bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incentivos à transição de carreira dos burocratas de médio escalão
Authors: Dalla Vecchia Rosangela , De Faveri Diego , Brulon Vanessa
Published: January 2024

Nesta pesquisa, buscamos responder ao seguinte problema: quais são os incentivos que podem atrair advogados públicos da Procuradoria-Geral da Fazenda Nacional (PGFN) para cargos de gestão e como eles se mostram presentes nesta organização? A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas com 14 procuradores em 2019. A análise de conteúdo de grade mista resultou nas seguintes categorias: capacitação, incentivo financeiro, suporte organizacional, natureza da atividade e flexibilização das regras de trabalho. Os resultados indicam que os fatores relevantes nem sempre estão presentes na PGFN, o que diminui o interesse pelo cargo. Uma contribuição importante refere-se às especificidades do Burocrata de Médio Escalão (BME) no setor público brasileiro: as particularidades da administração pública brasileira atravessam as atividades do BME e afetam negativamente incentivos como capacitação e natureza da atividade; a permanência do ideal burocrático também impõe desafios à incorporação da flexibilização dos arranjos de trabalho.
Constituição, emendas constitucionais e políticas públicas: A atenção governamental em mudanças constitucionais
Authors: Brasil Felipe Gonçalves , Capella Ana Cláudia Niedhardt , De Souza Lorraine Saldanha Freitas Xavier , Costa Pedro Moura
Published: January 2024

Entre 1988 e 2018, a Constituição Federal brasileira sofreu 105 alterações por meio da aprovação das Emendas Constitucionais. Diante desse fenômeno marcado pela alta taxa de emendamentos, este trabalho tem por objetivo mapear e analisar as mudanças na Constituição a partir dos diferentes tipos de políticas setoriais alvo dessas 105 Emendas ao longo dos 30 anos pós-promulgação da Constituição. Metodologicamente, o artigo adota a perspectiva de análise de conteúdo a partir da estrutura do Comparative Agendas Project (CAP). Como resultado, o artigo destaca o crescimento da Constituição na ordem de mais de 20%. Também foi observado o aumento de normatizações voltadas para a garantia de diferentes tipos de policy –sobretudo as políticas sociais em detrimento da regulação da polity. Finalmente, as conclusões apontam para a importância de se olhar para a Constituição Federal como um lócus de formação da agenda, formulação de políticas e de defesa de prioridades de governos.
Οντολογία και εικονικότητα
Authors: Χρήστου Κωνσταντίνος
Published: January 2024

Στην παρούσα εργασία θα κινηθούμε από το ον στο μη-ον, από το Είναι στο μη-Είναι, από την ύπαρξη στο Μηδέν και από το εικονικό στο ανεικονικό, ευρισκόμενοι ωστόσο πάντα εντός αυτού του «υλικού» πεδίου όπου είμαστε ερριμμένοι, και που μόνο εντός αυτού δυνάμεθα να νοούμε όλα τούτα. Εντός του υπαρκτικού-«υλικού» πεδίου εδράζεται η δυνατότητα της εξεικόνισης, η οποία όμως παράγει το ίδιο το πεδίο σε μια ατέρμονη αλληλοδιαδοχή χωρίς αρχή και τέλος. Μέσα σε αυτό το μονιστικό πλαίσιο, όπου το «υλικό» παράγει το νοητικό και το νοητικό παράγει το «υλικό», το δίπολο Είναι-Μηδέν θα καταδειχθεί ως μια οντολογική πλάνη, καθώς η ανυπαρξία είναι τόσο υπαρκτή όσο και η ίδια η ύπαρξη. Κατοικούμε στην πλατωνική Χώρα όπου τα πάντα Είναι και η ανυπαρξία είναι ανύπαρκτη.
Endovascular management of aortic aneurysm with severe neck angulation and/or iliac artery tortuosity using multiple stiff wire technique: a case series
Authors: Taofan Taofan , Adiarto Suko , Dakota Iwan , Indriani Suci , Afandy Jonathan Edbert , Kartamihardja Achmad Hafiedz Azis , Kang Sung-Gwon , Sukmawan Renan
Published: January 2024

Background Suitable aortic neck is one of the essential components for thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and endovascular aortic repair (EVAR). Advanced techniques were developed to adjust and compromise the aneurysm neck angulation but with adding additional devices and complexity to the procedure. We proposed a simple technique to modify severe neck angulation and/or iliac artery tortuosity by using the multiple stiff wire (MSW) technique. Method Two femoral accesses were required for the MSW technique. A guidewire with a support catheter was inserted through the right and left femoral arteries and positioned in the abdominal or thoracic aorta. Wire exchanges were done with extra stiff wire in both femoral accesses. It can be considered to add multiple stiff wires to align the torturous neck / iliac artery. Delivery of the stent graft main body can be done via one of the accesses. Result Six patients with different aortic pathology were admitted to our hospital. Four patients undergo EVAR procedure and two patients undergo TEVAR procedure. All patients had aortic neck angulation problems with one patient having iliac artery tortuosity. MSW technique was performed on the patients with good results. Follow-up CTA after 3 months revealed a good stent position without stent migration and no endoleak was found in all but one patient. Conclusion MSW technique is a simple and effective technique to modify aortic neck/iliac artery angulation in TEVAR or EVAR procedure.
Improving Semantic Analysis in Visualization with Meta Network Representation and Parsing Algorithm
Authors: Ji Chunmei , Liu Ning , Wang Zansen , Zhen Yaping
Published: January 2024

