bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating The Transformative Effects of Active Learning Methodologies in The Field of Engineering Education to Improve Learning Outcomes in Students by Unleashing Their Potential
Authors:   UG Student, Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management, Hyderabad, Reddy Samala Nishanth , Pathlavath Madhu ,   UG Student, Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management, Hyderabad, Narsareddygari Sakethreddy ,   UG Student, Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management, Hyderabad, Naik Santosh Madeva ,   Assistant Professor Mechanical, Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management, Hyderabad
Published: April 2024

Abstract— Active learning methodologies have significantly transformed engineering education, which implements an assortment of actual time and pragmatic learning strategies that have revolutionized the old chalk-and-talk instructional techniques into an appealing and exciting atmosphere for mastering. This study examines the effect of distinct active learning approaches on the acquiring capabilities of BTech scholars, highlighting the impact they have on student participation proactive involvement and overall outcomes related to learning. The research provides a brief overview of active learning and provides an explanation of the subject regarding the impact active learning methodologies may have on the motivation and engagement of students in engineering education. Also emphasizes its core concepts as well as its ability to challenge the traditional paradigm of instruction, which is concentrated on lectures in educational institutions.Technology pupils through a thorough assessment of the available literature, empirical investigations, cross-sectional research of qualitative, and quantitative data and surveys. These approaches include peer instruction, concept mapping, inquiry-based learning, experiential learning, case-based learning, simulation-based learning, collaborative learning, problem-based learning, flipped classrooms and project-based learning. The findings illustrate how these active learning approaches profoundly impact B.Tech students. Greater participation of pupils, improved academic results, more substantial critical thinking abilities, and a more comprehensive understanding of science and technology concepts are the outcomes of adopting these approaches in the field of engineering education. Through the results of this research, we aim to illustrate how active learning approaches can enrich the lives of pupils along with how these can assist them excel in their careers. Additionally, we intend to highlight how these approaches can allow learners to improve their concepts and skills in a more appreciated manner. These teaching methods also foster a lifetime love of learning while preparing students for the expanding demands of the developing engineering industry. Keywords— Active learning methodologies, collaborative learning, problem-based learning.
ENERGY COOPERATIVES IN BRAZIL AS AGENTS OF ENERGY TRANSITION AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Villanueva Bernardo de Almeida , Catapan Anderson , Lousada Sérgio António Neves
Published: April 2024

Energy plays a fundamental role in modern society. Accelerating the global energy transition is necessary due to the effects of climate change, which is a challenge for governments that must balance conflicting agendas. Energy cooperatives have the potential to promote renewable energies and sustainable cities and have been growing in Brazil. This research investigates the possibility that Brazilian energy cooperatives may present for energy transition and regional development. Interviews reveal that cooperatives are motivated by environmental concerns, solidarity economy, and access to solar energy for low-income communities. Regarding the energy transition, they promote energy democratization, cost reduction, and regional development. However, they face significant challenges such as cultural resistance, lack of understanding, bureaucracy, obtaining financial resources, ambiguous regulation, and the influence of economic power. The research fills a gap in the Brazilian context, providing theoretical and practical information that can be applied to improve the renewable energy sector and enhance its environmental, economic, and social benefits.
Effect of bronchial asthma on the condition of the oral cavity
Authors: Latysh Natalia A. , Razumova Svetlana N. , Sturov Nikolai V. , Brago Anzhela S.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: High-quality dental rehabilitation of patients suffering from bronchial asthma is one of the priority tasks of an integrated approach to the treatment of a general somatic pathology. To date, changes in the oral cavity are polyetiological and can be associated with xerostomia, nutrition, nature of treatment, and poor hygiene. Thus, the microbial factor may play an important role in the development of pathological changes in the oral cavity.
AIM: Through a literature review, this study aimed to examine typical and atypical types of microbial colonies developing in the oral cavity of patients with bronchial asthma and study ways to correct the pathogenic microflora of the oral cavity.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: An analysis was made of information sources in the international databases of Google Scholar, PubMed, and eLIBRARY.RU from 2000 to 2023. The keywords of the query were “oral cavity”, “bronchial asthma”, “microbes”, “antimicrobial therapy”.
RESULTS: The literature search extracted 118 sources, of which 34 were relevant. Patients diagnosed with bronchial asthma were found to have dental problems associated with conditions associated with bacterial flora, such as caries, periodontal diseases, and candidiasis. Inflammatory and autoimmune processes were activated by the action of pathogenic microflora.
CONCLUSION: Changes in the microbial balance have affected the development of oral cavity pathologies. Correct hygiene and use of antibacterial and antifungal agents, intake of low-dose drugs, or avoidance of drugs that stimulate the increase in pathogenic microbes, contribute to a decrease in the microbial pathological potential in the oral cavity.
Effectiveness of therapy of complicated forms of dental caries using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser with a wavelength of 2780 nm
Authors: Polevaya Aleksandra V. , Kovalevsky Aleksandr M. , Sokolovich Natal’ja A. , Latif Irina I. , Specivets Aleksandr F. , Sevryukov Fedor A.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: The use of laser technologies in the treatment of complicated forms of dental caries is promising in dentistry. However, the available literature does not fully cover the use of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser (wavelength: 2780 nm) in the treatment of purulent pulpitis and pulp necrosis.
AIM: To determine the effectiveness of therapy for complicated forms of dental caries using an erbium–chromium laser with a wavelength of 2780 nm for biomechanical treatment of root canals.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Overall, 106 patients were examined and divided into three groups: group 1 (control), 15 patients whose treatment was performed using a generally accepted method; group 2, 50 patients who were treated with erbium–chromium laser radiation at the second visit, immediately before root canal obturation; and group 3, 41 patients who were treated in one visit and divided into two subgroups. In group 3-A (n=18), the root canal was irradiated with a laser with factory settings, and in group 3-B (n=23), the frequency and power of the laser were increased from 20 to 40 Hz and from 1.25 to 1.5 Watts, respectively.
RESULTS: In group 1, 59 microorganisms from all 17 strains were seeded before the treatment of the root canal system of teeth with chlorine-containing disinfectants. Moreover, the proportion of seeded microorganisms in each strain was 6.6%–40% (average value: 23.1%). After treatment, the seeding rate of Streptococcus mitis decreased from 40% to 13%, Streptococcus intermedius from 20% to 6.6%, Enterococcus spp. from 33.3% to 13.3%, and Candida spp. from 33.3% to 20%. In group 2, after complex biomechanical treatment of root canals and the use of a hydrokinetic laser, none of the 17 strains sown before treatment were observed. The Candida spp. (5.5%) were not neutralized due to the use of a hydrokinetic laser with a wavelength of 2780 nm in the factory settings in group 3-A (power, 1.25 W; pulse frequency, 20 Hz; air, 10%; water, off). The combined use of the traditional protocol and hydrokinetic Er,Cr:YSGG laser in group 3B enabled complete elimination of microorganisms from those sown before treatment (p 0.001).
CONCLUSION: Treatment of purulent pulpitis and pulp necrosis in one visit using a hydrokinetic Er,Cr:YSGG laser with a wavelength of 2780 nm with increased parameters (i.e., power, 1.5 W; frequency, 40 Hz; air, 35%; water, 25%) is recommended.
Toward Tectonic-Type and Global 1D Seismic Models of the Upper Mantle Constrained by Broadband Surface Waves
Authors: Civiero Chiara , Lebedev Sergei , Xu Yihe , Bonadio Raffaele , Lavoué François
Published: April 2024

