bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Um modelos de gestão integrada com empoderamento dos gestores públicos: estudo de caso do ICMC/USP
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo, Celestini Paulo Ernesto , Salla João Antonio Aparecido ,   Universidade de São Paulo, Dotta Luiz Carlos ,   Universidade de São Paulo, Thomaz Maria Paula Habitante ,   Universidade de São Paulo, Passador Claudia Souza ,   Universidade de São Paulo
Published: February 2024

Introdução: Leitão (1985) indica que universidades são organizações complexas por sua especialização e por realizar múltiplas tarefas – ensino, pesquisa e extensão à comunidade – interdependentes. Lopes e Bernardes (2005) consideram que o problema de estruturação administrativa das instituições de ensino superior (IES) está na busca de um modelo de gestão que atenda as suas especificidades, cuja origem é baseada em aspectos político-ideológicos. Objetivo: o objetivo geral deste trabalho é verificar se o modelo proposto proporciona melhores resultados para a Instituição e se pode ser replicado para outras IES públicas. Metodologia: Este estudo analisou ações realizadas no ICMC para identificar as características e os elementos que compõem seu modelo de gestão. Análise com base na literatura relacionada à gestão pública, em paralelo foram analisados documentos do ICMC e materiais públicos disponíveis. Foram ouvidos servidores, parte da observação participativa, sobre o modelo de gestão: benefícios e limitações observados, eficiência e eficácia, dificuldades encontradas. Resultados: São resultados do modelo de gestão: a) Maior envolvimento nas ações institucionais, com responsabilidade; b) maior visão sistêmica, pela exposição de informações das decisões; c) maior cooperação entre os servidores; d) maior capacidade de tomada de decisão, resultante da descentralização; e) melhor distribuição da carga de trabalho e redução de estresses nas interfaces. Conclusão: os resultados demonstrados permitem concluir que o sistema de gestão participativa com empoderamento dos servidores tem resultados positivos, podendo ser utilizado em outras IES públicas. Ficou evidente a importância da valorização das pessoas nos serviços públicos, muito superiores às desvantagens observadas.
O desenvolvimento da competência leitora na biblioteca da escola
Authors: Ribeiro Sara Dieny Chaves , Gerlin Meri Nádia Marques , Oliveira Vânia Célia de
Published: February 2024

Introdução: Além do empréstimo de livros, a biblioteca escolar promove serviços de apoio à aprendizagem e consiste em um espaço muito importante para a comunidade escolar. Objetivo: analisar aspectos relacionados com a competência leitora na biblioteca da escola do ensino fundamental e refletir sobre o fortalecimento de processos de recuperação, seleção e uso da informação por meio da leitura crítica de conteúdos informativos disponibilizados no espaço presencial e no ciberespaço. Metodologia: Para isso, realizou-se uma pesquisa de natureza exploratória e descritiva e, quanto aos procedimentos, foi caracterizada como bibliográfica e um estudo de caso. Com a finalidade de fundamentar uma investigação com abordagem qualitativa, a coleta dos dados e a análise das informações sobre a temática foi realizada com base nas práticas consideradas como relevantes pelos bibliotecários escolares e outros profissionais que dialogam sobre o tema na Rede de Estudos das Competências da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo. Resultados: Com base na investigação, referenciamos que a competência leitora é atravessada pela competência em informação sendo essencial na etapa da educação básica, principalmente nos anos finais, momento no qual o aluno necessita compreender criticamente a informação contida nas modalidades literárias, lúdicas, técnicas e científicas armazenadas em formatos multimodais. Conclusão: Essa competência é relevante para que o educando possa combater a desinformação por meio da aquisição de conhecimentos, habilidades e atitudes requeridas na era digital já que os alunos são, em sua maioria, nativos digitais desde a idade escolar, tornando-se uma condição para a obtenção do prazer de ler.
Usuários de unidades de informação como elementos centrais para o acesso à informação e cultura
Authors: Rangel Thayron Rodrigues , Oliveira Lucia Maria Velloso de
Published: February 2024

A presente resenha objetiva sintetizar a obra “A perspectiva social nos estudos de usuários em arquivos, bibliotecas e museus: teoria e prática”. Organizada por Andréia Sousa da Silva e Fernanda Frasson Martendal, o livro apresenta estudos de usuários em arquivos, bibliotecas e museus por um viés sociológico. A estrutura do livro divide-se em três seções:  discussões epistemológicas, ensino e os estudos de usuários postos em prática. Apresenta em seus doze capítulos e no prefácio, uma discussão mais teórica. No decorrer da obra, não é possível identificar informações suficientes à compreensão da temática proposta no campo museológico. Além disso, há predominância de teóricos do campo da Biblioteconomia e Ciência da Informação, mesmo nos textos que tratam dos Estudos de Usuários nas áreas da Arquivologia e Museologia. A obra tem o mérito de ser uma das poucas obras dedicadas inteiramente ao assunto dos estudos de usuário, constantes na literatura brasileira, e apresenta algumas experiências internacionais. Sua tessitura traz a reflexão teórica, epistemológica, além de ensaiar de forma tímida, algumas práticas sobre o assunto nos campos dos Arquivos e Bibliotecas, exceto no campo dos museus.
Pembuatan Plang K3 sebagai Peringatan Zona Selamat Sekolah
Authors: Manalu Sarah Patumona , Hasibuan Novrida Harpah , Sari Yasmine Anggia , Nadhira Ade Citra
Published: February 2024

