bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expert-augmented automated machine learning optimizes hemodynamic predictors of spinal cord injury outcome
Authors: Chou Austin , Torres-Espin Abel , Kyritsis Nikos , Huie J. Russell , Khatry Sarah , Funk Jeremy , Hay Jennifer , Lofgreen Andrew , Shah Rajiv , McCann Chandler , Pascual Lisa U. , Amorim Edilberto , Weinstein Philip R. , Manley Geoffrey T. , Dhall Sanjay S. , Pan Jonathan Z. , Bresnahan Jacqueline C. , Beattie Michael S. , Whetstone William D. , Ferguson Adam R. ,   the TRACK-SCI Investigators
Published: April 2022

Artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) is becoming increasingly more accessible to biomedical researchers with significant potential to transform biomedicine through optimization of highly-accurate predictive models and enabling better understanding of disease biology. Automated machine learning (AutoML) in particular is positioned to democratize artificial intelligence (AI) by reducing the amount of human input and ML expertise needed. However, successful translation of AI/ML in biomedicine requires moving beyond optimizing only for prediction accuracy and towards establishing reproducible clinical and biological inferences. This is especially challenging for clinical studies on rare disorders where the smaller patient cohorts and corresponding sample size is an obstacle for reproducible modeling results. Here, we present a model-agnostic framework to reinforce AutoML using strategies and tools of explainable and reproducible AI, including novel metrics to assess model reproducibility. The framework enables clinicians to interpret AutoML-generated models for clinical and biological verifiability and consequently integrate domain expertise during model development. We applied the framework towards spinal cord injury prognostication to optimize the intraoperative hemodynamic range during injury-related surgery and additionally identified a strong detrimental relationship between intraoperative hypertension and patient outcome. Furthermore, our analysis captured how evolving clinical practices such as faster time-to-surgery and blood pressure management affect clinical model development. Altogether, we illustrate how expert-augmented AutoML improves inferential reproducibility for biomedical discovery and can ultimately build trust in AI processes towards effective clinical integration.
Comparison of Montreal cognitive assessment and Mattis dementia rating scale in the preoperative evaluation of subthalamic stimulation in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Gülke Eileen , Alsalem Mohammad , Kirsten Maja , Vettorazzi Eik , Choe Chi-un , Hidding Ute , Zittel-Dirks Simone , Buhmann Carsten , Schaper Miriam , Gulberti Alessandro , Moll Christian K. E. , Hamel Wolfgang , Koeppen Johannes , Gerloff Christian , Pötter-Nerger Monika
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The preoperative evaluation of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) patients for subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) includes the assessment of the neuropsychological status of the patient. A widely used preoperative test is the Mattis Dementia rating scale (MDRS). However, the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) has also been proven to be a sensitive, time-sparing tool with high diagnostic validity in PD. We evaluate the utility of the MoCA as a preoperative screening test for PD patients undergoing bilateral STN-DBS.

Methods

In this single-centre, retrospective study, we analysed pre- and postoperative assessments of MoCA, MDRS, Movement disorder society-Unified PD Rating Scale-motor examination, PD Questionnaire-39 and levodopa equivalent daily dose. Longitudinal outcome changes were analysed using paired t-test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, linear regression and CHAID (chi-square automatic interaction detector) regression tree model.

Results

Clinical motor and cognitive scores of 59 patients (61.05±7.73 years, 24 females) were analysed. The MoCA, but not the MDRS, identified significant postoperative cognitive decline in PD patients undergoing STN-DBS. The preoperative MoCA score correlated with postoperative quality of life improvement, whereas the MDRS did not. PD patients with a MoCA score ≤ 23 points had a significant decline of quality of life after DBS surgery compared to patients > 23 points.

Conclusion

This study identifies the MoCA as an alternative test within the preoperative evaluation of PD patients for the detection of neuropsychological deficits and prediction of the postoperative improvement of quality of life.
Lipid dysfunction and adrenomedullin expression in omental versus subcutaneous adipose tissues in diabetic pregnancies
Authors: Dong Yuanlin , Betancourt Ancizar , Belfort Michael A. , Yallampalli Chandrasekhar
Published: April 2022

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy but the underlying mechanism remains obscure. The aims of this study are to examine if omental adipose tissue (OMAT) and subcutaneous AT (SCAT) differentially express proinflammatory and lipid metabolic adipokines, and if so, whether their regional differences have implications on lipid metabolism in GDM. Paired samples of OMAT and SCAT were excised from pregnant women in scheduled Cesarean sections with non-obese (NOBS), obese (OBS) and GDM. The results showed that the mRNA of monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, macrophage marker CD68, and cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α are increased in OMAT from GDM women compared to that in NOBS and OBS women (P<0.05). Glucose and TNF-α dose-dependently enhanced ADM and its receptor components CRLR and RAMPs in human adipocytes. Immunofluorescence showed that ADM and its receptor components are higher in OMAT from GDM women compared to non-GDM women. Further, basal lipolysis was greater in OMAT than in SCAT and ADM stimulates further glycerol release in OMAT, but not in SCAT, and these increases are reduced by ADM antagonist, ADM22-52. We therefore conclude that elevated ADM and its receptor expressions by OMAT, but not by SCAT appear to contribute to the lipid dysregulation in GDM women, and manipulation of ADM may represent one of the novel approaches in minimizing the risk of GDM-related fetal overgrowth.
Effects of physical, chemical, and biological ageing on the mineralization of pine wood biochar by a Streptomyces isolate
Authors: Zeba Nayela , Berry Timothy D. , Panke-Buisse Kevin , Whitman Thea
Published: April 2022

