bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular Risk Factors as Independent Predictors of Diabetic Retinopathy in Type II Diabetes Mellitus: The Development of a Predictive Model
Authors: Roşu Cristian Dan , Bratu Melania Lavinia , Stoicescu Emil Robert , Iacob Roxana , Hațegan Ovidiu Alin , Ghenciu Laura Andreea , Bolintineanu Sorin Lucian
Published: October 2024

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia, may play a crucial role in the development and progression of DR, though the evidence remains mixed. This study aimed to assess cardiovascular risk factors as independent predictors of DR and to develop a predictive model for DR progression in T2DM patients. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 377 patients with T2DM who underwent a comprehensive eye exam. Clinical data, including blood pressure, lipid profile, BMI, and smoking status, were collected. DR staging was determined through fundus photography and classified as No DR, Non-Proliferative DR (NPDR), and Mild, Moderate, Severe, or Proliferative DR (PDR). A Multivariate Logistic Regression was used to evaluate the association between cardiovascular risk factors and DR presence. Several machine learning models, including Random Forest, XGBoost, and Support Vector Machines, were applied to assess the predictive value of cardiovascular risk factors and identify key predictors. Model performance was evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, and ROC-AUC. Results: The prevalence of DR in the cohort was 41.6%, with 34.5% having NPDR and 7.1% having PDR. A multivariate analysis identified systolic blood pressure (SBP), LDL cholesterol, and body mass index (BMI) as independent predictors of DR progression (p < 0.05). The Random Forest model showed a moderate predictive ability, with an AUC of 0.62 for distinguishing between the presence and absence of DR XGBoost showing a better performance, featuring a ROC-AUC of 0.68, while SBP, HDL cholesterol, and BMI were consistently identified as the most important predictors across models. After tuning, the XGBoost model showed a notable improvement, with an ROC-AUC of 0.72. Conclusions: Cardiovascular risk factors, particularly BP and BMI, play a significant role in the progression of DR in patients with T2DM. The predictive models, especially XGBoost, showed moderate accuracy in identifying DR stages, suggesting that integrating these risk factors into clinical practice may improve early detection and intervention strategies for DR.
Decreasing Electrical Resistivity of Ag Film by Low-Temperature Evaporation and Sintering through Azeotrope Application
Authors: Jung Sang Hoon , Park Jae Eun , Lee Jong-Hyun
Published: October 2024

In the temperature-sensitive components, such as perovskite solar cells, large-area electrical connections with high electrical conductivity are also required. To fulfill the requirements, low-temperature evaporation was realized by preparing binder-free pastes with Ag flakes and a solvent mixture, followed by sintering at 140 °C. The mixed solvent was based on viscous α-terpineol with the addition of an appropriate amount of dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate or diethylene glycol diethyl ether to achieve an azeotrope composition, followed by the addition of a low-molecular-weight hydroxypropyl cellulose to increase the viscosity and thixotropy. During sintering at 140 °C in air for up to 30 min, the paste with 49.5 wt% α-terpineol, 49.5 wt% dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, and 1 wt% hydroxypropyl cellulose mixture exhibited an excellent electrical conductivity of 7.72 × 10−6 Ω·cm despite the implementation of low-temperature sintering. The excellent processability of the prepared Ag-based pastes at 140 °C demonstrated their potential for novel application areas.
Encapsulating Transition Metal Nanoparticles inside Carbon (TM@C) Chainmail Catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reactions: A Review
Authors: Zhao Jiamin , Kou Meimei , Yuan Qing , Yuan Ying , Zhao Jinsheng
Published: October 2024

Green hydrogen energy from electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reactions (HERs) has gained much attention for its advantages of low carbon, high efficiency, interconnected energy medium, safety, and controllability. Non-precious metals have emerged as a research hotspot for replacing precious metal catalysts due to low cost and abundant reserves. However, maintaining the stability of non-precious metals under harsh conditions (e.g., strongly acidic, alkaline environments) remains a significant challenge. By leveraging the curling properties of two-dimensional materials, a new class of catalysts, encapsulating transition metal nanoparticles inside carbon (TM@C) chainmail, has been successfully developed. This catalyst can effectively isolate the active metal from direct contact with harsh reaction media, thereby delaying catalyst deactivation. Furthermore, the electronic structure of the carbon layer can be regulated through the transfer of electrons, which stimulates its catalytic activity. This addresses the issue of the insufficient stability of traditional non-precious metal catalysts. This review commences with a synopsis of the synthetic advancement of the engineering of TM@C chainmail catalysts. Thereafter, a critical discussion ensues regarding the electrocatalytic performance of TM@C chainmail catalysts during hydrogen production. Ultimately, a comprehensive review of the conformational relationship between the structure of TM@C chainmail catalysts and HER activity is provided, offering substantial support for the large-scale application of hydrogen energy.
Essential Oil-Based Soap with Clove and Oregano: A Promising Antifungal and Antibacterial Alternative against Multidrug-Resistant Microorganisms
Authors: Cruz Ana Paula Merino , Nishimura Felipe Garcia , Santos Vinícius Cristian Oti dos , Steling Eliana Guedes , Von Zeska Kress Marcia Regina , Marins Mozart , Fachin Ana Lucia
Published: October 2024