The unprecedentedly dense current sampling of the upper mantle with seismic data offers an opportunity for determining representative seismic velocity models for the Earth’s main tectonic environments. Here, we use over 1.17 million Rayleigh- and 300,000 Love-wave, fundamental-mode, phase-velocity curves measured with multimode waveform inversion of data available since the 1990s, and compute phase-velocity maps in a 17–310 s period range. We then compute phase-velocity curves averaged over the globe and eight tectonic environments, and invert them for 1D seismic velocity profiles of the upper mantle. The averaged curves are smooth and fit by VS models with very small misfits, under 0.1%, at most periods. For phase-velocity curves extending up to 310 s, Rayleigh waves resolve VSV structure down to the shallow lower mantle. Love-wave sampling is shallower, and VSH and, thus, radial anisotropy profiles are resolved down to 375–400 km depth. The uncertainty of the VS models is dominated by the trade-offs of VS at neighboring depths. Using the model-space-projection approach, we quantify the uncertainty of VS in layers of different thickness and at different depths, and show how it decreases with the increasing thickness of the layers. Example 1D VS models that fit the data display the expected increase of the lithospheric seismic velocity with the age of the oceanic lithosphere and with the average age of the continental tectonic type. Radial anisotropy in the global and most tectonic-type models show a flip of the sign from positive (VSH>VSV) to negative at 200–300 km depth. Negative anisotropy is also observed in the shallow mantle lithosphere beneath oceans down to 45–55 km depth. We also compute a global model with the minimal structural complexity, which fits the data worse than the best-fitting one but does not include a sublithospheric low-velocity zone, providing a simple reference for seismic studies.
Unified blended learning environment: the Kazakhstani context
Authors: Bakhisheva S. M. , Tikhonyuk E. V. , Mukhtar Z. G. , Kinzhekova R. S. , Kemeshova A. M.
Published: April 2024

Introduction. The present work investigates the issues related to technological and administrative support for the blended learning process in higher education in Kazakhstan.

Aim. This article aims to develop an author’s conceptual model of a unified system for managing the blended learning process by defining the evaluation criteria for an optimal educational environment.

Methodology and research methods. The research was conducted in four stages using mixed methods. The first stage involved conducting surveys with participants in the educational process to identify the challenges they encountered while working in a digital educational environment and explore potential solutions. The second stage involved developing evaluation criteria for an optimal educational environment for blended learning. The third stage entailed empirical testing of existing educational platforms that are utilised by 33 leading Kazakh universities. The fourth stage witnessed the development of a pilot conceptual model for a unified environment for blended learning.

Results. Based on the integration of Learning Activity Management System (LAMS), Learning Management System (LMS), and Education Content Management System (ECMS), a conceptual model of a unified environment for blended learning was developed. The criteria for the optimal educational environment of blended learning were developed to evaluate the technical, functional, and didactic capabilities of educational platforms.

Scientific novelty. The study resulted in the development of a conceptual model for a unified environment for managing the blended learning process.