This article aims to advance semantic analysis models, particularly in visualization, by proposing a novel semantic representation method utilizing the semantic Meta Network (MNet). MNet is a complex framework comprising semantic elements, internal and external relationships, and feature attributes, defined hierarchically through recursive processes, aiming to depict the comprehensive semantic space from phrase-level components to complete texts. The methodology involves the development of a general construction algorithm for MNet, encompassing meta relationships, tree structures, and network structures, and a Parsing method for specific semantic analysis problems, including a bottom-up specification-based MNet semantic dependency tree construction algorithm and a network construction algorithm tailored for natural language interface parsing. Empirical experiments confirm the effectiveness of these algorithms, particularly in parsing natural language control interface instructions in Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, bridging specific semantic analysis problems with the general construction and parsing processes of MNet, accounting for internal semantics concerning language unit structures and foreign language meanings in the linguistic context, thereby contributing significantly to the field of natural language semantic analysis.
Computer Software Maintenance and Optimization Based on Improved Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Lu Ming
Published: January 2024

Optimizing computer software maintenance is the key goal, which also ensures dependable and consistent network performance. In order to increase genetic operations and evaluate the satisfaction and fitness index functions, this article employs an improved genetic algorithm. Utilizing the network's performance and controlling restrictions through controlled data iterations, the architecture is refined. The study also finds a link between the number of iterations and the rate of network optimization, supporting the results of the genetic algorithm. The results show that the reliability of the network system decreases as the number of genetic operation repeats increases. If a critical point is reached, the enhancement in network reliability tends to level off due to hardware constraints or other relevant factors. Notably, the study identifies the maximum attainable value of network reliability at 0.894, precisely at 100 iterations. These conclusions offer an essential framework for optimizing the design of computer network reliability, emphasizing the necessity of a well-balanced approach to genetic algorithm-based optimization.
Application of Artificial Intelligence Technology in Electromechanical Information Security Situation Awareness System
Authors: Liu Xiangying , Li Zhiqiang , Tang Zhuwei , Zhang Xiang , Wang Hongxia
Published: January 2024

The information security situational awareness system is proposed in this paper to leverage big data and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance information security situation prediction. Deep learning techniques, specifically the long short-term memory recurrent neural network (LSTM-RNN), predict security situations using complex non-linear and autocorrelation time series data from current and past system conditions. Additionally, the study incorporates the variant gated recurrent unit (GRU) within the LSTM-RNN framework. A comprehensive experimental analysis is conducted, comparing various methods, including LSTM, GRU, and others, to assess and compare their predictive performance. The experimental results reveal that LSTM-RNN demonstrates a commendable level of predictive accuracy on the test dataset, with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 8.79%, a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.1107, and a relative root mean square error (RRMSE) of 8.47%. Both LSTM and GRU exhibit exceptional predictive accuracy, with GRU offering a slightly faster training speed due to its simplified architecture and fewer trainable parameters. Overall, this research highlights the potential of AI-based methodologies in constructing robust information security situational awareness systems.
Research on Student Behavior Analysis and Grade Prediction System Based on Student Behavior Characteristics
Authors: Fu Qiang
Published: January 2024

In the era of big data, the traditional governance model of student behavior management gradually shows the disadvantage of “post positioning”. Therefore, the research uses relevant data mining algorithms to extract and analyze students’ behavior characteristics, and constructs a SPC system model for students’ behavior analysis and performance prediction. At the same time, the experiment verifies its effectiveness. The experimental results show that in the factor analysis, the overall variance of the first seven indicators is 69.942\%, which shows that there is a significant correlation between students’ learning behavior and academic performance. In the model performance analysis of SPC system, the accuracy of the five algorithms is kept at 40% - 60%, while SVM has higher stability than other methods. In addition, the prediction accuracy and response rate of SPC model reached 86.90% and 81.57% respectively. When the sequence length was increased from 1 to 20, the accuracy of SPC model exceeded 70%; However, when the feature dimension exceeds 50, the model representation ability will decline. Therefore, appropriate feature dimensions are needed to predict student performance. To sum up, the SPC model built by the research is effective in analyzing student behavior and predicting students’ performance, and practical in actual student management.
Research on Detection Technology of Abnormal Data in College Physical Education Network Teaching Test Results
Authors: Shan Feng , Li Dongqi
Published: January 2024