The transmission of microorganisms via hands is a critical factor in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), underscoring the importance of rigorous hand hygiene. The rise of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms, driven in part by the overuse of antibiotics in clinical medicine, presents a significant global health challenge. Antimicrobial soaps, although commonly used, may exacerbate bacterial resistance and disrupt skin microbiota, posing additional health risks and environmental hazards. Essential oils, with their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, offer a promising alternative. This study evaluates the antimicrobial activity of essential oils against various bacterial and fungal strains, including multidrug-resistant isolates. Using a range of in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial assays, including minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC), the essential oils were tested against a broad spectrum of pathogens. Additionally, the chemical composition of the oils was analyzed in detail using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (CG–MS). Clove, oregano, and thyme oils demonstrated potent inhibition of all tested ATCC bacterial strains, with MIC values ranging from 3.125 to 50 μL/mL. These oils also showed significant activity against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Notably, clove oil exhibited remarkable efficacy against fungal strains such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Trichophyton rubrum, with MIC values as low as 1.56 μL/mL. Synergy tests revealed that combinations of clove, oregano, and thyme oils yielded significantly lower MIC values than individual oils, indicating additive or synergistic effects. The formulation of a soap incorporating clove and oregano oils demonstrated efficacy comparable to synthetic antiseptics in vivo. These findings highlight the exceptional antimicrobial potential of essential oils, mainly clove and oregano, against resistant microorganisms, offering a viable alternative to conventional antimicrobial agents.
Breath Analysis: Identification of Potential Volatile Biomarkers for Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Authors: Di Gilio Alessia , Palmisani Jolanda , Nisi Marirosa , Pizzillo Valentina , Fiorentino Marco , Rotella Stefania , Mastrofilippo Nicola , Gesualdo Loreto , de Gennaro Gianluigi
Published: October 2024

Recently, volatile organic compound (VOC) determination in exhaled breath has seen growing interest due to its promising potential in early diagnosis of several pathological conditions, including chronic kidney disease (CKD). Therefore, this study aimed to identify the breath VOC pattern providing an accurate, reproducible and fast CKD diagnosis at early stages of disease. A cross-sectional observational study was carried out, enrolling a total of 30 subjects matched for age and gender. More specifically, the breath samples were collected from (a) 10 patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) before undergoing hemodialysis treatment (DIAL); (b) 10 patients with mild-moderate CKD (G) including 3 patients in stage G2 with mild albuminuria, and 7 patients in stage G3 and (c) 10 healthy controls (CTRL). For each volunteer, an end-tidal exhaled breath sample and an ambient air sample (AA) were collected at the same time on two sorbent tubes by an automated sampling system and analyzed by Thermal Desorption–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry. A total of 110 VOCs were detected in breath samples but only 42 showed significatively different levels with respect to AA. Nonparametric tests, such as Wilcoxon/Kruskal–Wallis tests, allowed us to identify the most weighting variables able to discriminate between AA, DIAL, G and CTRL breath samples. A promising multivariate data mining approach incorporating only selected variables (showing p-values lower than 0.05), such as nonanal, pentane, acetophenone, pentanone, undecane, butanedione, ethyl hexanol and benzene, was developed and cross-validated, providing a prediction accuracy equal to 87% and 100% in identifying patients with both mild–moderate CKD (G) and ESKD (DIAL), respectively.
A Historical Survey of Fayun Monastery (法雲寺) in Bianjing (汴京) during the Northern Song Dynasty
Authors: Zong Yanhong
Published: October 2024

Fayun Monastery (法雲寺), a prominent Chan Buddhist monastery in Bianjing (汴京) during the Northern Song Dynasty, thrived for about half a century under the reigns of emperors Shenzong (神宗), Zhezong (哲宗), and Huizong (徽宗). Led by four generations of abbots—Yuantong Faxiu (圓通法秀), Datong Shanben (大通善本), Foguo Weibai (佛國惟白), and Fozhao Gao (佛照杲)—the monastery was esteemed by the royal family and influential in the development of the Yunmen School. This paper examines the monastery’s history through the tenures of its abbots, providing insights into the monastery’s significance in Northern Song Buddhism and its broader cultural and political context.
Navigating the Complexities of Inter-Religious Peacebuilding: Implications for Theory and Practice
Authors: Kwuelum Charles
Published: October 2024