Practical significance. The proposed model can be employed by the administrations of top Kazakhstani universities to implement a student-centred approach to the educational process.
Analysis of the Work Experience of the Expert Commission of the Section “Mathematics and its Applications in Information Technology and Economics” of the International Forum of Scientific Youth “Step into the Future”
Authors: Журавлева Е.В. , Студеникина Л.И.
Published: April 2024

Рассмотрены особенности работ, присылаемых для участия в секции 3F молодежного форума «Шаг в будущее» «Математика и ее приложения в информационных технологиях и экономике». Изучена динамика изменений качества конкурсных работ, сформулированы рекомендации по формированию направлений исследований обучающихся средних общеобразовательных и средних профессиональных образовательных организаций.

The features of works sent for participation in section 3F of the youth forum “Step into the Future” “Mathematics and its applications in information technology and economics” are considered. The dynamics of changes in the quality of competitive works have been studied, recommendations have been formulated on the formation of areas of research for students of secondary general education and secondary vocational educational organizations.
Primeras políticas sobre la no neutralidad del dinero y la confianza para el crecimiento económico, Alberto J. Pani: multiplicadores monetarios de México, 1925-1940
Authors: Hernández Veleros Zeus Salvador , Sánchez Juan Roberto Vargas
Published: April 2024

Alberto J. Pani señaló los errores en la política monetaria de 1931 como una causa clave del agravamiento de la crisis en México, fue pionero mundial en reconocer la relación entre la economía real y la financiera. Este artículo examina las estrategias y acciones instauradas por Pani como secretario de Hacienda, entre 1932 y 1933, que cubrieron lo fiscal, monetario, bancario, crediticio, comercial, industrial y las negociaciones internacionales. Analizamos los obstáculos encontrados en su aplicación, las limitantes institucionales; así como la influencia del señoreaje, la relevancia del déficit público, y el notable incremento en las reservas internacionales, todo esto logrado sin incrementar la deuda ni las tasas impositivas. Este análisis sugiere que la recuperación no se debió al sector externo, como otros plantean. Calculamos cuatro multiplicadores para el periodo 1925-1940 y medimos el impacto de estas políticas sobre el pib. Para Pani, el elemento crucial es la confianza.
A Poisonous Legacy
Authors: Tarrant Neil
Published: April 2024

Review of Alisha Rankin, The Poison Trials: Wonder Drugs, Experiment and the Battle for Authority in Renaissance Science (Chicago and London: University of Chicago Press, 2021), pp.329.
Tracing Receptions of Etruscan culture in Italian and European Modernism (c. 1890-1950)
Authors: Verreth Louis
Published: April 2024

Review of: Chiara Zampieri, Martina Piperno & Bart Van den Bossche (eds.), Modern Etruscans. Close Encounters with a Distant Past, Leuven, Leuven University Press, 2023, 187 p., ISBN: 9789462703797, € 30,00 (also available in Open Access).
The Future of Electric Vehicles: Navigating the Intersection of AI, Cloud Technology, and Cybersecurity
Authors: Rehan Hassan
Published: April 2024

The emergence of electric vehicles (EVs) represents a paradigm shift in transportation, offering not only the promise of reduced carbon emissions but also the potential for enhanced sustainability and innovation. However, the full realization of EVs' transformative capabilities extends beyond mere electrification; it encompasses the integration of state-of-the-art technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cloud Computing. This meticulously crafted research article delves into the profound impact of AI and cloud technologies on the EV landscape within the United States. It meticulously examines how these technological advancements are reshaping EV ecosystems, catalyzing advancements in autonomous driving, optimizing battery management systems, and enriching user experiences. Furthermore, it elucidates the imperative need for robust cybersecurity measures to fortify these sophisticated systems against cyber threats, thereby ensuring the integrity, privacy, and stability of the transportation network.
With a diverse audience in mind, including automotive industry professionals, policymakers, cybersecurity experts, environmental advocates, technology enthusiasts, and the broader public, this article serves as a beacon illuminating the future of transportation, sustainability, and digital security within the realm of EVs. Through a blend of rigorous analysis, insightful commentary, and visionary foresight, it aims to provide profound insights into the trajectory of EV technology in the United States and beyond.
A New Extended Exponentiated Lomax (EEtLx) Distribution for Life Data
Authors: Odunayo Braimah Joseph ,   Department of Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of the Free State, South Africa, Correa Fabio Mathias ,   Department of Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of the Free State, South Africa
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a new life distribution with both unbounded and bounded support. The proposed Extended Exponentiated Lomax (EEtLx) distribution is derived from the New Extended Exponentiated-G (NEET-G) family of Elgarhy, Haq, Gozel, and Nasir (2017). The maximum likelihood estimation method is used to estimate parameters of the proposed distribution and derive the relevant properties. The model is applied to patient relief times (minutes) after receiving a particular analgesic using different selection criteria (Log likelihood, Akaike Information Criteria (AIC), and Bayesian Information Criteria (BIC)). Resulting distributions are compared to well-established lifetime distributions in literature. The total time on test (TTT) plot is also used to determine whether the hazard rate function for this data increases or decreases, which subsequently reveals a decreasing trend. The proposed distribution remains the best fit compared to competing distributions. It is recommended that this distribution can be applied, not only in medical science, but also in reliability science, engineering, and economics fields.
Reliability Analysis of a System Designed to Withstand a Specified Shock Magnitude Range
Authors: Bakry S. M. ,   Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, Mokhlis N. A. , Elghany A. E. B. Abd ,   Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt,   Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Engineering, Benha University, Shoubra, Cairo, Egypt
Published: April 2024

