bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green energy pathways: differing perspectives to green energy transitions among homeowners
Authors: Chikandiwa Christopher Tarisayi , Mutambara Emmanuel
Published: December 2023

The ostensible gravity of rapidly increasing the numbers of homeowners producing green electricity and heat energy in their homes cannot be overlooked for sustainability. However, there is a dearth of research on the existence of barriers to, and the drivers for energy switching among South African households. Thus, this article explored the reasons for the adoption and non-adoption of renewable energy technologies by examining the motivations for, as well as the barriers to the installation or retrofitting of the microgeneration technologies in KwaZulu-Natal a province of South Africa. The purposive sampling approach was used to collect data from 19 university academics through semi-structured interviews. The data were interpreted through content and descriptive analysis. The findings of the study indicated several reasons why house owners are motivated to adopt microgeneration technologies and this included self-sufficiency, saving on energy costs, the desire to protect the environment. On the other hand, the house owners put forward the following reasons for not adopting: high initial costs, lack of adequate information about the technologies, as well as the perceived complexity of the procurement process. These findings are essential for policy makers and other stakeholders, when developing policies and strategies to heighten the adoption rate of microgeneration. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the adoption process of the microgeneration should be well coordinated.
Why TVET colleges are not attractive places of higher learning for South African high school learners?
Authors: Makola Zamandlovu , Dube Itumeleng , Tabane Ramodungoane
Published: December 2023

Annually, South African universities experience an overwhelming number of learners who are interested in enrolling with them because they are viewed as more appealing post-secondary school study options compared to technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges. Therefore, it is important to understand high school learners’ views of TVET colleges so that the issue of oversubscription at universities can be addressed and ensure TVET colleges are a favourable option for learners. In South Africa, most studies investigating TVET colleges as study options involve samples primarily of students already enrolled at TVET colleges. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate high school learners’ views on TVET colleges as a study option after high school. A qualitative study was conducted in which data was collected using a qualitative questionnaire from a sample of 42 high school learners from Grades 10, 11, and 12. Three themes were constructed from the data: the pull factors, the push factors, and the expectations of TVET colleges. Several misconceptions and expectations about TVETs were identified. As most studies used TVET students as study samples, the findings in this study have implications for TVET colleges as they provide insights into the perspectives of South African high school learners and how TVET colleges need to market themselves as viable study options.
Applying Bandura's Theory of Self-Efficacy to assess the perceptions of Pre-service Economics teachers concerning teaching using graphs
Authors: Ngulube Beatrice , Ogbonnaya Ijeoma C
Published: December 2023

This qualitative study examined the Self-efficacy perceptions of preservice economics teachers regarding teaching with graphs. Understanding graphs have a major role in future teaching practices however learners find it challenging understanding economics graphs. Using a structured interview of 55 pre-service secondary school teachers, economics self-efficacy items by Bandura self-efficacy framework was used to analyze the data. The study found that student teachers are not confident to teach using graphs but have positive attitude to learn how to plot and interpret graphs. The teaching practices of high school teachers were found to have influenced the low-self-efficacy of most of the participants though they look forward to teaching using graphs. Most participants agreed that plotting, understanding, and interpreting data from graphs as well as presenting information graphically are key skills that all economics teachers and students should master. The research concludes that both high school economics teachers and preservice teachers should be equipped with the necessary skills to understand graph presentation because they both grapple with interpreting and plotting graphs. The research contributes to improving the way graphs are taught because economics teachers must be comfortable with graph presentations. Higher education institutions should increase their effectiveness when teaching introductory economics courses by finding creative ways to help students understand graphical representations of economics content. It is recommended that Teacher Education programs should emphasize the importance of graphs in the teaching of economics and empower student teachers with the necessary skills.
Talent development in the digital age: implications for self-employability in films and television industry
Authors: Myeni Sifiso
Published: December 2023

Talent development in the modern age needs to translate into self-employability. The study aims to investigate the relationship between Talent Development and Self Employability amongst Actors in the creative industry of South Africa and how Talent Development impacts Employability amongst this group. This study is important for Actors to have a framework to assist them with developing their talent for employability purposes. Underpinned by the post-positivism philosophy and using a deductive reasoning approach, the study chose a quantitative research design and Cagne’s Expanded Model of Talent Development as the theoretical framework of the study. The population of the study was the film and television Actors (N=325) as the study’s participants and accounting for the entire population. Simple random probability sampling was chosen (n=150) as it seeks to generalize the findings of the study to the entire population. The data collection tool was a 5-point self-administered structured questionnaire. The data collection instrument was pre-tested using a small sample and the data gathered was analyzed using quantitative data analysis methods which will be used for the main analysis, aided by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. The study found a clear association between Talent Development and Self-perceived Employability with both constructs having a positive medium correlation. The main elements making a significant contribution were the Actors' cognitive abilities as well as their motivation and they needed to work on their mentorship. The finding of the study seeks to improve the theoretical understanding of talent development and further recommendations for managers within the creative industry to create formal mentorship programmes to aid upcoming Actors.
New public management and post-new public management paradigms
Authors: Molobela Terrance , Uwizeyimana Dominique Emmanuel
Published: December 2023