As conflict dynamics become complex and escalate globally, especially identity-based conflicts, we are witnessing an unprecedented shift in the Conflict Analysis and Resolution and Peacebuilding field toward contextually innovative and effective community-led approaches. The inadequacies of liberal and neoliberal paradigms and the increase in identity-based conflicts, religious pluralism, and differences in communities have motivated evidence-based inter-religious community-level engagements over the past two decades. These interventions rely on the theoretical frameworks of emancipatory peacebuilding and compassionate reasoning, and reflect an in-depth sense of spirituality, longing, and the essence of human relationship building and practice. This study gathers data from primary sources (which include findings from hybrid interviews) through a semi-participatory and empirical qualitative explorative research process in order to critique the underlying philosophies of traditional paradigms and explore emerging alternatives. It also posits that inter-religious community-led interventions are founded on the emancipatory elicitive religious peacebuilding (EERPb) framework. They are adaptive to non-linear (and sometimes non-scientific) approaches and are less focused on international standards. The framework fundamentally embraces phenomenological, metaphysical, and ethical realities in peacebuilding, operationalizes the concept of just peace, and acknowledges a global approach to peace that offers the opportunity to resolve the difficulties encountered by the various CAR and peacebuilding theoretical schools.
Response of NO 5.3 μm Emission to the Geomagnetic Storm on 24 April 2023
Authors: Liu Hongshan , Gao Hong , Li Zheng , Xu Jiyao , Bai Weihua , Sun Longchang , Li Zhongmu
Published: October 2024

The response of NO emission at 5.3 μm in the thermosphere to the geomagnetic storm on 24 April 2023 is analyzed using TIMED/SABER observations and TIEGCM simulations. Both the observations and the simulations indicate a significant enhancement in NO emission during the storm. Observations show two peaks around 50°S/N in the altitude–latitude distribution of NO emission and its relative variation. Additionally, the peak emission and enhancement are stronger on the nightside compared with the dayside. The peak altitude in the Northern Hemisphere is approximately 2–10 km higher than in the Southern Hemisphere; meanwhile, the peak altitude on the dayside is approximately 2–8 km higher than that on the nightside. Simulations reveal three peaks around 50°S, the equator, and 65°N, with peak altitudes at higher latitudes being slightly lower than those observed. In general, the altitude–latitude distribution structure of the relative variation in simulated NO emission matches observations, with two peaks around 50°S/N. TIEGCM simulations suggest that the increase in NO density and temperature during a geomagnetic storm can lead to an increase in NO emission at most altitudes and latitudes. Furthermore, the significant enhancement around 50°S/N is mainly attributed to the changes in NO density.
Coupling Fault Diagnosis of Bearings Based on Hypergraph Neural Network
Authors: Wang Shenglong , Jiao Xiaoxuan , Jing Bo , Pan Jinxin , Meng Xiangzhen , Huang Yifeng , Pei Shaoting
Published: October 2024

Coupling faults that simultaneously occur during the operation of mechanical equipment are widespread. These faults encompass a diverse range of high-order coupling relationships, involving multiple base fault types. Based on the advantages of hypergraphs for higher-order relationship descriptions, two coupling fault diagnosis architectures based on the hypergraph neural network are proposed in this paper: 1. In the coupling fault diagnosis framework based on feature generation, the base faults serve as the hypergraph nodes, and each hyperedge connects the base faults. The generator, which consists of the hypergraph neural network, generates coupling faults as negative samples to enforce regularization constraints for the discriminator training. 2. In the coupling fault diagnosis framework based on feature extraction, each node represents a fault mode, and each hyperedge connects nodes with common failure modes. The multi-head attention mechanism extracts the features of base faults, and the common fault features in a hyperedge are aggregated via the hypergraph neural network. The inner product correlation is used to diagnose the fault modes. The results show that the diagnostic accuracy for coupling faults with the two frameworks reaches 88.6% and 86.76%, respectively. Both frameworks can be used for the diagnosis and analysis of high-order coupling faults.
Performance Evaluation of the Two-Input Buck Converter as a Visible Light Communication High-Brightness LED Driver Based on Split Power
Authors: Aller Daniel G. , Lamar Diego G. , García-Mere Juan R. , Arias Manuel , Rodriguez Juan , Sebastian Javier
Published: October 2024