In recent years, with the rapid development of big data technology, more and more data are continuously generated with the summary of university systems. Therefore, how to use these educational data to provide more scientific decision-making information for university information builders is very important. This research collected various educational data through the network teaching system and campus information system. After that, the collected data was used to analyze the students' online behavior and to excavate valuable behavioral characteristics. In addition, the experiment also proposed indicators to describe students' behavior, such as network course behavior, network viscosity and life regularity, to provide the basis for the subsequent abnormal performance prediction model. Finally, the experiment used DBSCAN algorithm based on distance optimization for clustering analysis, and constructed a NA model based on multiple classifiers. The research results showed that when, the SC value was 0.711, which was the optimal solution of D-DBSCAN algorithm. At this time, the corresponding number of clusters was 4. When N=2, that was, the base classifier of NA model is composed of C4.5 model and SVM model, the prediction accuracy and time consumption are the most appropriate. The accuracy, recall and F1 values of NA model were 98.16\%, 97.26\% and 0.958 respectively, which was better than that of single model. To sum up, the NA model based on classifiers proposed in the study had higher accuracy and better model performance, can effectively reflect students' academic level, and could provide accurate abnormal performance data for college sports online teaching tests.
Traditional Cultural Network Online Education Integrating Deep Learning and Knowledge Tracking
Authors: Zhao Heng , Sun Zhiyuan
Published: January 2024

With the popularization of the computer network and the development of artificial intelligence technology, the traditional education industry has been reformed. In the past two years, online education has developed rapidly. The combination of the Internet and education enables students to study online at any time, no longer relying on the time and place requirements in traditional education. However, with the rapid development of online education, many problems have gradually emerged. In online education, with a large amount of knowledge and question banks, students are faced with a large number of choices. Therefore, positioning and tracking the knowledge level of students and realizing personalized online education have become the main problems facing the moment. Based on this, this study integrates deep learning and knowledge tracking technology to build a traditional cultural network online education model, aiming at accurately positioning students’ knowledge levels and recommending personalized question banks. The experimental results show that the average AUC of the model proposed in this study is 0.781, and the average accuracy rate is 0.886, which is significantly better than other online education models. Through the combination of deep learning and knowledge tracking technology, the research successfully provides a new and efficient model for personalized learning in the field of online education, which is of great guiding value for promoting further innovation and development of online education. In addition, the research also provides practical solution strategies for related fields, which have obvious practical significance and popularization value.
Blended College English Teaching Model and Evaluation based on MOOC
Authors: Hao Jingbo , Wei Wulian
Published: January 2024

MOOC teaching has been developing rapidly in the context of COVID-19, and its teaching quality has become the focus of social attention. Therefore, this study analyzes the blended college English teaching model based on MOOC by constructing a teaching evaluation model. The co-occurrence rate index is used to improve the K-modes algorithm, and then the important index in the teaching mode is extracted. The neural network is used to construct the prediction model of student learning effect, which reflects the advantages and disadvantages of the teaching mode. Through experimental analysis, the accuracy of the improved K-modes algorithm in the model reaches 0.985. The recall rate reached 0.982; The average error of the prediction model is less than 1 in the error analysis. Therefore, the model accurately reflects the problems existing in the teaching model, and has a high prediction accuracy, indicating that the teaching evaluation model has a good evaluation effect.
A Hybrid Model: Random Classification and Feature Selection Approach for Diagnosis of the Parkinson Syndrome
Authors: Bhakar Suman , Shekhawat Manvendra , Kundu Nidhi , Vijay Shankar Sharma
Published: January 2024

Nowadays Parkinson’s disease has been discovered that approximately 94% of people suffer from voice disorder problems. A neurodegenerative can identify PD patients through examination and multiple scanning tests. So, it usually takes more time to diagnose the disease at the early stage. Current work has identified that speech disorders can be a significant signal for Parkinson’s disease. Therefore, this work proposed a fusion model to identify the speech disorder at the starting stage of the disease. In this process, the author has tested a model with a different pattern of feature selection method as well as classification mode and created a system with the best pattern. For the creation of pattern, three types of feature selection methods namely Chi-square, genetic algorithm and Embedded random forest method and four classifier models such as KNN, Naïve Bayes, SVM, Decision tree and Random Forest have been utilized. To analyze the performance of the system speech public dataset from the UCI repository,the authors applied the combination of the Embedded random feature selection method and random forest classification algorithm provides 97.89% of accuracy. However, this outcome is better than the recent work. The SMOTE is utilized for the balancing of the dataset.
Research on the Practice Education Pattern of Innovative Entrepreneurship in Colleges in the Internet Plus Era
Authors: Zhuang Li , Zhu Lin
Published: January 2024