Over the past decades there has been a remarkable paradigm shift in Public Administration. Traditional Public Administration was in dire need for a change of a New Public Administration (NPA) approach in the 1980s. From early 2000s, the NPA began to be subjected to heavy criticism, which influenced public administration to take complete control of different reforms and approaches regardless of their diversity, complexity, hybrid and contradictory situations rather than offering the perfect approach and reform to the public sector. The New Public Management (NPM) and Post-New Public Management (Post-NPM) paradigms emerged in times whereby the NPA was already experiencing a massive deconstruction and reconfiguration of the public sector management. To scan and understand the remarkable paradigm shift in the field and practice of public administration, this study applies both NPM and Post-NMP to examine different views, principles, values and norms, and reform proposals for South African Public Administration. Methodologically, this study used qualitative research methods with the aid of secondary data to evaluate both the NPM and post-NPM paradigms, criticisms, arguments, challenges, and changes in public policy implementations. Recommendations are provided based on the existing challenges confronting the current public administration in South Africa. This study contributes to literature, new policy proposals and research within public administration.
Challenges deterring the progress of women small-scale entrepreneurs in Rwanda
Authors: Bazubagira Appoline Kabera , Umumararungu Christine Kapita
Published: December 2023

The research assesses the challenges deterring the progress of women’s small-scale businesses in Rwanda. It was guided by the following specific objectives: identify challenges faced by women’s small-scale businesses in Rwanda and assess how those challenges affect women’s small-scale businesses' progress. Findings were collected from 109 respondents who have been running small-scale businesses over a period ranging from one to three years. Results were collected through a questionnaire and desk review and quantitatively analyzed. The findings shed light on the challenges which small-scale women entrepreneurs face namely family expenses (53.2%), drunkenness (67%), family conflicts (93.6%), financial illiteracy (100%), and poverty (100%). The above-mentioned challenges affect small-scale businesses in that women entrepreneurs find themselves mixing up businesses and family expenses. Family conflicts were also highlighted to be another cause of business failure in that women who conflict with their husbands cannot easily prosper in their businesses. In addition, financial illiteracy makes them unable to assess their profit and find their businesses stagnant or closing. Thus, there is a need to provide support to small-scale businesswomen about how to assess business progress, and calculate their interest rate so that they may come up with financial skills. This would enable them to align their daily family expenses with their business interest. Once properly implemented, it would decrease the business failure rate.
Measuring the mediating role of e-trust in the relationship between e-service quality and e-loyalty on gen Z users of the shopee Apps
Authors: Martio Nazmi Ahmad , Mugiono  , Wahdiyat Moko
Published: December 2023

This study aims to investigate the effect of e-service quality, e-trust, and e-loyalty on Shopee application users Gen Z in Malang. This observation demographic consists of Shopee application users in Malang City, which is included in the Z generation. This research is included in the category of explanatory research using a quantitative approach. Primary data is obtained from the facts collected by sending questionnaires to 150 respondents who have used the Shopee application, as well as using the Gform application to distribute data. Data analysis using partial least squares (SEM-PLS) 3.3 software to test the validity, reliability, path analysis, and testing of mediation variables. The findings of this study indicate that e-service quality has a positive effect and directly affects e-loyalty. The direct effect of e-service quality on e-trust also has a positive and significant influence. The findings of this study also show that e-trust can mediate the influence of e-service quality on e-loyalty. Conclusion In the results of this study, it is expected that the Shopee e-commerce application will continue to be able to improve the quality of goods and services to the maximum, which is useful for attracting customers to be loyal. Increasing e-service quality provided by service providers, especially e-commerce, will affect customer loyalty and encourage repeated use of applications.
Covid-19 and the South African pharmaceutical supply chain
Authors: Takawira Blessing , Pooe David
Published: December 2023

This research aimed to identify the key drivers of the pharmaceutical supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic disruption, focusing on the South African pharmaceutical industry. The study aimed to unveil the dynamic strategies and challenges experienced during the pandemic and suggest recommendations for resilient supply chain operations. The study drew on established supply chain management theories and integrated them with the unique and novel circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. It mainly referred to theories regarding pricing, strategic sourcing, ICT usage, product availability, and logistics management contextualised within the pharmaceutical industry. An exploratory research approach was adopted to uncover the five overarching themes that function as pharmaceutical supply chain drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were used to acquire the primary data with industry supply chain professionals, supplemented with secondary data from industry reports and relevant literature. The findings revealed that the pricing of medications, strategic sourcing decisions, information and communication technology, the availability of pharmaceutical products, and logistics management played critical roles in the pharmaceutical industry's supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic led to challenges such as price hikes, supply shortages, and logistical complications. The study provides crucial insights into managing supply chain disruptions amid a global health crisis. Implementing dynamic pricing mechanisms, developing resilient sourcing strategies, using ICT effectively, improving inventory management, and enhancing logistics management are recommended for robust supply chain operations. The findings contribute to academia by enriching the existing body of knowledge and offering practical solutions for industry supply chain professionals. The research is original and timely, offering a unique perspective on the South African pharmaceutical industry's supply chain during an unprecedented global health crisis. The results are valuable for academia and industry, shedding light on the adaptive strategies, challenges encountered, and lessons learned from navigating the pharmaceutical supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Economic impact of adopting bundled SAPs on crop yield and household incomes among smallholder maize farmers in Morogoro region, Tanzania
Authors: Mugula Joseph , Ahmad Athman K. , Msinde John , Kadigi Michael
Published: December 2023