This work proposes a high-efficiency High-Brightness LED (HB-LED) driver for Visible Light Communication (VLC) based on a Two-Input Buck (TIBuck) DC/DC converter. This solution not only outperforms previous approaches based on Buck DC/DC converters, but also simplifies previous proposals for VLC drivers that use the split power technique with two DC/DC converters: one is in charge of the communication tasks and the other controls the biasing of the HB-LED (i.e., lighting tasks). The real implementation of this scheme requires either two input voltage sources, one of which is isolated, or one DC/DC converter with galvanic isolation. The proposed implementation of splitting the power is based on a TIBuck DC/DC converter that avoids the isolation requirement, overcoming the major drawback of this technique, keeping high-efficiency and high communication capability thanks to the lower voltage stress both across the switches and at the switching node. This fact allows for the operation at very high frequency for communication purposes, minimizing switching power losses, achieving high efficiency and providing lower filtering effort. Moreover, the duty ratio range can also be adapted to the useful voltage range of the HB-LED load to maximize the resolution on the tracking of the output volage. The power is split by means of an auxiliary Buck DC/DC converter operating at low switching frequency, which generates the secondary voltage source needed by the TIBuck DC/DC converter. This defines a natural split of power by only processing the power delivered for communications purposes at high frequency. A 7 W output-power experimental prototype of the proposed VLC driver was built and tested. Based on the experimental results, the prototype achieved 94% efficiency, reproducing a 64-QAM digital modulation scheme and achieving a bit rate of 1.5 Mbps with error in communication of 12%.
Deep Reinforcement Learning with Local Attention for Single Agile Optical Satellite Scheduling Problem
Authors: Liu Zheng , Xiong Wei , Han Chi , Yu Xiaolan
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the single agile optical satellite scheduling problem, which has received increasing attention due to the rapid growth in earth observation requirements. Owing to the complicated constraints and considerable solution space of this problem, the conventional exact methods and heuristic methods, which are sensitive to the problem scale, demand high computational expenses. Thus, an efficient approach is demanded to solve this problem, and this paper proposes a deep reinforcement learning algorithm with a local attention mechanism. A mathematical model is first established to describe this problem, which considers a series of complex constraints and takes the profit ratio of completed tasks as the optimization objective. Then, a neural network framework with an encoder–decoder structure is adopted to generate high-quality solutions, and a local attention mechanism is designed to improve the generation of solutions. In addition, an adaptive learning rate strategy is proposed to guide the actor–critic training algorithm to dynamically adjust the learning rate in the training process to enhance the training effectiveness of the proposed network. Finally, extensive experiments verify that the proposed algorithm outperforms the comparison algorithms in terms of solution quality, generalization performance, and computation efficiency.
Study of a Crosstalk Suppression Scheme Based on Double-Stage Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers
Authors: Lu Xintong , Ma Xinyu , Wu Baojian
Published: October 2024

An all-optical crosstalk suppression scheme is desirable for wavelength and space division multiplexing optical networks by improving the performance of the corresponding nodes. We put forward a scheme comprising double-stage semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) for wavelength-preserving crosstalk suppression. The wavelength position of the degenerate pump in the optical phase conjugation (OPC) is optimized for signal-to-crosstalk ratio (SXR) improvement. The crosstalk suppression performance of the double-stage SOA scheme for 20 Gb/s quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) signals is investigated by means of simulations, including the input SXR range and the crosstalk wavelength deviation. For the case with identical-frequency crosstalk, the double-stage SOA scheme can achieve equivalent SXR improvement of 1.5 dB for an input SXR of 10 dB. Thus, the double-stage SOA scheme proposed here is more suitable for few-mode fiber systems and networks.
THE METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING THE LEVEL OF PASSENGER COMFORT DEPENDING ON THE FILLING OF THE CABIN
Authors:   Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University (MADI), Kudryavtsev Alexander Alexandrovich , Voronov Peter Olegovich ,   Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University (MADI)
Published: October 2024

The article discusses a technique for obtaining a quantitative assessment of the level of passenger comfort depending on the filling of the cabin. Within the framework of the presented research, an overview of various indicators of comfort and levels of passenger service is made, depending on the filling of the cabin. A formula for calculating the comfort of an individual passenger and the total comfort of passengers of a single passenger vehicle is proposed. The rationale for using the proposed calculation for dispatching control of passenger vehicles with a high degree of au-tomation is given.
FUNDAMENTALS OF THE SITUATIONAL APPROACH TO TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT
Authors:   Military Academy of Logistics, Karagodin DmitryMihailovich
Published: October 2024

The authors of the article provide theoretical data on modern approaches to managing the processes of truck transportation based on a situational approach, which is based on the formation of a situational (transport) model that responds to input (situational) variables and uses internal (situational) variables.
DYNAMICS OF CONSUMPTION RATES OF UPGRADED TURBOCHARGERREPAIR KITS WITH AN UNSTEADY FAILURE RATE
Authors:   Kazan Federal University, Kulakov Alexander Tikhonovich , Karagodin Victor Ivanovich ,   Moscow Automobile and Road Engineering State Tech-nical University (MADI), Yakubovich Irina Anatolyevna ,   Moscow Automobile and Road Engineering State Tech-nical University (MADI)
Published: October 2024

The solution of the issues discussed in the article is caused by the modernization of the bearing assembly of the TKR 7N-1 turbocharger of the KAMAZ automobile engine during its repair. Improving the reliability of an upgraded turbocharger changes the nature and quantitative characteristics of its failure rate. The case under consideration differs in that the unsteady flow of failures has a positive trend, when over time the reliability indicators of the fleet improve. The probability of failures at different intervals of car mileage is determined according to the laws of mathematical statistics as the probability of a random variable falling into a given interval. The probabilities of the second and subsequent failures are defined as conditional probabilities, taking into account the probabilities of previous failures. The nature of the change in the need for repair kits has been established: its initial decrease and subsequent wave-like stabilization. Based on the revealed patterns, the annual consumption rates of repair kits are calculated.
JUSTIFICATION OF THE PROJECT OF A MAINTENANCE STATION WITH SELF-SERVICE DETAILING FUNCTION
Authors:   Maikop State Technological University, Tkacheva Yana Sergeevna , Shapovalova Natalya Georgievna ,   Maikop State Technological University
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the issues of organizing a service station with a self-service detailing function. Automotive maintenance and repair are becoming more scientific and labor-intensive processes, requiring sophisticated technological equipment and personnel. This production structure is implemented in the form of a car service station with a self-service detailing function. Investments in opening a service station with a self-service detailing function will pay off within 2 years from the opening of the service.
Relación entre el clima institucional y el desempeño docente: Una revisión de la literatura
Authors: Navarro Soplin Luis Alberto , Centurión Larrea Ángel Johel
Published: October 2024