The system under consideration has 𝑛 independent components, and its operation relies on the functioning of at least 𝑘 components, 1 ≤ 𝑘 ≤ 𝑛. The system experiences (𝑛 + 1) distinct shocks. Shock 𝑗 impacts the 𝑗!" component, 𝑗 = 1, 2, . . . , 𝑛, while shock (𝑛 + 1) simultaneously impacts all components. Any shock is lethal if its magnitude is below or above the component-designed thresholds 𝑑# or 𝑑$, respectively. A shock is characterized by its magnitude and arrival time, forming a bivariate random vector. The bivariate random vectors specifying the magnitudes and the arrival times of the shocks are assumed to be independent and follow non-identical bivariate distributions. The reliability of a 𝑘-out-of-𝑛: 𝐺 system under the influence of this type of shocks is derived. The reliability of parallel and series systems is obtained as special situations. The bivariate Pareto type I distribution is applied as an example of the bivariate distribution of the magnitude and arrival time of the shocks. Furthermore, numerical illustrations are conducted to highlight the theoretical results obtained.
Medical Data for the Nadaraya-Watson Kernel Method in Nonparametric Regression Models Based on Hyperbolic Secant Function
Authors: Elsamadony Ola A. ,   Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt, Abu-Youssef S. E. ,   Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City (11884), Cairo, Egypt
Published: April 2024

Nonparametric kernel estimates used in this work aim to compare different treatment options by examining the recorded medical data. The following use of the suggested strategy depends on a kernel function and a parameter called bandwidth. The Nadaraya-Watson kernel (NWK) estimation is a necessary nonparametric kernel estimator used in regression models. A new Nadaraya-Watson regression estimate depends on the hyperbolic secant kernel (HSK) with fixed bandwidth (FNW) and Variable Bandwidth (VNW) is proposed.. We calculated some properties of the unknown regression function estimator, including bias, variance, optimal bandwidth, and a global measure of error criterion mean square error. Finally, simulation and three real data sets are used to evaluate its performance. Results from simulation and real data showed that the VNW using HSK is more effective than the FNW based on Average Mean Square Error Criterion. Also, Nadaraya-Watson using HSK function is more effective than Nadaraya-Watson using the Gaussian kernel density function.
GESTÃO DE RISCO INTEGRADA À EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL E A APLICAÇÃO DA LÓGICA FUZZY
Authors: Reis Émilien Vilas Boas , Kokke Marcelo , Thomé Romeu
Published: April 2024

A compreensão da educação ambiental demanda a interligação sequencial e histórica de compreensão da educação em sua gênese e formulação contínua e progressiva no ocidente. Este artigo labora com o percurso configurador da educação ambiental de modo a situá-la na sociedade de risco, tendo em conta as problemáticas e complexidades existentes. A partir do método crítico-propositivo, analisa-se a configuração e contextualização aplicada da gestão de risco integrada à educação ambiental. O artigo sustenta a incapacidade de modelos binários para fins de resposta ou suporte à gestão de risco. Articula-se em conclusão e proposição a aplicação da lógica fuzzy para fins de formulação e implementação da gestão de risco, considerando vicissitudes da sociedade de risco. Dessa forma, componentes tais como incerteza, indeterminação e nebulosidade não são ignoradas, mas, sim, interiorizadas na gestão de risco.
Indigenous knowledge of health benefits of morama plant among respondents in Ghantsi and Jwaneng areas of Botswana
Authors: Chinwaru W , Faria ML , Saravia C , Cencic A
Published: April 2024

This field survey was carried out under the auspices of the INCO Morama II research project, which sought to assess the benefits of the consumption, domestication and commercialisation of morama beans, especially to the communities where the beans are found, mainly in drier parts of Botswana,Namibia and South Africa.
Seismic events in the Vorkuta coal industrial district in 2023
Authors: Noskova N. , Verkholantsev F. , Asming Vladimir , Vaganova Natalia , Popov I.
Published: April 2024

In 2023, regional seismic stations recorded 25 seismic events in the Vorkuta coal industrial district of the Komi Republic, with a local magnitude ML from 1.8 to 2.8. A significant contribution to the detection of weak, ML ≤ 2, events was made by data obtained from the temporary seismic station of the IG FRC Komi SC UB RAS, installed as part of expeditionary work in the summer of 2023 in the Polar Urals.