This paper uses a multinomial endogenous treatment effect model and data from a sample of 470 farming households to assess the impacts of adopting sustainable agricultural practices (SAPs) on farm yield and household incomes among smallholder maize farmers in Morogoro region. Results show that combination of improved maize and crop residual significantly increased maize yield by 46%, while intercropping with crop residual (65%), improved maize seeds with manure use (58%), and maize rotation with intercropping (57%). The model estimates indicate that individual elements of SAPs increased yield by crop residual (30%), crop rotation (38%), improved maize varieties (85%), intercropping (58%), and manure (43%) whereas, the application of bundled SAPs had significant impacts on the household income via the following combinations; maize-legume rotation and crop residual (50%), improved maize and crop residual (46%), improved maize and manure (70%), maize-legumes rotation and improved maize (46%), maize rotation and intercropping (68%), maize rotation, improved maize, crop residual, and intercropping (41%), and lastly improved maize, intercropping, manure, crop residual, and crop rotation (55%). The study recommends actors involved in the design, promotion and dissemination of SAPs to find a suitable mix or combination of these practices that will enhance maize productivity and incomes, while simultaneously addressing issues related to the dis-adoption of SAPs, and climate change, by raising awareness and educating to farmers about the benefits of using SAPs and implementing mitigative measures for climate change. This includes providing financial incentives such as loans and subsidies, as well as conducting policy reforms to evaluate and adjust policies that currently favor the use of conventional practices in Tanzania.
The Influence of perceived value and brand image on Lacoco's brand equity with brand awareness as a moderation variable
Authors: Purnama Yunus Indra , Nur Wening
Published: December 2023

In the current era, skin and facial health is the main thing that is a concern, especially for women. Appearance has an important role in encouraging one's confidence. The supporting role of one's appearance is the use of skincare. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of perceived value, brand image, and brand awareness on Lacoco brand equity in Surabaya. The sample in this study used accidental sampling of 100 respondents. The data collection method uses observation and questionnaires. The data processing technique used is a test of validity and reliability. Data analysis techniques include multiple linear regression tests, determination coefficient tests, and t-tests. From the results of the research hypothesis test, it was obtained that the variables of perceived value, brand image and brand awareness had a significant positive effect on Lococo brand equity where perceived value was formed due to customers' subjective assessment of the product and the benefits received by buying the product, brand image an effective one should meet the criteria of maker image, user image and product image to achieve the goals it sets, and consumers willing to buy a brand depend on consumer awareness and knowledge about the brand. In the moderation variable, brand awareness weakens the influence of brand image on brand equity, this is because the influence of perceived value on brand equity is an important aspect in understanding how the perceived value of consumers to a product or brand can impact overall brand value. When consumers have a high level of awareness about the brand and maintain a positive image of the brand, the value of the brand will increase.
Ciência de dados aplicada à biotecnologia marinha: avaliação do potencial biotecnológico das espécies bentônicas de Arraial do Cabo (RJ, Brasil)
Authors: Lima da Cunha Mariana , Lima da Cunha Danieli , Gomes de Menezes Rafael , Fonseca Estefan Monteiro da , Coutinho Ricardo
Published: December 2023

Diversos seres vivos marinhos possuem substâncias desconhecidas que podem ser utilizadas em muitas áreas como da ciência. A biotecnologia, mais especificamente a biotecnologia marinha é um campo emergente e com realizações promissoras nas áreas de bioquímica, genética, genômica, aquicultura, bioenergia e em outros. Neste contexto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo validar um algoritmo de busca do tipo Web Scraping desenvolvida por Menezes (2019) para buscar, com base na literatura, espécies dos costões rochosos de Arraial do Cabo relevantes em áreas de aplicação da biotecnologia marinha. De acordo com o algoritmo, das 922 espécies as mais bem classificadas por apresentarem maior número de trabalhos e que se destacaram em relação ao potencial biotecnológico foram: Rachycentron canadum (Peixe), Amphibalanus amphitrite (Crustáceo), Ulva fasciata (Macroalga), Asparagopsis taxiformis (Macroalga), Bugula neritina (Briozoário) e Palythoa caribaeorum (Cnidário). Dos trabalhos avaliados e selecionados (n=257), os grupos Macroalgas, Cnidários, Poríferos e Equinodermos, apresentaram maior variedade do potencial biotecnológico, respectivamente. Com relação à classificação do potencial biotecnológico, biogenética, produtos naturais para medicina e aquicultura foram as áreas da Biotecnologia Marinha mais estudadas. Os resultados mostraram que a metodologia utilizada reduziu o tempo da busca bibliográfica ligada a biotecnologia de cada espécie listada no catálogo, mostrando ser útil em dados oriundos de locais de grande biodiversidade e pouco conhecimento sobre as espécies.
Manifesto de Lançamento do AMAZONICIDADES
Authors: Ana Claudia Duarte Cardoso  , José Carlos Matos Pereira
Published: December 2023