La relación entre el clima institucional y el desempeño docente es crucial para entender cómo las condiciones en las instituciones educativas afectan el rendimiento de los profesores. Este artículo revisa sistemáticamente la literatura sobre estos dos aspectos. El objetivo es identificar y analizar cómo las condiciones institucionales afectan el rendimiento de los profesores. Se utilizó una metodología de búsqueda exhaustiva en bases de datos académicas como Scopus y Scielo aplicando criterios específicos para seleccionar estudios recientes. Los resultados muestran que un clima institucional positivo, caracterizado por apoyo administrativo, comunicación efectiva y un ambiente colaborativo, está significativamente asociado con un mejor desempeño docente. Las instituciones que promueven estos aspectos observan mejoras en el rendimiento y la eficacia docente. En conclusión, fortalecer el clima institucional tiene un impacto positivo en el desempeño de los docentes, sugiriendo que las políticas educativas deben enfocarse en mejorar estas condiciones para optimizar la calidad educativa.
Habilidades sociales en estudiantes de educación secundaria de América Latina: una revisión sistemática
Authors: Gliceria Delgado Zarzoza Mercedes Zoila
Published: October 2024

El objetivo del estudio fue analizar el desarrollo de las habilidades sociales en estudiantes de educación secundaria, en América Latina. Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática, mediante la declaración PRISMA. Las fuentes de información fueron las bases de datos Scopus, Scielo y Web of Science. Los operadores booleanos fueron AND, OR y NOT. El número total de estudios hallados fueron 587 resultados, de los cuales se seleccionaron 16 artículos, siendo el 38% de Brasil, el 13% de Colombia, el 25% de Perú, el 6% de México, el 6% de Chile y el 2% de Ecuador. Los resultados indican que el desarrollo de las habilidades sociales en estudiantes de educación secundaria, en América Latina es fundamental para su bienestar, éxito académico y crecimiento personal. Factores individuales, contextuales y educativos influyen en el desarrollo de estas habilidades y su promoción es crucial para preparar a los estudiantes para el mundo actual.
Uso de la rúbrica en la educación: Una revisión sistemática
Authors: Menzala Peralta Rita María , Ortega Menzala Eliana , Zanabria Vargas Edelmira
Published: October 2024

En el ámbito educativo, las rúbricas se han consolidado como herramientas fundamentales para optimizar la evaluación y mejorar el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje. Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar el impacto de las rúbricas en la evaluación formativa y su influencia en el desarrollo de habilidades y destrezas en los estudiantes. Se utilizó una metodología de revisión sistemática siguiendo las directrices PRISMA, aplicando criterios de inclusión y exclusión para seleccionar estudios relevantes sobre la aplicación de rúbricas en contextos educativos. De un total de 119 estudios identificados inicialmente, 18 fueron seleccionados para un análisis detallado, tras aplicar criterios de calidad y relevancia. Los resultados de esta revisión revelan que las rúbricas son reconocidas por su capacidad para mejorar la objetividad de la evaluación, facilitar la retroalimentación constructiva y fomentar el desarrollo de competencias clave en los estudiantes. Además, su aplicación contribuye a reducir el tiempo de calificación y a asegurar una mayor equidad en la evaluación, permitiendo a los estudiantes identificar claramente sus fortalezas y áreas de mejora. En conclusión, la implementación de rúbricas en el proceso educativo no solo optimiza la evaluación formativa, sino que también fortalece el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje, proporcionando una estructura clara y coherente que guía a los estudiantes hacia el logro de los objetivos pedagógicos establecidos.
Estudios latinoamericanos sobre el desarrollo de la investigación científica en instituciones de educación superior pedagógica
Authors: Burga Guevara Salvador , Tello Sánchez Violeta
Published: October 2024

El desarrollo de la investigación científica en América Latina enfrenta desafíos significativos debido a factores como la desigualdad social y la insuficiente inversión económica. Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar cómo estos factores influyen en la producción científica en las instituciones de educación superior de la región y proponer estrategias para mejorarla. Se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura, seleccionando fuentes académicas relevantes mediante una búsqueda en bases de datos como Scopus, SciELO y Google Scholar. Los criterios de selección incluyeron la relevancia temporal (últimos 8 años), el enfoque en investigación científica en educación superior, y la calidad de las publicaciones. Las fuentes seleccionadas abarcan estudios sobre inversión en investigación, impacto en la calidad educativa y desarrollo científico en América Latina. El análisis revela que, a pesar del crecimiento en la producción científica, persisten desigualdades en la distribución de recursos y en la visibilidad global de los resultados. Países con mayor inversión han mostrado desarrollos más robustos, mientras que otros enfrentan limitaciones severas. Se concluye que es crucial aumentar la inversión económica en investigación científica y fomentar una cultura investigativa en las instituciones educativas. La investigación científica debe ser vista como una herramienta clave para el progreso social y económico, y los gobiernos deben tomar medidas para apoyar y promover la investigación en todos los niveles educativos.
La demanda laboral de los graduados de la carrera de Terapia Física en Ecuador
Authors: Sierra Nieto Víctor Hugo , Rea Fajardo María Soledad
Published: October 2024