Under the background of Internet plus, the innovative entrepreneurship practice education pattern (IEPEP) in colleges aims to enhance students’ basic literacy and independent innovation ability of IE. The single form of PEP in IEPEP only focuses on theoretical education, lacking practical exercises. The teachers of IE courses are mainly part-time, lacking professional teaching team and sufficient teachers. Written evaluation is used as the IEPEP evaluation standard. This lack of practical exercises leads to an imperfect evaluation model. For this reason, the overall idea in this paper is constituted from raising questions to theoretical research to model construction and then to empirical analysis. By constructing three patterns to optimize the talent training mechanism of IE. The first is to construct IEPE curriculum pattern through literature, investigation and data analysis. The second is to construct IEPE activity pattern through expert guidance, in-depth exchanges, and case studies. The third is to construct IEPE evaluation pattern through questionnaire surveys, online assessments, counseling talks, and data analysis. Based on the systematic sampling method, 398 valid questionnaires are analyzed for data based on the questionnaires filled by the categorized 560 students and with the help of SPSS 22.0 and AMOS 26.0 software. A conclusion that IEPEP has a significant positive impact on entrepreneurial intention and ability is confirmed through empirical analysis. This effectively guarantees the quality of IE talents, and provides IE talents for society and enterprises.
Improve English Learning through Artificial Intelligence for Online and Offline Mixed Teaching Path
Authors: Li Huang
Published: January 2024

With the development of higher education in China, English has been listed as a compulsory course in basic education, and people’s demand for English teaching level is also increasing. However, with the advent of the information age, there have been significant changes in the dissemination of knowledge, teaching methods, and teaching environment. Traditional English teaching models can no longer meet the requirements of modern society for versatile talents. Therefore, exploring the mixed online and offline English teaching path has become particularly important. Artificial intelligence (AI) is an advanced technology today. It can evaluate students’ pronunciation and provide corresponding guidance, thereby increasing students’ interest in English and improving English pronunciation accuracy. It can also provide personalized learning content and learning paths according to students' learning needs and levels. By analyzing students' learning situation and feedback, it automatically adjusts and optimizes learning resources so that students can better master English knowledge and skills. The traditional English teaching model is often limited by time and space, while the AI-based hybrid teaching model can integrate a variety of educational resources around the world, including high-quality course content, learning resources and online tutoring services, so that students can get the most suitable educational resources anytime and anywhere, which can improve learning efficiency.
Secure Steganography Model over Cloud Environment using Adaptive ABC and Optimum Pixel Adjustment Algorithm
Authors: Lim Se-jung , Umashetty Ambika
Published: January 2024

An effective security model with low computational complexity, minimal quality-compromised, and improved security robustness is essential due to the rapid expansion of multimedia data communication through different cloud services. An image steganography model has been proposed for the security of multimedia data in an unreliable cloud environment. This study's main goal is to provide efficient steganography with barely hidden information. A secure data communication model has been developed over a cloud environment using the Adaptive Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm and the Optimum Pixel Adjustment Algorithm Based Image Steganography Method. An adaptive ABC (artificial bee colony) technique is applied to select the optimal pixel positions in the cover image because the goal of this investigation is to increase PSNR. The Optimal Pixel Adjustment approach is used to minimise embedding errors while maintaining the stego image's appearance identical to the cover image after embedding. The MATLAB platform is used to implement the proposed method. The results show that the proposed AABC-based OPA is more efficient across all measures investigated during the embedding and extraction processes.
A Holistic, Interdisciplinary and Socially Engaged Approach to Translator Education
Authors: Mastela Olga
Published: January 2024

In the face of the contemporary market for translation services, it is becoming increasingly apparent that translation pedagogy should holistically embrace the teaching and learning process by integrating as many in- and out-of-classroom activities as possible into the real-life experience of students, thus leading them to acquire broadly defined skills and competences that are vital in the translation profession (cf. EMT Competence Framework 2022). A holistic approach to translation teaching and learning may be also reflected in an attempt to reconcile the two extremes of ‘creativity’ and ‘automaticity’ in translation, i.e., the creative contribution of the translator as an intermediary in intercultural communication on the one hand, and the requirement to know and use the latest technologies (CAT tools, machine translation, terminology databases, etc.), on the other hand. A holistic approach may also be associated with socially engaged pedagogy and the application of Project Based Learning (PBL), based on constructivist premises that we acquire knowledge by participating in intersubjective interactions. The paper attempts to show how translation teachers may holistically respond to the above-mentioned needs by using PBL methods and socially relevant interdisciplinary content in their teaching of the art and craft of translation.
Cenzura obyczajowa w PRL wobec przekładu literackiego: nieprzyzwoity Mario Vargas Llosa
Authors: Gaszyńska-Magiera Małgorzata
Published: January 2024