Documento produzido a partir do acúmulo do Projeto COMOVA (2003-2006), do Projeto UrbisAmazônia (2011-2015), dos debates realizados sobre Cidades Amazônicas para eleições presidenciais de 2022, promovidos pela Fundação Perseu Abramo e validado por pesquisadores que constituem o coletivo Amazonicidades - Observatório de Cidades, Vilas e Territórios Amazônicos. Este manifesto foi preparado para o lançamento do Amazonicidades, realizado em 5 de agosto de 2023, em um das atividade autogestionárias que constituiu a programação dos Diálogos Amazônicos. O texto orienta a ação dos pesquisadores vinculados a instituições públicas de ensino (pesquisa e extensão) superior baseadas em estados da Amazônia Brasileira, no sentido da ampliação da conexões de saberes dentro da região e da sistematização de conhecimento sobre as especificidades do urbano amazônico, ainda tão pouco abordado no debate geral sobre a região.
EXECUÇÃO DE ALIMENTOS PELO RITO DA PRISÃO CIVIL: ANÁLISE DA CONTEMPORANEIDADE DA VERBA E DA URGÊNCIA NA PRESTAÇÃO JURISDICIONAL
Authors: Santos Thiago do Amaral
Published: December 2023

Aborda os tipos de alimentos previstos na legislação vigente, para que se possa identificar, de acordo com sua natureza jurídica, os que são essenciais à manutenção das necessidades básicas do alimentando e aqueles que se relacionam com o custeio de seu padrão de vida. Relaciona as diferentes formas de execução previstas no Código de Processo Civil para diferenciar as medidas coercitivas patrimoniais e aquelas de caráter pessoal. Analisa os fundamentos que possibilitam a utilização da prisão civil como meio coercitivo para o pagamento de alimentos, diante dos limites estabelecidos pela jurisprudência do Superior Tribunal de Justiça sobre o aspecto temporal e da natureza da verba alimentar. Busca investigar a possibilidade de execução de alimentos pelo rito da coerção pessoal nos casos em que deixou de ser evidenciada a contemporaneidade da verba e a urgência na prestação jurisdicional.
DIREITOS HUMANOS DAS MULHERES: UMA ANÁLISE SOBRE POBREZA MENSTRUAL, DIGNIDADE E POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS
Authors: Moraes Everton Gonçalves , Cruz Ana Paula , Bezerra Sibely Alves
Published: December 2023

O estudo em análise discute a complexidade subjacente à pobreza menstrual, explorando-a através da lente dos direitos humanos e fundamentais. Esta fenomenologia emerge como um desdobramento da disparidade de gênero, atestando a marginalização dos corpos femininos e a subsequente subtração da dignidade menstrual. Assim, o propósito do trabalho reside na análise da pobreza menstrual no contexto das mulheres vulneráveis economicamente, à luz do princípio inalienável da dignidade humana e do direito fundamental à saúde. O método empregado abarca revisão bibliográfica, doutrinária e documental, acompanhada pela análise de dados provenientes de estudos relacionados ao tema em âmbito brasileiro. Os achados exibem como a sociedade tem relegado à invisibilidade a menstruação e suas ramificações. Ao mesmo tempo, mostra que as ações mobilizadas por organizações feministas foram preponderantes para evidenciar tal questão e formular as melhores estratégias para sua mitigação. Essencialmente, a ação proativa do Estado se mostra crucial na batalha contra a pobreza menstrual, devendo contemplar todas as dimensões pertinentes. Em síntese, ressalta-se a relevância tanto da disseminação de produtos menstruais como de medidas educativas, conjugadas a uma reconfiguração do panorama político e econômico, visando alargar o acesso a recursos essenciais para instaurar a equidade nas interações humanas. Destarte, infere-se que a cruzada contra a pobreza menstrual mantém indissolúvel vínculo com o combate à disparidade de gênero, obrigando a transpor obstáculos como estigmas, preconceitos e a discriminação que ainda circundam a menstruação.
A MITIGAÇÃO DO PRINCÍPIO DA LEGALIDADE TRIBUTÁRIA ADOTADA PELO STF E AS CONTRIBUIÇÕES SOCIAIS
Authors: Gonçalves Glenda Rodrigues Messias , Jurubeba Fernanda Matos Fernandes de Oliveira
Published: December 2023