La formación en Terapia Física en Ecuador enfrenta desafíos importantes para alinearse con las necesidades del mercado laboral. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar la evolución del perfil del egresado y su ajuste a las demandas actuales mediante una revisión sistemática de la literatura. Se empleó el enfoque PRISMA para identificar estudios relevantes, resultando en la inclusión de 20 artículos publicados entre 2020 y 2022. Los hallazgos revelaron una notable desconexión entre la formación académica y las competencias requeridas por el mercado. Los estudios indicaron deficiencias en la capacitación práctica y la falta de integración de tecnologías avanzadas en los programas académicos. Además, se observó una escasez de programas de especialización y una distribución desigual de fisioterapeutas, especialmente en áreas rurales. Los problemas relacionados con las condiciones laborales y el bienestar profesional también fueron destacados. Se concluye que es urgente actualizar los programas de Terapia Física para reflejar las demandas del mercado y fortalecer la educación continua. Se recomienda la implementación de políticas públicas para incentivar el trabajo en áreas rurales y la creación de sistemas de seguimiento de egresados para mejorar la adaptación profesional. Estas acciones podrían cerrar la brecha entre la formación académica y las necesidades del mercado, beneficiando a los profesionales y a los pacientes.
Spatio-temporal dynamic of forest cover distribution in Omo-Shasha-Oluwa Tropical Forest Complex, Nigeria, (2014 – 2022)
Authors: Aina Stephen , Onoja Joseph , Aminu-Kano Muhtari
Published: October 2024

: Forest Reserves (FRs) constitute a significant portion of the forested lands within protected areas, and their conservation is essential for Nigeria to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our study conducted an analysis of the dynamics of forested lands in the study area to evaluate and rank management performance over the period of 2014-2022. The forest bloc in OSO witnessed an expansion by 1.39% (3,929.67 ha) from 27.73% to 29.12% forest cover in 2014 and 2022, respectively. Forest fragments declined from 16 to 10 units for the forest bloc (>201.1 ha) with a proportionate increase in the Largest Patch Index (LPI) from 5,815.53 ha to 39,234.15 ha, in the period 2014 -2022, respectively. Omo, Ago-Owu, Ife and Shasha FRs all witnessed negative changes in the percent forest cover representing a decline of about -0.43% (529.52 ha), -37.62% (9028.8 ha), -8.54% (1217.43 ha) and -0.29% (89.55 ha), respectively. Oluwa FR had an increase in the forest cover by 17.64% or 14,596.38 ha in the period 2014 - 2022. The forest cover retention rates in the period 2014 – 2022, ranks Oluwa FR ahead of other FRs in terms of Protected Area (PA) management efficiency. The results highlight the existence of a relatively better and effective forest management system in the reserve. Landsat data are capable of providing near real-time forest cover information that can be integrated into existing tracking tools for periodically gauging management efficiency and performances across the PAs of Nigeria.
Quasi-Flat Narrow Bandgap Copper Indium Gallium Selenium Bottom Cell Application in Perovskite/Copper Indium Gallium Selenium Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Liang Bowen , Chen Lulu , Shao Xingchao , Yuan Xinye , Yu Shen , Tang Wei , Zhu Siyuan , Zhang Jie , Jiang Yan , Yang Chunlei , Li Weimin
Published: October 2024

Cu(In

1−
x

Ga

x
)

Se
2
(CIGS) is a promising and ideal material for bottom cell in tandem solar cells, which can break the double junction solar cell’s Shockley–Queisser theoretical efficiency to above 40%. However, the high-efficiency CIGS solar cells deposited by the 3-stage process is normally double grading, leading to an incomplete absorption in the bottom cells. In this study, single bandgap grading and quasi-flat bandgap CIGS solar cells are proposed and fabricated for perovskite/CIGS 4-terminal tandem solar cells, which are more favorable for long-wavelength absorption and higher short-circuit current density
J
sc
. Various characterizations have been performed to investigate the crystallization, crystal defects, composition depth profile, and carrier dynamics of the CIGS thin films. Our study reveals that the performance of CIGS solar cells with high Ga content is worse than expected. Using bandgap engineering, we can obtain CIGS solar cell with an efficiency above 16.5% regardless of the GGI [Ga/(Ga + In)] varying from 0.27 to 0.40. However, CIGS solar cells with less Ga content and low bandgap exhibit superior long-wavelength spectral response, making them more suitable for bottom cell applications in tandem solar cells. In combination with an 18.9% semitransparent inorganic perovskite solar cell, a 25.6% perovskite/CIGS tandem device in 4-T configuration is demonstrated.
A Wearable Integrated Microneedle Electrode Patch for Exercise Management in Diabetes
Authors: Zhu Boyu , Zhu Lihang , Li Xinru , Zhao Ziyi , Cao Jiayi , Qi Min , Gao Zhigang , Zhou Lin , Su Bin
Published: October 2024