MORAL CENSORSHIP IN THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF POLAND TOWARDS LITERARY TRANSLATION: THE OBSCENE MARIO VARGAS LLOSAThis article deals with the problem of moral censorship in literary translations in the People’s Republic of Poland, which is rarely discussed as researchers usually focus on political censorship. The case study is the novel The Time of the Hero by Mario Vargas Llosa. Fragments of this work which contained graphic erotic descriptions were removed from the first Polish edition. They were identified by comparing the original text and the translation, as well as subsequent Polish editions. The author suggests that research on moral censorship in the second half of the 20th century should be continued and indicates possible areas of investigation.
Financial Performance Of Sharia Life Insurance Companies In Indonesia
Authors: Pratiwi Permata Dian , Nofiyasari Mela
Published: January 2024

Purpose-The objective of this study is to analyze the financial standing of Indonesian Sharia life insurance firms, which will be assessed in terms of profit and influenced by premium income, investment return, and risk-based capital. Sharia insurance aims to help each other by setting aside funds in accounts for the purpose of helping each other in case of an accident. Indonesia has a majority Muslim population, making Sharia insurance easy to develop. The development of Sharia insurance is expected to be in line with its financial performance.
Design/Methodology/Approach-This research used a quantitative approach and secondary data. The sample used was Sharia life insurance companies registered with the Association of Sharia Insurance Indonesia (AASI) during the period 2016-2021, with a total of 8 companies collected through purposive sampling. Hypothesis testing in this study used panel data regression analysis.
Findings-The findings of this study demonstrated that premium income and risk-based capital had little bearing on the profitability of Indonesian Sharia life insurance firms. In the meanwhile, Indonesian Sharia life insurance companies' profits are impacted by investment return. The results of this study contribute to customers and companies to pay attention to financial performance and risk management.
Research Limitations/Implications-This study has limitations due to a small sample size.  It may prevent the findings from being extrapolated.
Originality/Value-The investment capability of Sharia life insurance companies in Indonesia has shown good performance, which can generate profits. However, the signaling information from the premium decision-making capability and risk-based capital still does not meet the standard and needs to be improved.
The Effect of Leverage, Profitability, Earnings Per Share, and Price Earning Ratio on Dividend Policy Ratio
Authors: Mahendra Putra Wardhana
Published: January 2024

Purpose- The goal of this research is to ascertain how financial ratios, particularly those related to consumer non-cyclicals, affect organizations in relation to dividend policy ratios.
Design/Methodology/Approach- Utilizing statistical instruments for multiple regression analysis Eviews is a data processing method that was employed in this study to look at how each of these factors affected the dividend policy ratio. A sample of 19 consumer non-cyclicals sector companies was generated by gathering secondary data from the Indonesia Stock Exchange website.
Findings-The results of this investigation demonstrate that the debt to equity ratio and price earning ratio both had a negative and positive impact on the dividend policy ratio, however the dividend policy ratio was not positively impacted by return on assets and earnings per share.
Research limitations/implications- The results of this study should serve as a reference and source of information for businesses, particularly those in the consumer non-cyclicals sector. These businesses should be aware that a variety of factors, including debt to equity ratio, return on assets, earnings per share, and price earning ratio, can impact the dividend policy ratio. This study demonstrates that each of these elements or ratios affects the dividend policy ratio in a unique way.
Originality/value- There is still very little research on financial ratios in the consumer non-cyclicals sector. In this study, the ratio allegedly has an impact on the level of dividend policy ratio.
Entrepreneurship mentoring program and training in Dusun II, Susukan, Banjarnegara
Authors: Tentama Fatwa , Rahayu Tika , Handayani Nurrina , Yuliania Devi
Published: January 2024

This service aims to provide entrepreneurship training to the Dusun II people, Susukan, Banjarnegara. The method used in this service is lecture, discussion and practice, and roleplay. This program targets homemakers, adolescents, and kindergarten students in Dusun II, Susukan. Homemakers and adolescents are given a program consisting of lectures on entrepreneurial motivation and the practice of making creative products using secondhand goods. At the same time, kindergarten students are given a roleplay program for entrepreneurship by playing the role of seller and buyer. Through this program, the people of Dusun II Susukan, Banjarnegara, learned the importance of entrepreneurship and the skills to process used materials into items of economic value. Furthermore, people can make various innovations to create various other creative products. In addition to bringing economic benefits, this activity has also improved the quality of human resources in Dusun II Susukan, Banjarnegara, by increasing their skills.
Improving musical skills for members of military band unit of Indonesian Army in administrative officer military area command IV Diponegoro Semarang
Authors: Sejati Irfanda , Sunarto Sunarto , Nugroho Agustinus Arum Eka , Nugroho Antonius Edi
Published: January 2024