O presente trabalho buscou analisar a atuação do STF nos julgamentos da ADI 5.277 e do RE 1.043.313, considerando o princípio da legalidade tributária e suas mitigações à luz da Constituição Federal e do Código Tributário Nacional. O posicionamento da Suprema Corte nos julgados representou uma ruptura do entendimento até então pacificado na jurisprudência do tribunal, na medida em que permitiu redução e restabelecimento das alíquotas da Contribuição ao PIS/PASEP e da COFINS por ato infralegal, sem fixação das condições em lei e em desobediência aos ditames constitucionais. A metodologia adotada foi a pesquisa bibliográfica, onde se buscou entendimentos de diversos doutrinadores e da jurisprudência acerca do tema abordado.
Método prático para cálculo de área de um polígono convexo tendo conhecimento dos seus vértices
Authors: Da Silva Henrique Lobato , Lira Rogério Figuereido , Mendonça Paulo Cleber Texeira , Da Silva Warley Gramacho
Published: December 2023

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar um método prático para calcular a área de polígonos convexos com base em seus vértices, tornando esse processo compreensível para alunos em diferentes níveis educacionais, desde o ensino fundamental até o ensino superior. Para estudantes do ensino médio e superior, a abordagem será mais acessível devido ao conhecimento prévio de matrizes e determinantes. No entanto, esse método prático é projetado para ser compreendido por alunos independentemente de sua familiaridade com esses conceitos matemáticos. O artigo apresenta um método prático que foi previamente discutido por Zerbinatti em 2015, visando oferecer uma ferramenta acessível e aplicável para calcular áreas de polígonos convexos.
Macrophage polarization in infectious diseases: PAMP, viru-lence factors, immune signaling and receptors
Authors: Cerdeira Cláudio Daniel , Brigagão Maísa R.P.L.
Published: December 2023

An event of increasing interest during host-pathogen interactions is the differentiation of patrolling monocytes (MOs) and the polarization of naive MOs into macrophage subsets (MФs). Therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating this event are under investigation. This review focuses on the mechanisms of induction, development, and profile of MФs polarized toward classically proinflammatory (M1) or alternatively anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes in response to bac-teria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. It highlights nuclear (PPARγ), cytoplasmic, and cell surface receptors (pattern recognition receptors/PPRs), microenvironmental mediators, and immune signaling. MФs polarize into phenotypes: M1 MФs, activated by IFN-γ, pathogen-associated mo-lecular patterns (PAMPs, e.g. LPS)/DAMPs and membrane-bound PPRs ligands (TLRs/CLRs lig-ands); or M2 MФs (a, b, c and d), induced by IL-4, -10 and -13, antigen-antibody complexes, and helminth PAMPs. The kinetics of M1 and M2 polarization evolve in a pathogen-specific manner, with or without canonicity, and can vary widely. Ultimately, this can result in varying degrees of host protection or more severe disease outcome. While the host is driving an effective MФs po-larization, pathogens are attempting to shift it to increase pathogenicity. The latter results from a bias toward an ineffective M1 or M2 response due to microbial virulence factors, culminating in pathogen evasion of host defenses. Plasticity of M1/M2 phenotypes is also ensured by cellu-lar/genomic reprogramming. Because modulation of this event can occur at multiple points, providing a therapeutic/vaccine design target to boost microbicidal (M1) or tissue repair (M2) response during the inflammation-to-resolution transition; new insights and emerging perspec-tives may have clinical implications.
Cytomegalovirus Pneumonia in Down Syndrome
Authors: Perrotta Francesco , Piscopiello Donato , Rizzo Daniela , Iosa Gaetano , Garzya Giorgio , Calò Piero , Gemma Daniele
Published: December 2023

Down Syndrome (DS) is a chromosomal disorder due to the presence of an additional chromosome 21 that causes intellectual deficit and physical anomalies and predisposes patients to develop infections throughout their lives. Pneumonias are more serious in patients with DS, requiring hospitalization, and represent an important cause of mortality in this population. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) causes widespread and serious infections in immunocompromised individuals, affecting the respiratory tract and, causing interstitial pneumonia, is associated with a high mortality rate.

However, CMV-induced pneumonia is not reported in DS patients. The prevalence and severity of CMV respiratory infections in subjects with DS is unknown. This case describes a 50-year-old female patient suffering from DS who developed extensive bilateral pneumonia with severe respiratory failure which required hospitalization in intensive care, intubation and mechanical ventilation after approximately 10 days of empiric antibiotic and anitimycotic therapy for fever, cough and dyspnea. The patient was diagnosed with CMV pneumonia and recovered after treatment with Ganciclovir. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of CMV pneumonia in a patient with DS. This case aims to highlight that CMV pneumonia in individuals with DS can be a life-threatening condition. It also clarifies the importance of early diagnosis of infections from opportunistic pathogens such as CMV to ensure timely and efficient treatment.
Greater Energy Independence with Sustainable Steel Production
Authors: Kiessling Sandra , Darabkhani Hamidreza Gohari , Soliman Abdel-Hamid Ali
Published: December 2023

