bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Repurposing the Public BraTS Dataset for Postoperative Brain Tumour Treatment Response Monitoring
Authors: Sørensen Peter Jagd , Ladefoged Claes Nøhr , Larsen Vibeke Andrée , Andersen Flemming Littrup , Nielsen Michael Bachmann , Poulsen Hans Skovgaard , Carlsen Jonathan Frederik , Hansen Adam Espe
Published: September 2024

The Brain Tumor Segmentation (BraTS) Challenge has been a main driver of the development of deep learning (DL) algorithms and provides by far the largest publicly available expert-annotated brain tumour dataset but contains solely preoperative examinations. The aim of our study was to facilitate the use of the BraTS dataset for training DL brain tumour segmentation algorithms for a postoperative setting. To this end, we introduced an automatic conversion of the three-label BraTS annotation protocol to a two-label annotation protocol suitable for postoperative brain tumour segmentation. To assess the viability of the label conversion, we trained a DL algorithm using both the three-label and the two-label annotation protocols. We assessed the models pre- and postoperatively and compared the performance with a state-of-the-art DL method. The DL algorithm trained using the BraTS three-label annotation misclassified parts of 10 out of 41 fluid-filled resection cavities in 72 postoperative glioblastoma MRIs, whereas the two-label model showed no such inaccuracies. The tumour segmentation performance of the two-label model both pre- and postoperatively was comparable to that of a state-of-the-art algorithm for tumour volumes larger than 1 cm3. Our study enables using the BraTS dataset as a basis for the training of DL algorithms for postoperative tumour segmentation.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Biomarkers of Muscle
Authors: Sinha Usha , Sinha Shantanu
Published: September 2024

This review is focused on the current status of quantitative MRI (qMRI) of skeletal muscle. The first section covers the techniques of qMRI in muscle with the focus on each quantitative parameter, the corresponding imaging sequence, discussion of the relation of the measured parameter to underlying physiology/pathophysiology, the image processing and analysis approaches, and studies on normal subjects. We cover the more established parametric mapping from T1-weighted imaging for morphometrics including image segmentation, proton density fat fraction, T2 mapping, and diffusion tensor imaging to emerging qMRI features such as magnetization transfer including ultralow TE imaging for macromolecular fraction, and strain mapping. The second section is a summary of current clinical applications of qMRI of muscle; the intent is to demonstrate the utility of qMRI in different disease states of the muscle rather than a complete comprehensive survey.
A Scoping Review of Machine-Learning Derived Radiomic Analysis of CT and PET Imaging to Investigate Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Badesha Arshpreet Singh , Frood Russell , Bailey Marc A. , Coughlin Patrick M. , Scarsbrook Andrew F.
Published: September 2024

Background: Cardiovascular disease affects the carotid arteries, coronary arteries, aorta and the peripheral arteries. Radiomics involves the extraction of quantitative data from imaging features that are imperceptible to the eye. Radiomics analysis in cardiovascular disease has largely focused on CT and MRI modalities. This scoping review aims to summarise the existing literature on radiomic analysis techniques in cardiovascular disease. Methods: MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for eligible studies evaluating radiomic techniques in living human subjects derived from CT, MRI or PET imaging investigating atherosclerotic disease. Data on study population, imaging characteristics and radiomics methodology were extracted. Results: Twenty-nine studies consisting of 5753 patients (3752 males) were identified, and 78.7% of patients were from coronary artery studies. Twenty-seven studies employed CT imaging (19 CT carotid angiography and 6 CT coronary angiography (CTCA)), and two studies studied PET/CT. Manual segmentation was most frequently undertaken. Processing techniques included voxel discretisation, voxel resampling and filtration. Various shape, first-order, second-order and higher-order radiomic features were extracted. Logistic regression was most commonly used for machine learning. Conclusion: Most published evidence was feasibility/proof of concept work. There was significant heterogeneity in image acquisition, segmentation techniques, processing and analysis between studies. There is a need for the implementation of standardised imaging acquisition protocols, adherence to published reporting guidelines and economic evaluation.
Exploring the Key Attributes Influencing University Students’ Domestic Accommodation Choice: A RIDIT Analysis
Authors: Li Chin-Pei , Ho Chaang-Iuan , Huang Shu-Han
Published: September 2024

This study aims to provide an understanding of the preferences of student tourists regarding service attributes related to domestic accommodation. To clarify how lodging firms formulate policies for the student travel market, a “Relative to an Identified Distribution” (RIDIT) analysis in which responses are treated as ordinal data instead of equally spaced data is performed to examine the Likert-scale data obtained from 296 university students in Taiwan. In our RIDIT analytical results, respondents’ preferences are sorted in descending importance. Of the examined attributes, “Cleanliness of rooms” is the attribute most prioritized by the students, followed by “Located in a safe neighborhood/feeling safe in the room” and “Close to scenic area for meeting the trip requirement”. The attribute least prioritized by the students is “Interaction with other guests”. This analysis provides conclusions that differ from those obtained through commonly used techniques including the arithmetic average and exploratory factor analysis. The preference rankings indicate that managers should focus on the most prioritized service attributes and implement the necessary measures to enhance their service quality and maximize customer satisfaction.
Combined Studies Approach to Rule Out Cosmological Models Which Are Based on Nonlinear Electrodynamics
Authors: García-Salcedo Ricardo , Gómez-Vargas Isidro , González Tame , Martinez-Badenes Vicent , Quiros Israel
Published: September 2024