Angka kecelakaan lalu lintas di kalangan pelajar masih tinggi di Indonesia. Pemerintah melalui Kementerian Perhubungan telah mengenalkan pembatasan kecepatan khusus pada kendaraan di wilayah sekolah yang dikenal dengan nama Zona Selamat Sekolah (ZoSS), dengan tujuan untuk menjaga keselamatan di sekitar area sekolah. Di Desa Perkebunan Tanjung Kasau, para pengendara di zona sekolah terkadang tidak memerhatikan kecepatan berkendara mereka. Maka dari itu, mahasiswa KKNT USU (Kuliah Kerja Nyata Tematik Universitas Sumatera Utara) mengusung program rambu K3 (Kesehatan dan Keselamatan Kerja) dengan memasang plang K3 sebagai peringatan zona sekolah agar pengendara mengurangi kecepatan berkendara di zona sekolah Desa Perkebunan Tanjung Kasau. Pelaksanaan kegiatan ini dilakukan mulai dari tanggal 22 September 2022 – 16 Desember 2022. Metode pelaksanaan kegiatan ini meliputi survei awal, pengumpulan data, pembuatan plang K3, dan monitoring. Sasaran dari kegiatan ini adalah masyarakat, siswa, dan staf sekolah di Desa Perkebunan Tanjung Kasau. Diharapkan dari terealisasinya pemasangan Plang K3, dapat membantu mengurangi angka kecelakaan di daerah kawasan sekolah Desa Perkebunan Tanjung Kasau.The number of traffic accidents among students is still high in Indonesia. Through the Ministry of Transportation, the government has introduced special speed restrictions on vehicles in the school area, known as the School Safe Zone (ZoSS), to maintain safety around the school area. In Tanjung Kasau Plantation Village, drivers in the school zone sometimes do not pay attention to their driving speed. Therefore, USU KKNT students (Kuliah Kerja Nyata Tematik Universitas Sumatera Utara) carry the K3 (Occupational Health and Safety) sign program by installing K3 signs as school zone warnings so that motorists reduce driving speed in the Tanjung Kasau Plantation Village school zone. This activity is implemented from September 22, 2022, to December 16, 2022. The method of carrying out this activity includes initial surveys, data collection, making K3 signs, and monitoring. The target of this activity is the community, students, and school staff in Tanjung Kasau Plantation Village. It is hoped that the realization of the installation of Plang K3 can help reduce the number of accidents in the school area of Tanjung Kasau Plantation Village.
Faculty Use of a Learning Management System During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Miller Gentian
Published: February 2024

This literature review compared faculty use of Moodle Learning Management System in the Caribbean with global practices to determine the impact of the pandemic on LMS adoption. The findings reveal that while there were similarities regarding access to devices and reliable internet, students at universities in the Caribbean and the developing world were at a greater disadvantage. In the developed world, there were also significant disparities in rural versus urban areas. The pandemic provided an impetus for using educational technology at universities; however, the digital divide and lack of devices, reliable internet, and electricity hampered the full use of LMSs.
Phyllanthus emblica Loaded Cryogels for Improved Wound Care: Characterizationand In Vitro Studies
Authors: CANATAR İpek , ÖZDAŞ Sibel , Baydemir Pesint Gözde
Published: February 2024

Phyllanthus emblica (P. emblica) has been described in many studies to have multiple therapeutic activities and is considered an important part of Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal systems. This study successfully synthesized P. emblica loaded polyvinylalcohol/gelatin based cryogels (PVA/Gel/P.emblica) to examine their potential in wound dressing applications. Swelling tests, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) and morphology analysis were conducted within the scope of characterization studies. In vitro cell culture studies were performed using HaCaT cells to illustrate the suitability of the synthesized cryogels as wound dressing material. The swelling tests and BET analysis results showed that swelling and surface area properties of cryogels increased with increasing P. emblica amounts. Morphological results displayed that the cryogels had a dense, interconnected pore morphology and a macroporous structure. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), trypan blue exclusion and live-dead assay results revealed that adding of P. emblica into cryogels led to enhanced cell proliferation, increased cell number, and improved cell viability. Based on the phase contrast microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), immunofluorescence and giemsa staining images, it was observed that P. emblica promoted cell attachment, proliferation and penetration. In conclusion, it has been shown that PVA/Gel/P.emblica cryogels are suitable for use as wound dressing materials and can be developed with further studies.
Elementary Particles and Space-Time Curvature
Authors: Lavi Eran Magshim
Published: February 2024

