: insufficient number of institutions, inadequate planning, and lack of opportunities for inclusive education. Recommendations include increasing funding, modernizing infrastructure, and implementing inclusive education. Special preschool education institutions are an important part of the education system for people with special needs in Ukraine. They provide early detection, diagnosis, correction and preparation of children with various developmental disabilities for studying in general education schools. However, the existing system of special preschool education requires significant improvement and modernization, in particular in terms of architectural and planning organization of special institutions. The relevance of the study is due to the fact that in Ukraine, the theoretical and practical foundations for the design and construction of special preschool institutions have not been sufficiently developed, which would take into account the specifics of their functioning, the needs and capabilities of children with special needs, requirements for accessibility, comfort, safety, aesthetics and energy efficiency.
Rental housing. Analysis of the modern normative base
Authors: Yanovitskiy Evgeniy
Published: May 2024

The article examines the problem of providing housing in Ukraine at the present time. The formation of a civilized rental housing market is considered an effective way to solve the problem of providing citizens with a sufficient amount of housing. An analysis of the modern regulatory framework for determining the functional affiliation of temporary accommodation facilities was carried out. Features and differences in the design of public buildings (hotels with apartments) and residential buildings are defined. Considered issues of regulatory restrictions for creating rental housing: determining the time of insolation for these apartments; determination of the maximum level of building density of rental buildings; determining the possibility of integrating public infrastructure for service into such buildings. There was a need to create a new, socially effective mechanism that would allow middle-income citizens to rent housing and improve their quality of life. Currently, the Law of Ukraine "On Rental Housing" has been developed and adopted in the first reading. According to the draft of this Law, rental housing can be located both in separate buildings and as part of multifunctional complexes. At the same time, such typological units may be included in the composition of such complexes (except for rental housing (residential apartments)), such as hotels, office premises, restaurants, cafes, commercial premises and other public premises. According to world practice, various functions in such complexes are usually distributed by height, with placement on different groups of floors. So, for example, there is a hotel on the lower floors, and residential apartments on the upper floors. At the same time, in this case, such residential apartments belong to the profitable (commercial) class. However, at present, the regulatory framework of Ukraine does not define such a typological variety as "Rental housing".
Although the functional affiliation of various types of establishments for temporary accommodation of the population, such as "hotel apartments", "apart-hotels" and others, is currently defined in sufficient detail.
So, in addition to legislative standardization, there is currently a task to include such type of buildings as rental residential buildings in the regulatory framework of Ukraine.
Non-contact methods of active online control in liquid media and possible innovative options for medical equipment based on these methods
Authors: Shishlyannikov Oleg
Published: May 2024

Бесконтактные методы различных видов контроля состава жидких сред входят в приоритетную группу технологий , формирующих инновационные модификации различных видов медицинской техники , - особенно диагностических систем и систем для он-лайн мониторинга В последнее время для обеспечения бесконтактного контроля и аналитической обработки результатов такого контроля всё чаще применяются инновационные методы импеданснорезонансных и магнито-резонансных технологий , а также их модификации в сочетании с новейшими материалами , композитными материалами , особенно , подвергнутыми многократному пиролизу углерод-углеродными тканями и углерод - углеродной ватой Компьютерное моделирование описанных выше процессов показало , что указанные группы технологий способны дать базу для практически более 10 видов инновационной медицинской техники. Знание аналитических инструментов , в том числе и из Теории Решения изобретательских задач , подтолкнули автора настоящей публикации к проведению глубокого поиска в патентных массивах информации Как результат поиска можно привести патенты и патентные заявки США , приведенные в Приложении 1 и в приложении 2. На базе анализа и системного компьютерного моделирования по методологии, разработанной автором настоящей публикации удалось сформулировать технические предложения на инновационные проекты , базирующиеся на вышеперечисленных методах , материалах и композитах. Кроме того , нижеуказанные потенциальные проекты , предполагают горизонтальное и вертикальное интегрирование проектов с цифровыми технологиями и новейшей компьютерной техникой. Необходимо также отметить тот факт , что предварительное компьютерное моделирование базовых устройств и аппаратов предлагаемых проектов проводилось с использованием не графических , а конструкторских программ.
Comments on: “A perspective on impedance matching and resonance absorption mechanism for electromagnetic wave absorbing” by Hou et al. [Carbon 222 (2024) 118935]
Authors: Liu Yue , Liu Ying , Drew Michael G. B.
Published: May 2024