We apply a combined study in order to investigate the dynamics of cosmological models incorporating nonlinear electrodynamics (NLED). The study is based on the simultaneous investigation of such fundamental aspects as stability and causality, complemented with a dynamical systems investigation of the involved models, as well as Bayesian inference for parameter estimation. We explore two specific NLED models: the power-law and the rational Lagrangian. We present the theoretical framework of NLED coupled with general relativity, followed by an analysis of the stability and causality of the various NLED Lagrangians. We then perform a detailed dynamical analysis to identify the ranges where these models are stable and causal. Our results show that the power-law Lagrangian model transitions through various cosmological phases, evolving from a Maxwell radiation-dominated state to a matter-dominated state. For the rational Lagrangian model, including the Maxwell term, stable and causal behavior is observed within specific parameter ranges, with critical points indicating the evolutionary pathways of the universe. To validate our theoretical findings, we perform Bayesian parameter estimation using a comprehensive set of observational data, including cosmic chronometers, baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) measurements, and supernovae type Ia (SNeIa). The estimated parameters for both models align with the expected values for the current universe, particularly the matter density Ωm and the Hubble parameter h. However, the parameters of the models are not tightly constrained within the prior ranges. Our combined studies approach rules out the mentioned models as an appropriate description of the cosmos. Our results highlight the need for further refinement and exploration of NLED-based cosmological models to fully integrate them into the standard cosmological framework.
Lysosome-Associated Membrane Protein Targeting Strategy Improved Immunogenicity of Glycoprotein-Based DNA Vaccine for Marburg Virus
Authors: Zhang Xiyang , Sun Yubo , Zhang Junqi , Wei Hengzheng , Wang Jing , Hu Chenchen , Liu Yang , Cai Sirui , Yuan Qinghong , Wang Yueyue , Sun Yuanjie , Yang Shuya , Jiang Dongbo , Yang Kun
Published: September 2024

Marburg hemorrhagic fever (MHF) is a fatal infectious disease caused by Marburg virus (MARV) infection, and MARV has been identified as a priority pathogen for vaccine development by the WHO. The glycoprotein (GP) of MARV mediates viral adhesion and invasion of host cells and therefore can be used as an effective target for vaccine development. Moreover, DNA vaccines have unique advantages, such as simple construction processes, low production costs, and few adverse reactions, but their immunogenicity may decrease due to the poor absorption rate of plasmids. Lysosome-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) can direct antigens to lysosomes and endosomes and has great potential for improving the immunogenicity of nucleic acid vaccines. Therefore, we constructed a DNA vaccine based on a codon-optimized MARV GP (ID MF939097.1) fused with LAMP1 and explored the effect of a LAMP targeting strategy on improving the immunogenicity of the MARV DNA vaccine. ELISA, ELISpot, and flow cytometry revealed that the introduction of LAMP1 into the MARV DNA candidate vaccine improved the humoral and cellular immune response, enhanced the secretion of cytokines, and established long-term immune protection. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the LAMP targeting strategy significantly enriched antigen processing and presentation-related pathways, especially the MHC class II-related pathway, in the candidate vaccine. Our study broadens the strategic vision for enhanced DNA vaccine design and provides a promising candidate vaccine for MHF prevention.
Youth, Transferability, and Sport-Based Interventions: Reopening and Rethinking the Debate on the “What” and the “How”
Authors: Morgan Haydn
Published: September 2024

Sport and physical activity is often utilized as a tool for engagement within interventions designed to support wider social and personal change for marginalized young people. The implicit discourse that underpins such interventions is the assumed transference of skills, qualities, and attributes acquired and developed through sport to broader societal contexts. However, there is a scarcity of studies that have critically examined this relationship. By way of correction, the purpose of this article is to examine the concept of transferability and explore how sport-based interventions might enable marginalized young people to thrive in other life domains. More precisely, the article calls for a rethink on what skills, attributes, and qualities might need to be transferred from sport-based interventions, while also outlining suggestions for how transfer might be facilitated. As a context for this discussion, the article draws upon empirical insights derived from a study of a youth-focused, golf-based intervention delivered in the south–west of England. Specifically, the article examines how providing opportunities for its youth participants to accumulate various forms of capital (rather than specific skills or qualifications) supported transfer, in combination with a pedagogical approach that resonated with notions of critical pedagogy.
Action on elevated natriuretic peptide in primary care: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Vermeer Cornelia JC , Hollander Monika , Stolk Anne JM , Groenewegen Amy , Geersing Geert-Jan , Rutten Frans H , Hart Huberta E
Published: September 2024

Background

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are released by increased ventricular wall stress, most often caused by heart failure (HF). NP level measurement helps select patients clinically suspected of HF who need echocardiography. Yet, the diagnostic actions following NP testing in daily primary care are poorly studied.