Energy market price volatility and an upward trajectory of prices per unit of electricity have sent all industrial sectors and many economies to the brink of recession. Alongside the urgent need for decarbonisation of all industries, achieving a higher level of energy independence across all sectors seems imperative. A multi-disciplinary approach with a proposed system of CO2 emissions reduction and capture technologies has the potential for short-term emissions reduction to near-zero in absolute terms. The findings of this research showed CO2 emissions reduction of ~30% from 977t of CO2e to 684t in one single blast furnace production cycle, by switching the energy provider generating energy exclusively from renewable sources. Replacing coal with biomass (BECCS), resulted in an additional reduction of ~30%, to CO2e to 479t CO2e. Installing solar PV panels for energy generation on site resulted in a further ~30% reduction, to 335 tonnes CO2e. Finally, the installation of CO2 filters reduced the CO2 emissions to near-zero. Simultaneously, energy-saving and process improvement measures implementation (up to 60% efficiency increase), excess heat recovery (<30% of energy savings), and retrofitting renewable energy technology resulted in an energy independence of 88%. Short-term engineering solutions, partly subsidised in the UK, are readily available.
Discrete-Time Adaptive Control for Uncertain Scalar Multiagent Systems with Coupled Dynamics: A Lyapunov-Based Approach
Authors: Aly Islam A. , Dogan Kadriye Merve
Published: December 2023

Discrete-time architectures offer a distinct advantage over their continuous counterparts, as they can be seamlessly implemented on embedded hardware without the necessity for discretization processes. Yet, because of the difficulty of ensuring Lyapunov difference expressions, their designs, which are based on quadratic Lyapunov-based frameworks, are highly complex. As a result, various existing continuous-time results using adaptive control methods to deal with system uncertainties and coupled dynamics in agents of a multiagent system cannot be directly applied to the discrete-time context. Furthermore, compared to their continuous-time equivalent, discrete-time information exchange based on periodic time intervals is more practical in the control of multiagent systems. In this paper, we first introduce a discrete-time adaptive control architecture designed for uncertain scalar multiagent systems without coupled dynamics as a preliminary result. We then introduce another discrete-time adaptive control approach for uncertain multiagent systems in the presence of coupled dynamics. Our approach incorporates observer dynamics to manage unmeasurable coupled dynamics, along with a user-assigned Laplacian matrix to induce cooperative behaviors among multiple agents. Our solution includes Lyapunov analysis with logarithmic and quadratic Lyapunov functions for guaranteeing asymptotic stability with both controllers. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control architectures, we provide an illustrative example.
On the Inconsistency of: The Classical Propositional Calculus and Its Metatheory
Authors: Stepien Lukasz
Published: December 2023

The classical propositional calculus (zero-order logic, classical propositional logic), is the most fundamental two-valued logical system. In this paper we present a proof of inconsistency of the classical propositional calculus. Then, we get right away the conclusion that the metatheory of the classical propositional calculus is inconsistent.
In-Silico Molecular Analysis of the Inverse Interaction between Cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Anyomi Bright Kwaku , Fosu Kwadwo , Kampo Sylvanus , Liu Tingting , Wei Jianshe
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Depending on the kind of cancer and neurological disorders, there might be a direct or inverse link between neurodegeneration and cancer. The inverse interaction between cancer and Alzheimer's pathology has garnered substantial interest in medical research. While this inverse interaction between Alzheimer's pathology and cancer presents a fascinating scientific puzzle, there is still limited information and studies on the potential mechanisms involved in this inverse rela-tionship. Aim: This study aims to identify potential genes from Alzheimer's disease that may protect against cancer.
Method: The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database provided the Alzheimer's pathology dataset, and GEO 2R was utilized to examine genes that were differentially expressed. The expression of upregulated Alzheimer's pathology genes in breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer was compared using VENN 2.1, colorectal, and prostate cancer was compared using VENN 2.1, and colorectal and prostate cancers were compared using VENN 2.1.
Results: Among the upregulated genes associated with Alzheimer's disease, 25 genes are shared among breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer, while 28 of these genes were exclusive to Alzheimer's dis-ease. Gene expression profiling interactive analysis among the shared genes revealed that AQP1, C4A, CSRP2, CRYAB, MACF1, HSPB2, and NEAT1 were downregulated in breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers. These genes have varying roles in cancer progression and suppression. Functional analysis of Alzheimer's disease-related upregulated genes revealed that C1orf56 and HIST1H2AC control cell proliferation, with HIST1H2AC playing a role in necroptosis. Additionally, C1orf56 worked as an oncogenic modifier to support DNMT3B's tumor suppressor properties.
Conclusion: Given the role of HIST1H2AC and C1orf56 in the negative control of cell proliferation and their upregulation in Alzheimer's disease, there is a need to further investigate HIST1H2AC and C1orf56 as potential tumor suppressors responsible for Alzheimer's disease and cancer inverse association.
Estimation of Genetic Diversity and Number of Unique Multilocus Genotypes (MLGs) of Cassava Germplasm from Burkina Faso Using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) Markers
Authors: SORO Monique , Zida Serge Marie Felicien Wend-Pagnagdé , Somé Koussao , Tiendrébéogo Fidèle , Otron Daniel H. , Pita Justin S. , Néya James B. , Koné Daouda
Published: December 2023

