bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE BUSINESS FAILURE PREDICTION MODELS IN THE IBERIAN TRANSPORT COMPANIES
Authors: Moreira Cândido Jorge Carvalho Peres , Antão Mário Alexandre Guerreiro , Terrinca Catarina Carvalho Peres , Geraldes João Manuel Afonso
Published: February 2024

Purpose: validate, in the existing models, its effectiveness and ability to provide useful information for decision-making, allowing the choice of one that presented as the best alternative for predicting bankruptcy for companies in the transport economic sector (NACE H) up to 6 years before it occurs.
 
Theoretical Framework: in the last decades, since Beaver's (1966) preliminary work in bankruptcy prediction, followed by Altman (1968) models, numerous authors developed different techniques and models to this purpose. Of all the techniques used and developed in almost 60 years of bankruptcy prediction study, Multivariate Discriminant Analysis (MDA) stands out. Despite its limitations, it best combines management and usage simplicity offering stable levels of efficiency.
 
Design/Methodology/Approach: we selected, Portuguese and Spanish companies, from the transport and storage economic sector, subject to statutory auditing, in a sample of 22 companies, considered healthy, according to the most common criterion in the literature: Equity above zero, during six and that in the seventh were considered bankrupt (Equity below zero) and another, paired with the previous one, by Total Assets and Revenues, with 36 companies that presented Equity above zero throughout all the analyzed period, granting the analyzed models full forecasting potential. Were used 21 multi-sectorial models, for different timelines and geographies, with a greater presence in the literature, or developed by Edward Altman, a unique researcher on this subject, between 1979 and 2014.
 
Findings: As a main conclusion, in addition to the description of models and techniques, the formulations developed by Carvalho das Neves (1998), Lizarraga (1998) and Monelos et al. (2011) were the best predictors of bankruptcy, up to 6 years before it occurs, for Portuguese and Spanish companies in the transport economic sector (NACE H).
 
Research, Practical & Social Implications: This information can be used by any interested entity to improve current conditions, optimize and enhance the usage the bankruptcy forecast models.
 
Originality/Value: The global financial crisis and the growing number of company closures make it crucial to understand the causes of corporate failure, with emphasis on forecasting and anticipating it.
Aristotle’s Static World and Traditional Education – A Secondary Publication
Authors: Oh Jun-Young , Son Yeon-A
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to understand the characteristics of Aristotle’s view of nature that is, the staticview of the universe, and find implications for education. Plato sought to interpret the natural world using a rationalapproach rather than an incomplete observation. He thought that viewing the world from the perspective of geometry andmathematical regularity was the best way to understand the world. On the other hand, Aristotle believed that we couldunderstand the world through observations. His worldview portrayed a static reality, imbued with individual purpose anda sense of deliberate legitimacy. In addition, the natural motion of earthly objects and celestial bodies, which are naturalmovements towards the world of order, are the original actions. Aristotle thought that all natural things would carry outsome movement. Above all, Plato and Aristotle view the world as a static universe. It is possible to fully grasp the worldby approaching the objective nature that exists independently of human beings with human reason and observation.After all, for Aristotle, like Plato, their belief that the natural world was subject to regular and orderly laws of nature,despite the complexity and seemingly unceasing changes, became the basis of Western thought. The universe, rooted inthe metaphysical perspective of ancient Greece and carried forward in modern philosophy, has traditionally depended ondeveloping a dichotomy of comprehension, distinguishing between what is already accomplished or predetermined, theideal and the inevitable. This dichotomy forms the foundation of traditional teaching methods that often do not prioritizethe opinions of learners.
Public Relations Strategy in Socializing the KALIMASADA Program to Enhance Public Services: Study in Surabaya – Ketintang Sub-District
Authors: Priambodo Lambang , Rosy Brillian
Published: February 2024

The Kalimasada Program is a technology-based initiative initiated by the Civil Registration and Civil Registry Office (Dispendukcapil) of Surabaya City, designed to expedite Adminduk services for the residents of Surabaya. The process aims to enhance public services, thereby achieving the goals set by the program. This research aims to understand the public relations (PR) strategies employed by Ketintang Sub-District in promoting the Kalimasada Program to improve public services. The study is in the Ketintang Sub-District of Surabaya City. The research method used is qualitative with a descriptive qualitative approach through purposive sampling techniques for subject selection. The results of the research indicate that, overall, the public relations strategies employed by Ketintang Sub-District in promoting the Kalimasada Program have had a positive impact, as evidenced by an increase in the number of residents utilizing Adminduk services through the Kalimasada Program, although not yet to its full potential. The public relations strategies involve providing assistance to the RT (neighborhood association) leaders, utilizing social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp, conducting face-to-face socialization with residents, and providing services at the already-socialized neighborhood community centers (balai RW). These PR strategies effectively promoted the Kalimasada Program and contributed to the improvement of public services. The success of these public relations strategies in promoting the Kalimasada Program is evident in residents' feedback, as they feel facilitated and experience faster Adminduk processing due to their awareness of the Kalimasada Program introduced by Ketintang Sub-District.
Influence of Perceived Usefulness on Using the Shopee Application: Study on College Students
Authors: Azlyna Via Nur , Nugraha Jaka
Published: February 2024

