bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Irregularity index and asymptotic spectrum of spherical densities of the Penta-Sierpinski gasket
Authors: Mera María Eugenia , Morán Manuel
Published: June 2023

We compute the centred Hausdorff measure, $C^{s}(\mathbf{P})\sim2.44$, and the packing measure, $P^{s}(\mathbf{P})\sim6.77$, of the penta-Sierpinski gasket, $\mathbf{P}$, with explicit error bounds. We also compute the full spectra of asymptotic spherical densities of these measures in $\mathbf{P}$, which, in contrast with that of the Sierpinski gasket consists of a unique interval. These results allow us to compute the irregularity index of $\mathbf{P}$, $\mathcal{I}(\mathbf{P})\sim0.6398$, which we define for any self-similar set $E$ with open set condition as $\mathcal{I}(E)=1-\frac{C^{s}(E))}{P^{s}(E)}$.
Mathematics Subject Classification. 28A78, 28A80, 28A75.
Hot/Warm CO2 Removal Processes for IGCC Power Plant
Authors: Chen Shiaoguo , Wang Ping , Hopkinson David P. , Ciferno Jared P. , Duan Yuhua
Published: June 2023

Compared with a pulverized coal power plant, the integrated gasification combined Cycle (IGCC) has several advantages, such as better environmental performance, less solid waste, lower water consumption, and capability of phased construction, to render a less expensive CO2 sequestration process. Because of these advantages, IGCC is considered as an enabling technology for clean coal processes for future power generation and transportation fuel - as well as for CO2 mitigation. By analyzing the traditional CO2 removal processes, in this study, we proposed a new generic hot/warm CO2 removal process for IGCC power plant. Our analyzed results on the newly proposed process demonstrate that, even though, higher the temperature of the hot/warm CO2 removal process is, the larger the required heat of adsorption will be. However, if the whole adsorption/desorption cycle takes place at temperature higher than the highest steam temperature in steam cycle, our analysis indicates that the process may lead to minimal electricity loss.
Stochastic homogenization of micromagnetic energies and emergence of magnetic skyrmions
Authors: Davoli Elisa , D'Elia Lorenza , Ingmanns Jonas
Published: June 2023

We perform a stochastic-homogenization analysis for composite materials exhibiting a random microstructure. Under the assumptions of stationarity and ergodicity, we characterize the Gamma-limit of a micromagnetic energy functional defined on magnetizations taking value in the unit sphere, and including both symmetric and antisymmetric exchange contributions. This Gamma-limit corresponds to a micromagnetic energy functional with homogeneous coefficients. We provide explicit formulas for the effective magnetic properties of the composite material in terms of homogenization correctors. Additionally, the variational analysis of the two exchange energy terms is performed in the more general setting of functionals defined on manifold-valued maps with Sobolev regularity, in the case in which the target manifold is a bounded, orientable smooth surface with tubular neighborhood of uniform thickness. Eventually, we present an explicit characterization of minimizers of the effective exchange in the case of magnetic multilayers, providing quantitative evidence of Dzyaloshinskii's predictions on the emergence of helical structures in composite ferromagnetic materials with stochastic microstructure.
Pm or Em which are products of three repdigits in base δ
Authors: Tiebekabe Pagdame , Ad\'edji Kou\`essi Norbert
Published: June 2023

Let Pm and Em be the m-th Padovan and Perrin numbers respectively. In this paper, we prove that for a fixed integer δ with δ ≥ 2 there exists a finite Padovan and Perrin numbers that can be representable as products of three repdigits in base δ. Moreover, we explicitly find these numbers for 2 ≤ δ ≤ 10 as an applications.
Kracauer’s Architecture. The Ornamental Nature of the New Capitalist Order
Authors: Ruhl Carsten
Published: June 2023

Siegfried Kracauer’s texts are a widely investigated field of sociology and media studies. It is less well known that Kracauer was a graduate architect, practised during World War I and was awarded his PhD after writing a thesis in 1915 in the field of architectural history. After the war, Kracauer published numerous critiques with a special focus on the architectural developments of the time. They document an interest in architectural phenomena ranging from a reflection on his own experiences to a general perspective on the subjectivity of the modern architect, as well as more universal social phenomena. In essence, this essay claims that the lack of ornamentation in modern architecture can be grasped as an ornamental concept of the new social order of capitalism.
Holography for people with no time
Authors: Lin Henry W. , Maldacena Juan , Rozenberg Liza , Shan Jieru
Published: June 2023

We study the gravitational description of extremal supersymmetric black holes. We point out that the AdS_2AdS2 near horizon geometry can be used to compute interesting observables, such as correlation functions of operators. In this limit, the Hamiltonian is zero and correlation functions are time independent. We discuss some possible implications for the gravity description of black hole microstates. We also compare with numerical results in a supersymmetric version of SYK. These results can also be interpreted as providing a construction of wormholes joining two extremal black holes. This is the short version of a longer and more technical companion paper [SciPost Phys. 14, 128 (2023)].
Statü Endişesi
Authors: YILMAZ Mevlüt
Published: June 2023