Aim

To assess the diagnostic actions taken by GPs in patients with an elevated NP level.

Design & setting

Retrospective observational study in general practices in The Netherlands.

Method

In patients with an elevated NP level between July 2017 and July 2022, diagnostic actions were collected during 3 months following NP testing. We compared patients with an elevated NP level referred for echocardiography with those not referred by univariable analyses.

Results

Among 902 patients, 394 (43.7%) had an elevated NP level. Median age was 75.0 (interquartile range [IQR] 18.0) years; 68.8% were female. In total, 166 (42.1%) were referred for echocardiography and 114 (28.9%) underwent additional electrocardiogram (ECG) recording. In total,n= 30/166 (18.1%) referred patients were labelled HF by the cardiologist within 3 months after NP testing compared withn= 29/228 (12.7%) not referred. Referred patients were compared with those not referred and they were found to be younger (69.7 versus 74.1 years,P<0.001), were less often known to cardiologists (45.8% versus 62.3%,P= 0.002), and they had lower marginally elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels (35–50 pg/ml) (19.3% versus 36.6%,P<0.001).

Conclusion

Three out of five patients with an elevated NP level are not referred for echocardiography by GPs. Barriers to refer patients were older age, a marginally elevated BNP value, and already being under supervision of a cardiologist.
PENGARUH METODE PEMBELAJARAN DARING TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR MAHASISWA PADA MATA KULIAH AL-QUR’AN TAJWID DI FAKULTAS AGAMA ISLAM UNIVERSITAS ISLAM AS-SYAFI’IYAH
Authors: Uyuni Badrah
Published: September 2024

Abstract (In Bahasa): Pandemi Covid 19 yang telah melanda hampir seluruh dunia bahkan Indonesia dan memaksa kegiatan disektor Pendidikan harus melaksanakan pembelajaran secara daring tidak terkecuali di tingkat Universitas, mahasiswa dan dosen yang selama ini melaksanakan pembelajaran secara tata muka akhir nya beralih pada pembelajaran secara daring. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana metode pembelajaran daring dan apakah memiliki pengaruh pada hasil belajar mahasiswa Fakultas Agama Islam pada mata kuliah Al-Qur’an Tajwid di Universitas Islam As-Syafi’iyah. Adapun pendekatan yang penulis gunakan yaitu pendekatan kuantitatif menggunakan desain komparatif. Sampel penelitian adalah mahasiswa regular Fakultas Agama Islam angkatan tahun ajaran 2021 meliputi kelas KPI,PAI, dan PBS berjumlah 107 mahasiswa. Teknik analisis data menggunakan uji presesntase untuk mengetahui bagimana metode pembelajaran daring dan apakah memiliki pengaruh pada hasil belajar mahasiswa. Berdasarkan hasil analisa data yang diperoleh menghasilkan bahwa pelaksanaan metode pembelajaran daring  yang menggunakan berbagai media aplikasi daring dapat memudahkan mahasiswa dalam melaksanakan pembelajaran karena medianya beragam sehingga mahasiswa dapat mengakses dan mengulang kembali pembelajarn kapanpun dibutuhkan, sehingga memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap hasil belajar dengan perolehan mahasiswa yang mendapat nilai “A” sebanyak 81 dengan presentase 75.7%, nilai “B” 25 mahasiswa dengan presentase 23.3%, dan yang mendapat nilai “C” dan “D” 0 mahasiswa, sedangkan yang mendapat nilai “E” sebanyak 1 orang dengan presentase 0.93%. Hal ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa metode pembelajaran daring memiliki pengaruh yang “Tinggi” terhadap hasil belajar mahasiswa berdasarkan table hasil presentase.
Staff Competencies for Digital Transformation: Results of Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Gobniece Zanda , Titko Jelena
Published: September 2024

The impact of digital transformation on the future of the working environment is one of the hot topics on the agenda both at the micro- (business) and macro- (national economy) levels. Digitalization and automatization of business processes are treated by many employees as a potential threat to their jobs. The digital skills gap is one of the main barriers to the successful implementation of digital strategies in many companies. Thus, the upskilling of the staff is one of the urgent needs and, simultaneously, issues (due to the staff resistance) in the path towards successful digital transformation. The
goal of the article is to gain a deeper understanding of the intensity and scope of research in the field of personnel training in the context of digital transformation on a global and Latvian scale. The article provides the results of the bibliometric analysis, based on 2109 papers published in 2000-2023 in the sources indexed by SCOPUS. Visualization was made by the application of VOSviewer tools. The analysis yielded five clusters that combine 177 terms – namely, “Digital transformation and technologies”, “Human resources and innovation”, “Education and learning”, “Higher education and the Pandemic”, and “Information technologies and competencies”. Besides, the authors analysed the content of 41 defended doctoral dissertations by Ph.D. students of Latvian Universities in 2012-2023. As a result of the examination, it became evident that the practical solutions put forth are largely disconnected from the focus of this research. This, in turn, indicates the need for an in-depth investigation of the above-mentioned concepts, namely - productivity, motivation, and mitigating resistance in the context of business digital transformation.
Abordagens para mitigar a resistência antimicrobiana em contextos hospitalares
Authors: Cavalini Maria Clara Andrade , Mendanha Isadora Gundim Ávila Duarte Amazonas do Brasil , Cunha Renata dos Santos , Carvalho Letícia Moraes Ribeiro de , Gomes Maria Fernanda Hagemann , Pinto Murilo Gonzalez de Souza , Tomé Leonardo , Arias Ana Luiza de Souza Martins , Emigliozzi Marina Zorzi , Delatore João Matheus , Garcia Filipe Jabur Lot , Delatore Camilla Spindola , Lopes Júnior Luiz Antônio Nunes , Peixoto Ariadne Marcante
Published: September 2024