This research was conducted to know the effect of perceived usefulness on attitude, in the shopee application using the TAM (Technology Acceptance Model). This research was conducted at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Surabaya State University with the type of research used, namely quantitative with an explanatory research approach. The samples used in this study were from the Office Admistrasion Education student class of 2019, Economics Education student class of 2019, Commerce Education 2019, and Accounting Education 2019 with a total of 218 student. The data collection technique uses a questionnaire distributed via google form, besides that the data analysis technique in this study uses variant-based Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), namely by using the Generalized Structured Component Analysis (GSCA) method.
Developing The Instrument of E-Learning Evaluation: Study at Vocational School
Authors: Nurrahman Arief , Cahyani Meita Dwi , Nurfatmawati Lisa , Wibowo Hendri
Published: February 2024

This study aims to develop an instrument for the evaluation of e-learning with Learning Management System (LMS) in vocation school majoring in office administration. The instrument development from CSE-UCLA evaluation model. The sample used was cluster random sampling technique, taken at the small-scale trial stage were 85 respondents and wide-scale trial stage 235 respondents. The instrument was validated employing Aiken, construct validation used was EFA and CFA, Cronbach Alpha was employed the reliability. The result showed that there were five instrument constructs for implementating e-learning. The content validity using the Aiken index indicated a valid item. The validity of the instrument construct was conducted using EFA with a KMO value of 0.751 and each item had an anti-image coefficient >0.5 which means the factor analysis requirements for future met. The fit model based on the CFA result showed the value of Chi-square (X^2) = 239.61, df = 179, P-value = 0.416, RMSEA = 0.000. The loading factor value was 0.41-0.89 (>0.30) which meant that the item was valid. The reliability of the instrument showed a value of 0.791 that all instruments developed were reliable
Development of E-Module for Automation of Public Relations and Protocol Management using Articulate Storyline 3
Authors: Haliza Risna DewiNur , Trisnawati Novi
Published: February 2024

Education is a learning process that produces intelligent and educated individuals. The learning process is supported by lesson plans, media, and teaching materials. The development of teaching materials for E-Modules based on Articulate Storyline 3 is motivated by the limited ability of students to comprehend learning materials used in the form of printed books in Public Relations and Protocol subjects in class XII automation of office administration at state vocational high school 2 Buduran Sidoarjo, so that development is needed to support the learning process and make it easier for students to understand the material. This study aims to determine the feasibility of e-module teaching materials based on Articulate Storyline 3. It can be applied as teaching materials for class XII students in Public Relations and Protocol subjects. This development research uses the ADDIE development model, but is modified into Four (4) stages, namely:  1) Analysis, 2) Design, 3) Development, and (4) Implementation. Based on the results of the material expert validation, the Articulate Storyline 3-based Public Relations e-module obtained a score of 67 which was included in the " Appropriate " criteria. The results of linguist validation obtained a score 62, which was included in the "Appropriate" criteria. The results of the graphic expert validation obtained a score of 84 which is included in the "Very Appropriate" criteria. The results of student responses obtained a score of 94 including the criteria "Very Appropriate". Based on the results of expert validation and student responses, the Public Relations and Protocol e-module based on Articulate Storyline 3 is declared suitable for use as teaching material.
The Effect of Adversity Quotient and Locus of Control on Entrepreneurial Intentions on Universitas Mulawarman Students
Authors: Ramadani Desita Putri , Haidar Kadori , Rahayu Vitria Puri , Ellyawati Noor
Published: February 2024

There are 3 research objectives to determine whether adversity quotient affects entrepreneurial intentions, whether the locus of control affects entrepreneurial intentions, and whether adversity quotient and locus of control affect entrepreneurial intentions in Universitas Mulawarman students majoring in Economics Education. This study utilizes a quantitative method combined with descriptive research. Multiple regression analysis is used for data analysis. The findings indicate that adversity quotient and locus of control influence entrepreneurial intentions, as seen in the student's tendencies to act upon said intentions, such as attending seminars and doing research on the topics of entrepreneurship. This tendency to act arises when students don't let the difficult situation affect them too much because of their belief in their ability to control their situation, which often means that these students have higher confidence in their business pursuits. This shows that adversity quotient and locus of control can be seen in the sense of worth and the ability to identify the source of the financial problems that these students possess, even though they are often hampered by limited resources.
The Effect of Self-Efficacy, Socioeconomic Parents, and Job Expectations on Interest in Continuing Masters Studies
Authors: Krisdayanti Witri , Rosy Brillian
Published: February 2024

The study aimed to see the effect of self-efficacy, socioeconomic parents, and job expectations on the interest in continuing master's studies in Office Administration Education students at Surabaya State University. The study used a quantitative method of associative approach. Research data were obtained by distributing questionnaires via google form. The research subjects were 55 undergraduate student populations of Office Administration Education Study Program at Surabaya State University Class of 2019. Using the total sampling form, all members of the population were determined as research samples. Instrument construction testing uses validity and reliability tests, while data analysis uses classical assumption tests, multiple linear regression analysis, and hypothesis testing assisted by IBM SPSS 23. The research findings show that partially there is a positive and simultaneously significant effect of the variables of self-efficacy, socioeconomic parents, and job expectations on the interest in continuing master's studies in Surabaya State University Office Administration Education students.
Application Qualification and Mailing Coordination by Using Sisumaker
Authors: Yahya Ridhony , Irfaniah Hikmah
Published: February 2024