If biochar is to be used for carbon (C) management, we must understand how weathering or ageing affects biochar C mineralization. Here, we incubated aged and unaged eastern white pine wood biochar produced at 350 and 550°C with a Streptomyces isolate, a putative biochar-decomposing microbe. Ageing was accelerated via three different processes, namely, (a) physical ageing–subjecting biochar to alternating freeze-thaw and wet-dry cycles, (b) chemical ageing–treating biochar with concentrated hydrogen peroxide and (c) biological ageing–incubating biochar in the presence of nutrients and microorganisms. Elemental composition and surface chemistry (Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy) of biochar samples were compared before and after ageing. Biochar C mineralization between ageing treatments was significantly different in the case of 350°C biochar (p value = 0.03). Among the 350°C biochars, physical ageing resulted in the greatest increase (by 103%) in biochar C mineralization (p value = 0.05). However, in the case of 550°C biochar, ageing did not result in a significant change in biochar C mineralization (p value = 0.40). Biochar C mineralization was positively correlated with an increase in O/C ratio post-ageing (rs = 0.86, p value = 0.01). In the case of 350°C biochar, surface oxidation during ageing enhanced biochar degradation by the isolate. For 550°C biochar, however, ageing did not significantly increase biochar C mineralization, likely due to high condensed aromatic C content and lower surface oxidation during ageing. The results from our study suggest that low temperature aged biochar is more susceptible to biological degradation by soil microbes. These findings have implications for the use of biochar for long term C storage in soils.
Social and professional recognition are key determinants of quality of life at work among night-shift healthcare workers in Paris public hospitals (AP-HP ALADDIN COVID-19 survey)
Authors: Duracinsky Martin , Marcellin Fabienne , Cousin Lorraine , Di Beo Vincent , Mahé Véronique , Rousset-Torrente Olivia , Carrieri Patrizia , Chassany Olivier
Published: April 2022

Objective

Documenting the perceptions and experiences of frontline healthcare workers during a sanitary crisis is key to reinforce healthcare systems. We identify the determinants of quality of working life (QWL) among night-shift healthcare workers (NSHW) in Paris public hospitals shortly after the first-wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The ALADDIN cross-sectional online survey (15 June to 15 September 2020) collected QWL, socio-economic, behavioral, and work-related information among 1,387 NSHW in the 39 hospitals of the Assistance Publique—Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP). Data were weighted (margin calibration) to be representative of the entire population of 12,000 AP-HP hospitals’ NSHW regarding sex, age, and professional category. Linear regression was used to identify correlates of QWL (WRQoL scale).

Results

New night position during the COVID pandemic, difficulties in getting screened for COVID, and considering protective measures inadequate were associated with poorer QWL, after adjustment for socio-economic characteristics, professional category, perceived health, physical activity, and history of harassment at work. Under-estimation of night-shift work by day-shift colleagues, reporting night work as a source of tension with friends, or feeling more irritable since working at night also impaired QWL. By contrast, satisfaction regarding COVID information received from the employer, and feeling valued by the general population during the pandemic improved QWL.

Conclusions

Insufficient access to screening, information, and protective measures impaired QWL of NSHW after the first wave of COVID-19 in Paris public hospitals. Social and professional recognition of night-shift work were the key determinants of QWL in this population.
Optimization of a lumbar interspinous fixation device for the lumbar spine with degenerative disc disease
Authors: Heo Minhyeok , Yun Jihwan , Kim Hanjong , Lee Sang-Soo , Park Seonghun
Published: April 2022

Interspinous spacer devices used in interspinous fixation surgery remove soft tissues in the lumbar spine, such as ligaments and muscles and may cause degenerative diseases in adjacent segments its stiffness is higher than that of the lumbar spine. Therefore, this study aimed to structurally and kinematically optimize a lumbar interspinous fixation device (LIFD) using a full lumbar finite element model that allows for minimally invasive surgery, after which the normal behavior of the lumbar spine is not affected. The proposed healthy and degenerative lumbar spine models reflect the physiological characteristics of the lumbar spine in the human body. The optimum number of spring turns and spring wire diameter in the LIFD were selected as 3 mm and 2 turns, respectively—from a dynamic range of motion (ROM) perspective rather than a structural maximum stress perspective—by applying a 7.5 N∙m extension moment and 500 N follower load to the LIFD-inserted lumbar spine model. As the spring wire diameter in the LIFD increased, the maximum stress generated in the LIFD increased, and the ROM decreased. Further, as the number of spring turns decreased, both the maximum stress and ROM of the LIFD increased. When the optimized LIFD was inserted into a degenerative lumbar spine model with a degenerative disc, the facet joint force of the L3-L4 lumbar segment was reduced by 56%–98% in extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. These results suggest that the optimized device can strengthen the stability of the lumbar spine that has undergone interspinous fixation surgery and reduce the risk of degenerative diseases at the adjacent lumbar segments.
Potential complications of CAD/CAM-produced resin composite crowns on molars: A retrospective cohort study over four years
Authors: Inomata Miyu , Harada Akio , Kasahara Shin , Kusama Taro , Ozaki Akane , Katsuda Yusuke , Egusa Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Evaluation of the clinical performance of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing-produced resin composite crowns (CAD/CAM composite crowns) on molars with a particular focus on placement location.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed based on the clinical records of patients with CAD/CAM composite crowns on molars (June 2016 to March 2021). The hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated based the Cox proportional hazard model to evaluate the effect of tooth location on complication type and occurrence. Covariates included crown location (maxilla/mandible, distalmost tooth/not distalmost tooth, and first molar/second or third molar) and endodontically treated (nonvital) or untreated (vital) tooth.