De Botton, Statü Endişesi isimli çalışmasında günümüz toplumlarını/bireylerini içten içe kemiren önemli bir soruna odaklanır. Statüyü, bireyin toplumun gözündeki değeri ve önemi üzerinden okumaya çalışır. Ona göre, toplumsal hiyerarşide her merdivenin bir basamağında durma, bu konumu sürdürülebilir kılma ve bir alt basamağa inme tehlikesi gibi düşünceler kişi için ciddi bir endişe kaynağıdır. Toplumun yargılamaları yani başkalarının bizim hakkımızda ne düşündüğü korkusu özellikle başarı-başarısızlık dikotomosiyle yakından ilişkilidir. Toplumsal yaşamda statü, başarıya endekslidir ve başarısızlık acımasızca yargılanır. Bu durum, bireyleri evrensel bir his olarak statü kaybetme endişesini yaşamaya sevk eder. De Botton çalışmasında, statü endişesinin bireyleri ciddi seviyede hüzne ve kedere sürükleme ihtimali olduğunu ve toplumda belirli bir konum edinmeye yönelik iştahın, birey için işlevsel olduğunu, ancak aşırıya kaçıldığında ölümle sonuçlanabileceğini ileri sürer. Statü endişesi sorununa en iyi çözüm yolunun onu anlamaya ve ondan bahsetmeye çalışmak olduğunu savunur. Yazar, statü endişesinin nedenlerini tarihsel serüven içerisinde çeşitli örnekleriyle sevgisizlik, snopluk, beklenti, meritokrasi ve güven faktörleri bağlamında inceler. Ayrıca geçmiş dönem filozoflar, edebi, sanatsal, politik, dini ve bohem kişiliklerden ilham alarak bu endişeyi yenmeye yönelik çabaları, kapsamlı ve akıcı bir biçimde sunar.
Gender differences in entrepreneurial interest and practice among undergraduate students in Nigeria
Authors: Adelowo Caleb , Akinwale Yusuf
Published: June 2023

The economic turbulence in the last two decades and the Covid-19 pandemic have impaired several economies, heightened unemployment, and worsened job loss and socio-economic hardships. Promoting entrepreneurship inclusiveness has become a critical strategy to revamp the economy. Meanwhile, the global economy has been projected to grow faster with an increase in women entrepreneurs. However, there seems to be a gender gap and differential in start-ups, which draws down women’s inclusion in the business environment. This study examines the gender differential in entrepreneurial interest and practice among 12,485 university students in Nigeria. The results reveal that 88% of male and 84% of female students want to start their own businesses. Both males (66%) and females (65%) reported high entrepreneurial interest, with no statistically significant difference between both genders. The logistic regression analysis shows that entrepreneurship education, relational support, risk-taking, self-efficacy, university ecosystem, and attitudes toward behavior are the main drivers of entrepreneurial interest among male and female students. However, the university ecosystem is found to not significantly affect entrepreneurial interest among male students. Similarly, all factors except for the university ecosystem significantly influence entrepreneurial practice among male and female students. However, relational support is not statistically significant for female students. The study concludes with appropriate policy suggestions that could improve and sustain entrepreneurship interest and practice in both male and female students.
Design of Balanced Scorecard as a School’s Performance Measurement
Authors: Saksono Lily Ambarwati , Bernardus Denny
Published: June 2023

For schools as educational institutions, it is essential to identify their conditions and determine the right strategy for their sustainability. The research aimed to design the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) as a performance measurement tool at Sekolah XYZ. The research applied a qualitative method with Simple Research Design (SRD) as an analytical model. For data analysis, the research applied the stages of preparation in BSC. The primary data collection method was conducted through interviews with five key informants. The measurement indicators consisted of five indicators from a financial perspective (weight: 25%), three indicators from a customer perspective (weight: 25%), nine indicators from an internal business process perspective (weight: 30%), and five measurement indicators from the learning and growth perspective (weight: 20%). In addition, the BSC design was equipped with a validation system and an evaluation system to support the BSC implementation at Sekolah XYZ. The results show that based on the vision and mission of the organization, there are 12 objective strategies to be achieved, with 22 measurement indicators that are appropriately implemented at Sekolah XYZs. The BSC at Sekolah XYZ is necessary to be designed so its management can easily trace and find the causes of the school’s success or failure. The results of the BSC design at Sekolah XYZ can be used as recommendations for other schools that want to implement BSC, with adjustments according to the conditions of each school.
Quarter-life crisis: Personal growth initiative as a moderator of uncertainty intolerance in psychological distress
Authors: Balqis Audita Izza , Karmiyati Diah , Suryaningrum Cahyaning , Akhtar Hanif
Published: June 2023

Quarter-life crisis is a psychosocial crisis in which individuals are vulnerable to experiencing psychological distress. One contributor to such distress is uncertainty intolerance, while personal growth initiative is a factor that can reduce it. This study examines Personal Growth Initiative (PGI) in determining the effect of uncertainty intolerance on psychological distress in individuals experiencing a quarter-life crisis. A total of 309 participants were selected through a screening process using the Quarter-life Crisis Questionnaire. The participants completed the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale, General Health Questionnaire-12, and Personal Growth Initiative Scale. Moderation regression analysis was performed using the Hayes PROCESS Macro. The results indicate that personal growth initiative buffers the effect of uncertainty intolerance on psychological distress in individuals experiencing a quarter-life crisis (B = -0.193, p = .003, R2 = .117), but with differences shown based on age and gender categories. Based on the findings, it is necessary to build personal growth initiative skills, which will assist individuals in achieving and maximizing their potential and adapting well when faced with conditions of uncertainty.
Effects of caffeine intake and performance pressure on working memory
Authors: Lestari Laila Indra , Kusrohmaniah Sri
Published: June 2023