This study aims to describe the qualification of the Sisumaker as a mailing management application at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia and explore how coordination is performed in mailing management within The Sisumaker application. It is qualitative research using the case study method. Therefore, research data were obtained through interviews and observations. Purposive sampling was used to select the informants. Data analysis was done through data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. In this study, the author uses coordination theory as the basis for the research theory. The results show that the Sisumaker application has fulfilled several features needed in a records management application: integrated, web publishing, simple but feature-rich, and portable. Mail management has the same stages as records management: creation and storage, distribution and use, maintenance, and disposition. Coordination of mail management in the Sisumaker application is present at every stage of mail management and involves several components, namely goals, activities, actors, and interdependence. All components complement each other in every stage of records management within the application.
Transitioning into a Professional Teacher: EFL Preservice Teachers' Anxiety in Teaching Practicum
Authors: Mardhatillah Mardhatillah , Widiati Utami , Sujiatmoko Ahmad Heki
Published: February 2024

Foreign language anxiety has been proven to be an important issue in language learning, according to research on language learning in foreign languages. This study aims to determine the level of anxiety experienced by English preservice teachers. Most research projects in the past concerned learners’ anxiety about students who learning English. To fill the gap, the current study tries to deliver a different perspective on classroom anxiety. Thus, the current study investigates anxiety from preservice teachers’ points of view quantitatively. The current study examines the level of anxiety by adopting the Foreign Language Teaching Anxiety Scale (FLTAS) by Yoon (2012). Next, the scale in the form of a questionnaire has been responded to by 27 English preservice teachers. Further, the results show that the preservice teachers have a moderate level of anxiety. Overall, the study outlines the principal factors causing and affecting preservice anxiety about teaching English as a foreign language in the classroom
МОДЕЛЬ УРАХУВАННЯ БІЧНОГО ВІТРУ ПРИ ПЛАНУВАННІ МАРШРУТІВ ПОЛЬОТУ БЕЗПІЛОТНОГО ЛІТАЛЬНОГО АПАРАТУ
Authors: Kulish Ruslan
Published: February 2024

В статті ґрунтуючись на сучасних методах оптимізації траєкторія польоту безпілотного літального апарату (БпЛА), що враховують існуючи обмеження, розроблена модель врахування бічного вітру при плануванні маршрутів польоту БпЛА, яка ґрунтується на побудові оптимального фільтра Калмана. Дана модель дозволяє корегувати маршрутні точки БпЛА при виконанні завдань моніторингу елементів критичної інфраструктури, що зменшує маршрут польоту БпЛА при виконанні завдання моніторингу з урахуванням складних умов польоту та зменшує ступінь завантаження бортового обчислювального пристрою БпЛА.
LEVERAGING CLOUD TECHNOLOGIES AND SERVERLESS ARCHITECTURE FOR EFFICIENT WEB DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY FROM REAL-WORLD APPLICATION
Authors: Kolesnikov O. , Golovko G. , Yastreba V. , Piatyntsev Ye.
Published: February 2024

This article provides a review of modern cloud solutions and serverless architecture using Backend as a Service (BaaS) and Function as a Service (FaaS) architecture as an example. In the scope of the article, a parallel is drawn between the consistently growing computing power and cloud technologies' growing popularity and availability for business. The results of an analytical review include a list of the most popular cloud providers from leading corporations and a comparison of low-level and high-level cloud technologies. The advantages and disadvantages of Google Cloud Platform (GCP) and Google Firebase are presented, where GCP is a low-level cloud provider and Firebase is a high-level cloud provider. The importance of understanding the context and specifics of the project when choosing cloud project solutions is emphasized which helps to maintain a balance between flexibility and development efficiency. The study introduces the practical utilization of the Supabase cloud platform for the development of a modern web application. The article convincingly proves the actuality of using Supabase for the development of an information system to optimize the modern personnel recruitment process, indicating specific advantages. An example of Supabase Edge Functions usage to generate feedback using the OpenAI Completions API and the Deno software platform is presented. The article convincingly proves that the use of cloud technologies is a modern strategy for building flexible, efficient, and scalable information systems. The advantages of the usage of the provision of infrastructure provided by world industry leaders are summarized.
ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ РІВНІВ ІНФРАЗВУКУ У НАВЧАЛЬНИХ ПРИМІЩЕННЯХ ТА ВИЗНАЧЕННЯ УМОВ ЇХ НОРМАЛІЗАЦІЇ
Authors: Burdeina N.
Published: February 2024