This article begins with exploring fundamental limits in the universe. It examines key principles, such as the uniformity of physical laws and Energy conservation, that lead to maximum speed, locality, and maximum density. I assert that universal limits govern physical phenomena, leading to very interesting results. I demonstrate that quarks and leptons comprise smaller entities named "Quantum Black Holes." These Quantum black holes are relativistically rotating miniature charged black holes consisting of a single core at the highest possible density. Quantum black holes are the only structures small enough in space-time capable of keeping charges quantization, including gravitational charges. Quantum black holes explain deficiencies of SM like quantized gravity, dark Matter, Mass of elementary particles, quantization of elementary particles, size of elementary particles, neutrino oscillations, and more. Elementary particles release their Energy outward, altering the curvature of nearby space-time and providing new insights into the nature of space-time curvature change. As a result, we can characterize all movements and processes in space-time using simultaneously five sets of equations: four representing the four charges' types and one representing Dark Matter.
Performance Comparison of VVC, AV1, HEVC and AVC for High Resolutions
Authors: Uhrina Miroslav , Sevcik Lukas , Bienik Juraj , Smatanova Lenka
Published: February 2024

In recent years, an interest in multimedia services has grown expeditiously where the main part is comprised of video. Firms as well as subscribers require higher resolutions, framerates and sampling precision which results to higher amount of data need for processing, storing and transmitting. Therefore, a big challenge arises for researchers to develop new compression standards which should reduce the huge amount of data and keep quality at the same level.
This paper examines compression performance of the latest and currently most used video codecs, namely H.266/VVC, AV1, H265/HEVC and H.264/AVC. The test set consists of seven sequences with various content at 8K, Ultra HD and Full HD resolution and encoded to bitrates from 1 to 15 Mbps for Full HD and Ultra HD resolutions and from 5 to 50 Mbps for 8K resolution, respectively. Codec performance was measured using PSNR, SSIM and VMAF objective quality metrics. In terms of the Bjøntegaard-Delta (BD) model, the results showed that H.266/VVC outperforms all other codecs, namely H.264/AVC,H.265/HEVC and AV1, respectively. Averaged bitrate savings were approximately 78\% for H.266/VVC, 63\% for AV1 and 53\% for H.265/HEVC relative to H.264/AVC, 59\% for H.266/VVC, 22\% for AV1 compared to H.264/AVC and 46\% for H.266/VVC relative to AV1, all for 8K resolution. The results also showed that the performance varies depending on resolution – with higher resolution, the efficiency of newly developed codecs such as H.266/VVC and AV1 is greater, which confirmed the fact that the H.266/VVC and AV1 codecs have been primarily developed for videos at high resolutions as 8K and/or UHD.
Post-COVID-19 Condition Patients’ Utilisation of Healthcare Resources after Implementation of an Integrated Care Unit: A Retrospective and Case-Control Observational Study
Authors: Vicente Gómez José Ángel , de Muniategui Climent Martín , Loste Cora , Barreales Saúl , Ricou Ríos Laura , Paredes Roger , Mateu Lourdes , Lopez Segui Francesc
Published: February 2024

Background: While the clinical factors of the post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) are becoming clearer, the economic implications remain uncertain, posing a challenge to healthcare professionals in terms of understanding and managing this emerging phenomenon. This article aims to investigate the demographic and clinical characteristics of PCC patients and quantify the economic impact of their healthcare resource utilisation. Methods: A retrospective and case-control observational study was conducted, comparing the case group of PCC population before and after diagnosis with a control group. Demographic and clinical variables were analysed with the objective of describing the population. Economic analysis was performed to evaluate the resource costs in procedures and primary, secondary (both outpatient and inpatient) and emergency care. Findings: PCC patients (N=341) exhibited older age and elevated cardiovascular risk factors compared to controls (N=49,078). There were differences in the socio-economic distribution between male and female patients in the PCC patients. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus type 2 were the most common chronic diseases observed among the case patients. Economic analysis revealed that PCC patients were approximately four times as costly as control patients, with increased utilisation of healthcare resources. However, post-diagnosis PCC patients showed a reduction in costs, primarily driven by decreased primary care visits and hospitalisations. Conclusion: Coordinated care management for PCC patients is associated with reduced costs and improved healthcare resource utilisation. Further research is warranted to investigate long-term health outcomes and establish causal relationships between COVID-19 sequelae and healthcare resource utilisation.
Contribution of the Soil Macro- and Microstructure to Organic Matter Stabilisation in Natural and Post-mining/Industrial Soils under Temperate Climatic Conditions
Authors: Carvalho Messias de , Ciarkowska Krystyna , Wojnar Leszek
Published: February 2024