Performance pressure and caffeine consumption, a common combination in daily life, have both been shown to affect cognitive performance. However, previous research has not fully elucidated the extent to which the effects of caffeine and performance pressure impact cognitive function, especially working memory. This study aims to examine the possibility that caffeine can enhance working memory performance under pressure. A total of 61 participants aged 18 to 32 participated, divided into four groups. Experiment-based data collection was conducted with a single-blind design. Working memory was measured by Modular Arithmetic Tasks with the OpenSesame program. All participants were asked to perform arithmetic tasks and arousal levels were measured using the Galvanic Skin Response (GSR). The findings revealed no evidence of an interaction effect of caffeine intake and performance pressure on working memory (F= .632, p= .431,hp2= .012). Given the prevalence of caffeine intake prior to facing high-pressure situations, the consumption of a cup of coffee does not improve cognitive performance as many would expect. However, caffeine intake had a stabilizing effect on the skin conductance response values during performance under pressure. Clinical psychologists can use a daily dose of caffeine as an alternative intervention or preventative measure to help patients reduce performance pressure-related anxiety.
Improved community detection for WDN partitioning in the dual topology based on segments and valves
Authors: Creaco Enrico , Giudicianni Carlo , Mottahedin Amirabbas
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a formulation of modularity tailored to the dual water distribution network (WDN) topology based on segments and valves, to be conveniently adopted for the partitioning into district-metered areas (DMAs). Notably, it allows considering both properties to be made uniform across DMAs, such as water demand or total pipe length, and properties to be made uniform inside each DMA, such as nodal ground elevations or pipe age for the sake of pressure regulation or maintenance easiness, respectively. This paper also proposes a new algorithm for the identification of the optimal clustering of WDN segments into any desired number of DMAs. Taking as a starting point any WDN clustering solution, i.e., the solution obtained with Newman's fast algorithm for community detection, the novel algorithm operates by exploring changes in the community of belonging to segments lying in the boundary between adjacent communities, by applying an optimization inspired by the simulated annealing technique. The applications of the novel modularity formulation and optimization algorithm to two case studies yield well-performing clustering solutions in terms of engineering judgment criteria, such as the low number of inter-DMA boundary pipes, uniformity of DMAs and hydraulic performance.
Aplicação do sistema Betonbloc, como alternativa de contenção da erosão costeira no município de Ipojuca/PE
Authors: Amorim Emanoel Silva de , Sampaio Girlândia de Morais , Lafayette Kalinny Patrícia Vaz , Silva Simone Rosa da
Published: June 2023

O crescimento desordenado e sem planejamento de grandes centros urbanos tende a agravar o processo de erosão costeira, tornando-se um problema que vem impactando cerca de 40% da população mundial que vive em áreas litorâneas. O presente estudo teve como objetivo apresentar o sistema BetonBloc que consiste na construção de muros compostos por blocos de concreto sem a utilização de armaduras, como alternativa para contenção marítima localizado no município de Ipojuca -PE. O processo metodológico teve início através da análise das imagens de satélite, com objetivo de identificar as transformações urbanas ao longo dos anos na área de estudo. Em seguida, por meio de estudos de perfis praial, com medições antes do início e após finalização da obra, foi feita uma análise sobre a eficiência do sistema. Como resultados observou-se um acréscimo de 257% na área urbanizada e uma redução de 72% e 46% nas áreas de corpos hídricos e de vegetação natural, respectivamente. Em todas as medições realizadas, o perfil praial após a obra é mais alto do que o perfil antes da obra. Portanto, o sistema apresentou eficiência satisfatória, destacando-se como um procedimento de rápida execução, durável e sem necessitar de manutenção a curto prazo.
O crescimento desordenado e sem planejamento de grandes centros urbanos tende a agravar o processo de erosão costeira, tornando-se um problema que vem impactando cerca de 40% da população mundial que vive em áreas litorâneas. O presente estudo teve como objetivo apresentar o sistema BetonBloc que consiste na construção de muros compostos por blocos de concreto sem a utilização de armaduras, como alternativa para contenção marítima localizado no município de Ipojuca -PE. O processo metodológico teve início através da análise das imagens de satélite, com objetivo de identificar as transformações urbanas ao longo dos anos na área de estudo. Em seguida, por meio de estudos de perfis praial, com medições antes do início e após finalização da obra, foi feita uma análise sobre a eficiência do sistema. Como resultados observou-se um acréscimo de 257% na área urbanizada e uma redução de 72% e 46% nas áreas de corpos hídricos e de vegetação natural, respectivamente. Em todas as medições realizadas, o perfil praial após a obra é mais alto do que o perfil antes da obra. Portanto, o sistema apresentou eficiência satisfatória, destacando-se como um procedimento de rápida execução, durável e sem necessitar de manutenção a curto prazo.
Effect of total hardness of water on juvenile mullets (Mugil liza) raised in fresh water
Authors: Scheuer Fernanda , Souza Marisa Pereira de , Sterzelecki Fábio Carneiro , Cipriano Filipe dos Santos , Cerqueira Vinicius Ronzani , Martins Mauricio Laterça
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of three fresh-water samples with different hardness values (25, 250, and 750 mg L-1 CaCO3) and a control (sea water with salinity 15% and hardness 2500 ± 130.9 mg L-1 CaCO3) on Mugil liza (mullet) juveniles by conducting a long-term test (for 50 days). Zootechnical performance [weight gain (WG), feed conversion rate, specific growth rate, and survival (%)], stress indicator parameters (glucose), and physiological parameters in gill tissues were analyzed to determine the fresh-water hardness range that can allow the optimal survival, growth, and feed conversion for the species. Fish with a mean initial weight of 22 ± 2.84 g were maintained under constant conditions of temperature, pH, alkalinity, and ammonia concentration, and they were fed four times per day with a commercial diet. When evaluating zootechnical performance, only survival (%) was not significantly different among treatments. For the other variables—weight gain, feed conversion, and specific growth rate—the best results were found in the treatment with 15% salinity (control). Blood glucose levels in animals maintained at 15% salinity (control) were significantly lower than those observed in the other treatments. Histological analyses corroborated the zootechnical data, potentially indicating stress in fish maintained at very low and very high water hardness. In conclusion, for cultivating juvenile mullets in fresh water, the most suitable hardness value was 250 mg L-1 CaCO3, because the best final weight of fish was achieved in that condition.
Microbiological featuring of two neotropical fish species from the quilombola area of maranhão state, Brazil
Authors: Jesus Greiciene dos Santos de , Braga Joyce Caroline Campos Mendes , Vieira Vanielly Viana Rodrigues , Monteiro Vitórya Mendes da Silva , Bezerra Danilo Cutrim , Bezerra Nancyleni Pinto Chaves
Published: June 2023