Дослідження присвячене вирішенню науково-практичної проблеми нормалізації рівнів інфразвуку в загальних навчальних аудиторіях, комп’ютерних класах, спеціалізованих лабораторіях закладів вищої освіти та наданню рекомендації щодо засобів та заходів з їх нормалізації. Проведений аналіз існуючих досліджень, публікацій та прикладних розробок щодо заходів та засобів нормалізації рівнів інфразвуку в навчальних та виробничих умовах. Виконано натурні вимірювання рівнів інфразвуку в приміщеннях закладів вищої освіти. Вимірювання інфразвуку здійснювалося каліброваним приладом ОКТАВА-110А – шумоміром 1 класу, що має вбудовані октавні та третинооктавні фільтри. Виявлено, що в певних приміщеннях закладів вищої освіти значення інфразвуку наближаються до гранично допустимих відповідно до європейських вимог – 90 дБ. Значні різниці показів приладу за шкалами «Lin» та «А» свідчать про суттєву присутність інфразвуку в загальному акустичному забрудненні. При цьому на деяких локаціях навчальних корпусів і прилеглих територій виявлено неочікувану, повторювальну наявність рівнів інфразвуку 95-105 дБ. Ці факти потребують встановлення джерел підвищеного інфразвукового навантаження на акустичне середовище та їх подальших досліджень. Перспективним напрямом підвищення безпеки студентів, викладачів та співробітників є комплексне обстеження приміщень та прилеглої території університету з наступним складанням мапи акустичного забруднення середовища для розробки системи заходів безпеки на принципах розумної достатності.
Measuring waning protection from seasonal influenza vaccination during nine influenza seasons, Ontario, Canada, 2010/11 to 2018/19
Authors: Chung Hannah , Campitelli Michael A , Buchan Sarah A , Campigotto Aaron , Crowcroft Natasha S , Gubbay Jonathan B , Jung James KH , Karnauchow Timothy , Katz Kevin , McGeer Allison J , McNally J Dayre , Richardson David C , Richardson Susan E , Rosella Laura C , Russell Margaret L , Schwartz Kevin L , Simor Andrew , Smieja Marek , Sundaram Maria E , Warshawsky Bryna F , Zahariadis George , Kwong Jeffrey C ,   on behalf of the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Provincial Collaborative Network (PCN) Investigators
Published: February 2024

Background

Waning immunity from seasonal influenza vaccination can cause suboptimal protection during peak influenza activity. However, vaccine effectiveness studies assessing waning immunity using vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals are subject to biases.

Aim

We examined the association between time since vaccination and laboratory-confirmed influenza to assess the change in influenza vaccine protection over time.

Methods

Using linked laboratory and health administrative databases in Ontario, Canada, we identified community-dwelling individuals aged ≥ 6 months who received an influenza vaccine before being tested for influenza by RT-PCR during the 2010/11 to 2018/19 influenza seasons. We estimated the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for laboratory-confirmed influenza by time since vaccination (categorised into intervals) and for every 28 days.

Results

There were 53,065 individuals who were vaccinated before testing for influenza, with 10,264 (19%) influenza-positive cases. The odds of influenza increased from 1.05 (95% CI: 0.91–1.22) at 42–69 days after vaccination and peaked at 1.27 (95% CI: 1.04–1.55) at 126–153 days when compared with the reference interval (14–41 days). This corresponded to 1.09-times increased odds of influenza every 28 days (aOR = 1.09; 95% CI: 1.04–1.15). Individuals aged 18–64 years showed the greatest decline in protection against influenza A(H1N1) (aORper 28 days = 1.26; 95% CI: 0.97–1.64), whereas for individuals aged ≥ 65 years, it was against influenza A(H3N2) (aORper 28 days = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.08–1.33). We did not observe evidence of waning vaccine protection for individuals aged < 18 years.

Conclusions

Influenza vaccine protection wanes during an influenza season. Understanding the optimal timing of vaccination could ensure robust protection during seasonal influenza activity.
The 7th Bishop Lecture: The mechanics of coarse-grained geomaterials at meso- and micro-scales
Authors: Coop Matthew
Published: February 2024

In order to move towards discrete analyses of soil behaviour, we need to develop a new range of apparatus and testing techniques. The lecture describes attempts to develop these new apparatus and presents data for a range of coarse-grained geomaterials at the single particle scale. The roles of the particle morphology and hence geological origin are discussed and are shown to influence both the contact mechanics and particle breakage behaviour. The mechanics of single particles are shown to be more complex than generally assumed and will require new means of modelling to account for the significant plasticity that occurs at particle contacts and patterns of breakage that are strongly influenced by the origins of particles and their effect on their morphology.
Resistansi Escherichia coli patogen asal ayam petelur terhadap beberapa antibiotik
Authors: Suhendi Adnan Rizal , Afiff Usamah , Handharyani Ekowati
Published: February 2024