A resistência antimicrobiana é uma ameaça global crescente, especialmente nos ambientes hospitalares devido ao uso intensivo de antimicrobianos. Esta revisão integrativa examina estratégias fundamentais para combater esse problema. O controle de infecções, como higiene rigorosa das mãos e isolamento eficaz de pacientes infectados, reduz significativamente a disseminação de microrganismos resistentes. Programas de stewardship antimicrobiano monitoram e orientam o uso racional de antimicrobianos, reduzindo seu uso desnecessário e inapropriado. No Brasil, esses programas têm sido bem-sucedidos em diminuir o uso de antimicrobianos de amplo espectro sem comprometer os resultados clínicos. A vigilância epidemiológica contínua é crucial para detectar precocemente padrões emergentes de resistência e responder rapidamente a surtos de infecções resistentes. A educação contínua dos profissionais de saúde sobre práticas de controle de infecção e uso racional de antimicrobianos promove uma cultura de segurança do paciente e melhora a adesão às diretrizes. Esta revisão enfatiza a importância de uma abordagem integrada entre profissionais de saúde, líderes institucionais e autoridades de saúde pública para enfrentar o desafio da resistência antimicrobiana em ambientes hospitalares. A implementação eficaz dessas estratégias é crucial para preservar a eficácia dos antimicrobianos e garantir a segurança dos pacientes globalmente.
Dor crônica na atenção primária à saúde: uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Sertório Dênis Morgão , Tomita Beatriz Frischeisen , Calábria Bruno Andrade , Perez Murilo Virtudes , Kurihara Ana Carolina Zanin Sacoman , Hungaro Thiago Alves
Published: September 2024

A dor é uma experiência sensitiva e emocional desagradável que se associa, ou que remete a sensação causada por uma lesão tecidual real ou potencial. A dor crônica pode ser de origem física, ocasionada por más adaptações nociplásticas, ou psicológica, sendo observado uma grande prevalência das duas causas simultaneamente. A dor crônica causa grande limitação à vida do paciente, com queda da qualidade de vida e diminuição da sua atividade, gerando um grande problema econômico. As dores musculoesqueléticas são o problema de saúde mais frequente na população entre 15 e 64 anos e constituem a principal causa de aposentadoria precoce. Visto isso, esse estudo tem o objetivo de sintetizar conhecimentos referentes a dores crônicas e se justifica pela prevalência da doença, relevância social e econômica, e dificuldade de se estabelecer um tratamento satisfatório. Foi realizada uma busca de textos publicados na literatura, pesquisados dentro das bibliotecas virtuais e em livros textos que guiam a prática médica. Concluiu-se que o manejo incorreto da dor crônica pode causar piora na sintomatologia, tanto pela incapacidade de analgesia adequada, quanto na expectativa que se induz ao paciente de que este sintoma terá uma cura. Portanto, a APS deve estar preparada, com profissionais sendo capacitados constantemente, para o manejo da dor crônica.
Perfil epidemiológico da Hanseníase no Paraná/Brasil: uma análise de série histórica entre os anos de 2013 a 2022
Authors: Rozin Leandro , Holtman Every Loise
Published: September 2024

Considerando a relevância de uma análise epidemiológica de série histórica da Hanseníase no estado do Paraná, o presente estudo objetivou determinar o perfil epidemiológico da Hanseníase no estado do Paraná, por meio da análise de série histórica entre os anos de 2013 a 2022.Para tal, procedeu-se um estudo epidemiológico observacional descritivo do tipo levantamento, fundamentado na epidemiologia descritiva. Os dados foram coletados no Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde e analisados por meio da estatística descritiva. Destaca-se a prevalência de 71,1 casos a cada 100 mil habitantes, e incidência com redução nos últimos 5 anos analisados e letalidade de 2,73%. Em relação ao geoprocessamento, a Macrorregião mais afetada foi a 2ª Regional de Saúde, que corresponde à Região Metropolitana que contempla Curitiba, com 13,79% das notificações, assim como a prevalência ocorreu no sexo masculino, com idade entre 50 a 59 anos, da raça branca e com escolaridade da 1ª a 4ª série incompleta do Ensino Fundamental. Destaca-se também o alto número de dados subnotificados na ficha do Sistema de Informações de Agravos de Notificação . Conclui-se que, mesmo com as taxas em redução ao longo dos anos, o Programa Nacional de Controle da Hanseníase não está exercendo sua função em sua plenitude, fato que leva à necessidade de inovar em estratégias para sua implementação, além da necessidade urgente de promover a educação em saúde para profissionais e população.
O estado da arte da eutanásia no Brasil
Authors: Pedrosa Lara Alípio , Gonçalves Elielson Felix , Falcão Gabriella de Figueiredo , Furtado Beatriz Ribeiro Coutinho de Mendonça , Garcia Ariana Lacerda , Costa João Victor Maia Lima , Costa Ana Luiza Menino Acioly , Rocha Paula Gabriela Barbosa da Silva , Dias Amanda van der Linden Rabelo , Diniz Laís Nóbrega
Published: September 2024