The aim of study is to feature the microbiological quality of two neotropical fish species from the quilombola area of Maranhão State, Brazil. In order to do so, 21 samples of Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus and 21 samples of Cichlasoma bimaculatum were captured in flooded environment. Collected fish were euthanized in laboratory environment; muscle fragments were removed for microbiological analyses focused on enumerating molds and yeasts, viable strict and facultative mesophilic microorganisms and coagulase-positive staphylococci; on counting total and thermotolerant coliforms; and on investigating Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. Microbiological results were compared to the Brazilian legislation, which establishes the list of microbiological standards for food products. Among the assessed fish, 9.52% were classified as non-acceptable for human consumption, based on the Salmonella parameter. Enumerated coagulase-positive staphylococci ranged from < 10 to 3.9 x 104 CFU/g; 9.52% of assessed fish were classified as having intermediate standard for human consumption, whereas 4.76% were classified as non-acceptable for such a purpose. E. coli counting ranged from 3.6 to > 1,100MPN/g; 4.76% of assessed fish were classified as having intermediate standard for human consumption, whereas 4.76% were classified as non-acceptable for such a purpose. Total and thermotolerant coliforms’ counting and the enumeration of viable strict and facultative aerobic microorganisms, as well as of molds and yeasts, have evidenced high microbial population rates; this finding suggests poor hygienic conditions at capture site, contaminated raw material and risk of incidence of enteropathogens. This finding has evidenced imbalance in the investigated environment, as well as compromised aquatic biodiversity.
Perda de carga promovida por influxo radial em poços horizontais de produção de petróleo
Authors: Lopes de Souza Ribeiro Heitor , David Hunt Julian , Romero Oldrich Joel
Published: June 2023

Neste trabalho se investiga a interferência do influxo radial no perfil de pressão e na velocidade axial na linha de centro de poços horizontais de produção de petróleo, procurando o entendimento da dinâmica de acoplamento poço-reservatório na indústria petrolífera. O fluido é monofásico e incompressível, escoa em regime turbulento em uma tubulação horizontal com 3 m de comprimento e 10 cm de diâmetro. Fluido adentra radialmente através de diversos furos de diâmetro de 1 cm presentes na parede da tubulação. A modelagem numérica é realizada utilizando o software Ansys Fluent 15.0, com pós-processamento e coleta de dados através do CFD-Post. Os resultados mostram que, a presença do influxo radial resulta em um aumento no diferencial de pressão ao longo da tubulação, devido à restrição ao fluxo axial através do aparecimento de uma barreira hidrodinâmica promovida pelo influxo radial. Nota-se também que quanto maior a intensidade do fluxo radial, maior será o aumento da velocidade axial máxima de fluxo.
Principais métodos de tratamento da água produzida em unidades marítimas de produção de petróleo
Authors: Viana Junior Antonio Marcos , Altoé Leandra , Agostinho da Silva Baila Madeira Antunes Pedro , Martins Pereira Júnior Antonio Augusto
Published: June 2023

No processo de extração de óleo e gás, é gerado um subproduto denominado “água produzida”, que contém poluentes e precisa ser tratado antes de ser descartado no meio ambiente. O objetivo desse trabalho foi analisar os principais métodos de tratamento da água produzida em unidades marítimas de produção de petróleo. Esses tratamentos são divididos em primários, secundários e terciários. Entre os métodos primários, destacam-se: hidrociclone; separador API; e coagulação, floculação e sedimentação. Com relação aos métodos secundários, ressalta-se: flotação; e filtragem e adsorção. E quanto aos métodos terciários, enfatiza-se: processos de oxidação avançada; e membranas. Como o descarte no mar é a destinação mais comum da água produzida, é importante utilizar uma combinação adequada de tratamentos para mitigar os impactos ambientais dessa atividade.
Proposta de eficiência energética para a escola técnica SENAI de Ribas do Rio Pardo
Authors: Pangoni Fabricio , Riccio Barbosa Andrea Teresa
Published: June 2023