The soil organic matter (SOM) content and stability in natural gypsum soils and soils from mining/industrial areas were compared, in terms of their physical, chemical and micromorphological properties, to determine whether the old brownfield soils were acting as carbon (C) sinks, counteracting increasing carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere. The mining/industrial soils were 50–400 years old, so had been left sufficiently long for full self-restoration. Despite having very different origins, both natural and brownfield soils stored similar amounts of SOM, and had similar pH values, calcium carbonate contents and textures. They were also fully covered with similar grass plant communities. The mining/industrial soils exhibited similar microstructures to the gypsum soils and were often quite porous. The most striking difference between them and the natural gypsum soils was that the mining/industrial soils were strongly polluted with zinc, lead and cadmium. The 50-year-old brownfield soils differed from the others in terms of having a lower state of SOM transformation, with a much higher C/N ratio, lower aggregate water resistance index, lower dehydrogenase activity and greater areas of undecomposed or slightly decomposed plant residues. These parameters in the older (150–400 years) brownfield soils were similar to those of the natural soils.
Investigating Barriers to Low-Carbon Policy Implementation among Mining Companies in Ghana
Authors: Adom Seth , Matsui Kenichi
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Efforts for carbon emission reduction have been identified as a major climate change mitigation target in the Paris Agreement. The 26th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change highlighted the worldwide effort for cleaner and greener mining, urging the mineral industry to embrace greener operational emissions reduction technologies and strategies. Ghana pledged at the Paris Conference to reduce CO2 emissions by 15% and increase renewable energy share to 10% of the national energy mix. Here the fundamental question is how Ghana’s mining industry can contribute to CO2 emission reduction efforts. This paper investigates barriers to low-carbon emission policy implementation among mining companies in Ghana. The questionnaire survey was conducted among Ghana’s four large-scale gold mining companies. As the sample number of available companies is limited, we used a descriptive analysis to assess the responses. The results show that the companies expressed widely different ways to respond to the issues of cost, a government policy/regulations for carbon emission reduction, and the adoption/acquisition of low-carbon technologies. Those companies that are relatively less prepared for this endeavor emphasized the uncertainties of securing sufficient energy in case of using low-carbon technologies. They also expressed a need for more trained workers to handle low-carbon technologies. All companies agreed with a expected high cost of adopting low-carbon options. There was a communication gap with the relevant government ministry about low-carbon mining options where the government should be able to facilitate the involvement of othe low technology providers, such as solar PV installation.
Neurodegeneration in Cognitive Impairment and Mood Dis-orders for Experimental, Clinical and Translational Neuropsy-chiatry
Authors: Battaglia Simone , Avenanti Alessio , Vécsei László , Tanaka Masaru
Published: February 2024

Neurodegeneration is a major problem in neuroscience and medicine as it causes and worsens many neurological and psychiatric disorders. It involves gradual loss of neurons at different levels of the brain, affecting cognition, emotion, behavior, consciousness, and attention. Understanding the causes and consequences of neurodegeneration is crucial for identifying the risk factors, biomarkers, and treatments. However, the current therapies are mostly symptomatic and ineffective. Therefore, new and innovative methods, such as noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS), are needed to modulate brain activity and plasticity in a safe and reversible manner. This field is rapidly developing, with a focus on exploring new clinical applications, mechanisms, and combinations of NIBS and drugs. This special issue covers the latest progress and challenges in the study of neurodegeneration in cognitive impairment and mood disorders from the experimental, clinical, and translational perspectives. It addresses the complexity and diversity of these conditions, the lack of disease-modifying treatments, the ethical and practical issues of conducting research in vulnerable and diverse populations, the integration and interpretation of data from multiple sources and modalities, and the development and validation of novel methods such as NIBS, artificial intelligence, and drug repurposing. Collaborative efforts among various stakeholders are needed to improve our knowledge and treatment of neurodegeneration underlying cognitive impairment and mood disorders.
Pseudo-Instantaneous Action-at-a-Distance with Weberian Potentials
Authors: Montes Martos Juan Manuel
Published: February 2024

In this work, the conceptions of the electrodynamics of action-at-a-distance and of electromagnetic fields are reviewed and confronted, with the aim of clarifying whether it is possible to propose a Weberian theory of action-at-a-distance, which together with a renewed mechanics (both re-specting the existence of a limiting velocity c) could constitute a framework capable of yielding predictions equivalent to those of the conventional Maxwell-Lorentz and SRT framework. In this work, it is shown that, considering basic assumptions about the interaction process, understanding it as an action exchange process, it is possible to derive the expression of the electrodynamic Phipps’ potential energy between two interacting charges. It is also shown that, with the same assumptions and the additional hypothesis that the interaction is supported by a mediating agent (aether or field) which is perturbed by the transmission of action, this perturbation obeys the wave equation (one of the main drawbacks of Weberian electrodynamics). Another aim of the work is to confront the relational electrodynamic formulations (supported by Galilean transformations that assume a universal time) with the Maxwell-Lorentz formulation of electromagnetism (linked to Lorentz transformations that entail local times), in order to elucidate whether the space-time to which the SRT leads us is a mere mathematical artifice or an inescapable reality.
Multifractal Analysis of Choroidal SDOCT Images in the Detection of Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Minicucci Francesca , Oikonomou Fotios D. , De Sanctis Angela A.
Published: February 2024

The aim of this paper is to investigate whether multifractal analysis can be applied to study choroidal blood vessels and help ophthalmologists for the early diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa (RP). In a case study, we use Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SDOCT), which is a non-invasive and highly sensitive imaging technique of the retina and choroid. The image of a choroidal branching pattern can be regarded as a multifractal. Therefore, we calculate generalized Renyi point-centered dimensions, which is considered a measure of inhomogeneity of data, to prove that it increases in the patients with RP with respect to the control group.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Diagnosis of Malignant Neoplasia of the Bronchus and Lung in the Burgos Region
Authors: Gutierrez-Herrero Fernando G. , Núñez-Rodríguez Sandra , Collazo Carla , García-Bustillo Álvaro , Santamaría-Peláez Mirian , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , González-Santos Josefa
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study analysed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis of malignant neoplasia of the bronchus and lung. Cases diagnosed in the Burgos region in the year prior to the official declaration of the pandemic were compared with those in the year after the pandemic. The research sought to identify whether there was a decrease in the number of cases during the pandemic, and whether this may have led to a delay in diagnosis, reflected in more advanced stages of the disease. Mortality and survival time in each of the periods were also analysed.
Determinants of College and Graduate Students’ Commute Time to School. Is the Residential Dwelling Type Related to School Commute Time?: The Case of Seoul Metropolitan Area
Authors: Wang Saizu , Choi Chang Gyu
Published: February 2024

