bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Menakar Kualitas Komunikasi CSR Eksplisit Perusahaan Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Irchamsyah Dicky , Rusfian Effy
Published: August 2023

Salah satu tema penting dalam komunikasi CSR adalah bagaimana perusahaan dapat memperoleh keuntungan maksimal dengan mengkomunikasikan CSR yang mereka selenggarakan secara tepat. Penelitian ini meninjau literatur komunikasi CSR untuk merumuskan sejumlah indikator kualitas komunikasi. Selanjutnya, indikator ini diterapkan untuk menakar kualitas komunikasi CSR eksplisit yang dilakukan oleh perusahaan-perusahaan yang terdaftar dalam Bursa Efek Indonesia. Data diperoleh dari laporan tahunan perusahaan-perusahaan tersebut dan dianalisis menggunakan analisis isi. Sampel terdiri dari 43 perusahaan dari berbagai bidang. Ditemukan bahwa secara umum, perusahaan tua cenderung lebih intensif dalam menyelenggarakan CSR dan lebih antusias dalam mengungkapkannya. Perusahaan sektor keuangan, infrastruktur, dan barang konsumen primer paling banyak memvisualisasikan dan merinci CSR walaupun masih cenderung rasional ketimbang emosional. Narasi pada semua jenis perusahaan dan berapapun saham mayoritas cenderung retoris, menandakan bahwa CSR masih dianggap kurang mampu menarik perhatian investor sehingga tidak dikomunikasikan dengan serius dan bahkan dipinggirkan dalam narasi laporan tahunan.
Immunological, oxidative, and structural factors and their responses to regulatory t lymphocyte therapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Beers David R. , Thonhoff Jason R. , Thome Aaron D. , Faridar Alireza , Zhao Weihua , Wen Shixiang , Appel Stanley H.
Published: August 2023

Aim: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a systemic disease in which multiple dysfunctional pathways converge, culminating as this devastating disease. Immunological, oxidative, and structural analytes in cross-sectional and longitudinal patient sera samples were investigated and evaluated for their responses following autologous regulatory T lymphocyte (Treg)/IL-2 therapy.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Houston Methodist Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital in adults with sporadic ALS. Cross-sectional and longitudinal sera levels for each of the immunological (CCL2, IL-18), oxidative (4-HNE, MDA), and structural analytes (Nf-L, pNf-H) were assayed by ELISAs, and correlated with disease progression and clinical outcomes.

Results: CCL2 and IL-18 levels were elevated in patients, especially rapidly progressing patients. 4-HNE was elevated in a subset of patients, whereas MDA was elevated in cross-sectional and longitudinally studied subjects. Nf-L was elevated in rapidly progressing patients, whereas pNf-H was decreased in these same patients. In the eleven patients assayed longitudinally, only three patients had increased levels of Nf-L or pNf-H; no patient had increased levels of both neurofilaments. Treg/IL-2 therapy suppressed levels of CCL2, IL-18, and 4-HNE.

Conclusions: In these cohorts of patients with sporadic ALS, CCL2, IL-18, and 4-HNE accurately reflected disease progression on and off therapy; MDA was elevated but did not respond to therapy. The cross-sectional and longitudinal data were complementary. Nf-L and pNf-H did not reliably and consistently reflect disease progression. Immunological and oxidative pathological factors accurately reflected therapeutic responses in these pathways and are candidates to target clinical trial endpoints.
Cissus antractica -ZnO NPs Induce Apoptosis in A549 Cells through ROS-Mediated p53/Bcl-2/Bax Signaling Pathways and Inhibit Inflammatory Cytokines
Authors: Rupa Eshrat Jahan , Nahar Jinnatun , Al-Amin Md. , Park Jin-Kyu , Murugesan Mohanapriya , Awais Muhammad , Lee Seung Jin , Kim Il Mun , Ling Li , Yang Deok Chun , Yang Dong Uk , Jung Seok-Kyu
Published: August 2023

Green products have excellent potential for discovering and producing new medicinal products. In recent years, there is a growing interest towards the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles, particularly from plants sources. This eco-friendly approach was used in the recent research to biosynthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) from Cissus antractica plant. The present study aims to examine the cell cytotoxicity, cell death, and pathways of apoptosis in lung cancer cells (A549) and inflammation properties treated with biosynthesized ZnO NPs. Additionally, synthe-sized ZnO nanoparticles were characterized using UV–vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The XRD and TEM analyses exhibited 31 nm as the size of synthesized nanoparticles, the pure crystal form of ZnO NPs, and the shape of the NPs as nearly spherical and hexagonal quartzite. The MTT assay used for cytotoxicity evaluation de-picted the significant toxic effect of CA-ZnONPs against the A549 lung cancer cells at concentra-tions up to 20 µg/mL than non-cancerous cells. Furthermore, we observed an elevated ROS level in cancer cells. These NPs also demonstrated dose-dependent ability to suppress colony for-mation and cell migration, which increases their potential as a lung cancer treatment. Further-more, The NPs formulation's ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells was further supported by Hoechst and propidium iodide dye. Further, CA ZnO NPs increased the gene expression of BAX, Cyto-c, Caspase 3 and 9, but decreased the expression of Bcl-2, indicating that the nanoformulation triggered mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Besides, this study showed that NPs suppressed in-flammatory responses by subsequently decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, downregulating the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, iNOS, COX-2, IL-6, IL-8, and NO. Moreover, the study's findings imply that Cissus antractica are a potential source with biosynthesize nanoparticles that can might be further investigated for the progress of an-ti-inflammatory and anti-cancer drugs with further study.
The Bacteriocin-Producing Strain Lacticaseibacillus Paracasei LPa 12/1 from Raw Goat Milk, a Potential Additive in Dairy Products
Authors: Lauková Andrea , Dvorožňáková Emília , Vargová Miroslava , Ščerbová Jana , Focková Valentína , Plachá Iveta , Pogány Simonová Monika
Published: August 2023