Este artigo faz a proposta de redução de consumo de energia e cálculo financeiro com a substituição dos condicionadores de ar para a escola técnica do SENAI em Ribas do Rio Pardo / MS. Para tal, foram feitos cálculos de consumo, análise de cálculo de refrigeração e de demanda. Para o cálculo financeiro,  utilizou-se a projeção de um ano para o consumo de energia para baixa tensão na tarifa convencional e, para a média tensão  na tarifa horária verde, conforme valores tarifários da concessionária de energia Energisa MS, a qual a instituição está conectada. Por fim, foi realizada a viabilidade econômica desse projeto, com os valores de Payback, Valor Presente Líquido (VPL) e Taxa interna de Retorno (TIR). Conclui-se que com a economia de energia elétrica calculada, esse projeto seria viável em um tempo menor do que 1 ano.
Viabilidade econômica de microgeradores eólicos para residências unifamiliares no estado do Piauí, Brasil
Authors: Teixeira de Albuquerque Ytallo Rafaell , Dos Santos Luan
Published: June 2023

Com a diversificação da matriz energética brasileira e com a crescente participação da energia eólica na geração de energia elétrica, o Brasil avança patamares mais elevados. Na competição acirrada, a crescente corrida por fontes renováveis, que provoca a diminuição na acentuada dependência por fontes fósseis e hidráulica, possibilitando, dessa forma, a geração de energia elétrica a partir de residências com baixo impacto ambiental. Neste intuito este trabalho teve por objetivo apresentar uma análise de viabilidade econômica em relação a instalação de um sistema de microgeração de energia elétrica derivada do potencial eólico que teve como área proposta para estudo a localidade do estado do Piauí, Brasil, por ser caracterizada como uma região com ventos constantes e de boa qualidade. Por meio de um levantamento bibliográfico sobre a geração eólica e ferramentas de engenharia econômica, foi feita a análise do impacto econômico e do tempo de retorno do investimento, bem como o custo-benefício de uma instalação eólica na região estudada. Desse modo, o modelo de sistema de microgeração eólica aplicado foi do tipo interligado, tendo-se como inviável economicamente a aplicação do modelo para a área proposta.
Estudo bibliométrico sobre as variáveis energia solar, economia, Brasil
Authors: Ítalo Freire Anderson , Fontgalland Isabel
Published: June 2023

Este estudo bibliométrico traça e apura a condição das publicações relacionadas à Energia Solar, Economia e Brasil como termos conjuntos em uma mesma publicação, variando do ano de 2010 até o ano de 2020, considerando a aparição do termo em tópicos, títulos ou resumos, identificando a quantidade dessas publicações, seus respectivos autores, além documentos mais citados e as palavras-chave mais empregadas em artigos científicos. Os estudos bibliométricos são ferramentas que auxiliam sobremaneira a análise sobre a produção científica em determinada área, e não é diferente nos temas relacionados à economia e ao setor elétrico, setor este que tem apresentado crescimento nos últimos anos aqui no Brasil e no mundo. Tendo esse aspecto como base de justificativa e observando que esse crescimento tende a fomentar publicações dentro da área em análise, este artigo está seccionado em 4 partes, sendo a primeira e a segunda relativas à parte introdutória e a  metodologia utilizada na investigação, e as duas últimas partes relacionadas ao que essencialmente fora analisado dentro do escopo do trabalho e a conclusão sobre como essas publicações se destacam no meio acadêmico e como a produção na área pode ser melhorada tendo por base essa investigação.
Avaliação da contaminação microbiana da água de equipos odontológicos – estudo piloto
Authors: Caroline Barros Oliveira  , Ana Cristina Vasconcelos Fialho
Published: June 2023

O controle de infecção é de extrema importância em procedimentos rotineiros na prática odontológica. Com a pandemia do vírus SARS-CoV-2, que é transmitido principalmente por gotículas respiratórias, o controle da qualidade microbiológica da água utilizada em equipos odontológicos necessita de mais atenção, visto que o consultório odontológico se mostra como um ambiente propício à infecção cruzada entre equipe odontológica e pacientes. Protocolos de controle de infecção são necessários. Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade microbiológica da água utilizada nos equipos odontológicos das clínicas de uma universidade pública, a fim de estabelecer protocolos a serem inseridos nas normas diárias de biossegurança. Material e métodos: Foi realizada a contagem de bactérias heterotróficas em 30 amostras de água coletadas em 10 equipos odontológicos (reservatório de água, seringa tríplice e terminal da caneta de alta rotação). A amostra com nível mais elevado de contaminação foi analisada quanto à presença de bactérias aeróbias totais. Resultados: Do total, apenas duas amostras estavam conforme o padrão de potabilidade, entretanto apresentaram elevada contaminação por fungos. Todos os equipos mostraram nível de contaminação acima do parâmetro estabelecido pela legislação brasileira a (<500 UFC/ml) em pelo menos um dos pontos de coleta. Bactérias aeróbias totais não foram detectadas. Conclusão: A água utilizada nos procedimentos não está de acordo com os parâmetros recomendados. Isso indica a necessidade de instauração de um protocolo de tratamento da água utilizada nos equipos odontológicos. Um protocolo está sendo proposto neste trabalho.
Posicionamento, curvatura radicular e proximidade com o canal mandibular de terceiros molares inferiores
Authors: Ana Karoline Vieira Melo  , Gustavo Gomes Agripino  , Sergio Henrique Gonçalves de Carvalho  , Karoline Gomes da Silva  , Lucas Emmanuell de Morais Neves  , Felipe Ricardo Cisneiros Brito
Published: June 2023