Commuting is a vital travel channel for college students throughout their higher education career; nevertheless, excessive commute time negatively impacts students’ school satisfaction, academic achievement, health, and quality of life. Meanwhile, few studies have explored students’ commute time, covering a large population and scope. Therefore, this study analyzes the dwelling type that influences college and graduate students’ school commute times in the Seoul Metropolitan Area, using data from the 2016 Household Travel Diary Survey. This study uses spatial data on housing development to classify five dwelling types (i.e., new town, housing site development, Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi-do). A multiple linear regression model empirically analyses students’ household and personal characteristics. The results reveal that dwelling type significantly affects students’ commute time. Specifically, Students living in Seoul have a shorter commute to school than those living in new towns. Socioeconomic characteristics have less effect on college and graduate students' school commute time. This study discusses the problem of excessive commuting of college and graduate students in new towns.
Blood Biomarkers Show Neural Consequences of LongCOVID-19
Authors: Tang Norina , Kido Tatsuo , Shi Jian , McCafferty Erin , Ford Judith M. , Dal Bon Kaitlyn , Pulliam Lynn
Published: February 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) persists throughout the world with over 65 million registered cases of survivors with post-COVID-19 sequelae, also known as LongCOVID-19 (LongC). LongC survivors exhibit various symptoms that span multiple organ systems, including the nervous system. To search for neurological biomarkers of LongC, we investigated the soluble proteins present in the plasma and the proteins associated with plasma neuronal-enriched extracellular vesicles (nEVs) in 33 LongC patients with neurological impairment (nLongC), 12 COVID-19 survivors without any LongC symptoms (Cov), and 28 pre-COVID-19 healthy controls (HC). COVID-19 positive participants were infected from 2020-2022, not hospitalized, and were vaccinated or unvaccinated before infection. IL-1b was significantly increased in both nLongC and Cov and IL-8 elevated in only nLongC. Both brain-derived neurotropic factor and cortisol were significantly elevated in nLongC and Cov compared to HC. nEVs from people with nLongC had significantly elevated protein markers of neuronal dysfunction, including amyloid beta 42, pTau181 and TDP-43. This study shows chronic peripheral inflammation with increased stress after COVID-19 infection. Additionally, differentially expressed nEV neurodegenerative proteins were identified in people recovering from COVID-19 regardless of persistent symptoms.
Assessing Sodium Intake in Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Elevated Blood Pressure: Validation of Spot Urine Excretion and Dietary Surveys Derived Estimates
Authors: Soh Yee Chang , Fairley Andrea , Alawad Mawada , Lee Siew Siew , Su Tin Tin , Stephan Blossom Christa Maree , Reidpath Daniel , Robinson Louise , Yasin Shajahan , Siervo Mario , Mohan Devi
Published: February 2024

This cross-sectional study evaluated the validity of three alternative methods compared to the gold standard 24-h urine collection for estimating dietary sodium intake, a modifiable risk factor for hypertension, among middle-aged and older adults with elevated blood pressure. These included spot urine collection (using Kawasaki, Tanaka, and INTERSALT equations), 24-h dietary recall, and food frequency questionnaire responses, compared against 24-h urine collection in a subset of 65 participants (aged 50–75 years, 58.5 % women, 61.6 % hypertensive) from the DePEC-Nutrition trial. The validity of the methods was assessed using bias, Spearman correlation coefficient (SCC), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Bland-Altman analysis. Among the alternative methods, spot urine collection using the Kawasaki equation showed the strongest correlation (SCC 0.238; ICC 0.119, 95 % CI -0.079 to 0.323) but it exhibited a significant bias (1414 mg/day, p-value < 0.001) relative to 24-h urine collection. Conversely, dietary surveys had a smaller bias but wider limits of agreement. These findings underscore the complexities of accurately estimating dietary sodium intake using spot urine collection or dietary surveys in this specific population, suggesting that a combination or refinement of existing methodologies might improve accuracy. Further research with larger samples is necessary to develop more reliable methods for assessing sodium intake in this high-risk group.
Effect of Post-extraction Ultrasonication on Compositional Features and Antioxidant Activities of Extracts Obtained After Sequential Enzymatic/Alkaline Treatment of the Red Seaweed Palmaria palmata
Authors: Ghelichi Sakhi , Sørensen Ann-Dorit Moltke , Hajfathalian Mona , Jacobsen Charlotte
Published: February 2024