Results

Overall, 362 crowns were evaluated (mean follow-up: 378 days, median: 286 days), and 106 crowns (29.3%) showed complications, most frequently crown debonding. The cumulative success and survival rates were 70.9% and 93.7%, respectively, after 1 year and 49.5% and 86.5%, respectively, after 3 years. There was no significant difference in the HRs and log-rank tests in the Kaplan–Meier curves based on crown location parameters (P > 0.05). However, placement on vital teeth was associated with higher risks than on nonvital teeth (HR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.03–2.23). In addition, the cement as a covariate yielded a high HR.

Conclusions

The location of CAD/CAM composite molar crowns is unlikely a risk factor for complications; therefore, these crowns can be clinically applied to all molars. However, the application of such molar crowns to vital teeth and the use of a cement other than adhesive resin cement present risks.
Relationships between executive functions and sensory patterns among adults with specific learning disabilities as reflected in their daily functioning
Authors: Sharfi Kineret , Rosenblum Sara , Meyer Sonya
Published: April 2022

Adults with specific learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia) reveal limitations in daily functioning in various life domains. Following previous evidence of deficient executive functions and unique sensory patterns in this population, this study examined how relationships between these two domains are expressed in daily functioning. Participants included 55 adults with specific learning disabilities and 55 controls matched by age, gender, socioeconomic status, and education. Participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Functions–adult version, and the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile. Results indicated significant relationships between executive functions (per the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Functions–adult version) and sensory patterns (per the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile) as reflected in daily functioning. The low sensory registration pattern predicted 12% to 16% of the variance in the behavioral regulation index, metacognitive index, and general executive composite scores and was a significant predictor of specific executive function abilities. Results indicated that the difficulties of adults with specific learning disabilities in using executive function abilities efficiently might be tied to a high sensory threshold and passive self-regulation strategies. A deeper understanding of this population’s sensory–executive mechanisms may improve evaluation and intervention processes. This understanding can consequently increase executive abilities for improved daily functioning and life satisfaction.
Co-creative art processes with patients: A theoretical framework and qualitative study among artists
Authors: Weeseman Yvonne , Scherer-Rath Michael , Christophe Nirav , Dörr Henny , Bood Zarah M. , Sprangers Mirjam A. G. , Helmich Esther , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M.
Published: April 2022

A cancer diagnosis may be experienced as a contingent life event. Co-creation—in which artists together with patients create a work of art reflecting on aspects of the patients’ life story—may be used to support patients to integrate such a contingent life event into their life story. We conducted a qualitative study in which we interviewed 10 professional artists to explore if co-creative art processes could facilitate integration of experiences of contingency in patients. Template analyses were performed in AtlasTi. We identified co-creation as a specific form of support to the process of integration of experiences of contingency. In the formation of a new life narrative, patients transcend the boundaries of their previous life narrative by changing their perspective. Self-transcendence forms a pivotal point in co-creation, which may be helpful for patients to integrate experiences of contingency into their life narratives.
Complex network analysis to understand trading partnership in French swine production
Authors: Hammami Pachka , Widgren Stefan , Grosbois Vladimir , Apolloni Andrea , Rose Nicolas , Andraud Mathieu
Published: April 2022

The circulation of livestock pathogens in the pig industry is strongly related to animal movements. Epidemiological models developed to understand the circulation of pathogens within the industry should include the probability of transmission via between-farm contacts. The pig industry presents a structured network in time and space, whose composition changes over time. Therefore, to improve the predictive capabilities of epidemiological models, it is important to identify the drivers of farmers’ choices in terms of trade partnerships. Combining complex network analysis approaches and exponential random graph models, this study aims to analyze patterns of the swine industry network and identify key factors responsible for between-farm contacts at the French scale. The analysis confirms the topological stability of the network over time while highlighting the important roles of companies, types of farm, farm sizes, outdoor housing systems and batch-rearing systems. Both approaches revealed to be complementary and very effective to understand the drivers of the network. Results of this study are promising for future developments of epidemiological models for livestock diseases. This study is part of the One Health European Joint Programme: BIOPIGEE.
Diagnostic yield of patients with undiagnosed intellectual disability, global developmental delay and multiples congenital anomalies using karyotype, microarray analysis, whole exome sequencing from Central Brazil
Authors: Leite Ana Julia da Cunha , Pinto Irene Plaza , Leijsten Nico , Ruiterkamp-Versteeg Martina , Pfundt Rolph , de Leeuw Nicole , da Cruz Aparecido Divino , Minasi Lysa Bernardes
Published: April 2022