Determinar a frequência e variabilidade de terceiros molares inferiores inclusos, levando em consideração características como posição, curvatura radicular e relação com o canal mandibular, por meio de análise de radiografias panorâmicas, baseando-se no modelo de interpretação radiográfica proposto por Whaites [21], com ênfase em características epidemiológicas. Material e métodos: Trata-se de um estudo documental, estatístico-descritivo, retrospectivo, do tipo transversal, com método de abordagem quantitativo e dados secundários obtidos por meio de análise de radiografias panorâmicas de pacientes atendidos na clínica de diagnóstico por imagem da Universidade Estadual da Paraíba (UEPB). A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada com o auxílio da estatística descritiva e analítica, utilizando o programa Statistical Program Software (SPSS®) 22.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, USA). A análise univariada foi executada com o objetivo de avaliar as características gerais da amostra e traçar o perfil demográfico das condições epidemiológicas. Resultados: A amostra total contou com 236 radiografias panorâmicas, por meio das quais se observou uma predominância do sexo feminino (60,2%), com faixa etária entre 21 e 30 anos (58,1%). Os terceiros molares inferiores esquerdos se apresentaram com maior frequência (90,7%). A angulação vertical foi a mais prevalente nos terceiros molares inferiores esquerdos (44,9%), enquanto para os terceiros molares inferiores direitos a angulação mesioangulada revelou-se predominante (44,1%). Quanto às curvaturas das raízes, notou-se maior frequência da condição favorável para ambos os terceiros molares, direitos (80,7%) e esquerdos (81,3%). Considerando a relação das raízes com o canal mandibular, tanto os terceiros molares inferiores direitos quanto os inferiores esquerdos apresentaram-se maioritariamente em um relacionamento normal, representado por 59,9% e 59,8%, seguido de A, numa frequência de 31,2% e 30,8%, respectivamente. Conclusão: O perfil epidemiológico da amostra caracterizou-se por mulheres, com faixa etária entre 21 e 30 anos. Os terceiros molares inferiores esquerdos apareceram com mais frequência. A angulação vertical foi a mais frequente, seguida da mesioangulada. A morfologia radicular favorável apresentou acentuada prevalência, e o relacionamento mandibular normal demonstrou-se predominante. Dessa maneira, entende-se que a pesquisa contribuiu para o estabelecimento da prevalência dos terceiros molares inferiores inclusos, servindo como base para o estabelecimento de um plano de tratamento adequado e individualizado.
Mass Spectrometry-based Detection of Mycotoxins in Imported Meat
and their Perspective Role on Myocardial Apoptosis
Authors: Ansari Maged Al , Al Abbasi Fahad A. , Hosawi Salman , Baig Mirza Rafi , Alhayyani Sultan , Kumar Vikas , Asar Turky Omar , Anwar Firoz
Published: June 2023

Background:

Fungal mycotoxins are the secondary metabolities and are harmful to
plants, animals, and humans. Common aflatoxins are present and isolated from feeds and food comprises
aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2. Public health threats or risk of foodborne disease posed by
mycotoxins, especially the export or import of such meat products are of primary concern. This
study aims to determine the concentration of the level of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2 M1, and M2 respectively
in imported burger meat.

Methods:

The present work is designed to select and collect the various samples of meat products
from different sources and subjected to mycotoxin analysis by LCMS/MS. Random selection was
made on sites of burger meat was found to be on sale.

Results:

Simultaneous presence of several mycotoxins in the same sample of imported meat under
the set conditions of LCMS/MS detected 26% (18 samples) was positive for various mycotoxins.
The most frequent mycotoxins proportion in the analyzed samples was aflatoxin B1 (50%) followed
by aflatoxin G1 (44%), aflatoxin G2 (38.8%), aflatoxin B2 (33%) respectively which were
least among all with 16.66 and 11.11%.

Discussion:

A positive correlation is deduced between CVD and mycotoxin present in burger
meat. Isolated mycotoxins initiate death receptor-mediated apoptosis, death receptor-mediated necrosis,
mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, mitochondrial-mediated necrosis, and immunogenic cell
deaths through various pathways that can damage the cardiac tissues.