Goat milk starts to be gradually the preferred milk by consumers worldwide and also in Slovakia. It is also demanded as functional and/or nutraceutical drink as it is rich in bioactive components. Goat milk contains complex of microbiota among which the phylum Firmicutes have been occurred with abundance 20.5 %. Among individual representatives of this phylum are involved also lacticaseibacilli. This study has been focused on bacteriocin-producing, beneficial strain Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LPa 12/1 isolated from raw goat milk and its potential to be additive in dairy products. Based on safety testing of bacteriocin-producing LPa 12/1 strain using BALB/c mice, it looks as safe. Even increase tendency in phagocytic activity in blood of mice was noted after LPa 12/1 strain application. Encapsulated form of LPa 12/1 strain producing thermo-stable bacteriocin seems to be a suitable to supplement dairy products. The strain colonized better ewe-goat milk yoghurt (up to 6.1 cfu/g log 10) than cow milk yoghurt (almost 5.0 cfu/g log 10). Although specific organoleptic tests were not involved, cow milk yoghurts remained in better consistency after LPa 12/1 strain supplementation in comparison with ewe-goat milk yoghurts. LPa 12/1 strain may be supposed as a new potential additive in dairy products/yoghurts.
Effectiveness of the use of Polymer in High Performance Concrete Containing Silica Fume
Authors: Harichane Alya , Seghir Nadhir Toubal , Niewiadomski Paweł , Sadowski Lukasz , Cisiński Michał
Published: August 2023

The incorporation of polycarboxylate ether superplasticizer (PCE) type polymer and silica fume (SF) in high-performance concretes (HPC) leads to the achievement of remarkable rheological and mechanical improvements. In the fresh state, PCEs are adsorbed on cement particles and dispersants, in turn promoting the workability of the concrete. Silica fume enables a very well compacted concrete to be obtained, which is characterized by high mechanical parameters in its hardened state. Some PCEs are incompatible with silica fume, which can result in the loss of slump and in poor rheological behavior. The main objective of the research is the study of the influence of three types of PCEs, which all have a different molecular architecture, on the rheological and mechanical behavior of high-performance concretes containing 10% of SF as a partial replacement of cement. The results show that the carboxylic density of PCE has an influence on its compatibility with SF.
Air Temperature and Relative Humidity Analysis in a Mangrove Ecosystem Area in the Bahía De Panamá (Panama Bay) Wetland
Authors: Guerra Sosa Carlos Eduardo , Pinzón Reinhardt
Published: August 2023

Panama possesses multiple wetlands designated as protected areas and zones of internationally recognized importance, one amongst them, the Bahía de Panamá wetland Ramsar site, which represents approximately 21% of the national mangrove surface coverage. Due to the major ecological and economic relevance of mangrove ecosystems and their vulnerability to the effects of a changing climate it is considered necessary to perform in situ studies that evaluate the changes in sensitive meteorological parameters. This research was carried out with the objective of measuring air temperature and relative humidity values in a section of the Panama Bay wetland for the 2017-2018 period. This section, neighboring urban development projects, houses since the year 2015 the first tower for determining eddy covariance and measuring micrometeorological parameters in mangrove forests in Panama. We determined monthly and yearly mean values for the studied variables and determined the correlation between them with the use of Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results show that both parameters still remain at tolerable levels for this type of ecosystems, with both years having very similar annual mean temperatures (27.47 ± 0.32°C for 2017 and 27.48 ± 0.67°C for 2018) and the annual mean relative humidity for 2018, being 85.35%.
Pharmacological Evaluation of Signals of Disproportionality Reporting Related to Adverse Reactions to Antiepileptic Cannabidiol in VigiBase
Authors: Calapai Fabrizio , Mannucci Carmen , McQuain Liana , Salvo Francesco
Published: August 2023

Cannabidiol, is the first cannabis-derived drug approved for the treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome (DS), and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). The current study performed a descriptive analysis followed by a disproportionality analysis of potential adverse events caused by CBD extracted from the database VigiBase®. Further, biological plausibility of the association between CBD and the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, as possible cause of adverse events was analyzed and discussed. Data were extracted from VigiBase® database using VigiLyze® signal detection and signal management tool. Adverse events in VigiBase® reports were coded using MedDRA, version 19 of Preferred Terms (PTs). Data were uploaded into SPSS software and analyzed via disproportionality analysis. Statistically significant disproportionality signals for CBD were found for “weight decreased” 5.19 (95% CI: 4.54 - 5.70), “hypophagia” 3.68 (95% CI: 3.22 - 5.27), and “insomnia” 1.6 (95% CI: 1.40 - 1.83). Positive IC025 values were found for “weight decreased” (2.2), “hypophagia” (1.3), and “insomnia” (0.5), indicating a surplus of reported cases. CBD’s interactions with 5-HT1A serotonin receptors may offer a potential biological explanation for the occurrence of insomnia in patients. It is noteworthy that the risk profiles mentioned in the prescribing information for CBD as antiepileptic agent by regulatory agencies showed disparities specifically related to the adverse event “insomnia”.
Is a Fishing Moratorium Needed in Lake Honghu, Southern China? A Stomach Content Analysis of the Short-Jawed Tapertail Anchovy Coilia brachygnathus (Clupeiformes: Engraulidae)
Authors: Melaku Abelneh Yimer , Cao Liang , Shen Jiang-Zhong , Zhang E
Published: August 2023