Intellectual Disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects approximately 3% of children and adolescents worldwide. It is a heterogeneous and multifactorial clinical condition. Several methodologies have been used to identify the genetic causes of ID and in recent years new generation sequencing techniques, such as exome sequencing, have enabled an increase in the detection of new pathogenic variants and new genes associated with ID. The aim of this study was to evaluate exome sequencing with analysis of the ID gene panel as a tool to increase the diagnostic yield of patients with ID/GDD/MCA in Central Brazil, together with karyotype and CMA tests. A retrospective cohort study was carried out with 369 patients encompassing both sexes. Karyotype analysis was performed for all patients. CMA was performed for patients who did not present structural and or numerical alterations in the karyotype. Cases that were not diagnosed after performing karyotyping and CMA were referred for exome sequencing using a gene panel for ID that included 1,252 genes. The karyotype identified chromosomal alterations in 34.7% (128/369). CMA was performed in 83 patients who had normal karyotype results resulting in a diagnostic yield of 21.7% (18/83). Exome sequencing with analysis of the ID gene panel was performed in 19 trios of families that had negative results with previous methodologies. With the ID gene panel analysis, we identified mutations in 63.1% (12/19) of the cases of which 75% (9/12) were pathogenic variants,8.3% (1/12) likely pathogenic and in 16.7% (2/12) it concerned a Variant of Uncertain Significance. With the three methodologies applied, it was possible to identify the genetic cause of ID in 42.3% (156/369) of the patients. In conclusion, our studies show the different methodologies that can be useful in diagnosing ID/GDD/MCA and that whole exome sequencing followed by gene panel analysis, when combined with clinical and laboratory screening, is an efficient diagnostic strategy.
Binary salp swarm algorithm for discounted {0-1} knapsack problem
Authors: Dang Binh Thanh , Truong Tung Khac
Published: April 2022

While the classical knapsack problem has been the object to be solved by optimization algorithm proposals for many years, another version of this problem, discounted {0-1} knapsack problem, is gaining a lot of attention recently. The original knapsack problem requires selecting specific items from an item set to maximize the total benefit while ensuring that the total weight does not exceed the knapsack capacity. Meanwhile, discounted {0-1} knapsack problem has more stringent requirements in which items are divided into groups, and only up to one item from a particular group can be selected. This constraint, which does not exist in the original knapsack problem, makes discounted {0-1} knapsack problem even more challenging. In this paper, we propose a new algorithm based on salp swarm algorithm in the form of four different variants to resolve the discounted {0-1} knapsack problem. In addition, we also make use of an effective data modeling mechanism and a greedy repair operator that helps overcome local optima when finding the global optimal solution. Experimental and statistical results show that our algorithm is superior to currently available algorithms in terms of solution quality, convergence, and other statistical criteria.
A multi-stage process to develop quality indicators for community-based palliative care using interRAI data
Authors: Guthrie Dawn M. , Williams Nicole , Beach Cheryl , Buzath Emma , Cohen Joachim , Declercq Anja , Fisher Kathryn , Fries Brant E. , Goodridge Donna , Hermans Kirsten , Hirdes John P. , Seow Hsien , Silveira Maria , Sinnarajah Aynharan , Stevens Susan , Tanuseputro Peter , Taylor Deanne , Vadeboncoeur Christina , Martin Tracy Lyn Wityk
Published: April 2022

Background

Individuals receiving palliative care (PC) are generally thought to prefer to receive care and die in their homes, yet little research has assessed the quality of home- and community-based PC. This project developed a set of valid and reliable quality indicators (QIs) that can be generated using data that are already gathered with interRAI assessments—an internationally validated set of tools commonly used in North America for home care clients. The QIs can serve as decision-support measures to assist providers and decision makers in delivering optimal care to individuals and their families.

Methods

The development efforts took part in multiple stages, between 2017–2021, including a workshop with clinicians and decision-makers working in PC, qualitative interviews with individuals receiving PC, families and decision makers and a modified Delphi panel, based on the RAND/ULCA appropriateness method.

Results

Based on the workshop results, and qualitative interviews, a set of 27 candidate QIs were defined. They capture issues such as caregiver burden, pain, breathlessness, falls, constipation, nausea/vomiting and loneliness. These QIs were further evaluated by clinicians/decision makers working in PC, through the modified Delphi panel, and five were removed from further consideration, resulting in 22 QIs.