Este artigo tem por objetivo realizar um estudo a respeito do panorama institucional da Eutanásia no Brasil. Para evitar confusões conceituais, delimitam-se as diferenças entre esta e ortotanásia, distanásia, mistanásia e suicídio assistido. Destaca-se, nesse sentido, que o instituto se relaciona ao abreviamento, mediante conduta ativa ou passiva, da vida do paciente terminal. Em relação à possibilidade jurídica deste no ordenamento brasileiro, verifica-se que, até o momento de conclusão desta pesquisa, não há regulamentação específica da matéria, embora atinente à esfera da dignidade da pessoa humana. Além disso, o entendimento atual do Supremo Tribunal Federal, a quem se atribui o título de guardião da Constituição, não considera que o “direito de morrer” possa ser extraído dos princípios da Carta Republicana de 1988, incumbindo, portanto, ao Poder Legislativo tratar da matéria. Não se identifica interesse desse órgão de cúpula em regulamentá-la, o que expressa, inclusive, o desinteresse da população sobre o tema. Tendo em vista o estigma que circunda o tema, bem como a sua correlação com a dignidade da pessoa humana de inúmeros pacientes terminais, este trabalho se apresenta como um instrumento para fortalecimento do debate.  Para isto, utiliza-se o método qualitativo para a abordagem do tema, realizando pesquisas bibliográfica, jurisprudencial e artigos sobre o assunto. Ademais, também se perfaz um estudo comparado do tema, em especial das experiências colombiana e estadunidense, considerando a proximidade geográfica e cultural daquele e o poder de influência deste em relação ao Brasil. Em suma, aborda-se uma ampla visão sobre o “direito de morrer”, envolvendo diversas áreas do conhecimento, tanto filosóficas, quanto médicas e jurídicas. Analisa-se a importância do presente artigo como mais um meio para a desmistificação da eutanásia e para a construção de uma conjuntura mais propícia ao diálogo.
Análise do perfil epidemiológico dos óbitos por Sepse na Bahia entre os anos de 2018 e 2022
Authors: Oliveira Annie Beatrice Caires , Arenas Lara Pinheiro , Rosa Vitória Kfuri Pereira , Silva Douglas Vinícius dos Santos , Nery Erick Santos , Pereira Heloízie Moura , Cordeiro Giovanna Beatriz Benjamin Alves , Piancó Lays Monackelle
Published: September 2024

Sepse é definida como uma resposta sistêmica desregulada do hospedeiro frente a uma infecção, pode apresentar complicações graves como choque, falência de múltiplos órgãos e morte, sendo crucial reconhecimento e tratamento precoces do quadro. Desse modo, a sepse é uma síndrome de impacto mundial, com um grande número de internações e óbitos anualmente, além de altos gastos hospitalares principalmente em regiões com menor índice sociodemográfico.  estudo objetiva traçar o perfil epidemiológico dos indivíduos que compõem estes números. Visando, ainda, discutir e concluir quais frações desta população podem apresentar-se mais suscetíveis a este desfecho;Estudo ecológico, retrospectivo e descritivo a partir de dados secundários obtidos no SIM/SUS sobre registros de óbitos por sepse que ocorreram entre 2018 e 2022, segundo macrorregiões do estado da Bahia, faixa etária, sexo, cor/raça e ano de atendimento, sendo armazenados em planilhas do Microsoft Office Excel para análise. A sepse apresenta tendência crescente na taxa de mortalidade na Bahia ao longo dos anos avaliados, sendo o perfil epidemiológico com maior acometimento pessoas do sexo masculino, com mais de 80 anos e que residam na macrorregião do Centro-Leste baiano. A maior porcentagem acumulada em óbitos fica com a etnia parda. Várias hipóteses podem ser levantadas para a prevalência de altas taxas de mortalidade neste perfil específico, indo desde a maior prevalência de comorbidades até as iniquidades no acesso à saúde de qualidade. Por fim, é importante ressaltar que a sepse é um problema mundial que necessita ser mais bem diagnosticada, principalmente em território nacional, para um tratamento direcionado.
Importância da orientação médica frente à prevenção e ao manejo do pé diabético: relato de experiência
Authors: Correia Filho Fábio Lopes de Barros , Santos Helora Brenda Rocha Medeiros dos , Castro Juliana de Almeida , Jacomini Laura Beatriz Vitoriano , Milhomem Emanuela Lira
Published: September 2024