Conclusion:

The presence of these toxins in such samples is just the tip of the iceberg. Further investigation
is necessary for complete clarifications of toxins on human health especially on CVD
and other related metabolic complications.
Analyzing the Challenges, Consequences, and Possible Treatments for Polycystic
Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Zaib Sumera , Rana Nehal , Khan Imtiaz , Waris Aqsa , Ahmad Usama
Published: June 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly widespread disorder caused by a disturbed
endocrine system. The Rotterdam criteria have classified 4 phenotypes of PCOS. This syndrome has
multifactorial pathophysiology triggered by a disturbed neuroendocrine system, which further produces
abnormal levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, androgen, estrogen, and progesterone,
leading towards the risk of metabolic and reproductive diseases. PCOS is associated with
an increased risk of developing health problems like hyperinsulinemia, diabetes mellitus, hypertension,
cardiovascular disorders, dyslipidaemia, endometrial hyperplasia, anxiety and depression. These
days, PCOS has become a scientific issue due to complex aetiology with multi- complex physiology.
Due to the unavailability of specific medicines, there is no cure for PCOS; however, certain symptoms
could be treated. The scientific community is actively looking for various treatment options too. In
this context, the current review summarizes the challenges, consequences and various treatment options
for PCOS. Various literature reports provide evidence that PCOS can be identified in early infancy,
adolescents and women at the menopausal stage. Most commonly, PCOS is caused by multifactorial
agents, including genetics and negative lifestyle. Metabolic consequences from obesity, insulin
resistance, and vascular disorder have increased the rate of PCOS. This study also highlights psychological
morbidity in PCOS women that have an adverse effect on health-related quality of life
(HRQoL). PCOS symptoms can be treated using different strategies, including oral contraceptive
drugs, surgical treatment (laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD), assisted reproductive techniques
(ART), and Chinese acupuncture treatment.
Probiotics and their Beneficial Health Effects
Authors: Zaib Sumera , Hayat Aqsa , Khan Imtiaz
Published: June 2023

Probiotics are living microorganisms that are present in cultured milk and fermented food.
Fermented foods are a rich source for the isolation of probiotics. They are known as good bacteria.
They have various beneficial effects on human health including antihypertensive effects, antihypercholesterolemic
effects, prevention of bowel disease, and improving the immune system. Microorganisms
including bacteria, yeast, and mold are used as probiotics but the major microorganisms
that are used as probiotics are bacteria from the genus Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Streptococcus, and
Bifidobacterium. Probiotics are beneficial in the prevention of harmful effects. Recently, the use of
probiotics for the treatment of various oral and skin diseases has also gained significant attention.
Clinical studies indicate that the usage of probiotics can alter gut microbiota composition and provoke
immune modulation in a host. Due to their various health benefits, probiotics are attaining more interest
as a substitute for antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs leading to the growth of the probiotic
market.
The Causal Effects of Cholelithiasis on Acute Pancreatitis and Pancreatic
Cancer: A Large Sample Size Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Rao Moshi , Ai Xiaoshun , Huang Zijian
Published: June 2023

Background:

The aim of two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) with a large
sample size was to explore the causal cholelithiasis impact on acute pancreatitis and pancreatic
cancer.

Methods:

We performed the two-sample MR analysis with two models. Publicly available summary-
level information for cholelithiasis was acquired from the Genome-Wide Summary Association
Studies (GWAS) of FinnGen Biobank. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was the
main method to obtain the MR estimates. Other methods were also used as supplementary methods,
including MR-Egger, maximum likelihood, MR-Robust Adjusted Profile Score (MR-RAPS),
weighted median, penalised weighted median method, and Mendelian randomization pleiotropy
residual sum and outlier (MR-PRESSO) method.

Results:

After the selection of genetic instrumental variables (IVs), 11 single nucleotide polymorphisms
(SNPs) (Model 1) and 22 SNPs (Model 2) were used to explore the effect of cholelithiasis
on acute pancreatitis, and 10 SNPs (Model 1) and 24 SNPs (Model 2) on pancreatic cancer. The
findings obtained by the fixed-effect IVW method with both Model 1 and Model 2 showed that
genetically predicted cholelithiasis was significantly related to the elevated acute pancreatitis risk
(Model 1: OR: 1.001, 95% CI: 1.000-1.002, p <0.001; Model 2: OR: 1.001, 95% CI: 1.000-1.002,
p <0.001). Moreover, cholelithiasis would also raise the pancreatic cancer risk (Model 1: OR:
1.676, 95% CI: 1.228-2.288, p = 0.001; Model 2: OR: 1.432, 95% CI: 1.116-1.839, p = 0.005).

Conclusion:

Genetically predicted cholelithiasis was significantly related to the elevated risk of
acute pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. More attention should be paid to patients with cholelithiasis
for the primary prevention of pancreatic-related diseases.
Ageing Characteristics of Stir Cast AZ 61 Alloy with Minor Additions
Authors: Tiwari Amit , Kumar Neeraj , Banerjee M.K.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Knowing that magnesium (Mg) alloys and its composites bear the potential
of being used simultaneously for light structural as well as biomedical applications, it
appears prudent to look for developing a novel Mg alloy; the concurrent demand is to monitor
recent trend in development of functional Mg-alloy and its composite materials through extensive
patent search. Review of recent patents in the related field makes it relevant to investigate
this aspect.

Objective:

The authors aim to study the evolution of structure and properties in stir cast of AZ-
61 alloy with minor additions of scandium, calcium and manganese. This paper reports the results
of this investigation.

Methods:

The castings are prepared by stirring the molten alloy at 600 rpm for 10 minutes, followed
by pouring into a preheated metal mould. The solidified alloys are homogenized at
550°C for 12 hours. The homogenized alloys are then subjected to solutionising treatment at
500°C for 5 hours; subsequently, the alloys are quenched in iced water. The quenched alloys are
subjected to ageing treatment at different temperatures between 100°C to 400°C at an interval of
100°C. Similar experiments are conducted with its statically cast counterparts. The structure and
properties of all the samples have been characterized by optical and scanning electron microscopy,
and XRD analysis; DSC heating run is conducted to study the kinetics of phase transformation.
Mechanical behaviour of castings is studied with the aid of tensile testing and fractography.
Moreover, tribological behaviour of alloys is assessed by wear testing with the help of
pin on disc method.