Conclusions

Through in-depth and multiple-stakeholder consultations we developed a set of QIs generated with data already collected with interRAI assessments. These indicators provide a feasible basis for quality benchmarking and improvement systems for care providers aiming to optimize PC to individuals and their families.
Usefulness of contrast-enhanced multi-detector computed tomography in identifying upper gastrointestinal bleeding: A retrospective study of patients admitted to the emergency department
Authors: Kim Dongju , Kim Ji Hoon , Ko Dong Ryul , Min In Kyung , Choi Arom , Beom Jin Ho
Published: April 2022

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a major cause of clinical deterioration worldwide. A large number of patients with UGIB cannot be diagnosed through endoscopy, which is normally the diagnostic method of choice. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) for patients with suspected UGIB. In this retrospective observational study of 386 patients, we compared contrast-enhanced abdominopelvic MDCT to endoscopy to analyze the performance of MDCT in identifying the status, location of origin, and etiology of UGIB. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy were examined. In the assessment of bleeding status, MDCT was able to accurately identify 32.9% (21.9–43.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]) of patients with active bleeding, 27.4% (18.9–35.9, 95% CI) of patients with recent bleeding, and 94.8% (91.8–97.8, 95% CI) of patients without bleeding evidence (P<0.001). MDCT showed an accuracy of 60.9%, 60.6%, and 50.9% in identifying bleeding in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, respectively (P = 0.4028). The accuracy in differentiating ulcerative, cancerous, and variceal bleeding was 58.3%, 65.9%, and 56.6%, respectively (P = 0.6193). MDCT has limited use as a supportive screening method to identify the presence of gastrointestinal bleeding.
The coronavirus’s effect on the decisions and habits of food purchases in Hungary
Authors: Huszka Peter , Karácsony Peter , Juhász Timea
Published: April 2022

This article was inspired by current events. The shopping craze generated by the coronavirus pandemic raised some questions that this article aims to answer by analysing a variety of suppositions. The coronavirus pandemic caused panic shopping amongst consumers, whose motivation for increasing the volumes of shopping revolved around ensuring a safety margin of groceries while also reducing the number of shopping trips. The consumers did most of their shopping in hyper, and supermarkets, as well as in bigger ABCs and grocery stores (Lidl), where there’s a wider range of products and larger stock. The average consumer bought much more than the basic groceries during this period. Our research started in March 2020 and ended in May 2020. To validate our assumptions, primary information is derived from the statistical processing of a large number of data from a representative questionnaire survey of 724 respondents. The results show that for many people this period was about stockpiling storages of groceries. Flour saw the biggest increase in purchase volumes, but chicken and pastas were also amongst the more popular items. Stores with the biggest range of selection were able to satisfy this demand. As evidenced by data, consumers also purchased items, which are needed for any household during an emergency and are easy to store in higher volumes. These items include different oils and fats, which are required for cooking, and non-perishables, such as salamis, canned foods, rice and mineral water.
Debt structure and its impact on financial performance: An empirical study on the Palestinian stock exchange
Authors: Abuamsha Mohamed , Shumali Suhair
Published: April 2022

The study aims to identify the impact that debt structure has on the financial performance of the organizations listed on the Palestinian Exchange (PEX). The sample of the study consists of 41 companies listed in the PEX, excluding the banking sector. The descriptive method is used, in addition to model measurement, to analyze the panel data using the multiple-regression method. The study concludes that the ROA increases when long-term debts are used for financing the assets in the insurance, investment, and industrial sectors. On the other hand, in the service sector, the ROA is negatively affected by the use of long-term debt, and only the industrial companies’ ROA is significantly affected by the total debt. Furthermore, the study finds that the ROA of companies in the insurance and investment sectors is positively impacted by short-term debts. The main recommendation is that companies in the insurance, industrial, and investment sectors should depend on properly balanced long-term debts to increase their revenue.
Braking factors influencing the long-term stagnation of development in the SEE countries
Authors: Grgurevic Niksa
Published: April 2022

The subject of the paper is to explain the impact of three braking negative transition factors causing the long-term stagnation of socio-economic development in the three selected countries of South East Europe (SEE) - Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Serbia. It is about institutional inefficiency (which is generated in the synergistic action of alternative institutions and neoliberalism), the post-socialist totalitarian legacy related to the nomenclatures of power, and the underdevelopment of socio-cultural capital. The aim of this paper is to prove their dominant influence on the reproduction of the socio-economic development deficit (in fact: stagnation) in the observed countries through a hypothetically constructed survey model. The starting point is the basic hypothesis that the overall phenomenology of developmental stagnation is caused by wrong, slow, and inefficient institutional changes (political and macroeconomic), which have caused the dominance of alternative institutions. It also starts with the auxiliary hypothesis that privileged institutional monism (expressed in pronounced non-market appropriation) was the basic motive for the action of these braking factors, although methodologically and essentially it was in paradoxical contradiction with the proclaimed promises of “reformers”. In addition to the usual methods of social sciences, the paper used the results collected through an electronic survey of 900 respondents. In conclusion, the set hypotheses were verified, confirming the imperative need for democratization of society and the application of institutional pluralism on the model of developed countries, which implies the elimination of the considered braking factors.
Development and cohesion in Spanish regions. An analysis before and after the Great Recession
Authors: Santero-Sánchez Rosa , Pérez-Ruiz Sergio , Marcos Calvo Miguel Ángel
Published: April 2022