Penggunaan antibiotik yang tidak tepat pada ternak menyebabkan munculnya resistansi bakteri terhadap antibiotik. Salah satu bakteri yang telah dilaporkan resistan adalah Escherichia coli sehingga pengobatan untuk infeksi bakteri ini menjadi kurang efektif. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan resistansi E. coli patogen yang berasal dari usap kloaka ayam petelur terhadap antibiotik. Sebanyak 20 sampel usap kloaka diidentifikasi keberadaan E. coli melalui pengamatan makroskopis, mikroskopis, uji biokimia, dan fermentasi karbohidrat uji patogenisitas dilakukan dengan menggunakan media Congo red. Isolat yang patogen selanjutnya diuji kepekaannya terhadap 6 jenis antibiotik dengan uji kepekaan difusi cakram Kirby-Bauer. Penelitian memperoleh 15 isolat E. coli dan uji Congo red mendapatkan 4 isolat E. coli patogen.  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa 75% isolat resistan terhadap azitromisin, 100% isolat resistan intermediet terhadap doksisiklin dan siprofloksasin. Sementara itu, 75% isolat masih sensitif terhadap gentamisin dan 100% isolat sensitif terhadap kloramfenikol dan amoksisilin. Penelitian ini berhasil mengisolasi E. coli yang bersifat patogen dari ayam petelur yang telah resistan terhadap beberapa antibiotik yang diujikan.
Analysis of Sumatran Earthquake Coulomb Stress Changes in Geothermal Potential in Rianite, Samosir Regency
Authors: Sinaga Goldberd Harmuda Duva , Nainggolan Juliper
Published: February 2024

Increasing energy demand and high world oil prices are making countries turn to geothermal energy use. Indonesia is a country that has geothermal energy due to Indonesia's geographical location and geological conditions, which is located between three active earth plates so that Indonesia has 240 volcanoes and often experiences earthquakes. The 2003-2013 earthquake data obtained are coordinates, magnitude, depth, focal mechanism and all these data are analyzed in the coulomb stress method. Rianiate geothermal measurement data in March 2013 included geothermal location, hotspring and air temperature, pH, and geochemical measurements. The analysis results showed that the highest coulomb stress value was at a depth of 90 km of 0.56 bar while the shear and normal values were 0.452 bar and 0.251 bar. The result of the spread of coulomb stress is to the northeast, east and southeast. Then the results of the analysis of the direction of distribution of coulomb stress are compared to the location of the hotspring based on a decrease in temperature, the change in the potential of hotspring 1 leads to hotspring 2, 3, and 4 in the opposite direction, namely northwest or leads to the largest source of colulomb stress, so that Coulomb Stress Changes affect indirectly changes in the geothermal potential of Rianiate
P129 Arterial Stiffness in Bicuspid or Tricuspid Aortic Valve Aortopathy Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Crossing the Physical and Hemodynamic limits?
Authors: Pascaner Ariel , Houriez—Gombaud-Saintonge Sophia , Soulat Gilles , Gencer Umit , Dietenbeck Thomas , Chenoune Yasmina , Kachenoura Nadjia , Mousseaux Elie , Craiem Damian , Bollache Emilie
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To provide a comprehensive assessment of aortic stiffness, through both local and regional distensibility and pulse wave velocity (PWV), in patients with either a tricuspid (TAV) or bicuspid (BAV) aortic valve and/or aortic dilation using MRI.

Methods

We included 18 patients with TAV and dilated ascending aorta (DTAV, 65 ± 14 years, 11 males), 19 patients with a non-stenotic BAV without severe regurgitation (55 ± 15 years, 17 males), both paired for age, gender and pressures to control groups. All subjects underwent thoracic aortic axial 2D+t and sagittal 3D+t velocity-encoded MRI and carotid applanation tonometry. Local ascending (AA) and descending (DA) aortic distensibility as well as aortic arch PWV were automatically measured from 2D+t data [1], while regional AA and DA PWV were calculated from 3D+t data [2].

Results

As expected, both DTAV and BAV groups showed significantly increased maximal aortic diameters when compared to their respective control group: 47 ± 5 vs 31 ± 3 mm and 44 ± 4 vs 31 ± 4 mm, respectively (p < 0.001). However, no significant changes were found in local and regional aortic stiffness indices between both patient groups and their matched controls (p ≥ 0.05).

Conclusion

2D or 3D data-derived distensibility or PWV concomitantly and unexpectedly indicate that aortic stiffness was unchanged in patients with aortopathy when compared to matched healthy controls. Since fundamental laminal flow conditions and elastic properties driving Moens-Korteweg models are not reached in highly dilated aortas, the associated turbulent flow, local flow disorganization, changes in derived pressure gradients and flow-wall forces might be more suitable for an early discrimination of patients with valve/aneurismal disease.
P136 Determinants of Arterial Stiffness in Children Using Population-indexed Anthropometric and Hemodynamic Parameters
Authors: Cai Tommy , Meroni Alice , Qasem Ahmad , Butlin Mark , Ayer Julian , Celermajer David , Avolio Alberto , Skilton Michael
Published: February 2024

Background

Arterial stiffness is a significant cardiovascular risk factor. Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) is the standard for measuring arterial stiffness, but indices such as central augmentation index (cAIx) and carotid artery elasticity (cE[p]) also correlate to arterial stiffness. Early-life determinants of arterial stiffening are not well understood. We assessed the relationship between population-indexed anthropometric and hemodynamic parameters, and arterial stiffness in healthy children.