Results:

The results show that the stir cast alloy produces a homogeneous structure with significant
improvement in properties. The precipitates of Mg17Al12, Al Mn, Mg Zn2, Al2 Ca and Mg2
Ca are formed due to the ageing of both stir cast and statically cast alloy. It is found that the diffusion
of Al in magnesium controls the precipitation process. The tribological properties are
found to be satisfactory for the stir cast alloy.

Conclusion:

The modified AZ61 alloy with minor additives, achieves excellent structural homogeneity
and mechanical properties after stir casting followed by quench ageing.
Heart Failure and Depression: A Revisited Review
Authors: Almaghraby Abdallah , Leelaviwat Natnicha , Dosouky Ehab Ismael , Elsayed Mohamed , Ahmed Shadi , Abdelnabi Mahmoud
Published: June 2023

In this revisited review, the authors aimed to discuss the general prevalence and burden
of depression in patients diagnosed with heart failure. The postulated mechanisms of depression
in patients with heart failure, the diagnostic approaches, methods as well as treatment
options were all discussed. The safety of depression medications in heart failure patients was
also discussed. Through the review of the updated literature and current guidelines, the authors
concluded that a team approach is the best way to manage those types of patients.
Understanding the Consumption of Antimicrobial Resistance–Related Content on Social Media: Twitter Analysis
Authors: Kim Hyunuk , Proctor Chris R , Walker Dylan , McCarthy Ronan R
Published: June 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing concerns in our society. Today, social media can function as an important channel to disseminate information about AMR. The way in which this information is engaged with depends on a number of factors, including the target audience and the content of the social media post.

Objective

The aim of this study is to better understand how AMR-related content is consumed on the social media platform Twitter and to understand some of the drivers of engagement. This is essential to designing effective public health strategies, raising awareness about antimicrobial stewardship, and enabling academics to effectively promote their research on social media.

Methods

We took advantage of unrestricted access to the metrics associated with the Twitter bot @AntibioticResis, which has over 13,900 followers. This bot posts the latest AMR research in the format of a title and a URL link to the PubMed page for an article. The tweets do not contain other attributes such as author, affiliation, or journal. Therefore, engagement with the tweets is only affected by the words used in the titles. Using negative binomial regression models, we measured the impact of pathogen names in paper titles, academic attention inferred from publication counts, and general attention estimated from Twitter on URL clicks to AMR research papers.

Results

Followers of @AntibioticResis consisted primarily of health care professionals and academic researchers whose interests comprised mainly AMR, infectious diseases, microbiology, and public health. Three World Health Organization (WHO) critical priority pathogens—Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacteriaceae—were positively associated with URL clicks. Papers with shorter titles tended to have more engagements. We also described some key linguistic characteristics that should be considered when a researcher is trying to maximize engagement with their publication.

Conclusions

Our finding suggests that specific pathogens gain more attention on Twitter than others and that the levels of attention do not necessarily correspond to their status on the WHO priority pathogen list. This suggests that more targeted public health strategies may be needed to raise awareness about AMR among specific pathogens. Analysis of follower data suggests that in the busy schedules of health care professionals, social media offers a fast and accessible gateway to staying abreast of the latest developments in this field.
Designing a Collaborative Patient-Centered Digital Health Platform for Pediatric Diabetes Care in British Columbia: Formative Needs Assessment by Caregivers of Children and Youths Living With Type 1 Diabetes and Health Care Providers
Authors: Abdulhussein Fatema S , Pinkney Susan , Görges Matthias , van Rooij Tibor , Amed Shazhan
Published: June 2023

Background

Digital health apps are becoming increasingly available for people living with diabetes, yet data silos continue to exist. This requires health care providers (HCPs) and patients to use multiple digital platforms to access health data.

Objective

In this study, we gathered the perspectives of caregivers of children and youths living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and pediatric diabetes HCPs in the user-centered design of TrustSphere, a secure, single-point-of-access, integrative digital health platform.

Methods

We distributed web-based surveys to caregivers of children and youths living with T1D and pediatric diabetes HCPs in British Columbia, Canada. Surveys were designed using ordinal scales and had free-text questions. Survey items assessed key challenges, perceptions about digital trust and security, and potential desirable features for a digital diabetes platform.

Results

Similar challenges were identified between caregivers of children and youths living with T1D (n=99) and HCPs (n=49), including access to mental health support, integration of diabetes technology and device data, and the ability to collaborate on care plans with their diabetes team. Caregivers and HCPs identified potential features that directly addressed their challenges, such as more accessible diabetes data and diabetes care plans. Caregivers had more trust in sharing their child’s data digitally than HCPs. Most caregivers and HCPs stated that an integrative platform for T1D would support collaborative patient care.

Conclusions

Caregiver and HCP perspectives gathered in this study will inform the early prototype of an integrative digital health platform. This prototype will be presented and iterated upon through a series of usability testing sessions with caregivers and HCPs to ensure the platform meets end users’ needs.