P. palmata is a viable source of nutrients with bioactive properties. The present study determined the potential role of post-extraction ultrasonication on some compositional features and antioxidant properties of resulting extracts after sequential enzymatic/alkaline treatment. No significant difference was detected in terms of protein content and recovery as well as amino acid composition of the extracts. The nitrogen-to-protein conversion factor of 5 was found to be too high for the seaweed and its enzymatic/alkaline extracts. The extracts sonicated by bath for 10 minutes and not sonicated showed the highest and lowest total phenolic contents (p<0.05), respectively. The highest radical scavenging and lowest metal chelating activities were observed for the non-sonicated sample, as evidenced by IC50 values. The extract sonicated by bath for 10 minutes showed the most favorable in vitro antioxidant properties since its radical scavenging was not significantly different from that of not sonicated sample (p>0.05), whereas its metal chelating activity was significantly higher (p<0.05). To conclude, post-extraction ultrasonication by an ultrasonic bath for 10 minutes is recommended to increase phenolic content and improve antioxidant properties of enzymatic-alkaline extracts from P. palmata.
Evaluation of Power Consumption Efficiency of Encryption Schemes for RFID Systems
Authors: Gazziro Mario , Ando Junior Oswaldo Hideo , Cavallari Marco Roberto , Carmo João Paulo , Afonso Jose A
Published: February 2024

This paper provides a comparative analysis of AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and Salsa20 algorithm implementations, focusing on power consumption efficiency in passive RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags and ultra-low-power devices. The main objective of this work is to determine which of these algorithms is more suitable to operate in these types of devices. For this purpose, ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) implementations of AES and Salsa20 based on low-power approaches were developed and their power consumption was evaluated. Results demonstrate that Salsa20 power consumption is lower than AES (2.82μW and 4.01μW, respectively - both in 0.18μm), indicating that Salsa20 is a better choice than AES for passive RFID tags.
Identifying Antagonistic Rhizobacterial Strains with Biocontrol Potential against Cercospora beticola and Assessing Their Growth-Promoting Effects on Beta vulgaris
Authors: El Housni Zakariae , Ezrari Said , Radouane Nabil , Tahiri Abdessalem , Ouijja Abderrahman , Errafii Khaoula , Hijri Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Cercospora beticola Sacc. is an ascomycete pathogen that causes Cercospora leaf spot in sugar beets (Beta vulgaris L.) and other related crops. The disease symptoms are characterized by circular lesions with an ash-gray centre and dark brown to purple margins on the leaves. It can lead to significant yield losses if not effectively managed. This study aims to characterize and assess the impact of bacterial biological control agents against C. beticola. Following a dual-culture screening, 18 bacteria exhibiting over 50% inhibition were selected, with six of them demonstrating more than 80% control. Identification of the bacteria was carried out through sequencing of the16S rDNA, revealing potentially 12 species belonging to six genera including Bacillus which was represented by four species. Additionally, the bacteria underwent in-depth characterization of biochemical and molecular properties, as well as plant-growth promotion. PCR detection of genes responsible for producing antifungal metabolites revealed that 83%, 78%, 89%, and 56% of the selected bacteria possessed the bacillomycin, iturin, fengycin, and surfactin encoding genes, respectively. Infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of lipopeptide structure in the bacteria supernatant filtrate. Subsequently, the bacteria were assessed for their effect on sugar beet plants in controlled conditions. The bacteria exhibited notable capabilities, promoting growth in both roots and shoots, resulting in significant increases in root length, weight, and shoot length. The field experiment with four bacterial candidates demonstrated good performance against C. beticola compared to difenoconazole fungicide. These bacteria played a significant role in disease control, achieving a maximum efficacy of 77.42%, slightly below the 88.51% efficacy attained by difenoconazole. Additional field trials are necessary to verify the protective and growth-promoting effects of these candidates, whether applied individually, combined in consortia, or integrated with chemical inputs in sugar beet crop production.
The Human Phospholipase B-II Precursor (HPLBII-P) in Urine as a Novel Biomarker of Glomerular Function and Activity in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Xu Shengyuan , Larsson Anders , Lind Lars , Lindskog Cecilia , Ärnlöv Johan , Venge Per
Published: February 2024

A previous report showed that the urine output of HPLBII-P in patients with diabetes mellitus and SARS-Cov-2 infection was increased as a sign of glomerular dysfunction. . The aim of this report was to investigate the relation of urine output of HPLBII-P to diabetes mellitus in two large community-based elderly populations i.e. the ULSAM and PIVUS cohorts.
Methods
HPLBII-P was measured by ELISA in the urine of a community-based cohort of 839 men (ULSAM) collected at 77 years of age and in urine of a community-based cohort of 75-year-old men, n=387, and women, n=401 (PIVUS). KIM-1, NGAL and Albumin were measured in urine and Cathepsin S and Cystatin C in serum.
Results
HPLBII-P was significantly raised among males with diabetes in the ULSAM (p
Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Battery and Fuel Cell Electric Cars, Trucks and Buses
Authors: Syré Anne Magdalene , Shyposha Pavlo , Freisem Leonard , Pollak Anton , Göhlich Dietmar
Published: February 2024