Methods

97 healthy children between 2 to 20 years old were recruited. Z-scores for height, BMI, and brachial systolic (bSBP) and diastolic (bDBP) blood pressure were calculated [1,2]. cfPWV and central arterial waveforms were measured using the Sphygmocor XCEL and CvMS devices (AtCor, Sydney) respectively. Carotid artery maximum and minimum diameters were measured by high-resolution ultrasonography. cfPWV, cE[p], and cAIx were calculated.

Results

In bivariate analysis, cfPWV was associated with age (b = 0.52, p < 0.01) and bSBP z-score (b = 0.24, p = 0.03). These associations were independent of sex, height z-score, BMI z-score, and bDBP z-score in a multivariable model (R2 = 0.23). cE[p] was significantly associated with age (b = 0.42, p < 0.01), bSBP z-score (b = 0.45, p < 0.01), and height z-score (b = -0.33, p = 0.01), but only bSBP z-score remained statistically significant in the multivariable model (b = 0.45, p < 0.01; R2 = 0.20). cAIx was not associated with anthropometric or hemodynamic z-scores.

Conclusion

cfPWV is associated with age and bSBP z-score, while cE[p] is associated with bSBP z-score only, suggesting a potentially key association between systolic blood pressure and indices of arterial stiffness independent of age and other parameters of growth during healthy early life.
P147 Association Between Inflammatory Markers of Low Intention and Arterial Stiffness
Authors: Brustolim Daniele , Magalhaes Lucelia , Mariano Yuri Oliveira , Castro Vinicius Louzada , Perrone João Victor , Barreto Júnior Joilson Jesus , Valverde Gabriela
Published: February 2024

Extracellular and biochemical changes in the vessel contribute to the stiffening, this process is determinant for the increase of the Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) and subsequent increase of the central and brachial arterial pressures [1,2]. These vascular alterations are denominated of TOD (target organ damage) and represent a point of association between cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular events [2,3]. Chronic low-grade inflammation associated with endothelial dysfunction and increased number of biomarkers, such as ultra-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), cytokines such as interleukins, fibrinogen, platelets, leukocytes and hematocrit [4,5,6].

Methods

A cross-sectional exploratory study on a representative population of a community in Salvador-Bahia-Brazil. The data came from a including 301 individuals. 150 were initially assessed from December 2016 to May 2019. PWV measurement for the carotid-femoral by an ATCor SphygmoCor, data not demonstrated in this poster. Blood samples were collected to biochemistry analysis, ADVIA1800® (SiemensHealthcare Japan/Canada). The committee for research on human was done.

Results

The data show a predominance of women (65%). Changes in leukocytes, platelets and hematocrit were more prevalent in men, as observed in Table 1. Mean values of changes in ultra-sensitive CRP values were higher in women (0.43) than in men (0, 25).

Conclusion

Studies correlate the markers evaluated in this study as positive predictive factors for arterial stiffening. Data from the literature show these preliminary changes present in the male population, as observed in our population. The cytokines IL-1, 6 and 18, the chemokines MCP-1 and 3 and the adhesion molecules VCAM, ICAM are being evaluated to better respond to these findings.

Table 1

WBC
HEMATOCRIT
PLATELETS

Column B vs Column A
WBC vs WBC
Ht WOMAN vs Ht MAN
PLAT WOMAN vs PLAT MAN

Unpaired t-test

p-value
0.0004
0.0246
0.0337

p-value summary
***
*
*

Significantly different (p < 0.05)?
Yes
Yes
Yes

One- or two-tailed p-value?
Two-tailed
Two-tailed
Two-tailed

t, df
t = 4.840, df = 12
t = 2.980, df = 6
t = 2.397, df = 12

How big is the difference?

Mean of column A
8950
−3.567
311.3

Mean of column B
5767
3.167
250.2

Difference between means (B - A) ± SEM
−3183 ± 657.7
1.197
−61.09 ± 25.49

95% confidence interval
−4616 to −1750
−6.496 to -0.6378
−116.6 to −5.553

R squared (eta squared)
0.6613
0.5968
0.3237
P150 Study of Heamodynamic and Macrocirculation Indices Between Uncontrolled Naïve Hypertensives and Well Controlled Diabetic Patients
Authors: Triantafyllou Areti , Koletsos Nick , Dipla Konstantina , Zografou Ioanna , Avgerinos Xristos , Papadopoulos Stauros , Zafeiridis Alexandros-Savvas , Kritikou Stella , Gkaliagkousi Eugenia , Zafeiridis Andreas , Douma Stella
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Both Type II Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension have been associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and linked to impairments in micro- and macrocirculation. However, previous studies examining micro-and macrocirculation in DM mainly include patients with comorbid hypertension. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare hemodynamic and vascular indices in DM and non-DM patients, independently of their hypertension status.

Materials and Methods

Fifty-seven DM patients and 79 non-DM participants were enrolled. Participants underwent physical examination, ambulatory BP monitoring and estimation of pulse wave velocity (PWV) and intima-media thickness (IMT). Resting hemodynamic parameters were assessed by impedance cardiography. Participants also performed a 3-min-submaximal isometric handgrip (30% MVC) with continuous beat-by-beat BP/HR assessment (Finapress). The double product (DP = systolic blood pressure* heart rate) during HG was calculated, as an index of myocardial stress.