Military music has a very significant role in every military event and government activity such as national ceremonies, important military ceremonies, and internal military activities. Military music also functions as a signal giver to high-ranking leaders such as the President and his staff, the Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, Generals, and high commanders in the military. Since music is important within military units, a special unit called a military band unit was formed with the task of organizing military music activities and providing military music services to arouse a spirit of nationalism, professionalism, and patriotism for the personnel of the Indonesian National Armed Forces. The phenomenon that occurs in the military band unit is that not all personnel, especially the Army, have an academic background in music. Members from several units such as combat units can only play wind and percussion instruments but do not understand the basic techniques of music and playing musical instruments. This is because some members join the band unit due to the lack of personnel in the unit, and it is added to the high demands of members who are able to play music well. The solution to addressing this problem is to organize training to improve the musical skills of members of the military band unit, namely (1) reading and writing musical notation, (2) correct techniques in playing musical instruments, especially wind and percussion instruments, and (3) maintenance of musical instruments that are used daily.
Food safety and quality training: The use of a lateral flow immunochromatographic strip test for rapid detection of pesticide residue on leafy vegetables
Authors: Prabakusuma Adhita Sri , Santosa Budi
Published: January 2024

Ensuring the safety and quality of leafy vegetables, especially by controlling any traces of pesticides, is crucial for maintaining human health. This international community service program was designed to expand the vocational knowledge and skills of the people of Timor-Leste in using lateral flow immunochromatographic strip tests for quickly detecting pesticide residue on leafy vegetables. The program was organized by UAD in partnership with PCIM Timor-Leste and the An-Nur Islamic Foundation. The program included several stages, including preparation, coordination, consolidation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The participants’ knowledge of food safety and food hygiene increased significantly from 52% prior to training to 96% after the training. Moreover, the ability to detect pesticide contamination in vegetables using LFI technology improved by 84%, rising from just 8% before training to 92% after training. All participants expressed interest in the UAD in Timor-Leste's future continuation of this training program.
Evaluation of Epidemiological, Clinical, and Laboratory Findings in Pediatric Patients with IgA Vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein Purpura)
Authors: ERYILMAZ POLAT Sanem , ÖZLÜ Sare Gülfem , KARGIN ÇAKICI Evrim , AYDOĞ Özlem , BÜLBÜL Mehmet
Published: January 2024

Objective: Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein Purpura) is the most common systemic vasculitis of childhood involving the skin, joints, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys, and less frequently affects other systems. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory findings of pediatric patients with IgA vasculitis.

Material and Methods: In this study, 366 patients diagnosed with IgA vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein Purpura) in the pediatric nephrology clinic were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic characteristics, clinical findings, system involvement, and laboratory findings were recorded.

Results: Of the patients in the study, 57.9% (212) were male and the male-to-female ratio was 1.37. The most common age group was found to be between 5-9 years of age. A statistically significant correlation existed between age and renal involvement (p<0.001). It was found that renal involvement increased with increasing age. Gastrointestinal system involvement was statistically significantly higher in the male gender (p=0.003). A statistically significant correlation existed between increased leukocyte counts, gastrointestinal system involvement, and renal involvement (p=0.001, p=0.009, respectively).

Conclusion: Age and increased leukocyte count were found to be risk factors for renal involvement. Male gender and increased leukocyte count were found to be risk factors for gastrointestinal system involvement.
Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy on Autoimmune Markers and Clinical Outcomes in Pediatric Patients with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Authors: ALAN TEHÇİ Başak , GURBUZ Fatih , BOYRAZ Mehmet
Published: January 2024

Objective: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (HT), a chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, is the predominant cause of hypothyroidism in regions without iodine deficiency. HT is characterized by the loss of immunological tolerance of the thyroid gland, leading to autoimmune attacks. This study aimed to compare the autoantibody profiles, along with clinical and laboratory findings, of patients diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease who were either receiving treatment or followed without treatment.

Material and Methods: Clinical manifestations, laboratory data, and thyroid ultrasonography (USG) findings of patients diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis receiving hormone therapy and those followed without treatment were compared in our clinic.

Results: Among a total of 249 patients, 116 received hormone replacement therapy, while 133 were followed without treatment. The mean age of all patients was 13.91±3.71 years, with a mean age at diagnosis of 11.51±3.79 years. After twelve months of follow-up, the untreated group showed an increase in serum fT4 and antiTPO levels (p=0.012 and p=0.001), with no significant difference found in serum TSH, fT3, and antiTG levels. Those receiving treatment exhibited a significant decrease in serum TSH levels and a significant increase in serum fT4 levels (p=0.002 and p<0.001, respectively). Although there was an increase in serum antiTPO and antiTG levels over time, no change was detected in serum fT3 levels. Clinical improvement was significantly greater in the treatment group (p=0.044).