Among them the seismic event on August 1, 2023, which had a macroseismic effect, is of particular interest. Residents of several districts of Vorkuta felt tremors similar to an earthquake. Seismic records from 5 stations with epicentral distances from 40 to 1070 km were processed. The following parameters of the epicenter were obtained: t0 = 18:39:07, 67.529N, 64.001E, h = 0 km, Rminor = 3.9 km, Rmajor = 6.7 km, AzMajor = 90°, Kp = 9.0, ML = 2.8, Ms = 2.35. The instrumental epicenter of the event is located in Vorkuta, near the mine field of the Vorkuta mine. We classified the seismic event as a rock burst. Macroseismic intensity calculated in accordance with the Seismic intensity scale-2017 using 57 questionnaires and 163 definitions of sensor categories was I0 = 4.73 ± 0.02. The calculated value of the macroseismic depth of the source was H = 0.5 ± 0.4 km, which corresponds to the instrumental definition and to the range of depths of mine workings of the Vorkuta coal deposit.
From teaching experience. XIII. Name of crystal polyhedron. On the occasion of the 130th anniversary of A. F. Losev's birth and the 100th anniversary of the «Philosophy of the Name»
Authors: Voytehovskiy Yuri
Published: April 2024

The article is timed to the 130th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Russian philosopher A. F. Losev (1893—1988) and the 100th anniversary of his work «The Philosophy of Name». Against the background of his ideas, the article considers the nomenclature of polyhedral crystalline simple forms, developed by the scientific school of the «Fedorov Institute» under the leadership of A. K. Boldyrev in the walls of the Leningrad Mining Institute. A general algorithmic approach to the nomenclature of convex polyhedra, convenient for computer data processing, is proposed. It opens an extensive research programme on the frontier of combinatorial theory of convex polyhedra, linear algebra and number theory. The aim of the article is to improve the teaching of crystallography in Russian universities and to broaden the outlook of students in related fields of knowledge.
Sustainable business models in SMEs: The customer’s perspective
Authors: Zimmer Joanna , Węglarz Magdalena , Ropuszyńska-Surma Edyta
Published: April 2024

The main purpose of the study is to identify the relationship between sustainability goals and measures of the degree of sustainable policy implementation, as well as the customer perspective as determined by the business model (BM) template of A. Osterwalder and Y. Pigneur. In the conducted research, the customer perspective takes into account five elements of the BM and each element was examined by several characteristics. The elements of the BM from the customer perspective are: customer segment, value proposition, distribution channels, customer relationships, and revenue. The study used the authors’ survey questionnaire, in which respondents, who were enterprises in the SME sector, answered questions about their own BM divided into three layers – business, social, and environmental. The results were statistically analysed using SPSS STATISTIC 28 software and a logit model was developed to verify the significance of the relationship between the binary variables studied. 303 enterprises participated in the survey, 59% of which were enterprises guided by sustainability goals (SGs) in their BMs. However, only 27% of those surveyed had measures of the degree of sustainable policy implementation.

The conducted research confirmed that acting in accordance with SGs is strongly related to customer-oriented elements of the business model, such as (1) customer segregation by sex or by level of environmental awareness, (2) value proposition – an environmental orientation, (3) distri- bution channels – direct sales online, (4) customer relationships through dedicated personal assistance or automated service based on personal customer profiles, (5) revenue – sales of products and services. Slightly different results were obtained for using measures of the degree of the SD policy implementation, where the highest correlation occurred for: (1) main customers – manufacturing entrepreneurs, (2) customer segregation by end-user experience or by level of involvement in socially important issues, (3) value proposition – strengthening democracy, (4) distribution channels – wholesale stores are run by partners, (5) customer relationships through self-service or automated service based on personal customer profiles or involving customers in the product development process, (6) revenue – rental/lease/leasing or licenses.
A review on the presence of microplastics in environmental matrices within Southeast Asia: elucidating risk information through an analysis of microplastic characteristics such as size, shape, and type
Authors: Ali Ahmad Ammarluddin Mohd , Khalid Aina Arifah , Razak Nur Izzati Abd , Maulana Nur Syafiqah Mohd , Roslan Nur Sakinah , Razmi Raz Shauqeena Batrisyea , Ruseli Wan Mohamad Akif Wan , Ibrahim Yusof Shuaib , Jaafar Maisarah , Shahrudin Rohani , Ismail Khaira , Anuar Sabiqah Tuan
Published: April 2024

Microplastics’ ecotoxicological potential in almost all ecosystems makes them a global environmental issue. This review evaluates Southeast Asian microplastic contamination data from 2013 to 2023. This evaluation examined 285 research publications from Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect, mostly on sediment and water matrices. Based on their size, shape, polymer type, and potential risks from polymer hazards in Southeast Asian countries, this analysis assesses microplastic pollution in biota, sediment, water, and other environmental matrices. The majority of microplastics in this region are small (46%) and large (32%). Within the biota matrix, small microplastics (SMP) and large microplastics (LMP) dominated. Fibers predominated in all matrices, particularly the biota matrix. Polyethylene emerged as the most abundant polymer type (22%), found in all four matrices. Despite being less abundant, polyurethane and polyamide have high hazard scores, raising ecological concerns due to their detrimental effects on environmental matrices. According to the analyzed data, Southeast Asian countries face significant risks due to high levels of microplastic contamination in water, sediments, biota, and other matrices. However, there are noticeable discrepancies in Southeast Asian data, indicating progress in microplastic research, with most data coming from Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines and little information in the literature regarding microplastic contamination from East Timor, Laos, Brunei, Myanmar, and Cambodia.
DIREITOS TERRITORIAIS QUILOMBOLAS NO JUDICIÁRIO BRASILEIRO: UM OLHAR SOBRE A POSTURA DO STF E STJ ENVOLVENDO CONFLITOS PELA TERRA COM COMUNIDADES QUILOMBOLAS
Authors: Pereira Reges Magno , Martins Lemes João Vitor
Published: April 2024