Exercise is one of the preferred management strategies for diabetic patients, but the exercise mode including type, intensity, and duration time is quite different for each patient because of individual differences. Inadequate exercise has no effect on the blood glucose control, while overexercise may cause serious side effects, such as hypoglycemia and loss of blood glucose control. In this work, we report a closed-loop feedback mode for exercise management in diabetes. A minimally invasive, biocompatible microneedle electrode patch was fabricated and used for continuously monitoring the glucose in the interstitial fluid. Further, in conjunction with using a wireless electrochemical device, the glucose signals can be analyzed to output the potency of exercise and give advice on exercise management. A custom exercise given by this closed-loop feedback mode can reduce the used dose of insulin and avoid side effect during and after exercise. We believe that this work can provide a novel comprehensive guidance for diabetic patients.
The relationship of knowledge about Diabetes Mellitus risk factors with the healthy lifestyle among nursing students
Authors: Malini Hema , Hazira Khairunnisa , Kardila Intan Yullya , Lenggogeni Devia Putri
Published: October 2024

Background: The incidence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in young age groups continues to increase. Student knowledge about diabetes risk factors is still in the category of lacking so that students cannot apply healthy lifestyle implementation behaviors correctly. Purpose: The study aims to determine the relationship between knowledge and healthy living behavior in students of the Faculty of Nursing, Andalas University. Methods: The design of this study was cross sectional. The sample number was 218 students of the Faculty of Nursing and used the propotional random sampling technique. The research data was collected with DM risk factor knowledge questionnaire and healthy lifestyle application questionnaire through Google form media. Data analysis using chi-square test. Result: Researchers found that there was a relationship between knowledge of DM risk factors and the application of a healthy lifestyle (p = 0.002), where knowledge about DM risk factors was obtained in the sufficient category with the application of a low healthy lifestyle. Conclusion: Therefore, it is still necessary to increase student knowledge about diabetes mellitus risk factors.
Wojna rosyjsko-ukraińska na forum Organizacji Narodów Zjednoczonych – debaty i działania w pierwszym okresie agresji
Authors: Szczerski Krzysztof
Published: October 2024

Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine, which began in February 2022, poses a huge challenge to the activities of the United Nations in performing its basic function, which is to ensure global peace. The outbreak of this war itself can be considered a failure of UN preventive diplomacy, while the reactions to this event at the UN forum allow us to point out its strengths and weaknesses. They combine three elements: the practical effectiveness of the Organization and its specialized agencies in responding to the war crisis (humanitarian aid, support for refugees, agreement on grain exports through the Black Sea), the ability to politically mobilize the vast majority of member states in defense of the basic assumptions of the United Nations Charter expressed in the resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the internal deadlock related to the veto power of the aggressor state in the Security Council, paralyzing its decision-making process. This article outlines the fields of analysis of the impact of the first months of the Russian aggression against Ukraine in 2022 on events at the UN forum, as a case study indicating the current condition of the international system, defined as an order built on a community of rules expressed in the Charter of the United Nations (rule-based international order).
Uwarunkowania i dotychczasowe skutki inwazji Rosji na Ukrainę – (nie)bezpieczeństwo ontologiczne, przetrwanie reżimu czy dewiacja ideologiczna?
Authors: Polegkyi Oleksii , Stępniewski Tomasz
Published: October 2024

The article explains the reasons for the Russian offensive against Ukraine in terms of national security and Putin’s regime’s fear of democratization. It also offers a reflection upon ideological foundations prevalent in the Russian society. Such an approach will facilitate the understanding of how, in light of the core values and characteristics of that society, Ukraine has been portrayed as both a threat for Russian identity and an existential threat for Russia itself. The Russian invasion of Ukraine was undoubtedly aimed at gaining support at home and strengthening Putin’s regime. However, war is also integral to Putin’s project of Russia. Putin’s imperial thrust is rooted in the internal dynamics of this system. The current Russian regime is not so much based on ideology as it is striving to turn its propaganda clichés into an ideological platform. On the other hand, the war is accelerating the process of change in Russia – the current situation could lead to the collapse of Putin’s regime and even the disintegration of the Russian Federation itself, which harkens back to the collapse of the USSR.
Ewolucja stanowiska Francji wobec Ukrainy w latach 2014–2022 jako przykład gry geopolitycznej mocarstw na obszarze Europy Wschodniej
Authors: Torbicka Kinga
Published: October 2024