Conclusion: It has been concluded that early initiation of hormone replacement therapy in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can mitigate negative clinical effects during follow-up, contributing to patient comfort and alleviating clinical complaints.
AVALIAÇÃO DE IMPACTOS AMBIENTAIS EM MANGUEZAIS
Authors: Almeida Josimar Ribeiro de , Aguiar Laís Alencar de , Barbosa Oscar Rocha , Matta Patrícia dos Santos , Gurova Tetyana , Cunha Tatiana Santos da
Published: January 2024

Devido ao processo rápido de crescimento urbano e populacional a Região de Aracaju tem crescido em ritmo acelerado, o que tem gerado graves impactos devido as ocupações irregulares, mas também principalmente por despejo de esgoto doméstico, lixo e pela falta de conscientização ambiental quanto a importância da preservação dos ecossistemas. Então este estudo visa avaliar o crescimento urbano com os eventos de degradação dos ecossistemas de manguezais, sendo este um ecossistema delicado que vem sofrendo com a expansão urbana desenfreada da Região de Aracaju. Pode-se constar com dados levantados que grande parte a rede de esgoto é precária, situação está que vem a se repetir até mesmo na capital, levando a concluir a necessidade de implementação de ações preventivas e conscientização ambiental para aumentar a qualidade de vida da população e tentar minimizar os danos ambientais.
VIABILIDADE DO REUSO DE ÁGUAS CINZAS EM RESIDÊNCIAS NO BRASIL: PARÂMETROS TÉCNICOS E REQUISITOS LEGAIS
Authors: Monteiro Paulo Alan Mattos , Almeida Jaqueline Costa Areas de , Júnior Alfredo Akira Ohnuma , Obraczka Marcelo
Published: January 2024

Este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar a viabilidade de reuso de águas cinzas geradas em uma residência unifamiliar nos acionamentos de descargas em bacias sanitárias. A metodologia consistiu na caracterização de demandas de água cinza na residência, na análise do funcionamento de um sistema de tratamento de águas cinzas, no atendimento a requisitos e parâmetros de referências técnicas além da legislação brasileira. Os resultados da qualidade das águas cinzas da máquina de lavar roupas com emprego do sistema de tratamento adotado foram de:0,79 mg/L de cloro residual; pH médio de 7,0, 33,33% de turbidez abaixo do limite máximo da norma NBR ABNT 15575-1/2013, ausência de coliformes totais em 66,7% e de coliformes termotolerantes em 88,9% das análises, respectivamente. Na residência de 3 moradores, constatou-se geração anual de 12,46 m³ de águas cinzas da máquina de lavar bem como consumo total anual de 67,91 m³ de água potável, 32,96 m³ (48,5%) somente na utilização em descarga na bacia sanitária. Com esses dados, pode ser constatada economia total de água de 18,34% com reuso da água cinza, em 13 meses de operação do experimento. Em um cenário de abastecimento contínuo de água e de maior consumo, o sistema pode apresentar maior viabilidade econômica, com um payback inferior aos13 anos que foi ora constatado em função do baixo consumo de água. O reuso pode contribuir para uma gestão mais sustentável e para a racionalização no uso da água para fins mais nobres, aumentando a segurança hídrica em regiões de escassez hídrica.
Developing a competency framework for integrated care working across healthcare, social care and allied professions
Authors: Lewis Rachel , Duckworth Jennifer , Willis Donna , Yarker Joanna
Published: January 2024

Background/Aims

For integrated care to truly become embedded in the UK health and social care system, there is need for a shared understanding of what integrated care looks like at the local level. This study aimed to identify the competencies and behaviours required for working across the full range of health and social care services in the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care System.

Methods

A multi-method approach was used to develop and refine the competency framework. An extensive evidence review of academic and practitioner literature was used to create the initial framework by synthesising previous frameworks. Four multi-agency focus groups were held to conduct utility testing and refine the framework. Quantitative testing was carried out using an 89-item online survey, including questions on the framework, a range of personal and work-related outcomes, and demographic characteristics. The survey was distributed to staff working across 13 different agencies within the integrated care system. Associations between variables were assessed using Spearman's Rho, using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.

Results

The evidence review identified 21 relevant competency frameworks, originating from nine different countries, which were used to create the integrated care competency framework. A total of 91 staff members completed the survey, with results showing acceptable reliability and validity of the final framework (item total correlation >0.2; inter-item correlation ≤0.9). Differences were found between agencies and occupational groups in terms of their integrated care competencies. Those with shorter tenure described greater use of integrated care competencies. Those who demonstrated more integrated care competencies also saw their work as more meaningful and enjoyed greater levels of support from their peers.