Since 2017, a fishing moratorium has been enforced in Lake Honghu as part of Chang-Jiang’s biodiversity conservation strategy. However, given that the lake is a semi-closed aquatic ecosystem, and no longer serves as a habitat for certain fishes of the mid-lower Chang-Jiang basin, the efficacy of this moratorium remains uncertain. To address the question from a trophic ecology perspective, a stomach content analysis was performed on captured anchovies C. brachygnathus, a current predominant species in Lake Honghu, from November 2020 to October 2021. Results showed that copepods, shrimps, and macrophytes were the main components of this anchovy's diet, and had size-related shifts in diets. The dominance of C. brachygnathus, a pelagic-littoral omnivore in this lake, implies a lacustrine environment shift triggered by continued human disturbances. The utilization of macrophytes as the main food items by large-sized anchovies of Lake Honghu partially contributed to the rapid degradation of submerged vegetation. This highlights the need to remove large-sized individuals of C. brachygnathus and Carassius auratus, another benthic-omnivorous dominant fish, in order to effectively restore the aquatic vegetation and ecosystem of Lake Honghu. The current implementation of fishing moratoriums in subtropical shallow floodplain lakes such as Lake Honghu should be reviewed critically.
Neuroprotective Properties of Oleanolic Acid – Computational-Driven Molecular Research Combined with In Vitro and In Vivo Experiments
Authors: Stępnik Katarzyna , Kukula-Koch Wirginia , Plazinski Wojciech , Rybicka Magda , Gawel Kinga
Published: August 2023

Oleanolic acid (OA) being the ubiquitous compound in the plant kingdom is studied for both the neuroprotective and neurotoxic properties. The mechanism of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory potential of OA is investigated using the molecular dynamic simulations (MD) and docking as well as membrane-like and in vitro tests. There are also applied SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells as well as in vivo on the zebrafish tests. The inhibitory potential towards the AChE enzyme is examined using the TLC-bioautography assay (the IC50 value is 9.22 μM). The CH- interactions between the central fragment of the ligand molecule and the aromatic cluster created by the His440, Phe288, Phe290, Phe330, Phe331, Tyr121, Tyr334, Trp84 and Trp279 side chains are observed.
The in vitro tests carried out on the SH-SY5Y cells indicates that the viability rate is reduced to 71.5%, 61%, and 43% at the concentrations of 100 µg/mL, 300 µg/mL, and 1000 µg/mL, respectively after 48 hours of incubation whereas cytotoxicity against the tested cell line with the IC50 value is 714.32 ± 32.40 µg/mL. The in vivo tests on the zebrafish prove that there is no difference between the control and experimental groups as regards the mortality rate and morphology (P>0.05).
The Accuracy Assessment of Lithospheric Density Models
Authors: Tenzer Robert , Chen Wenjin
Published: August 2023

The Earth’s synthetic gravitational and density models can be used to validate numerical procedures applied for a global (or large-scale regional) gravimetric forward and inverse modelling. Since the Earth’s lithospheric structure is better constrained by tomographic surveys than a deep mantle, most of existing 3-D density models describe only a lithospheric density structure, while 1-D density models are typically used to describe a deep mantle density structure below the lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary. The accuracy of currently available lithospheric density models is examined in this study. The error analysis is established to assess the accuracy of modelling the sub-lithospheric mantle geoid, while focusing on the largest errors (according to our estimates) that are attributed to lithospheric thickness and lithospheric mantle density uncertainties. Since a forward modelling of the sub-lithospheric mantle geoid comprises also numerical procedures of adding and subtracting gravitational contributions of similar density structures, the error propagation is derived for actual rather than random errors (that are described by the Gauss’ error propagation law). Possible systematic errors then either lessen or sum up after applying particular corrections to a geoidal geometry that are attributed to individual lithospheric density structures (such as sediments) or density interfaces (such as a Moho density contrast). The analysis indicates that errors in modelling of the sub-lithospheric mantle geoid attributed to lithospheric thickness and lithospheric mantle density uncertainties could reach several hundreds of meters, particularly at locations with the largest lithospheric thickness under cratonic formations. This numerical finding is important for a calibration and further development of synthetic density models of which mass equals the Earth’s total mass (excluding the atmosphere). Consequently, the (long-to-medium wavelength) gravitational field generated by a synthetic density model should closely agree with the Earth’s gravitational field.
Are Bronchiectasis (BE) Properly Investigated in Patients with Severe Asthma? A Real-Life Report from 8 Italian Centers
Authors: Carpagnano Giovana Elisiana , Quaranta Vitaliano Nicola , Crimi Claudia , Santus Pierachille , Menzella Francesco , Pelaia Corrado , Scioscia Giulia , Caruso Cristiano , Bargagli Elena , Scichilone Nicola , Polverino Eva
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Asthma and bronchiectasis are often partners in a complex but uneven relationship with asthma receiving more attentions. The aim of this study is to describe how bronchiectasis are investigated in some Severe Asthma (SA) Centers scattered throughout the Italian territory.
Materials and Methods: We enrolled 92 patients with SA and bronchiectasis from 8 Italian SA Centers and recorded diagnostic approaches to investigate SA and bronchiectasis at the time of enrollment (T0), at the 6-month (T1), and at the 12- month (T2) follow-up visits.
Results: A statistically significant heterogeneous diagnostic approach emerged across the centers under study In fact, while, as expected, all involved centers made an in-depth investigation of SA, only few of them made a complete investigation of bronchiectasis in order to provide specific treatment.
Discussion: This real-life multicenter study confirmed that patients with coexistent SA and bronchiectasis are mainly investigated for pheno-endotyping asthma but rarely for complete assessment of bronchiectasis. We believe that the diagnostic flowchart of SA patients with suspicion or confirmed bronchiectasis needs to be clarified and implemented as the association of these conditions strongly influences final outcomes and management of these patients.
Finite Time Synchronization for Stochastic Fractional-Order Memristive BAM Neural Networks with Multiple Delays
Authors: Chen Lili , Gong Minghao , Zhao Yanfeng , Liu Xin
Published: August 2023