Addressing the pressing challenge of global warming, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector is a critical imperative. Battery and fuel-cell electric vehicles have emerged as promising solutions for curbing emissions in this sector. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) for typical passenger vehicles, heavy duty trucks and city buses using either proton-exchange membrane fuel cells or Li-ion batteries with different cell chemistries. To ensure accuracy, we supplemented existing studies with data from the literature, particularly for the recycling phase, as database limitations were encountered. Our results highlight that fuel cell and battery systems exhibit large emissions in the production phase. Recycling can significantly offset some of these emissions, but a comparison of the technologies examined revealed considerable differences. Overall, battery electric vehicles consistently outperform fuel cell electric vehicles regarding absolute greenhouse gas emissions. Hence, we recommend prioritizing battery electric over fuel cell vehicles. However, deploying fuel cell electric vehicles could become attractive in a hydrogen economy scenario where other factors, e. g. the conversion and storage of surplus renewable electricity via electrolysis, become important.
Current Scenario of Indole Marine-Derivatives: Synthetic Approaches and Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Fernández Sergio , Arnáiz Virginia , Pérez Daniel Rufo , Arroyo Yolanda
Published: February 2024

Indole is a versatile pharmacophore widely distributed in bioactive natural products. This privileged scaffold has been found in a variety of molecules isolated from marine organisms such as algae and sponges. Among these, indole alkaloids represent one of the biggest, most promising family of compounds, having shown a wide range of pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anticancer activities. The aim of this review is to show the current scenario of marine indole alkaloid derivatives, covering not only the most common chemical structures, but also new synthetic routes developed during the last years as well as promising therapeutic applications.
Biomarkers of Brain Dysfunction in Perinatal Iron Deficiency
Authors: Rao Raghavendra B
Published: February 2024

Iron deficiency in the fetal and neonatal period (perinatal iron deficiency) bodes poorly to neuro-development. Given its common occurrence and the negative impact on brain development, a screening and treatment strategy that is focused on optimizing brain development in perinatal iron deficiency is necessary. Pediatric societies currently recommend a universal iron supple-mentation strategy for full-term and preterm infants that does not consider individual variation in the body iron status and could lead to under-treatment or over-treatment. Moreover, the focus is on hematological normalcy and not optimal brain development. Several serum iron indices and hematological parameters in the perinatal period are associated with risk of abnormal neurodevelopment, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for screening and monitoring treatment in infants at risk for perinatal iron deficiency. A biomarker-based screening and treatment strategy that is focused on optimizing brain development will likely improve outcome in perinatal iron deficiency.
Genetic Variability and Interrelationships of Grain Quality, Cooking Quality and Nutritional Quality Traits in Cowpea: Implication for Cowpea Improvement
Authors: Chipeta Michael M. , Yohane Esnart , Kampanje-Phiri Jessica , Kafwambira John
Published: February 2024

Grain quality, cooking quality and nutritional quality traits are some of the major attributes that enhance uptake and utilisation of improved cowpea varieties. Therefore, there is need for a better understanding of the genetic variation and inter-relationships among these quality traits in cowpea to integrate them in cowpea breeding programs. The study was conducted to determine genetic variability among 306 cowpea genotypes for grain quality, cooking quality and nutritional quality traits and to understand the interrelationships among these traits for exploitation in breeding programs. The results showed highly significant differences (P
Microplastics in the Digestive Tract and Gills of Dormitator maculatus (Perciformes, Eleotridae) from Alvarado Lagoon
Authors: Del Ángel-Guzmán Derian Javier , Dávila-Camacho Claudia Araceli , Lango-Reynoso Fabiola , Castañeda-Chávez María del Refugio , Bernal-Ramírez Rocío de Guadalupe , Montoya-Mendoza Jesús , Martínez-Cárdenas Leonardo
Published: February 2024

127 “naca” fish, Dormitator maculatus from the Alvarado lagoon, were analyzed, of which 1134 microplastics (MP) were obtained: 561 found in the digestive tract and 573 in gills. The predominant MP found in D. maculatus were fibers with 97.53%, the most abundant color was blue (62%), followed by transparent (12%) and of these the MP in the form of fibers predominated. Regarding the biological parameters, there was only a positive correlation with the weight of the intestine and the weight of the gills; However, this ratio is very low. The biological parameters analyzed: weight, height, condition index and intestinal fullness, lack a relationship between the amount of MP present in the intestines and gills. The type of PM obtained indicates that they come from urban areas, a product of daily activities such as washing clothes and fishing.
On Certain Properties of Square-Free Numbers and the Function s(n)
Authors: Matysiak Lukasz , Fidler Julia
Published: February 2024

In this paper we investigate some properties of square-free numbers. In particular, we study a function that counts the number of square-free numbers no larger than the given number n. We show that this function has asymptotics consistent with the predictions of the Riemann hypothesis and use this to obtain new and better estimates of the density of square-free numbers. Finally, we present a well-known generalization of the concept of a square-free number to monoids and research on square-free factorizations.
Consumption of Tap Water and Sociodemographic-Associated Characteristics: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study.
Authors: Dolcini Jacopo , Chiavarini Manuela , Ponzio Elisa , Firmani Giorgio , D'Errico Marcello Mario , Barbadoro Pamela
Published: February 2024