Regional cohesion has been one of the European Union's objectives since its origins. Its strategies and implementations have been modified over time, adjusting to the incorporation of new members and to different economic cycles. To gain more knowledge about the impact of cohesion policies, we use the Lisbon Regional Index, a synthetic indicator that brings together the global objectives of the Lisbon Strategy, that includes simple indicators of employment, training and research, development and innovation expenditures of the regions. The evolution of this Index over time gives the possibility of dynamic analysis and enables comparing the values of synthetic index for all the years of the considered period. Thereby, the development and cohesion on the Spanish regions can be evaluated, and it is verified how cohesion has improved in Spain in the expansive period (2000-2007) and how the Great Crisis has caused a regression of cohesion, affecting to a greater extent the regions "in transition" and "less developed", reaching levels prior to 2000. The next period (2014-2019) shows important signs of positive trend recovery.
ABORDAGEM DA EFICIÊNCIA ENERGÉTICA COM ALUNOS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL DA CIDADE DE CAPANEMA - PA
Authors: Reis Alexandre José Soares , Freitas Deyverson Mesquita , Dos Santos Neuma Teixeira
Published: April 2022

Este artigo tem como temática aplicação do conhecimento sobre eficiência energética. É um relato de atividade de sensibilização sobre uso de energia elétrica desenvolvido no ensino fundamental com alunos do quinto ano de faixa etária entre 6 a 10 anos de idade. A energia está relacionada com todas as atividades desenvolvidas na sociedade, o desperdício resulta em impactos negativos ao meio ambiente. A educação ambiental ao abordar a problemática energética contribui para o desenvolvimento do senso crítico mediante conhecimento desenvolvido na escola e vivenciado na comunidade. A metodologia realizada foi através de palestras, apresentação de vídeos e questionamentos feitos aos alunos durante a atividade. Foi perceptível que os alunos compreenderam a problemática da produção energética de acordo com suas respostas obtidas através dos questionamentos realizados oralmente em sala.
Caracterização espacial da acessibilidade ao trabalho formal e informal da população de baixa renda em Fortaleza
Authors: Garcia Lopes Pinto Davi , Grangeiro Loureiro Carlos Felipe , Franco Leite de Matos Sousa Francelino , Motte-Baumvol Benjamin
Published: April 2022

Em Fortaleza, tem-se observado um crescimento das desigualdades socioespaciais na acessibilidade às oportunidades de trabalho. Não se sabe, entretanto, o impacto do mercado de trabalho informal nessas desigualdades. Portanto, o objetivo geral deste artigo é caracterizar espacialmente as diferenças nos níveis de acessibilidade ao trabalho formal e informal da população de baixa renda em Fortaleza. Inicialmente, estimou-se a distribuição espacial dos indivíduos de baixa renda e das oportunidades de empregos formais e informais direcionadas a eles. Em seguida, mensurou-se os níveis de acessibilidade a cada tipo de emprego através da seleção de um indicador que buscasse incorporar a competitividade por essas oportunidades de trabalho. Finalmente, comparou-se as diferenças observadas, buscando avaliar como essas variam sobre o território. As análises corroboraram a hipótese de que os níveis de acessibilidade aos empregos informais da população de baixa renda são relativamente melhores que aos empregos formais. Também se verificou que, dentre os empregados informalmente, os trabalhadores domésticos estão sujeitos aos piores níveis de acessibilidade.
Transformación de la enseñanza de la escritura a partir de una estrategia didáctica centrada en la literatura infantil
Authors: Simbaqueba Maldonado Adriana , González Suárez Ana Lizbeth
Published: April 2022

Este artículo expone la transformación de la práctica de enseñanza de la escritura de una docente de grado transición a través del proceso de investigación que realiza. La propuesta se desarrolla bajo un enfoque cualitativo, con un diseño de investigación-acción en el aula. El estudio describe los cambios en las prácticas de enseñanza de la escritura, donde inicialmente se enfatizaba en la decodificación, para pasar a la escritura como proceso de construcción de significado a partir de la experiencia literaria. En consecuencia, se construye una estrategia didáctica centrada en la literatura infantil, que facilita la evolución de los estudiantes en las distintas etapas de la escritura.
La relación entre actividad atencional en bebés y prácticas educativas de maestras
Authors: Riascos Cataño Viviana , Gago Galvagno Lucas Gustavo , Ospina Tascón Vivian
Published: April 2022

El presente trabajo tuvo como propósito reconocer y comprender, desde el paradigma cualitativo, la manera en que dos bebés (de 9 y 10 meses) despliegan la actividad atencional en dos instituciones de cuidado para la primera infancia en Cali, Colombia, así como la manera en que las maestras favorecen o no sus secuencias atencionales. Para cumplir con este objetivo, se escogió una orientación analítica vinculada a la estesis, como posibilidad de apertura al mundo, y la atencionalidad concebida como una actividad. Se realize un microanálisis del registro fílmico de una escena en cada institución relacionado con situaciones espontáneas. Los resultados mostraron que los bebés logran agenciar la búsqueda de objetos de interés, pero las intervenciones hechas por las maestras no siempre favorecen que se complete la secuencia atencional para llegar a la exploración. Por ello, para favorecer el enriquecimiento de sus procesos atencionales, el adulto que acompaña ha de ser sensible y responsivo a las necesidades del bebé.
Aplicación de la política pública de primera infancia en la práctica pedagógica
Authors: Vahos Sarrias Martha Isabel , Gómez Clavijo Dora Nancy
Published: April 2022