This paper studies the finite-time synchronization problem of fractional-order stochastic memristive bidirectional associative memory neural networks (MBAMNNs) with discontinuous jumps. A novel criterion for finite-time synchronization is obtained by utilizing the properties of quadratic fractional-order Gronwall inequality with time delay and the comparison principle. This criterion provides a new approach to analyze the finite-time synchronization problem of neural networks with stochasticity. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the obtained results.
The Use of Collaborative Robots for Tasks with Arc Welding
Authors: Ferreira N.M. Fonseca
Published: August 2023

In recent decades, many attempts have been made to automate the entire welding process, how-ever, there remain many non-automated welding operations that present a constant hazard to workers. This article presents an automated welding solution with collaborative robots, with this contribution, we intend to help companies in this sector increase productivity, improve quality, effectively reduce costs, and improve working conditions.
Correct and incorrect reporting of the principles of focused and radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (fESWT and rESWT)
Authors: Jokinen Leon , Wuerfel Tobias , Schmitz Christoph
Published: August 2023

This article is a commentary on the publication Guo J, Hai H, Ma Y. Application of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in nervous system diseases: A review. Front Neurol. (2022) 13:963849. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2022.963849 (1). In the opinion of the authors of this commentary the information provided in the Section "Principles of ESWT" in (1) is partly incorrect and misleading. This is due to the fact that important, published knowledge regarding focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (fESWT) and radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) was disregarded in (1).
The Eﬀects of Idol Fans’ Interactions in Online Fan Community Platforms on Their Well-Being and Loyalty
Authors: Wang Soyoung , Kim Min Sung , Kim Seongcheol
Published: August 2023

Activities in the digital economy driven by information technology have rapidly increased in scope and speed in the aftermath of COVID-19. Meanwhile, social isolation accelerated by quarantine measures has increased concerns about individuals’ mental health. However, little is known about the specific consequences of online interactions, especially when applied in online fan community-based relationships where loyal community members are prevalent. Therefore, we examined whether a sense of virtual community (SOVC) can link fans’ online activities with their mental well-being and behavioral loyalty to the platform. For this purpose, we focus on BTS fandom “Adorable Representative MC for Youth” (ARMY) behaviors and attitudes on the fan community platform Weverse. With 202 valid data samples acquired from global ARMY, this study conducted a partial least squares–structural equation modeling analysis. The empirical findings reveal that SOVC in Weverse is significantly influenced by the intensity of online interactions with other fans and parasocial relationships with celebrities. SOVC is found to be the direct predictor of fans’ behavioral loyalty and mental well-being. When considering fans’ perceptions of other social media platforms, dissatisfaction with previous online fan communities enhances the intensity of online interactions with other fans in Weverse.
Increasing Vaccine Uptake during Pregnancy by Using Prenatal Education Classes: An Effective Tool for Health Communication and Promotion
Authors: Triunfo Stefania , Perossini Silvia , Burdin Esther , De Angeli Elena Claudia , Francesi Maria , Garolfi Alessandra , Moretti Jessica , Paruscio Ilenia , Tassielli Miriam , Tremolada Marta , Gemelli Simona , Pedrina Deborah , Marconi Anna Maria
Published: August 2023