Genetic diversity is very important in crop improvement. This study was carried out to assess the genetic diversity and the number of unique multilocus genotypes (MLGs) in cassava collection in Burkina Faso. To achieve this objective 130 cassava accessions were genotyped using 32 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. The results revealed that among these markers, twelve (12) were highly informative, with the PIC values greater than 0.50, twelve (12) were moderately informative, with the PIC values ranged between 0.25 and 0.50, and eight (8) were not very informative, with the PIC values lower than 0.25. A moderate level of genetic diversity was found for the population, indicated by the average expected heterozygosity (0.45) and the observed heterozygosity (0.48). About 83.8% of unique multilocus genotypes were found in the cassava collection indicating that SSR markers seem to be most appropriate for MLGs identification. Population structure analysis based on hierarchical clustering identified two subpopulations and Bayesian approach suggested five clusters. Additionally, DAPC analysis separated the cassava accessions into 13 subpopulations. The comparison of these results and the previous study using SNP, suggest that each type of markers can be used to assessment the genetic structure of cassava grown in Burkina Faso.
Survey Results of the Oral Hygiene Habits (Pre and Post Recommendations) among Phenylketonuria Patients in Latvia
Authors: Abola Iveta , Intlere Nikola Anna , Brinkmane Anda , Laktina Sabine , Zarina Agnese , Vasilevska Lauma , Skadins Ingus , Moisejevs Georgijs , Gailite Linda , Auzenbaha Madara
Published: December 2023

: Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate Phenylketonuria (PKU) patients’ oral health habits and the efficiency of tailored recommendations for PKU patients in Latvia on the correct management of oral hygiene. The-free amino acid formula can negatively impact PKU patient’s oral health as it contains a high amount of complex carbohydrates. Materials and methods: In this study with a one-month interval pre and post implementation of oral hygiene recommendations, two questionnaires regarding oral hygiene habits and knowledge were prepared and provided by trained medical personnel to be filled in for all diagnosed PKU patients in Latvia who were not lost to follow-up. Results: Based on the questionnaires among the PKU patients under 18 years of age, 27% cleaned their teeth once a day. However, 6% of patients did not engage in regular teeth brushing at all. Among PKU patients over and 18 years of age, 26% brushed their teeth only once a day. Additionally, a mere 39% of PKU patients ≥18 years of age and 17% < 18 years of age incorporated flossing into their oral hygiene routine. In total, 45% of PKU patients ≥18 years of age and 44% < 18 years of age visited a dentist once a year, but 40% ≥18 years of age and 39% <18 years of age visited a dentist less often than once per year. After reading the recommendations, a remarkable number of PKU patients < 18 years of age had improved their daily oral hygiene routine, including toothbrushing (25%) and flossing (23%). Conclusion: Given the unique dietary requirements and the implementation of these daily at-home oral health practices, motivation and regular reminders should result in better oral health of PKU patients and cooperation with clinicians.
HyperVein: A Dataset for Human Vein Detection from Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Ndu Henry , Sheikh-Akbari Akbar , Deng Jiamei , Mporas Iosif
Published: December 2023

Hyperspectral (HS) imaging plays a pivotal role in various fields, including medical diagnostics, where precise human vein detection is crucial. Hyperspectral image data are very large and can cause computational complexities. Dimensionality reduction techniques are often employed to streamline HS image data processing. This paper investigates the effectiveness of three dimensionality reduction techniques, namely: Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Folded PCA (FPCA), and Ward’s Linkage Strategy using Mutual Information (WaLuMI) for vein detection using HS images. A HS image dataset, encompassing left and right-hand images captured from 100 subjects with varying skin tones was created and annotated using anatomical data to represent vein and non-vein areas within the images. To generate experimental results, the HS image dataset was divided into train and test datasets. Optimum performing parameters for each of the dimensionality reduction techniques in conjunction with The Support Vector Machine binary classification were determined using the Training dataset. The performance of the three dimensionality reduction based vein detection methods was then assessed and compared using the test image dataset. Results show that the FPCA-based method outperforms the other two methods in terms of accuracy. For visualization purposes, the classification prediction image for each technique is post-processed using morphological operators, and results show the significant potential of HS imaging in vein detection.
Pharmacovigilance in Brazil: The Government Monitoring of the Side Effects Caused by Vaccines against COVID-19 – a Narrative Review
Authors: Carvalho Mariana , Duarte Ivone , Nunes Rui
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Is pharmacovigilance at a moment of prominence for science and in relation to government responsibilities towards their nations, as the new coronavirus pandemic has surprised everyone in a negative and lethal way.
OBJECTIVE: Evaluate pharmacovigilance as a resource for controlling and understanding the adverse effects caused by vaccines in use.
DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review developed by a research group at Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto.
METHODS: This is a narrative review of the literature available in electronic media, government bulletins and similar bodies. The search was carried out using the descriptors: "Pharmacovigilance AND COVID-19 in Brazil", "Vaccine Development AND COVID-19 in Brazil", "Vaccination Hesitancy AND COVID-19 in Brazil", "Pharmacovigilance AND COVID-19", "Vaccine Development AND COVID-19", "Vaccination Hesitancy AND COVID-19", Pharmacovigilance AND COVID-19, Vaccine Development AND COVID-19, Vaccination Hesitancy AND COVID-19, "Public Health Surveillance AND COVID-19". In the period from May 2021 to June 2022.
RESULTS: From the database search, 3 journal articles, 4 government bulletins and 535 scientific articles were identified. Of the total of 542 bibliographic materials, 36 were selected according to the selection criteria and objectives of the study.
CONCLUSIONS: The vaccines in use have proven efficacy, despite adverse reactions that cannot be attributed solely and exclusively to their use, since the medical history of each patient should be considered in the investigation of each case, especially when there is death. The Brazilian data for adverse events, although the country is continental in its size, are acceptable given the number of deaths recorded.
A Knockout of the IFITM3 Gene Increases the Sensitivity of WI-38 VA13 Cells to the Influenza a Virus
Authors: Eshchenko Natalya , Sergeeva Mariia , Zhuravlev Evgenii , Kudria Kira , Goncharova Elena , Komissarov Andrey , Stepanov Grigory
Published: December 2023