Introdução: O Brasil figura como o sexto país com maior número de adultos diabéticos, totalizando 15,7 milhões de pessoas (cerca de 7% da população), o que, por sua vez, torna evidente a importância de abordagens educacionais voltadas para a população diabética. Portanto, a realização de iniciativas coletivas voltadas à prevenção e controle de patologias crônicas, como diabetes e hipertensão, destaca-se como um elemento primordial para a formação na área da saúde. Objetivo: Descrever a educação continuada promovida por estudantes de medicina, com foco na prevenção e manejo do pé diabético. Metodologia: Trata-se de um relato de experiência, caracterizado como um estudo transversal descritivo, conduzido com pacientes cadastrados em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde brasileira, localizada em Olinda. Resultados: A ação possibilitou sanar as dúvidas da comunidade, resolver problemas que, até então, não estavam sendo reportados dos pacientes para os médicos e conseguir demonstrar aos pacientes formas rápidas e acessíveis de autocuidado e alimentação. Conclusão: Diante do presente relato, destaca-se que ações como a referida devem ser incorporadas ao plano de educação continuada das Unidades Básicas de Saúde aliada ao acesso facilitado às mesmas e aos equipamentos necessários para a abordagem dos riscos e complicações da Diabetes.
Marketing to machine customers: a paradigm shift in consumer dynamics
Authors: Lima Vitor , Gaspar Fernando C.
Published: September 2024

In the digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) is not only revolutionizing industries but also transforming the very concept of consumerism. This paper explores the emergence of machine customers—autonomous entities that make purchasing decisions independently of human intervention. These AI-driven consumers, powered by advancements in machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT), represent a significant shift from traditional human-centric models of consumer behavior. The study delves into the technological advancements propelling this phenomenon, the impact on traditional economic models, and the implications for marketing strategies. By examining the evolution of AI in consumer markets, this paper provides a comprehensive understanding of how businesses can adapt to and thrive in an increasingly automated landscape. It also addresses the ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks necessary to ensure that AI-driven consumerism benefits society equitably. The rise of machine customers challenges existing paradigms, compelling a reevaluation of supply and demand dynamics and necessitating innovative approaches to customer engagement and market participation.
Aspectos da competitividade brasileira no comércio internacional da floricultura e flores de corte
Authors: Medeiros Fábio de Oliveira , Favero Luiz Andrea
Published: September 2024

O setor de flores e plantas ornamentais pode ser considerado como um dos mais promissores e importantes segmentos do agronegócio mundial. Além de gerar recursos e divisas para um país, região, estado ou município, no âmbito nacional tem forte impacto na geração de empregos e de renda principalmente para os pequenos produtores, além das questões ambientais, aspectos estes anteriormente pouco considerados e que agora passam a ter grande relevância. Neste contexto, o estudo pretende analisar a evolução e a participação dos segmentos da floricultura e de flores de corte dos principais países exportadores e importadores no mercado mundial, e neste contexto, a participação do Brasil nas exportações e importações de flores e plantas ornamentais, a fim de analisar o nível do comércio brasileiro no contexto internacional. Depois de conhecer os atores internacionais, a pesquisa procurou identificar quais são os principais parceiros comerciais do Brasil nas exportações e nas importações para que se calcule, separando os principais segmentos do setor, os preços pagos e recebidos pelo Brasil na comercialização de produtos como os insumos e produtos voltados para o consumo. O que se percebeu foi a necessidade de diversificar os parceiros comerciais tanto nas exportações quanto nas importações para que o país possa obter melhores preços de comercialização e depender cada vez menos de um restrito número de países, possibilitando dessa forma o aumento da competitividade de nossos produtos lá fora.
Usability Evaluation Of Modeling Languages
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Schalles Christian
Published: September 2024

Over the last two decades more and more companies started to recognize the importance of graphical modeling as a way to meet their business goals. In order to describe a business case such as a business process or an application system, information in various different formats has to be integrated within a graphical model. Graphical models are developed using modeling languages such as the Unified Modeling Language (UML) and Event Driven Process Chains (EPC). The usability of graphical modeling languages has not been explicitly considered in past research. Most usability evaluation surveys are mainly focusing on applications, websites, software and technical i:)roducts. Usability has not been focused on within the development of current graphical languages for conceptual modeling. Consequently, the impact of graphical modeling languages on users as well as the output resulting from their application is not clear. This thesis focuses on an empirical usability evaluation of graphical modeling languages in business process and software modeling. A usability evaluation framework for graphical modeling languages is proposed. The framework contains different user scenarios, usability attributes and metrics for measuring usability in the domain of graphical modeling languages.
Quantum-dot Mode-locked Lasers With Optical Injection
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Habruseva Tatiana
Published: September 2024