Results

No differences were observed in age, BMI, and resting BP among groups. Patients with DM had significantly higher PWV and IMT (p < 0.01) but lower velocity (VI) and acceleration index (ACI) compared to non-DM individuals (p < 0.05). Hypertensives had significantly higher myocardial stress during exercise compared to normotensives, independently of the presence of diabetes.

Conclusion

Despite similar blood pressure levels in DM and non-DM groups, the DM patients had higher PWV and IMT than non-DM participants. There were no differences between patients with isolated adequately controlled DM or isolated hypertension in macrocirculation indices, suggesting a possible equal impact of the above diseases on the macrovascular network.
Effect of tillage, fertilizers and storage structures on quality shelf life of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata Poir) in south west Nigeria
Authors: Oyewusi, Isaac Kayode  , Oladele Akeju  , Owoyemi, Oladele Victor
Published: February 2024

This study examined the effect of tillage, fertilizers and storage structures on quality shelf life of white yam in South West Nigeria. The study was a factorial experiment consisting of Tillage, Fertilizers and Storage Structure. The tillage system involved Heap Tillage (HT) and Ridge Tillage (RT), while Fertilizers involved Poultry Manure (PM), N15P15K15 (NPK) and Control (CLT) and two types of Storage Structures namely; Traditional Barn (TB) and Open Sided Storage Structure (OSSS) were combined to form the treatments. The experiment was a 2x3x2 factorial combination arranged in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD). The treatments were replicated three times for each location respectively. A total of 72 ridges and 144 heaps were used to make a population of 288 plants per location. The tubers were weighed to ensure uniformity before planting. The plot size was 18mx18m square with a pathway of 1.0m between blocks making a total of 324 square metres. At harvest, the tubers were weighed immediately. They were then kept separately in the two storage structures namely: Traditional Barn (TB) and the Open Side Storage Structure (OSSS) for a period of 3 months. After the 3rd months of storage, the tubers were examined and data collected. The weight of each tuber from each storage structure was taken periodically to evaluate the weight loss and assess the keeping quality periodically. The findings of this study demonstrated the significant influence of tillage, fertilizers, and storage structures on the quality, shelf life, nutrient use efficiency, and nutrient composition of white yam. Excessive fertilizer application was found to increase rotting and deterioration levels. Hence, farmers and stakeholders should carefully consider fertilizer application rates to minimize post-harvest losses and enhance food security. Further investigations are needed to explore the underlying mechanisms responsible for the observed effects and to optimize fertilizer management practices for yam storage. Organic fertilization enhances the nutrient use efficiency and nutritional quality of yam, while appropriate storage structures, play a crucial role in preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of the harvested tubers. Based on the result of the study, open sided storage should be considered by producers of yams for storing their harvested tubers due to the facts that, it performed well in minimizing nutrient lost, weight loss and decay to considerable level and prevented pests/rodents attack on yam tubers.
Ethical integrity in doctoral research: A focus on classroom remediation
Authors: Wazim R. Sharif
Published: February 2024

This article delves into the paramount importance of upholding ethical integrity in doctoral research, particularly focusing on classroom remediation within secondary education contexts. It provides a comprehensive framework delineating ethical guidelines crucial for maintaining integrity throughout the research process. Key areas of focus include risk assessment, informed consent, privacy and confidentiality, data handling and reporting, and strategies for mitigating mistakes and negligence. Drawing from existing literature and ethical standards, this article underscores the need for meticulous planning and adherence to ethical principles to safeguard the well-being of research participants and ensure the validity and reliability of research outcomes. By prioritising ethical considerations, researchers can navigate complex ethical dilemmas and contribute meaningfully to scientific knowledge while upholding the integrity of their work.
An analysis of Nepal's federal health system in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Nawa Raj Subba
Published: February 2024

Nepal's public health slogan was 'Health for All' with integrated community health services in 1991. The female community health volunteer network was created. District Public health offices (DPHO) managed these programs in their districts. After 2008 federalism, 2017 brought federal, provincial, and local governments. The federal health system substituted the administrative District Public / Health Offices in districts. The local governments or health institutions now oversee the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The federal and provincial authorities should have employed qualified professionals to oversee public health at local health facilities. Healthcare efficacy and goal attainment are concerns today. This study did a microscopic investigation using health system studies. The researcher conducted field observations and stakeholder interviews and participated in public discussions. Data from Nepal's federal health system's community status was compared using SWOT analysis. The study delved into specific research gaps thoroughly. According to previous research, health infrastructure could be more effective with financial expenditures. A hypothesis was formed after comparing further information to domestic and international situations. The researcher emphasizes the need for good governance and suggests allocating 6% of national GDP to health spending, in line with WHO recommendations. To fulfil the needs of the healthcare sector, deliver quality medical services, and attain SDGs, it is imperative to ensure the presence of adequately trained health professionals at the local government level. The head of the local health institution must conduct administrative work connected to public health. Hence, public health-trained health staff are needed there.
A case of death in a patient with Marfan syndrome after re-infection with SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Alpidovskaya O. V.
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus has shown a wide range of manifestations, including cardiovascular. A clinical description of left ventricular aneurysm rupture in a 33-year-old patient after infection with SARS-CoV-2 is presented.
EVALUASI USABILITY APLIKASI WEBEX MEETINGS MENGGUNAKAN SYSTEM USABILITY SCALE (SUS)
Authors: Setiawati Ni Luh Putu Lilis Sinta , Dewi Desak Ayu Sista , Utami Ni Made Cyntia
Published: February 2024