As territorialidades quilombolas são objeto de disputa frequente no judiciário brasileiro, um dos reflexos da conjuntura do campo no Brasil, que retrata uma realidade de concentração das terras nas mãos de poucos, enquanto as comunidades tradicionalmente vinculadas a esse espaço têm dificuldade de terem efetivados os seus direitos territoriais. Dessa forma, por meio de pesquisa quali-quantitativa e com uso da técnica de estudo de decisões judiciais, a presente pesquisa objetiva identificar quais são os critérios utilizados para o acesso à terra e o papel que o Estado tem, sobretudo o Judiciário, na efetivação dos direitos desses sujeitos coletivos, na perspectiva da afirmação da igualdade material. Analisar-se-á, assim, a partir das decisões identificadas nos bancos de jurisprudência do Supremo Tribunal Federal e Superior Tribunal de Justiça, a postura do Judiciário frente às demandas relacionadas ao acesso/direito ao território das comunidades quilombolas em que sejam partes constituídas ou diretamente interessadas esses sujeitos.
TERRITORIALIDADES QUILOMBOLAS E JUDICIÁRIO: ANÁLISE DOS VOTOS DOS MINISTROS DO STF NA AÇÃO DIRETA DE INCONSTITUCIONALIDADE N. 3239-DF
Authors: Aires Alves Freitas Ana Beatriz , Martins Lemes João Vitor
Published: April 2024

As territorialidades quilombolas são objeto de disputa frequente no judiciário brasileiro, sendo a Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade  n. 3229-DF, ajuizada pelo, à época, Partido da Frente Liberal (PFL), a ação judicial que define os contornos dos direitos territoriais quilombolas a partir da discussão da constitucionalidade do Decreto n. 4.887/2003, que trata de regulamentar o art. 68 do Ato das Disposições Constitucionais Transitórias. Tendo sido ajuizada em 2004 e pautada para julgamento pela primeira vez em 2012, a ação foi julgada improcedente em 2018, assegurando os direitos das comunidades quilombolas aos seus territórios. Dessa forma, por meio de pesquisa quali-quantitativa e com uso da técnica de estudo de decisões judiciais, a presente pesquisa objetiva compreender as categorias em disputa quando se analisa os direitos territoriais quilombolas e quais os fundamentos prevalecem a partir do julgamento da referida ação. Tal levantamento foi realizado a partir do cotejamento entre as divergências apresentadas pelos ministros em suas decisões, destacados, sobremaneira, os votos dos ministros Cezar Peluso, Rosa Weber e Dias Toffoli, que estabeleceram três linhas distintas quanto à constitucionalidade do decreto impugnado.
Evaluation of the Effect of Primary and Secondary Closure on the Use of Leukocyte and Platelet Rich Fibrin in Impacted Lower Third Molar Surgery
Authors: ORHAN Zeynep Dilan , CİĞERİM Levent , GÜZEL Mehmet , DOĞRU İbrahim , ALSMADI Mohammad , KAHRAMAN Nazlı Hilal , HUSSEİN Abdalrahim
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of using L-PRF in patients undergoing impacted lower third molar surgery with either primary or secondary closure techniques. Methods: This prospective, randomised, double-blind, split-mouth clinical trial was conducted in patients with bilateral lower impacted third molars of similar position. Primary closure was performed in group 1 and secondary closure in group 2. Group 1 closure technique was applied to one side of the patients and group 2 closure technique was applied to the other side at different times. Nine pa-tients were excluded from the study due to alveolitis and failure to attend regular control visits out of the 45 patients evaluated. Results: Of the 36 patients included in the study, 23 were female and 13 were male and the mean age was 22.42±3.36 years. The secondary closure group had lower VAS scores at hour 6 (p
Neuromorphic Sensor Based on FSR
Authors: Barleanu Alexandru , Hulea Mircea
Published: April 2024

This work introduces a neuromorphic sensor based on force-sensing resistors (FSR) and spiking neurons for robotic systems. The proposed sensor integrates the FSR in the schematic of spiking neuron in order to make the sensor to generate spikes with frequency that depends on the applied force. The performance of the proposed sensor is evaluated for the control of a SMA-actuated ro-botic finger by monitoring the force during steady state when the finger pushes on a tweezers. For comparison purposes, we performed similar evaluation when the SNN receives input from a widely used compression load cell (CLC). The results show that the proposed FSR based neuro-morphic sensor has very good sensitivity to low forces and the function between the spiking rate and the applied force is continuous with good variation range. However, when compared to the CLC, the proposed sensor has lower linearity of the response, but it benefits from two orders of magnitude lower power consumption. These aspects imply that the neuromorphic sensor based on FSR are useful for bioinspired control of humanoid robotics representing a low power and low cost alternative the widely used sensors.
The Role of the Unbinding Cycle on the Coordination Abilities of the Bi-Cyclopeptides Toward Cu(II) Ions
Authors: Lisowska Alicja , Swiatek Paulina , Debicki Filip , Lewinska Agniezska , Marciniak Aleksandra , Pacini Lorenzo , Papini Anna Maria , Brasun Justyna
Published: April 2024