"In this thesis novel stabilised ultra-fast pulse sources for a range of practical applications have been developed. Semiconductor mode-locked lasers have much promise as sources of short, low- jitter, high repetition rate pulses. Development of stabilised semiconductor sources is in a great demand for applications, such as optical telecommunications, frequency metrology, optical sampling and clock recovery. Arbitrary waveform generation, wavelength-division and orthogonal-frequency-division multiplexing techniques need wide stable frequency combs with low phase noise. A low level of pulse-to-pulse timing fluctuations is essential for clock recovery, optical sampling and optical time- division multiplexing. Therefore, this work dealing with the development of fast stabilised quantum dot lasers is relevant across many application areas. Recently developed mode-locked lasers, based on InAs/GaAs quantum dot material, have demonstrated advantageous performance characteristics when compared to quantum well and bulk semiconductor lasers, such as the generation of ultra- short pulses, thermal stability and low noise. Monolithic quantum dot mode-locked lasers are of particular interest due to their compactness, cost-efficiency and ease of operation. However, outside optimal parameter range these lasers suffer waveform instabilities, large chirp and significant timing jitter, which makes them ineffective in high-speed applications. In this work, monolithic passively mode-locked lasers, based on InAs/GaAs quantum dot material, are studied and stabilised by means of external optical injection. We demonstrate that optical injection can improve the properties of mode-locked lasers in terms of the time-bandwidth product, noise and pulse stability. Finally, a cascade of quantum dot mode-locked lasers is utilised in order to (i) clone coherence and performance characteristics of the master source and (ii) to obtain high quality wider frequency combs resulting in pulses of short duration."
In Silico Prediction Of Protein-protein Interactions Between Cronobacter Sakazakii And Human Host
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Held Sean
Published: September 2024

The research findings show how social media is changing the role of PR in relation of dealing with a new and very different type of media, social media, in managing the reputation and brand of businesses. Through the research carried out author learned of the potential social media has in helping enhance the brand image if companies and what tools PR practitioners should in order to achieve this.
A Service Provisioning Architecture For Next Generation Wireless Sensor Networks - The Wsn Cloud
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Sohaib Aslam Muhammad
Published: September 2024

"The relentless demand for pervasive computing in our everyday lives has led to and will continue to drive the roll out of large scale embedded systems in the form of Wireless Sensor Networks or WSNs in our environment. This in turn drives the need for reusable, flexible and manageable WSN infrastructures. To simplify system operation and maintenance as well as to reduce costs, WSNs must become an infrastructure that is capable of providing services to multiple end users concurrently rather than having to roll out individual infrastructures for specific purposes as is typical nowadays. This thesis presents the concept of a WSN infrastructure as a WSN Cloud that provides services to multiple end user organisations and is designed to adhere to the cloud computing paradigm. The challenges faced by such an infrastructure organisation is to efficiently provision it in such a manner that each instance of the WSN cloud (i.e. a specific set of services configured by a particular end user/system) utilises the WSN infrastructure as if it was a unique network provisioned for their specific requirements. The WSN- Service Orchestration Architecture WSN-SOrA presented in this thesis enables the rapid orchestration, commissioning and provisioning of services in WSNs, which can be vertically scaled on-demand. WSN- SOrA is an architectural model that enables on demand access to a shared pool of configurable WSN resources whose primary function is the management of the allocation and consumption of WSN resources in order to serve multiple applications and end users alike. The key architectural elements of WSN-SOrA are the orchestration engine and Serviceware middleware components which together provide an end- 2-end middleware across all tiers of the WSN infrastructure. In order to create a virtual sensor network, the orchestration engine middleware configures the enterprise and gateway components, encapsulate the end user requirements and virtualises the network, with the Serviceware middleware virtualising the WSN resources and provisioning services at this tier."
Diy Pr: How Independent Music Artists Use Online Social Networks For Public Relations Purposes
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Lawless Martina
Published: September 2024

"Significance of the study: Independent musicians are a huge part of the Irish music industry and yet they are the part that do not have the backing of a record label. This means independent musicians need to look at cheap or even free ways to promote themselves to existing fans and potential new fans. With the emergence of social networks musicians both signed and independent have the tools necessary to engage in a new form DIY PR. The purpose of this study is to look at the different ways that social networks have helped musicians in recent years, but also to see what the musicians and their fans really think of these new changes. Approach: The approach that has been taken with this study was done in two parts. The first part involved a detailed literature review which is based on secondary research undertaken by the researcher. The second part of this study is done using a number of qualitative research methods. These included interviews with both musicians and public relations professionals and a focus group, which consisted of music fans. This would give the researcher a greater insight into the views that all parties questioned have on the subject of using social networks as a public relations tool. A semi-structured interview was used to gather the information required from the musicians and the public relations professional. Results: This study revealed to the researcher that each person who was questioned had a different view on the importance and effectiveness of using social media as a public relations tool. To the musicians social networks are a great way of them to engage in free public relations. Music fans felt that using public relations, while effective, could on occasion be used in the wrong way. The public relation professionals had their own opinions on the effectiveness of using social networks. This opinion backed up the views of the musicians questioned."
An Investigation Of Discontinuous Specular Surfaces Using Non-contact Techniques In Line Monitoring.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Kekukh Kiryl
Published: September 2024