Webex Meetings merupakan platform layanan penyedia video konferensi online yang digunakan secara resmi oleh Universitas Udayana untuk mendukung keberlangsungan perkuliahan daring. Melalui observasi pada beberapa pelaksanaan perkuliahan, terdapat tenaga pendidik yang mengalami kesulitan dalam memanfaatkan beberapa fitur Webex Meetings meliputi: polling, breakout session, share content, dan reactions. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melakukan evaluasi tingkat kemudahpakaian (usability) dari online video conferencing platform Webex Meetings dan diharapkan dapat disusun usulan perbaikan untuk meningkatkan performa usability dari Webex Meetings. Evaluasi usability Webex Meetings dilakukan dengan dua metode yaitu system usability scale (SUS) dan retrospective think aloud (RTA). SUS merupakan kuesioner yang digunakan untuk mengukur tingkat kemudahpakaian dari pengguna terhadap Webex Meetings, sedangkan RTA digunakan untuk mengetahui tanggapan pengguna secara verbal ketika menggunakan aplikasi Webex Meetings. Dalam penelitian ini dianalisis korelasi antara tingkat kemudahpakaian dan tingkat keberhasilan pengerjaan tugas. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat korelasi antara tingkat kemudahpakaian dan tingkat keberhasilan pengerjaan tugas penggunaan fitur-fitur Webex Meetings. Hasil analisis kuesioner SUS menunjukkan bahwa tingkat kemudahpakaian aplikasi Webex Meetings dinilai sebagai OK dengan skala kelas C (nilai SUS sebesar 72,2), menandakan penerimaan yang layak namun masih ada ruang untuk perbaikan. Rekomendasi perbaikan mencakup penyesuaian tata letak untuk meningkatkan aksesibilitas fitur-fitur seperti breakout session dan polling, perhatian terhadap kompatibilitas fitur virtual background dengan berbagai perangkat, serta peningkatan pembaruan otomatis atau pemberitahuan untuk memastikan pengguna memanfaatkan fitur terbaru.

Kata kunci: Webex Meetings, system usability scale, retrospective think aloud
Editorial
Authors: Peña Haro Sandra
Published: February 2024

Editorial de la vigésimo octava edición de Intervención.
Una mirada a la Mapoteca de la Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, México
Authors: Chavarin Pineda Yaselda , Valera Pérez Miguel Ángel , Tenorio Arvide Maria Guadalupe
Published: February 2024

La presente RESEÑA sobre la mapoteca Jorge A. Vivó Escoto de la Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP, México) describe brevemente las actividades que ahí se desarrollan así como algunas de las colecciones que conforman su acervo documental, entre las cuales encontramos mapas, planos, fotografías aéreas y documentos con más de 100 años, que registran los cambios del territorio poblano y mexicano principalmente. También se exponen los retos, quehaceres y proyectos, esto último, con la finalidad de mejorar la gestión de la cartoteca en beneficio de las próximas generaciones. ____ This review of the Jorge A. Vivó Escoto Map Library (MJAV) of the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP, Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla, México) presents a brief description of the activities and outlines some of the collections that conform its documentary archive. Among these we find maps, plans, aerial photographs, as well as documents that date back more than 100 years, primarly documenting the changes of the territory of Puebla and Mexican territory. It also presents the challenges, tasks, and initiatives, with the latter aimed at enhancing the management of the map library for the benefit of future generations.
Validation of the Chinese Version of Penn Alcohol Craving Scale for Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Ko Yu-Yu , Fang Su-Chen , Huang Wei-Chien , Huang Ming-Chyi , Chang Hu-Ming
Published: February 2024

Objective The Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS) is a five-item, single-dimension questionnaire that is used to measure a patient’s alcohol craving. We sought to develop the Chinese version of the PACS (PACS-C) and assess its reliability and validity.Methods A total of 160 Taiwanese patients with alcohol use disorder were enrolled in this study. The internal consistency and concurrent validity of the PASC-C with the visual analogue scale (VAS) for craving, the Yale–Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale for heavy drinking (YBOCS-hd), and the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ) were assessed. The test–retest reliability of the PASC-C was evaluated 1 day after the baseline measurements. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to examine the psychometric properties of the PACS-C.Results The PACS-C exhibited good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α=0.95) and test–retest reliability (r=0.97). This scale showed high correlations with the VAS (r=0.81) and YBOCS-hd (r=0.81 and 0.79 for the obsession and compulsion subscales, respectively), and moderate correlation with the SADQ-C (r=0.47). Furthermore, CFA results revealed that the PACS-C had good fit indices under various models.Conclusion The PACS-C appears to be a reliable and valid tool for assessing alcohol craving in patients with alcohol use disorder in Taiwan.