Bicyclic peptides have attracted the interest of pharmaceutical companies because of their remarkable properties putting them on a new path in medicine. Their conformational rigidity that improves proteolytic stability, leads to rapid penetration into tissues via any possible route of administration and elimination, occurring by renal metabolism, is of great importance for people with a history of liver diseases. In addition, each ring can function independently, making them extremely versatile molecules for further optimization. In this paper we compared the potentiometric and spectroscopic properties studied by UV-Vis, MCD, and EPR, of four synthetic analogues of the bi-cyclic peptide c(PKKHP-c(CFWKTC)-PKKH). In particular we correlated the structural and spectral properties of complexes with coordinating abilities toward Cu(II) ions of MCL (Ac-PKKHPc(CFWKTC)PKKH-NH2) that contains the unbinding cycle and N- and C-terminal linear parts, with two histidine residues, one per part; two monocyclic ligands containing one histidine residue, both in the N-terminal position i.e., MCL2 (Ac-PKKHPc(CFWKTC)PKKS-NH2) and in the C-terminal position i.e., MCL3 (Ac-PKKSPc(CFWKTC)PKKH-NH2), respectively, and the linear structure LNL (Ac-PKKHPSFWKTSPKKH-NH2).
Evaluating the Prognostic Potential of CA-125 and miRNA Levels in Endometriosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Shokrnejad-Namin Taha , Amini Elnaz , Amoozgar Morteza , Hariri Amirali
Published: April 2024

Objective: This study aims to examine CA-125 and miRNAs as biomarkers in endometriosis pathophysiology and their potential roles in clinical diagnostics and prognostics. Methods:We reviewed a variety of studies, including cross-sectional, case-control, and prospective designs, examining a broad spectrum of patient demographics, clinical features, and biomarker (CA-125 and miRNA) expression levels. Results: CA-125 has been reaffirmed as a valuable biomarker in diagnosing and monitoring endometriosis, with its utility enhanced when used alongside other markers. MiRNAs have emerged as promising molecular regulators, offering new avenues for non-invasive diagnostics and a deeper understanding of the disease's pathophysiology. The integration of these biomarkers presents a potential shift towards more personalized and effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Conclusion: Endometriosis presents a significant challenge in women's health, requiring innovative approaches for its management. The convergence of CA-125 and miRNA research represents a promising advance, potentially leading to more accurate diagnostics and personalized treatment. Future research should focus on standardizing methodologies, expanding study cohorts, and integrating findings into clinical practice to fully harness the potential of these biomarkers.
Kinematic Analysis of the Esbarrada and Volta Sobre Patas Manoeuvres of Criollo Breed Horses Competing in Freio De Ouro
Authors: Bonilla Lemos Pizzi Gino Luigi , Holz Karina , Kowalski Éverton Augusto , Fonseca Ribeiro Priscila , Blake Roberta , Ferreira Martins Charles
Published: April 2024

Background: Manoeuvres esbarrada and volta sobre patas are fundamental movements in equestrian activities, yet their kinematics remain largely unexplored. Objectives: This observational study aimed to kinematically describe the movements of esbarrada and volta sobre patas in Criollo breed horses. Methods: Kinematic analysis was conducted on 31 Criollo horses executing esbarrada and volta sobre patas manoeuvres. Results: The esbarrada maneuver covered a distance of 4.28 ± 0.99m in 1.15 ± 0.11s at a velocity of 3.77 ± 0.55m/s. Angular kinematic variables revealed specific joint angles during the maneuver. In volta sobre patas, significant differences were found in spin duration and thoracic limb suspension between the first and second spins. Conclusions: Volta sobre patas demonstrated prolonged spinning duration and increased thoracic limb suspension in the second spin. Additionally, static conformation did not correlate with limb protraction angles during esbarrada.
Use of Non-Chlorine Sanitizer in Improving the Quality and Safety of Marketed Fresh Salad Vegetables
Authors: Zaman Sharmin , Aziz Ashfaq , Siddique Md. Abubakkar , Khaleque Abdul , Bari Latiful
Published: April 2024

The safety of vegetable food is compromised by various factors, including the inefficient or excessive use of sanitizers. Instances of individuals falling ill after consuming raw vegetables have been reported, with outbreaks of diseases caused by pathogens on fresh vegetables becoming increasingly prevalent globally, attracting significant media coverage and impacting the economic viability of vegetable cultivation. Measures to enhance food safety in postharvest horticultural produce involve controlling microbial proliferation and minimizing cross-contamination. Sanitizers were utilized in the food safety arsenal for a variety of purposes, including pathogen elimination and microbe reduction, hand, tools, and vegetable contact surface cleaning, and produce shelf life extension. Choosing an appropriate sanitizer for all vegetables is difficult due to a lack of knowledge on which sanitizers are ideal for the many types of vegetables grown on farms under different environmental circumstances. Although chlorine-based sanitizers, such as sodium or calcium hypochlorite, have been widely used for the past 50 years, recent research has revealed that chlorine reacts with an organic compound in fresh vegetables to produce trihalomethane, a carcinogen precursor, and as a result, many countries have prohibited the use of chlorine in all foods. As a result, horticulture research groups worldwide are exploring for non-chlorine, ecologically friendly sanitizers for the vegetable industry. They also want to understand more about present procedures in the vegetable business for employing alternative sanitizers, as well as the efficacy and potential dangers to the food safety of fresh salad vegetables. This review-cum-research paper presented detailed information on non-chlorine sanitizers, such as their efficacy, benefits, drawbacks, regulatory requirements, and the need for additional research to lower the risk of marketed salad vegetable food safety.
The Intersection of Child’s Demographics, and Household Socioeconomic Status in the Multimorbidity of Malaria, Anaemia, and Malnutrition among Children 6–59 Months of Age in Nigeria
Authors: Obasohan Phillips Edomwonyi , Walters Stephen J. , Jacques Richard M , Khatab Khaled
Published: April 2024