Conclusions

This is the first UK framework of integrated care competencies to be subjected to empirical testing. Initial testing supports the validity and reliability of the framework, as well as showing the positive outcomes associated with integrated working. This framework could be developed and rolled out on a wider scale to support integrated care working.
Comparative Radiopacity Evaluation of Eight Provisional Restoration Materials
Authors:   Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, Prawatvatchara Wisarut , Yamockul Suparaksa ,   Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, Chaiteerapapkul Pranpreeya ,   Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, Arunpraditkul Siriporn ,   Part-time lecturer, Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiopacity value of eight provisional restorative materials. Methods: The specimens were divided into 8 groups (n=10) based on commercial product which were UNIFAST Trad, Dentalon Plus, Luxatemp Star, Luxatemp Fluorescence, LuxaCrown, Protemp 4, SmarTemp X1 and VIPI BLOCK TRILUX. Disc specimens of provisional restoration materials (diameter: 6 mm and thickness: 1 mm) were fabricated by manufacturer’s instruction. The samples were digitally radiographed together the aluminium step wedge used as standard for radiologic analysis. The digital radiographic images were performed and analyzed with Image J program. The relationship between the gray value for each specimen and the aluminium step wedge thickness were plotted. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post hoc Tukey’s test at 95% confidence level. Results: Luxatemp Fluorescence showed the highest radiopacity value (p<0.05). While UNIFAST Trad and Dentalon Plus demonstrated the lowest radiopacity value (p<0.05) in all group of specimens. Protemp 4 did not show a statistically significant difference from VIPI BLOCK TRILUX groups (p>0.05). Conclusions: There were statistically significant of radiopaque among eight groups of provisional restoration materials
Emerging Potential of Momordica’s Bioactive Phytochemicals in Cancer Prevention and Therapy
Authors: Sur Subhayan , B. Ray Ratna
Published: January 2024

Worldwide, cancer incidence and mortality are rising quickly. Cancer remains the biggest cause of death despite advances in therapy. Plants produce bioactive phytochemicals, and as a result, the bioactive elements have long been the focus of cancer research, both for medication discovery and for the discovery of alternative chemo-preventive methods. The medicinal plant Momordica charantia or bitter melon contains a wide variety of phytochemicals, such as triterpenoids, triterpene glycosides, phenolic acids, flavonoids, lectins, sterols, and proteins. In many pre-clinical systems, the Momordica charantia extract exhibits an anti-cancer action against various malignancies. The bioactive components of the extract play a significant role in its anti-cancer properties. With an emphasis on underlying molecular pathways, we address the roles of Momordica's known bioactive components in several cancer models in this review. Through the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and induction of cell death, several of active ingredients exhibit cancer prevention and therapeutic effects, at least in in-vitro models. Mechanistically examining the active components in pre-clinical systems may reveal a novel approach to cancer treatment.
South African Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Human Bacterial Infections: An updated Review
Authors: Bih Rose Awah , Monyama Maropeng Charles , Lebelo Sogolo Lucky
Published: January 2024

Traditional medicine based on the use of medicinal plants plays an important role in the preservation of health and well-being of many people globally. Today herbal medicine application is progressively finding more significance especially with the acknowledgement of the challenges of antibiotic resistance. The aim of this review was to collect literature based on the traditional application of South African medicinal plant species used in South Africa to prevent and treat various pathogenic bacterial infections. The search was carried out using key electronic scientific databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, SpringerLink, ProQuest, Science Direct, Elsevier, BioMed Central. Other sources of literature included scientific articles, book chapters, dissertations, theses and websites. It was found that Bacillus spp., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most frequently investigated bacterial pathogens which have developed resistance to most of the available standard antibiotics. Organic and aqueous extracts of many South African plants including Acacia karroo, Psidium guajava, Punica granatum, Eucomis autumnalis, Vernonia amygdalina and Cyathula uncinulata have demonstrated potent antibacterial efficacy against the aforementioned pathogens. This review exemplifies that South African medicinal plants have the potential to be considered as new leads for the development of antibacterial agents against resistant pathogens.
Synthesis, Characterization and Mechanistic Anticancer Evaluation of Novel Analogues of Pyrazoles Derived from Substituted 3-acetyl Coumarins
Authors: Pai Aravinda , Sharma P.C. Pooja , Kamath Venkatesh , Chandrashekhar K.S. , Pai Vasudev , Muddukrishna B.S.
Published: January 2024

In the present study, a congeneric series of novel substituted coumarin pyrazole
carbaldehydes were synthesized. The compounds were characterized by various physical and spectroscopic methods. Preliminary cytotoxicity of the analogues was carried out using the MTT assay method on A-549 Lung cancer cell lines. The synthesized compounds possessed appreciable cytotoxicity against lung cancer cell lines. Out of the 8 synthesized compounds, the compound P-03 showed marked cytotoxicity of 13.5 mmol compared to standard doxorubicin which showed cytotoxicity value of 3.5 mmol. The compound P-03 was further investigated for its ability to induce apoptosis and its effect on cell cycle analysis. The compound P-03 was found to be an early apoptotic agent. After performing a cell cycle investigation, it was discovered that the compound P-03 effectively inhibited the G2/M phase of the cell cycle.