Safe water is a global public health concern amid increasing scarcity and pollution. Bottled water production and consumption contribute to these problems. This study examines tap water consumption in Italy, assessing associated sociodemographic factors and related health outcomes such as obesity and self-perceived health status. Data from the Italian National Statistics Institute's "Aspects of daily life" survey (N=45,597) were analyzed. Covariates included education, age, gender, economic status, region, concerns about waste and climate change, consumption of carbonated drinks excluding water, alcohol consumption, consumption of vegetables, consumption of snacks, body mass index, and self-perceived health status. Bivariate analyses and mixed-effect logistic regression models explored the associations. People who drink tap water were 19,674 with a higher prevalence in people aged 45 to 59 old, people with a graduate/post-graduate degree diploma, with optimal economic resources, and concerned about waste production and climate change, coming from the North-East regions of Italy. Underweight people showed a higher prevalence of TW assumption as well as those who drink less than occasionally carbonated drinks, drink alcohol, consume vegetables more than once a day, and snacks less than once a week with a satisfying level perceived health status. Regressions showed that all age classes are less likely to drink tap water than people younger than 20 years old. The category with “inadequate” economic resources is more likely to consume tap water. Low educational classes show a low likelihood of consuming tap water as well as Islands. A concern about waste production and climate change is associated with an increased likelihood of assuming tap water. Tap water consumption was negatively associate with obesity but not with a satisfactory Self-perceived health status. Insights from this study can inform public health strategies.
A HBIM Approach for Structural Diagnosis and Intervention Design in Heritage Structures: The Case of the Certosa Di Pisa
Authors: De Falco Anna , Gaglio Francesca , Giuliani Francesca , Martino Massimiliano , Messina Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

In the conservation of monumental heritage, the collection and utilization of information are of primary importance. The Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM) procedure harnesses the potential of three-dimensional models, offering significant advantages in accessing documentation, interoperability, multidimensionality of intervention design, cost evaluation and maintenance management. Attention here is focused on the Certosa di Pisa, a large historical complex built in the 14th century as a monastery of the Carthusian order, currently in a state of deterioration and in need of restoration and re-functionalization. The multifaceted nature of this monumental complex, with its intricate interplay of architectural elements spanning different historical periods and featuring diverse techniques, poses a significant challenge for structural safety assessment. This case study presents an opportunity to explore an HBIM approach to streamline the diagnostic process and facilitate the intervention design phase. The goal is achieved by utilizing an accurate 3D model enriched with data from multiple sources and automating certain operations for structural assessment. The usefulness of the HBIM methodology is highlighted as a valuable tool in the realm of Cultural Heritage structures for both technicians and scholars alike.
The Infinite-Phased Root Parameter for the G1/M/1 Pointwise Stable Fluid Flow Approximation (PSFFA) Model of the Non-Stationary Ek/M/1 Queue with PSFFA Applications to Hospitals’ Emergency Departments
Authors: A Mageed Dr Ismail
Published: February 2024

This paper provides a new discovery that adds to the contemporary theory of modelling of non-stationary queues, by capturing analytically the behavior of the root parameter, for the G1/M/1 PSFFA model of non-stationary Ek/M/1 queue. Additionally, it has been also revealed that the resulting root parameter reduces to the PSFFA model of non-stationary queue. Potential applications of PSFFA to Computer engineering are provided. Some challenging open problems are addressed combined with closing remarks and future research directions.
Early Screening for Long QT Syndrome and Cardiac Anomalies in Infants: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Nosetti Luana , Zaffanello Marco , Lombardi Carolina , Gerosa Alessandra , Piacentini Giorgio , Michele Abramo , Agosti Massimo
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) represents unexplained and sudden deaths during the sleep of infants under one year of age, despite thorough investigation. Screening for prolonged QTc or Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) should be conducted on all newborns to reduce the incidence of SIDS. Neonatal electrocardiogram (ECG) could identify congenital heart defects (CHD) early, especially those not detected at birth. Infants with prolonged QT intervals typically undergo genetic analysis for Long QT Syndrome; (2) Methods: The study involved infants aged 20-40 days, born clinically healthy, with initial ECG screening. Infants with prenatal diagnoses or signs/symptoms of CHD identified immediately after birth, as well as those who underwent ECG or echocardiogram for other clinical or historical indications, were excluded from the study. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0; (3) Results: Of the 42,200 infants involved, 2,245 were enrolled, with 39.9% being males. Subsequently, 164 children (37.8% males) with prolonged QT intervals underwent further diagnostic investigations. Genetic mutations were identified in 11 out of 18 tested children. The most common mutations were LQT1 (54.5%), LQT2 (36.4%), and LQT3 (1 patient). Medications used included propranolol (39.8%), nadolol (22.2%), inderal (11.1%), metoprolol (11.1%), and no treatment (16.7%). The most common abnormalities were focal right bundle branch block (54.5%), left axis deviation (9.2%), and nonspecific ventricular repolarization abnormalities (7.1%). Multiple anomalies were found in 0.47% of children with focal right bundle branch block. Structural abnormalities were associated with specific features in 267 patients (11.9%), primarily isolated patent foramen ovale (PFO) at 61.4%; (4) Conclusions: The screening has proven effective in early diagnosing Long QT Syndrome and other cardiac rhythm anomalies, with additional benefits in detecting mutations and/or QTc prolongations in family members. Identifying other ECG abnormalities and congenital heart malformations further enhances the benefits of the screening.