Background/Purpose: Multimorbidity of malaria, anaemia, and malnutrition (MAMM) is a condition in which an individual cohabits with two or more of these health outcomes and is becoming an emergent public health concern in sub-Saharan African countries. The independent associations of a child’s demographic variables and socioeconomic disparities with a child’s health outcomes have been established in literature. However, the effects of the intersection of these factors on MAMM, while accounting for other covariates have not been studied. Therefore, this study aimed to determine how children’s sex, age and socioeconomic status interact to explain the variations in MAMM among children aged 6-59 months in Nigeria. Methods: Data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey and the 2018 National Human Development Report (NHDR) were used. The study includes weighted samples of 10,184 children aged 6-59 months in Nigeria. A three-level multilevel mixed effect ordinal logistic regression model such that individual characteristics at level 1 are nested in communities at level 2 and nested in states at level 3 was used. Subsequently, predictive probability charts and average adjusted probability tables were used to interpret the intersectional effects. Five models were created in this scenario. Model 1 is the interaction between the child's sex and wealth status; model 2, child's sex and age; model 3 is between child's age and wealth status; model 4 has the three 2-way interactions of child's sex, age, and household wealth status, and model 5 includes model 4 and the 3-way interactions between a child's sex, age, and wealth quintiles. Results: The prevalence of children with ‘none of the three diseases’ outcomes was 17.3% (1767/10,184), while, 34.4% (3499/10,184) had ‘only one of the diseases’, and 48.3% (4,918/10,184) cohabit with ‘two or more’ of MAMM. However, in the multivariate analyses, model 3 was the best fit compared with other models, so, that the two-way interaction effects of a child's age and wealth status are significant predictors in the model. Children aged 36-47 months living in the poorest households have the probability of 0.11, 0.18, and 0.32 of contracting MAMM above the probability of children of the same age and live in the middle, more prosperous and richest households, respectively, while all other covariates are held constant. Thus, the variation in MAMM over a child's age differs depending on the household wealth quintile. In other words, as the children grow older, variations in MAMM become more evident between the rich and the poor household. Conclusion: Therefore, it is recommended that policies that are geared toward economic redistribution will help bridged the disparities observed in multiple diseases among children aged 6-59 months in Nigeria
Contrasting Disease Progression, Microglia Reactivity, Tolerance, and Resistance to Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Two Mouse Strains
Authors: Diniz Daniel Guerreiro , de Oliveira Jhonnathan Henrique Palheta , Guerreiro Luma Cristina Ferreira , de Menezes Gabriel Castro , de Assis Alexa Camila Lopes , Duarte Tainá Quintella , dos Santos Izabelly Biase Damasceno , Maciel Flávia Domingues , Soares Gabrielly Lisboa da Silva , Araújo Sanderson Corrêa , Franco Felipe Tuji de Castro , do Carmo Ediclei Lima , Morais Rafaela dos Anjos Pinheiro Bogoevich , de Lima Camila Mendes , Brites Dora , Anthony Daniel Clive , Diniz José Antonio Picanço , Picanço-Diniz Cristovam Wanderley
Published: April 2024

Our study investigated the innate immune response to Toxoplasma gondii infection by assessing microglial phenotypic changes and sickness behavior as inflammatory response markers post-ocular tachyzoite instillation. Disease progression in Swiss albino mice was compared with documented outcomes in BALB/c mice using identical ocular route and parasite burden (2x105 tachyzoites), with saline as control. Contrary to expectations, Swiss albino mice displayed rapid, lethal disease progression, marked by pronounced sickness behaviors and mortality within 11-12 days post-infection, while survivors showed no apparent signs of infection. Comparative analysis revealed T. gondii-infected BALB/c mice exhibited reduced avoidance of feline odors, while in-fected Swiss albino mice showed enhanced avoidance responses. There was a significant increase in microglial cells in the dentate gyrus molecular layer of infected Swiss albino mice compared to BALB/c mice and their respective controls. Hierarchical cluster and discriminant analyses iden-tified three microglial morphological clusters, differentially affected by T. gondii infection across strains. BALB/c mice exhibited increased microglial branching and complexity, while Swiss al-bino mice showed reduced shrunk microglial arbors, diminishing morphological complexity. These findings highlight strain-specific differences in disease progression and inflammatory reg-ulation, indicating lineage-specific mechanisms in inflammatory responses, tolerance, and re-sistance. These elements are critical in devising control measures for toxoplasmosis.