This is a comment on the problems of the paper by Hou et al., which are related to wrong theories dominated in current research of microwave absorption. The problems involve the confusion between a film and a material represented by using the film parameter reflection loss to characterize the material, the wrong impedance theory, the wrong quarter wavelength theory, and the wrong absorption mechanism for the film. The wrong theories can be corrected easily from principles not beyond a college education and have already been clarified by several papers from different perspectives in a number of journals. However, the papers using these wrong theories are continuing to be published in huge quantities without mentioning the opposite views, and further works on the subject have often been rejected even without external review. Thus, a commenting letter is necessary to draw attention.
Echocardiographic Changes in Prevalent Hemodialysis Population Based on Cardiac Symptomatology
Authors: Pakic Vesna , Dobricic Marija , Milic Miodrag , Munjas Jelena , Marinkovic Jelena , Lezaic Visnja
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND Despite the prevalence of cardiovascular complications in hemodialysis (HD) patients, routine screening for asymptomatic individuals remains underexplored in clinical practice, particularly beyond those assessed for kidney transplantation. This study aimed to investigate echocardiographic changes in prevalent HD patients, irrespective of symptomatic presentation.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS A prospective, single-center study spanning 36 months included 79 HD patients. Grouping was based on cardiac symptomatology assessed with the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification: group 1 comprised 18 asymptomatic patients (NYHA class I), while group 2 included 61 patients with moderate cardiac symptoms (NYHA classes II and III). Routine laboratory analyses, miRNA 133, hydration, and nutritional parameters were assessed, with echocardiography performed a day post-HD.

RESULTS Demographic data, HD quality, blood pressure, therapy, and most echocardiographic indicators showed no significant differences. Asymptomatic patients exhibited noteworthy cardiac structural and functional abnormalities: 55.5% had left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and 72.2% had increased left atrial volume index (LAVi). Concentric hypertrophy was observed in 7/18 asymptomatic patients, while 15/61 symptomatic patients demonstrated concentric left ventricle remodeling. In comparison to group 2, group 1 displayed higher hemoglobin, uric acid, and miRNA 133 concentrations, along with better hydration control and higher lean tissue index.

CONCLUSION This study advocates for routine echocardiographic and cardiac examinations for all HD patients from the treatment's onset, irrespective of symptoms. Additionally, maintaining optimal volume, nutrition, urate concentrations, and hemoglobin is crucial for comprehensive cardiac care in this population.
Properties of composite fuel based on pyrocarbon, a product of tire pyrolysis
Authors:   A.V. Dumansky Institute of Colloid and Water Chemistry, Makarov A.S. , Shkutkova O.V. ,   A.V. Dumansky Institute of Colloid and Water Chemistry, Klishchenko R.E. , Lysenko L.L. , Kosygina I.M. , Zinin V.V. , Konoval O.A.
Published: May 2024

The possibility of utilizing technical pyrocarbon, produced by the pyrolysis of used automobile tires, in a composite suspension fuel is demonstrated. It has been found that pyrocarbon-based systems without additives are not suitable for use as fuel due to thickening and hydrophobic properties. To improve the properties of the composite suspension fuels, the influence of stabilizer, plasticizer, and dispersant additives on the rheological properties of the composite suspension fuel was investigated. Carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium lignosulfonate, NF, C-3 (a condensation product of -naphthalene sulfonic acid and formaldehyde), and humic acids were used as additives. It was determined that the surface of unmodified pyrocarbon has a positive surface charge in the pH range of 2–10. Addition of reagents induces a change in the surface charge of pyrocarbon and surface recharging. It is shown that the best results in composite suspension fuel compositions are achieved with the addition of C-3 at a concentration of 2 wt.%. The effective viscosity of the obtained suspensions at a shear rate of 9 s–1 does not exceed 0.8 Pas. This allows the use of the obtained systems with additives as liquid suspension fuels.
Removal of chromium (VI) from aqueous solutions by granular composites based on laponite and alginate ionotropically cross-linked by iron and zirconium ions
Authors:   National Technical University of Ukraine ", Pylypenko I.V. ,   Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute"
Published: May 2024

The conducted research established the porous structure of the materials through low-temperature nitrogen adsorption. It was demonstrated that the nitrogen sorption isotherms for the investigated samples belong to Type IV with H4 hysteresis associated with bottle-like pores. The specific surface area of the granulated composite samples was determined, ranging from 99 to 111 m2/g. Additionally, it was shown that an increase in iron content in the samples leads to a reduction in micropore content. Active centers on the material's surface, primarily composed of hydroxyl groups, were investigated using infrared spectroscopy. The kinetics of chromium (VI) adsorption were explored, and it was established that the iron-to-zirconium ratio in the reinforcement solutions hardly affects the duration of establishing adsorption equilibrium, which is approximately 60 minutes. Pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models were applied to describe the kinetics of the adsorption process. The dependence of the chromium (VI) removal efficiency on the solution pH was determined. It was demonstrated that the synthesized samples exhibited high adsorption in acidic conditions with a sharp decline when transitioning to neutral and alkaline environments. It was shown that the maximum sorption capacities of the synthesized granulated composite samples significantly depend on the ratio of iron and zirconium ions. One of the most efficient samples is that with 50% Fe and 50% Zr, exhibiting a maximum sorption capacity of 13.29 mol/g at pH 6. The use of Langmuir and Freundlich models allowed establishing the fundamental adsorption properties of the materials.