Childbirth education classes represent an antenatal tool for supporting pregnant women and couples in increasing knowledge on pregnancy, delivery, breastfeeding, and newborn care. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the additional lesson to the prenatal course regarding the advantage of the vaccination on mitigation of maternal anxiety. An observational study was designed including participants in childbirth education classes, comparing courses enhanced by the extra lesson on vaccination during pregnancy versus those lacking it. Assessment of the impact of prenatal educational on vaccine was measured by using validated questionnaires (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI; Perceived Stress Scale, PSS; World Health Organization- Five Well-Being Index, WHO-5). A total of 145 pregnant women participated to the investigation by answering to the online survey. Of them, 33 patients (22.8%) belong to the course without lesson on vaccine, while 112 (77.2%) participated to online prenatal education inclusive of additional meeting on usefulness to get vaccinated during pregnancy. No statistical differences were found between study groups in demographics and perinatal outcomes. Participants to enriched course reported lower basal anxiety levels than those without lesson on vaccine (STAI-State, normal score <40, 30 vs. 19%, p-value 0.041; STAI-State, mild score 40-50, 78 vs 67%, p-value 0.037). With reference to the last two weeks, maternal wellbeing level was improved by the added class (score >13 as measurement of wellbeing: 62% vs 80%, p-value<0.05). Moderate perceived stress assessed by PSS was found in those pregnant women without prenatal education on vaccine (64 vs 50%, p-value 0.042). The introduction of a lesson regarding on vaccination during pregnancy in the program of prenatal education courses improves maternal anxiety levels and wellbeing, in addition to reducing perceived stress.
Sleep and Well-Being During Covid-19 Remote and In-Person Periods: Experiences of College Faculty and Staff with and Without Disabilities
Authors: Fichten Catherine , Wing Samantha , Costin Georgiana , Jorgensen Mary , Havel Alice , Wileman Susie , Bailes Sally , Creti Laura , Libman Eva
Published: August 2023

We explored the impacts of the remote and return to in-person work periods on sleep and well-being as reported by faculty (n = 22) and non-teaching staff (n=21) with and without disabilities. Our results show that contrary to expectations, the Covid-19 remote teaching/working period resulted in better sleep, as well as greater well-being, than the return to in-person. With respect to sleep, faculty members had slightly more negative outcomes than staff, most evident in heightened anxiety and work aspects. Faculty with disabilities had somewhat worse sleep and well-being during the remote period than faculty without disabilities. During the return to in-person work, both faculty and non-teaching staff reported more negative than positive sleep and well-being outcomes. In particular, during the in-person period faculty members experienced slightly more negative sleep outcomes related to anxiety and work, while staff members experienced slightly more negative sleep outcomes related to the need to commute and lifestyle. Our findings show that there were benefits and disadvantages to both remote and in-person work periods, suggesting a hybrid work schedule should be considered in more detail, particularly as an optional reasonable accommodation for faculty and staff with disabilities. Our study highlights that training to keep faculty abreast of the latest technological innovations, ways to promote work-life balance and steps to remedy classroom size and building ventilation to prevent the spread of disease all need urgent attention.
Living Longer or Better – Patient’s Choice in Cardiac Surgery Is Gender-Dependent – a Multicenter Study
Authors: Hofmann Britt , Rae Epp , Puvogel Ulrike , Spatarelu Mihaela , Mohamed Salah A. , Bungaran Almoan , Arzt Sebastian , Laux Magdalena , Albes Johannes Maximillian , Matschke Klaus , Feyrer Richard , Sievers Hans-Hinrich , Friedrich Ivar , Niemann Bernd , Silber Rolf-Edgar , Wienke Andreas , Simm Andreas
Published: August 2023

In view of the increasing age of cardiac surgery patients, questions arise about the expected postoperative quality of life and the hoped-for prolonged life expectancy. Little is known so far about this weighting by the patients concerned. This study aims to obtain information on the patient’s preferences. Between 2015 and 2017, data from 1349 consecutive patients from seven heart centers in Germany undergoing cardiac surgery were analyzed. Baseline data regarding the patient’s situation as well as a questionnaire regrading quality of life versus lifespan were taken preoperatively. Patients were divided by age into 4 groups: below 60, 60-70, 70-80, and above 80 years. As a result, if one had to decide between quality of life and length of life, about 60% of the male patients decided for quality of life, independent of their age. On the other hand, female patient’s decision for quality of life increased significantly with age, from 51% in the group below sixty to 76% in the group above eighty years. This finding suggests that the female patients adapt their preferences with age whereas male patients do not. This should impact further treatment decisions of elderly patients in cardiac surgery within a shared decision-making process.
Developing an Algorithm Model for Controlling Bactrocera oleae, in Olive Orchards in the South Region of Lebanon, by Using Conventional Traps
Authors: Kfoury Linda , Elbitar Ahmad , Choueiri Elia , Chehadé Ali , Youssef Amira , Arafat Ghazi , Afram Michel , Joumaa Ihab , El Romeh Samer
Published: August 2023

Modern agriculture requires technology to give precise measures about relevant parameters such as pest control. Here, we developed an algorithm model as base for bait spray intervention, by monitoring the olive fruit fly, Bactrocera oleae (Rossi), with conventional traps, in 24.3 Hectares of non-irrigated Baladi olive cultivars, in Hassbaya region. We installed 49 yellow sticky traps with ammonium bicarbonate. The adults, males and females were monitored, on weekly basis. The traps and the trees were georeferenced, and the parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, tree phenology (BBCH), and fruit load rate were compiled. The results showed that the infested fruits were correlated as much with the fruit load rate as with the number of adults captures which were correlated more to the temperature than the relative humidity. The number of the males captured was higher than the females all over the cultivation period. The first symptoms of the fruits were observed from 22 September when the BBCH was equal to 85%, with an average of adult captures lesser than 5 adults by trap by 7 days.
Microglial Activation: Key Players in SepsisAssociated Encephalopathy
Authors: Hu Jiyun , Xie Shucai , Zhang Haisong , Wang Xinrun , Meng Binbin , Zhang Lina
Published: August 2023