Surface metrology by structured light projection has been a standard technique in industry for many years. However, when the surface under test is reflective or specular it is impossible to use this particular method. In this instance a modified procedure called "Fringe Reflection” is used. In this technique patterns similar to structured light are projected onto a screen, located remotely from the surface, and fringe patterns, reflected via the surface, are recorded using a CCD-camera. To recover the range data of such a surface from a set of images taken, a phase unwrapping algorithm is used. For the purpose and needs of the work presented in this thesis the' ’'Temporal Phase Unwrapping'’ method was found to be most reliable and accurate. This was successfully implemented programmatically using National Instruments’ Lab VIEW (c) software. A Fully functional test-bed was assembled to demonstrate a stable and efficient system operation.
Numerical Modelling Of The River Bandon
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Finn Stephen
Published: September 2024

"Numerical modelling involves the use of data from the physical environment and mathematical equations to achieve predictive solutions to many engineering problems including for river engineering. The field data is surveyed, sampled, recorded and tested before it is entered into the numerical modelling program for analysis. The numerical modelling program contains various mathematical equations that solve the data that has been entered. Numerical modelling is an important tool for predicting the consequences of future events. It can be used for predicting the damage of a 1 in 100 year flood event in a river system. Numerical modelling is used by many organisations that deal with flooding. They use it to predict what would occur during a specific storm event and can then provide a flood relief scheme based on the results. It is clear that numerical modelling is an important feature nowadays in the prevention of Hooding. Numerical modelling has improved a lot since it was first developed. There are a number of numerical modelling packages now available that deal with river engineering such as HEC-RAS, ISIS and MIKE 11. These programs are all used to simulate various situations such as steady and unsteady flows in a river. This is an important aspect as it allows the user to model a range of possibilities that could occur within the river. Numerical modelling programs can now model a range of situations such as sediment transport and water quality. These are an important aspect of river engineering and they haven’t been modelled extensively for the River Bandon. As a part of this project testing and sampling data is going to take place. Samples of the water, the sediment both suspended and bed load will be taken from the River Bandon at set intervals throughout the project. This data will be tested and then used to create a numerical model of the river. The model will be created using HEC-RAS, a one-dimensional numerical model. Sediment transport and water quality of the river will be modelled. This is being done to examine the bed load of the river and to see if this is causing some of the flooding issues of the river."
Strategic Planning In Irish Higher Education Institutions
Authors:   ,   Institute of Technology Tralee, Herlihy Marion
Published: September 2024

If Higher Education Institutions are to fulfill their potential and serve the needs of all their stakeholders, then their institutional management capacity must be effective and responsive to changes in the environment. Strategic planning and quality assurance are an integral part of the management of modem higher education institutions worldwide. This study is based on two research questions. Research Question One examines the experiences of strategic planning of twenty higher education institutions in Ireland over a ten year period from 2000 to 2010. The second research question examines how strategic planning has been integrated with quality assurance processes which are a dominant force in higher education management. The most appropriate elements of a positivist and phenomenological research philosophy were combined to design a mixed method approach of philosophical research for this study. Qualitative research methods were used primarily, including extensive document analysis of strategic plans and institutional review reports, triangulated with interviews with Presidents, institutional Heads of Strategic Planning and/or members of the senior management team with responsibility for strategic planning (n=20). The growing expertise and confidence of HEIs with strategic planning and quality assurance matters over the ten year period is evident, however the findings raise fundamental questions in relation to the approach to strategy development in higher education.
All-Russian scientific and practical conference with international participation “Fundamental and applied research in the introduction of plants. Biodiversity Conservation”, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Department of Plant Introduction and Acclimatization, UdmFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Authors: Федоров А.В.
Published: September 2024

15-17 июня 2021 г. в Отделе интродукции и акклиматизации растений УдмФИЦ УрО РАН прошла Всероссийская научно-практическая конференция с международным участием «Фундаментальные и прикладные исследования в интродукции растений. Сохранение биоразнообразия», посвященная 30-летию Отдела интродукции и акклиматизации растений УдмФИЦ УрО РАН.

On June 15-17, 2021, the All-Russian scientific and practical conference with international participation “Basic and applied research in plant introduction. Preservation of Biodiversity”, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Department of Introduction and Acclimatization of Plants, UdmFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Pests and diseases of coniferous plantations of the Botanical Garden of Petrozavodsk State University
Authors: Лябзина С.Н. , Синкевич О.В. , Сурина Т.А. , Копина М.Б. , Чалкин А.А.
Published: September 2024

Декоративный арборетум ботанического сада Петрозаводского государственного университета является не только высоко эстетическим объектом ландшафтного дизайна, востребованным любителями природы, но и местом акклиматизации различных пород растений. В настоящее время на территории ботанического сада отмечено более 50 видов хвойных, наибольшим количеством представлены роды пихта, ель, сосна, лиственница и можжевельник, также в коллекциях имеются разнообразные формы и сорта туи западной, кипарисовика горохоплодного (Еглачева др., 2014).

The decorative arboretum of the botanical garden of Petrozavodsk State University is not only a highly aesthetic object of landscape design, in demand by nature lovers, but also a place of acclimatization of various plant species. Currently, more than 50 species of conifers have been noted on the territory of the botanical garden, the genera of fir, spruce, pine, larch and juniper are represented by the largest number, also in the collections there are various forms and varieties of western arborvitae, pea-bearing cypress (Eglacheva et al., 2014).