One of the ways to regulate the sensitivity of human cells to the influenza virus is to knock out genes of the innate immune response. Promising targets for the knockout are genes of the interferon-inducible transmembrane protein (IFITM) family, in particular the IFITM3 gene, whose product limits the entry of a virus into the cell by blocking the fusion of the viral and endosomal membranes. In this study, by means of genome-editing system CRISPR/Cas9, monoclonal cell lines with an IFITM3 knockout were obtained based on WI-38 VA13 cells (human origin). It was found that such cell lines are more sensitive to infection by influenza A viruses of various subtypes. Nonetheless, this feature is not accompanied by an increased titer of newly formed viral particles in a culture medium.
Porcine β-defensin 114: Creating a Dichotomous Response to Inflammation
Authors: Su Guoqi , Huang Sheng , Jiang Shan , Chen Li , Yang Feiyun , Liu Zuohua , Wang Guixue , Huang Jinxiu
Published: December 2023

This study explored the effects of pBD114 (porcine β-defensin 114) on inflammatory response. The results in RAW264.7 cells showed that 100 μg/mL of pBD114 significantly increased the concentrations of TNFα and IL-10, and 10 μg/mL of pBD114 significantly decreased the concen-tration of TNFα in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cell cultures at 10 ng/mL. These results suggest that pBD114 can exhibit pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory activities under certain conditions. RNA-seq analysis was performed to gain further insight into the effects of pBD114 on the in-flammatory response. Among pBD114 promoting RAW264.7 pro-inflammatory response, pBD114 significantly up-regulated 1170 genes and down-regulated 724 genes. KEGG enrichment found that the DEGs were significantly enriched in immune- and signal-transduction-related signaling pathways. PPI and KDA analyses revealed that Bcl10 and Bcl3 were the key genes. In addition, pBD114 significantly up-regulated 12 genes and down-regulated 38 genes in the an-ti-inflammatory response. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that the DEGs were mainly en-riched in the "Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction" signaling pathway, and PPI and KDA analyses showed that Stat1 and Csf2 were the key genes. The results of qRT-PCR verified those of RNA-seq. In vivo mice tests also confirmed the pro- or anti-inflammatory activity of pBD114. Although the inflammatory response is a rapid and complex physiological reaction to noxious stimuli, this study found that pBD114 plays an essential role in the inflammatory response mainly by acting on genes related to immunity, signal transduction, signaling molecules, and interactions.
Effects of Training and Calibration Data on Surface Electro-Myogram-Based Recognition for Upper Limb Amputees
Authors: Yao Pan , Wang Kaifeng , Xia Weiwei , Guo Yusen , Liu Tiezhu , Han Mengdi , Gou Guangyang , Liu Chunxiu , Xue Ning
Published: December 2023

The surface electromyogram (sEMG)--based gesture recognition to the development of intelligent prostheses has emerged as a promising avenue for upper limb amputees. However, the temporal variations in sEMG have rendered recognition models less efficient than anticipated. Cross-session calibration and training data indicate the capacity to reduce this variation. The impact of varying calibration and training data amounts on gesture recognition performance for amputees is still unknown. To assess these effects, we present four datasets for the evaluation of calibration data and examine the impact of training data volume on benchmark performance. Two amputees who had undergone amputations years prior were recruited and seven sessions of data were collected for analysis from each of them. The experimental results show that the calibration data improved the average accuracy per subject by 3.03% and 6.16%, respectively, compared to the baseline results. Moreover, it was found that to collect training data for modeling, boosting the number of training sessions proves more efficient than increasing the number of trials within a single session. Two potentially effective strategies are proposed in light of this research to enhance the cross-session models further. We consider these findings to be of the utmost importance for the commercialization of intelligent prostheses, as they demonstrate the criticality of gathering calibration and cross-session training data, as well as offer effective strategies for maximizing the utilization of the entire dataset.