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a common brain dysfunction following sepsis that often results in severe cognitive and neurological sequelae and increases the mortality rate in patients with sepsis. Microglia are resident macrophages in the brain that play essential roles in the pathological and physiological processes of SAE. Depending on the nature of the stimulus, microglia can adopt two polarization states (M1/M2), which correspond to altered microglial morphology, gene expression, and function. Therefore, we systematically described the pathogenesis, morphology, function, and phenotype of microglial activation in SAE. We demonstrated that microglia are closely related to occurrence and development of SAE and concomitant cognitive impairement. Finally, we outlined some potential therapeutic approaches that can prime microglia and neuroinflammation towards the beneficial restorative microglial phenotype in SAE.
Manifestation of Pancytopenia Associated with COVID-19 as Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) and Aplastic Anemia (AA)
Authors: Aguilar Jeff Justin , Dhillon Vikram , Balasubramanian Suresh
Published: August 2023

We report two cases of pancytopenia in patients after recovering from a mild COVID-19, now presenting as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and aplastic anemia. These cases il-lustrate a common pathway whereby a viral trigger causes clonal expansion of a hematological disorder. Although the association in both cases are temporal, and that COVID-19 may be an in-cidental diagnosis, the growing evidence related to hematological effects of SARS-CoV-2 infec-tion highlights the need for further investigation into the hematological consequences of COVID-19, particularly in the post-pandemic era.
Media Exposure of Suicidal Behaviour: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Sufrate-Sorzano Teresa , Di Nitto Marco , Garrote-Cámara María Elena , Molina-Luque Fidel , Recio-Rodriguez Jose Ignacio , Asión-Polo Pilar , Durante Angela , Gea-Caballero Vicente , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Pérez Jesús , Santolalla-Arnedo Ivan
Published: August 2023

Aim: To analyse recommended interventions for the safe and responsible dissemination of suicidal behaviour in the media. An umbrella review was conducted. Background: Suicide is a serious public health problem that leads to more than 700,000 deaths per year, which translates into one death every forty seconds. The media are channels of information that reflect the real world. Because of its active role in the construction of reality, the way in which the media report and expose suicidal behaviour has the capacity to influence the population in either a preventive or harmful way. Design: An umbrella review was carried out and the report was written according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Overviews of Reviews.
Vulnerability Analysis Method Based on Network and Copula Entropy
Authors: Chen Mengyuan , Liu Jilan , Zhang Ning , Zheng Yichao
Published: August 2023

With the deepening of the diversification and openness of financial system, financial vulnerability, as an endogenous attribute of financial system, becomes an important measurement of financial security. Based on network analysis, we introduce network curvature indicator improved by Copula entropy as an innovative metric of financial vulnerability. Compared with previous network curvature analysis method, CE-based curvature proposed in this paper can measure market vulnerability and systematic risk with significant advantages.
Fatores críticos de sucesso que aumentam a autonomia discente
Authors: Ferraz Araujo Nino , Murat de Meirelles Quintella Heitor Luiz
Published: August 2023

Destaques: As instituições de ensino precisam cada vez mais lidar com a responsabilidade de transmitir conhecimento ao promover o desenvolvimento do estudante e qualificá-lo para o mercado de trabalho. Um dos fatores primordiais para que os estudantes melhorem seu desempenho é o aumento da sua autonomia fora do âmbito escolar. Portanto, os gestores educacionais devem utilizar estratégias para melhorar e desenvolver o ambiente organizacional da escola em torno deste propósito. Objetivo: Contribuir com dados que corroborem com o desenvolvimento estudantil fora do ambiente escolar, facilitando e até aumentando o desempenho do aluno, através da avaliação dos Fatores Críticos de Sucesso. Estes fatores envolvem aspectos como: disciplina de estudo, suporte dos pais, ambiente favorável, ferramentas de ensino e bem-estar psicológico. Metodologia: O referencial teórico utilizado para tratar os Fatores Críticos de Sucesso de Rockart (1979) é o Kolmogorov-Smirnov (1979). Como o método Komolgorov-Smirnov tem aplicação simplificada, a Lógica Paraconsistente será também empregada, pois permite o tratamento com naturalidade de divergências, inconsistências e contradições, além de permitir a obtenção de resultados mais precisos e próximos da realidade (Bispo e Cazarini, 2006). Resultados: Conclui-se que tanto o uso quanto a priorização dos Fatores Críticos de Sucesso (FCS) influenciam positivamente o desempenho do estudante fora da sala de aula e aumentam seu rendimento. Portanto, constatou-se que ao ordenar os Fatores Críticos de Sucesso em grau da seguinte importância: 1 – qualidade percebida, 2 – projeto político pedagógico, 3 – treinamento e 4 – ferramentas de ensino, melhorou o desempenho dos discentes. Limitações: Este trabalho se restringe às dez melhores escolas da cidade de Niterói, de acordo com o conceito no Exame Nacional do Ensino Médio (ENEM). Essa delimitação faz com que os resultados obtidos estejam sujeitos a padrões como comportamento e exigências do mercado. Implicações práticas: Espera-se também, além de agregar valor à literatura vigente, estimular os estudos em torno do tema proposto, visando cada vez mais auxiliar os discentes na melhoria da sua autonomia. Valor e originalidade: Foram encontrados poucos estudos na literatura propondo a utilização dos FCS na condução da melhoria da autonomia discente. Sendo assim, este trabalho pretende descrever propostas inovadoras para este segmento; dar ao gestor educacional um papel de destaque no processo do aumento da autonomia discente ao identificar e priorizar os FCS; e, finalmente, contribuir com outros trabalhos que avaliam a qualidade do atendimento aos estudantes.
Palavras-chave: Fatores críticos de sucesso; Disciplina de estudo; Suporte dos pais; Ambiente favorável; Ferramentas de ensino, Bem-estar psicológico.
Relationships between internal marketing and job performance mediated by psychological ownership among fitness centers’ employees: an empirical analysis using PLS-SEM techniques
Authors: Yildiz Kadir , Polat Ercan , Yildiz Suleyman Murat
Published: August 2023