Los docentes de básica primaria, en particular de matemáticas, nos preguntamos cuál es el mejor material didáctico para desarrollar clases con temáticas específicas; tenemos repertorios que nos ayudan a adaptar los juegos o materiales a distintas situaciones de enseñanza. Sin embargo, es un error común nombrar los recursos, los materiales y los juegos como sinónimos, aludiendo al mismo objetivo: potenciar la comprensión de objetos matemáticos y lograr mejorar el interés de los estudiantes. Nombrarlos como iguales impide que se desarrollen procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje diferenciados pero relacionados en escenarios particulares de la clase. Este artículo pretende reconocer los límites entre el recurso, el material didáctico y el juego, así como la manera en que estos potencian procesos como razonar, modelar, representar, comunicar, entre otros. Las reflexiones aquí expuestas son producto de algunas investigaciones adelantadas por las autoras como docentes de básica primaria y formadoras de formadores.
Materiales, recursos y juego: una distinción y relación necesaria en el aula de matemáticas
Authors: Torres Puentes Elizabeth , Casallas Rodriguez Luz Angela
Published: April 2022

Los docentes de básica primaria, en particular de matemáticas, nos preguntamos cuál es el mejor material didáctico para desarrollar clases con temáticas específicas; tenemos repertorios que nos ayudan a adaptar los juegos o materiales a distintas situaciones de enseñanza. Sin embargo, es un error común nombrar los recursos, los materiales y los juegos como sinónimos, aludiendo al mismo objetivo: potenciar la comprensión de objetos matemáticos y lograr mejorar el interés de los estudiantes. Nombrarlos como iguales impide que se desarrollen procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje diferenciados pero relacionados en escenarios particulares de la clase. Este artículo pretende reconocer los límites entre el recurso, el material didáctico y el juego, así como la manera en que estos potencian procesos como razonar, modelar, representar, comunicar, entre otros. Las reflexiones aquí expuestas son producto de algunas investigaciones adelantadas por las autoras como docentes de básica primaria y formadoras de formadores.
Design for manufacturing and Assembly practices in early stage of product development
Authors: Karandikar Varsha , Bade Sandeep , Patil Supriya
Published: April 2022

This paper gives an overview of research that is expanding the domain of design for manufacturing (DFM) into new and important areas. DFM and assembly is widely used in industry, especially in product design and development process. to meet customer needs, companies are struggling with competitive markets to produce low cost products with high quality and faster to market. It becomes an important concept as the best time to find cost reductions, at design stage, rather than during manufacturing. The paper concludes with some general guidelines that suggest how manufacturing firms can develop useful, effective DFM. Overall goal with the paper is to aid designers, manufacturers, process planners in the practical industries on the ground and researchers in the mentioned area of study.
Review on Axial Forces acting on Column Members of Multistoried Building
Authors: Kushwaha Nitesh , . Yusuf , Vishwakarma Arvind
Published: April 2022

In India, construction plays a very important role with the introduction of high-rise structures that has been increasing gradually. Along with this, the structure should be strong enough that each element should be economic and strong. The Reduction of Axial forces in Columns in Multistory building using Optimum size change approach is a new idea. It reduces the size of columns at the different levels of the building to reduce its self-weight. On other hand, the structural weight should be minimized when the self-weight of the same will be reduced and proved to be an economic structure. Concluding this, it is necessary to prepare various software models to analyze the structure and get the results regarding reduction of axial forces without disturbing the strength and durability of structure.
A Review on Analysis of Foundation 8 its Super Structure under the SBC Condition of Soil
Authors: Tripathi Piyush Kumar , . Yusuf , Vishwakarma Arvind
Published: April 2022

A building never builds without foundation or any base. All the loads can be transfer through it. So it is required to design the sub structure for taken the load through it. The articles are deals with the analysis and summaries the various articles under the review to find out the impact of different depth and soil condition and other techniques. Based on summarized report the paper concluded that the foundation 8 super structure design the assessment of at different depth and approach are required. Different SBC method Prandt, Terzaghi, Meyerhoff, Hansen, Vesic and is adopted to get the ultimate value of carrying load of the particular soil. The software approach such ABACUS, PLAXIX etc also needed to quick check the structure under the soil and foundation behavior.
Growth properties of meromorphic solutions of some higher-order linear differential-difference equations
Authors: Bellaama Rachid , Belaïdi Benharrat
Published: April 2022

This paper is devoted to the study of the growth of
meromorphic solutions of homogeneous and non-homogeneous linear
differential-difference equations

∑

i
=
0

n

∑

j
=
0

m

A

i
⁢
j

⁢

f

(
j
)

⁢

(

z
+

c
i

)

=
0

,

\displaystyle\sum_{i=0}^{n}\sum_{j=0}^{m}A_{ij}f^{(j)}(z+c_{i})=0,

∑

i
=
0

n

∑

j
=
0

m

A

i
⁢
j

⁢

f

(
j
)

⁢

(

z
+

c
i

)