After 1989, France treated Eastern Europe as Russia’s sphere of influence. Until 2014, Ukraine was perceived as part of the former Russian Empire. After the annexation of Crimea by Russia, France became diplomatically active by participating in the negotiations of the Minsk agreements under the Normandy format. However, for the following years, Ukraine remained dependent on France’s political support towards Russia. The analysis aims to show the evolution of France’s position towards Ukraine in 2014–2022. This process consists in a transition from a lack of understanding of Ukraine’s geopolitical situation and desire to maintain dialogue with Russia to provide full support to Ukraine in its pursuit of European integration and real economic, political, military and humanitarian support. The analysis concerns the change of the position of France, its causes and importance for France-Ukraine relations and for Eastern Europe in the new geopolitical realities.
Imaging the distribution of a surface plasmon induced electromagnetic field at the nanoscale with MFSM
Authors: Zhang Zhenrong , Wen Huan Fei , Li Liangjie , Zhang Zhidong , Guo Hao , Li Zhonghao , Ma Zongmin , Li Xin , Tang Jun , Liu Jun
Published: October 2024

Surface plasmons play a crucial role in the fields of microscopic imaging, spectroscopy, semiconductor devices, nonlinear optics, and so on. However, there is still no robust method for characterizing the surface plasmon at the nanoscale. Here, an approach for the characterization of the surface plasmon at the nanoscale was proposed by imaging the distribution of surface plasmon-induced electromagnetic field using magnetic force spectroscopy microscopy (MFSM), and the visualization of its induced electromagnetic field is demonstrated by combining magnetic force spectroscopy with a 3D reconstruction algorithm. Furthermore, an inhomogeneous electromagnetic field caused by nanostructure defects is identified by 3D imaging. The experimental method and results are of great significance for the study of surface plasmon and their effect at the nanoscale. This technique proves invaluable for investigating surface plasmon and has great prospects in the testing and application for plasmon excitation, quantum dots, and nanosensors.
Stavolta (a) che cosa ci dobbiamo sobbarcare?
Authors: De Roberto Elisa
Published: October 2024

Sono arrivate varie domande sul verbo sobbarcare e la maggior parte riguarda la costruzione del verbo usato pronominalmente (sobbarcarsi): da quale preposizione deve essere correttamente  introdotto il complemento (sobbarcarsi a un compito difficile o sobbarcarsi di un compito difficile)? Ma il verbo pronominale può reggere anche il complemento oggetto (sobbarcarsi un compito difficile)? E si può dire essere sobbarcato di lavoro? 
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Chronic Neuropathic Lower Extremity Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Roehmer Christian
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) may be an effective treatment for neuropathic pain syndromes of the extremities, even after conventional neuromodulation techniques have failed. CASE REPORT: A 71-year-old man with a history of postlaminectomy syndrome presented with chronic left-sided leg pain after receiving no relief after undergoing multiple neuromodulation modalities. The patient subsequently underwent a successful sciatic nerve PNS trial, followed by implantation, achieving 90% pain relief after 6 weeks. CONCLUSION: We describe a case where PNS was successful in treating chronic neuropathic extremity pain after traditional neuromodulation therapies had failed. Further studies are warranted to assess the role of PNS within the treatment paradigm for refractory neuropathic pain. KEY WORDS: Chronic pain, neuromodulation, peripheral nerve stimulation
Recrudescing Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Chronicle of Orofacial Pain Before and After Cervical Cord Compression: A Case Report
Authors: Vu Peter
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Classic trigeminal neuralgia is a clinical condition with pathognomonic acute and sporadic episodes of pain. Atypical trigeminal neuralgia manifests more dull, constant, and chronic with occasional acute burning or stabbing pain as experienced in classic trigeminal neuralgia. There have been reports of trigeminal neuralgia developing after cervical insults, positing a cervical source of orofacial pain. CASE REPORT: We report a patient with chronic, bilateral atypical trigeminal neuralgia symptoms due to a cervical cavernous malformation who underwent a C3-C6 laminectomy with cavernous malformation resection and had subsequent seroma-induced bilateral classic trigeminal neuralgia. Therapist-led cervical exercises improved his symptoms. His quality of life and function independence improved and his medications were titrated down. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, trigeminal neuralgia does not always present as classic paroxysmal, electrical pain and can occur from a cervical insult distal to the C2 spinal level. KEY WORDS: Trigeminal neuralgia, cervical cord compression, case report
Are New Diagnostic Criteria Needed? Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis Concealed by Cervical Radiculopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Shah Tejas
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) involves widespread ossification of ligaments in the skeleton with associated nonspecific symptoms. Cervical DISH may result in dysphagia and orthopnea but can be missed with accompanying spinal pathology. CASE REPORT: A 52 year-old man with a history of coronary artery disease presented with worsening neck pain radiating to the bilateral upper extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed ventral osteophytes at C3-C7 and moderate stenosis at C4-C5. The patient underwent cervical epidural steroid injections resulting in partial pain relief. However, axial neck pain persisted and he reported new-onset dysphagia and orthopnea. Subsequent imaging showed C2-C7 anterior osteophytes with tracheal displacement, confirming the DISH diagnosis. The patient underwent resection of the osteophytes and had subsequent complete symptom resolution. CONCLUSION: Although radicular symptoms improved with an injection, dysphagia not previously mentioned was concerning. DISH is routinely missed in the setting of spinal pathology, such as radiculopathy. The presence of anterior cervical spine osteophytes should prompt further respiratory or swallow evaluation. KEY WORDS: Pain medicine, spine, dysphagia, orthopnea, DISH, cervical spine