This study examined the relationship between internal marketing and job performance as the mediating variable of psychological ownership by focusing on fitness center trainers. The convenience sampling technique was used in the study. Data were collected from fitness centers engaged in business in Turkey. The research group consists of 177 fitness center trainers. The model test with Partial Least Squares (PLS) was used as the analysis technique in the study. The results support the model proposal that fitness center trainers' internal marketing experiences play a role in job performance both directly and indirectly through psychological ownership. Therefore, fitness centers should give importance to internal marketing to improve the experiences of their employees and obtain corporate ownership. This will increase employees’ job performance, and, consequently, customer satisfaction will be positively affected.
Keywords: internal marketing; psychological ownership; job performance; fitness center trainers; PLS-SEM
Emprego da análise hierárquica de processos para avaliação do nível de importância das inteligências múltiplas em discentes de cursos de graduação
Authors: Pereira de Quadros Carlos Eduardo , Francisca Adamatti Diana , Andrade Longaray André
Published: August 2023

As Inteligências Múltiplas (IMs) são um conjunto de oito habilidades individuais passíveis de serem aperfeiçoadas no âmbito da formação do estudante do ensino superior. A possibilidade de identificar e classificar tais habilidades permite a atuação efetiva no desenvolvimento das IMs mais relevantes para o estudante de acordo com a sua área de graduação. Nesse sentido, o presente artigo tem por objetivo descrever o emprego do método de Análise Hierárquica de Processos (AHP) como instrumento de classificação do nível de atenção a ser dado a cada uma das (IMs) em uma amostra de discentes do ensino superior. Para tanto, foi realizado, por meio de questionário, o levantamento das IMs em uma amostra de 500 estudantes de uma instituição pública de ensino superior. Na sequência, os pesquisadores empregaram o AHP para ordenar e classificar as IM da amostra. Foi possível, assim, concluir que o AHP pode ser usado como forma de classificação e avaliação para a teoria das IMs, auxiliando na escolha de quais IM precisam de mais atenção e quais não necessitam de intervenção. As limitações da pesquisa foram no sentido de utilizar apenas um instrumento de análise multicriterial. Portanto, para trabalhos futuros pretendemos utilizar a base de dados obtida do trabalho e aplicar outras metodologias de análise multicriterial.
Palavras-chave: Método de análise hierárquica; Inteligências múltiplas; Educação; Análise multicriterial.
Condições ambientais dos elementos de uma paisagem rural na região mais alta da bacia hidrográfica de Taquaritinga, SP, Brasil
Authors: Rodrigues Gilberto Aparecido , Bovério Maria Aparecida , Galatti Kátia Cristina
Published: August 2023

A identificação das vulnerabilidades em uma bacia hidrográfica, na maioria, é resultado de interferências antrópicas no espaço rural e urbano. A sensibilidade e o bom senso em ação conjunta dos diferentes agentes da sociedade podem minimizar os impactos negativos numa bacia por uma ação planejada. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar as vulnerabilidades ambientais da região mais alta da bacia hidrográfica de Taquaritinga, SP, Brasil. A metodologia do estudo foi a observação de imagens de satélite com uso do software livre Google Earth Pro, por fotocomparação de imagens numa área amostral de 3581 ha, divididas em quatro quadrantes. Os resultados mostraram que a área apresenta como pontos positivos a presença de palha sobre o solo e curvas de nível como medidas de conservação. Contudo, merece uma atenção especial das autoridades para dispor adequadamente os resíduos sólidos urbanos, assim como o desenvolvimento de projetos de restabelecimento de flora nativa associadas à construção de mais bacias de contenção ao longo das vias de acesso aos produtores rurais, o que pode contribuir, a longo prazo, para melhorar a vazão dos recursos hídricos da bacia.
Palavras-chave: Bacia hidrográfica; Impacto ambiental; Vulnerabilidade ambiental.
Segurança hídrica
Authors: Monteiro da Fonseca Estefan , Machado Publio Maria Christina , Freitas Delgado Jéssica de
Published: August 2023

A importância dos estoques subterrâneos de água é indiscutível. No entanto, ainda há escassez de estudos sobre esses reservatórios. Como resultado, as estimativas sobre a magnitude dos reservatórios globais não são consensuais, podendo variar de 1 a 60 milhões de km3 (Gleeson et al., 2016; Richey et al., 2015). No entanto, é certo que esses estoques representam mais de 90% do total de água doce disponível para os organismos vivos. A falta de informações sobre esse elemento fundamental para a vida na Terra é evidenciada na literatura científica (Bierkens et al., 2015; Clark et al., 2015; Gleeson et al., 2021; Lall et al., 2020; Sood e Smakhtin, 2015).
Tradução e adaptação transcultural da escala Food and Nutrition Literacy (FNLIT) em adolescentes portugueses
Authors:   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto, Cidade Coelho Beatriz , Camarinha Bárbara ,   Câmara Municipal de Vila Nova de Gaia, Teixeira Beatriz ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,   EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto,   Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR) da Universidade do Porto
Published: August 2023