=
F

,

\displaystyle\sum_{i=0}^{n}\sum_{j=0}^{m}A_{ij}f^{(j)}(z+c_{i})=F,

where

A

i
⁢
j

{A_{ij}}

(

i
=

0
,
…
,
n

{i=0,\ldots,n}

,

j
=

0
,
…
,
m

{j=0,\ldots,m}

), F are meromorphic
functions and

c
i

{c_{i}}

(

0
,
…
,
n

{0,\ldots,n}

) are non-zero distinct complex
numbers. Under some conditions on the coefficients, we extend early results
due to Zhou and Zheng.
Competitive adsorption of heavy metals in a quaternary solution by sugarcane bagasse – LDPE hybrid biochar: equilibrium isotherm and kinetics modelling
Authors: Ighalo Joshua O. , Ogunniyi Samuel , Adeniyi Adewale George , Igwegbe Chinenye Adaobi , Sanusi Saheed Kayode , Adeyanju Comfort A.
Published: April 2022

Sugarcane is a notable crop grown in the tropical region of the world. It is an abundant waste material of the sugar industry which is a low cost and low combustion fuel thus the bagasse can be exploited to manufacture adsorbents for water treatment. Because the presence of contaminants in polluted water is not uniform, pollutant species compete for active sites during the adsorption process. Investigation of the competitive adsorption of Zn(II), Cu(II), Pb(II), and Fe(II) in a quaternary solution using hybrid biochar developed from sugarcane bagasse (SCB) mixed Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and pure SCB biochar is the main aim of this study. The biochar was developed using the retort carbonisation process and characterised via SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), BET (Branueur Emmett Teller) analysis, and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy). Both biochar species mixture possessed some orbicular properties with mesoporous heterogeneous superficial morphology. The biomass biochar and hybrid biochar specific surface area are 533.6 m2/g and 510.5 m2/g respectively. For the two used adsorbents, >99% removal efficiency was recorded over the sphere for dosage investigation. Thus, this implies they are capable of removing heavy metals from the aqueous solution simulated. The Langmuir isotherm fitted best in each domain however there was an exception for Pb(II) ions in biomass biochar with the experimental adsorption capacity of ∼ 22 mg/g for the HMs. Based on the correlation coefficient (R
2); the experimental data fitted the pseudo-first-order kinetic model well having a correlation coefficient value of greater than 0.9. The mechanism of adsorption for the HMs was chemisorption. This study has a three-pronged benefit of water treatment, resource conservation, and solid waste utilisation.
On Generalized Reflected BSDEs with Rcll Obstacle
Authors: El Jamali Mohamed , El Otmani Mohamed
Published: April 2022

This paper proves the existence and uniqueness theorem for generalized (reflected) backward stochastic differential equations under stochastic Lipschitz and monotone condition. The result is shown by using Picard’s iteration, the Snell envelope theory and the penalization method.
A hypothesis that Notopterol may be effective in COVID-19 via JAK/STAT and other signaling pathways
Authors: Nazari-Khanamiri Fereshteh , Ghasemnejad-Berenji Morteza
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 is a rapidly spreading disease, causing a global pandemic. It is circulating in multiple countries and causing a series of respiratory infections. Due to the uncertain safety and efficacy of the vaccines and lack of specific medicines, it’s important to investigate new pharmacological procedures and find out new drugs that help us eradicate this pandemic. We suggest the hypothesis that Notopterol (NOT), the main Secondary metabolite of Notopterygium incisum Ting ex H.T (a common Chinese medicinal herb), may have the potential benefits on SARS-CoV2 infection for this reasons: (a) NOT exhibits anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-angiogenic properties, (b) NOT indicates a significant reduction in cytokines and chemokines releasing including TNFa, IL-6, interferon-γ, which may decrease COVID-19 cytokine storm (c) NOT can suppress the expression of genes which leads to inflammation via Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway. It is exactly acting like tocilizumab, (an approved drug against COVID-19) and (d) Notopterygium incisum has antiviral activity against influenza virus, it can reduce the viral-induced oxidative stress. By these explanations, it is hopeful that NOT may be effective in COVID-19 infections which needs further investigations to examine Notopterol as a beneficial agent against the SARS-CoV2 infection.
Inquiry into online learning communities: potential for fostering collaborative writing
Authors: Wu Wenli , Ma Qing , Santos Ieda M.
Published: April 2022

This study used a community of inquiry (CoI) framework to investigate the potential in terms of fostering collaborative writing of integrating online learning communities (OLCs) with English language learning. The aim was to examine the possible impacts of out-of-class OLCs (guided by teachers) on students’ collaborative English writing outcomes and learning satisfaction. In accordance with the CoI framework, an experiment was conducted and both quantitative (end-of-semester group essay scores) and qualitative (interviews and field notes) data were collected. The results indicate the teacher-guided out-of-class OLC approach to be more effective than the lecture-based approach when it comes to fostering English learners’ collaborative writing. More specifically, the online approach helps students to write better group research essays, develop higher levels of satisfaction concerning their learning experiences and devote more time to the learning process. The results suggest that future studies of OLCs should examine the provision of safe and supportive learning environments intended to foster autonomous learning. Moreover, the results have a number of implications with regard to enhancing students’ learning motivation in out-of-class OLCs.