INTRODUÇÃO: O nível de Literacia Nutricional e de Literacia Alimentar tem sido associado a benefícios na saúde. A escala Food and Nutrition Literacy avalia o nível de Literacia Alimentar e Literacia Nutricional em adolescentes iranianos. Não existe, à data, nenhuma ferramenta traduzida e adaptada para a língua portuguesa que avalie a Literacia Alimentar e a Literacia Nutricional. OBJETIVOS: Traduzir e adaptar transculturalmente a escala Food and Nutrition Literacy para a língua portuguesa em adolescentes portugueses. METODOLOGIA: Após a obtenção da versão portuguesa da escala (por um processo de tradução e retro tradução), procedeu-se à sua adaptação transcultural através da participação de 30 adolescentes numa entrevista semi-estruturada com a aplicação direta de uma versão preliminar da escala. Realizou-se a análise qualitativa das transcrições e reformulou-se a escala. Solicitou-se a revisão e validação da escala a um painel de peritos. Calculou-se, o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo e a Média do Índice de Validade do Conteúdo da Escala para a relevância, adequação e clareza de cada item. Os itens com um Índice de Validade de Conteúdo<0,83 foram reformulados. RESULTADOS: Oito adolescentes (30,8%) apresentaram um nível de literacia moderada. As raparigas apresentaram uma pontuação significativamente superior à dos rapazes (69,4% vs. 64,3%, p=0,021). A subescala “Literacia crítica em alimentação e nutrição” foi a que teve uma menor mediana de pontuação (30,8%). Este trabalho culminou na obtenção da versão final da escala em língua portuguesa. CONCLUSÕES: Com esta escala será possível quantificar o nível de Literacia Alimentar e Literacia Nutricional dos adolescentes portugueses e avaliar a efetividade dos projetos de intervenção e políticas alimentares relacionadas com esta temática nesta faixa etária.
Sustentabilidade alimentar em alimentação coletiva e restauração: perceção dos nutricionistas
Authors:   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Sofia Edemundo Ana , Pinto Ezequiel ,   Centro de Estudos e Desenvolvimento em Saúde da Universidade do Algarve, Lúcia Baltazar Ana ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Fialho Sónia ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Lima João ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra
Published: August 2023

INTRODUÇÃO: O nutricionista é um profissional de saúde que entende o contexto em que a nutrição e a alimentação se processam, sendo competente tecnicamente, crítico e comprometido com a realidade existente. Questões relacionadas com sustentabilidade alimentar aplicam-se a todas as áreas da nutrição e dietética, com particular enfoque na área da alimentação coletiva e restauração sendo preciso valorizar as atribuições e contribuições do nutricionista na promoção de um futuro de qualidade. OBJETIVOS: Descrever a perceção dos nutricionistas que exercem atividade na área da alimentação coletiva e restauração sobre a sua atuação na promoção da sustentabilidade alimentar. METODOLOGIA: Estudo transversal, realizado por inquirição da população-alvo com um questionário online, através de uma técnica de amostragem não aleatória selecionada por conveniência. A amostra deste estudo é composta por nutricionistas, residentes em Portugal e a exercer atualmente na área da nutrição. Os dados sumarizaram-se através de frequências absolutas e relativas, e através de média, desvio-padrão, mediana e amplitude interquartil. Utilizou-se o teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov para analisar a adesão das variáveis em estudo à distribuição normal e, conforme os resultados, utilizou-se o teste de Mann-Whitney para comparação entre grupos. RESULTADOS: Dos 115 participantes, 48,7% consideram totalmente importante a promoção da sustentabilidade alimentar na sua atuação e 46,1% concordam que podem melhorar a sua ação. Os conceitos que mais relacionam com a sustentabilidade alimentar são a redução do desperdício alimentar, preservação do meio ambiente e dos recursos naturais. As principais ações praticadas são a promoção da Dieta Mediterrânica e redução do desperdício alimentar. Verificaram-se diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre as dificuldades e ações dos nutricionistas que exercem atividade em alimentação coletiva e os que não o fazem. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados demonstram que os participantes acreditam na sua capacidade para colocar ações em prática e reforça a necessidade de reconhecer e capacitar os nutricionistas como importantes agentes promotores da sustentabilidade alimentar.
Determinantes nas preferências alimentares e seletividade alimentar em crianças
Authors:   Escola Superior de Saúde da Universidade do Algarve, Martins Gerardo Marisa , Pavei Macan Tamires ,   Escola Superior de Saúde da Universidade do Algarve
Published: August 2023

A presente revisão narrativa procurou determinar os principais fatores influenciadores das preferências e escolhas alimentares, bem como do desenvolvimento de seletividade alimentar, durante a infância. Assim, foram descritos possíveis determinantes presentes desde a preconceção até ao fim da introdução alimentar, período este caracterizado como o mais influente no desenvolvimento destas preferências. Os principais fatores responsáveis pelo desenvolvimento das preferências alimentares e da seletividade alimentar nas crianças mencionados nesta revisão foram: os fatores biológicos; a introdução alimentar; as práticas parentais; os fatores psicológicos, sociais, culturais e económicos e a influência do marketing. A intervenção nestes determinantes funde-se com a prevenção de maus hábitos alimentares e também com a promoção da saúde em todo o ciclo de vida.