bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PVDF Hybrid Nanocomposites with Graphene and Carbon Nanotubes and Their Thermoresistive and Joule Heating Properties
Authors: Stoyanova Stiliyana , Ivanov Evgeni , Hegde Lohitha R. , Georgopoulou Antonia , Clemens Frank , Bedoui Fahmi , Kotsilkova Rumiana
Published: May 2024

In recent years, conductive polymer nanocomposites have gained significant attention due to their promising thermoresistive and Joule heating properties across a range of versatile applications, such as heating elements, smart materials, and thermistors. This paper presents an investigation of semi-crystalline polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanocomposites with 6 wt.% carbon-based nanofillers, namely graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and a combination of GNPs and MWCNTs (hybrid). The influence of the mono- and hybrid fillers on the crystalline structure was analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It was found that the nanocomposites had increased amorphous fraction compared to the neat PVDF. Furthermore, nanocomposites enhanced the β phase of the PVDF by up to 12% mainly due to the presence of MWCNTs. The resistive properties of the nanocompositions were weakly affected by the temperature in the analyzed temperature range of 25–100 °C; nevertheless, the hybrid filler composites were proven to be more sensitive than the monofiller ones. The Joule heating effect was observed when 8 and 10 V were applied, and the compositions reached a self-regulating effect at around 100–150 s. In general, the inclusion in PVDF of nanofillers such as GNPs and MWCNTs, and especially their hybrid combinations, may be successfully used for tuning the self-regulated Joule heating properties of the nanocomposites.
Associations between Intake of Dietary Sugars and Diet Quality: A Systematic Review of Recent Literature
Authors: Cara Kelly C. , Fan Zhongqi , Chiu Yu-Hsiang , Jiang Xu , Alhmly Haya F. , Chung Mei
Published: May 2024

Understanding the relationship between the intake of sugars and diet quality can inform public health recommendations. This systematic review synthesized recent literature on associations between sugar intake and diet quality in generally healthy populations aged 2 years or older. We searched databases from 2010 to 2022 for studies of any design examining associations between quantified sugar intake in the daily diet and dietary indexes (DIs) or micronutrient intakes. Different sugar types and diet quality measures were analyzed separately. We converted DI results to Pearson’s r correlations and grouped indexes with or without a free or added sugar component to facilitate cross-study comparisons. Meta-analysis was deemed inappropriate. From 13,869 screened records, we included 27 cross-sectional studies. NUQUEST risk of bias ratings were neutral (n = 18 studies) or poor (n = 9), and strength of evidence by the GRADE approach was very low due to study design. Most studies reported negative associations for added and free sugars with diet quality indexes (r ranging from −0.13 to −0.42) and nutrients of public health concern (fiber, vitamin D, calcium, potassium), while associations with total sugars were mixed. Due to cross-sectional study designs, the clinical relevance of these findings is unclear. Prospective studies are needed to minimize confounding and inform causal relationships.
Nitrogen and Silicon Contribute to Wheat Defense’s to Pyrenophora tritici-repentis, but in an Independent Manner
Authors: Román Ramos Andrea Elizabeth , Aucique-Perez Carlos Eduardo , Debona Daniel , Dallagnol Leandro José
Published: May 2024

Nitrogen (N) and silicon (Si) are mineral elements that have shown a reduction in the damage caused by tan spot (Pyrenophora tritici-repentis (Ptr)) in wheat. However, the effects of these elements were studied separately, and the N and Si interaction effect on wheat resistance to tan spot remains elusive. Histocytological and biochemical defense responses against Ptr in wheat leaves treated with Si (+Si) at low (LN) and high N (HN) inputs were investigated. Soil amendment with Si reduced the tan spot severity in 18% due to the increase in the leaf Si concentration (around 30%), but it was affected by the N level used. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was higher in +Si plants and inoculated with Ptr, leading to early and higher H2O2 and callose accumulation in wheat leaf. Interestedly, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity was induced by the Si supplying, being negatively affected by the HN rate. Meanwhile, catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POX) activities showed differential response patterns according to the Si and N rates used. Tan spot severity was reduced by both elements, but their interaction does not evidence synergic effects in this disease’s control. Wheat plants from −Si and HN and +Si and LN treatments recorded lower tan spot severity.
Preparation and Application of Responsive Nanocellulose Composites
Authors: Zhou Yanhui , Zhang Lu , Li Yuan
Published: May 2024

Cellulose nanofibrils/poly(N-Isopropylacrylamide) semi-interpenetrating networks (MMCNF-PNAs) were synthesized using an in situ fabrication (semi-IPN). The polymerization of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) (free radical) was conducted in the presence of magnetic modified cellulose nanofibrils (MMCNFs). The adsorption behaviors and surface morphology of the synthesized adsorbents were investigated systematically. The adsorption behaviors of the as-prepared MMCNF-PNA towards methylene blue (MB, as the model contaminant) dye was studied, and the optimal adsorption conditions were also studied. The adsorption processes could be well fitted using pseudo-second-order and Elovich kinetic models. Meanwhile, Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were used to fit the adsorption which occurred at 25, 37 and 65 °C. The corresponding results showed that the Freundlich isotherm model fitted the adsorption process better, indicating that the dye’s adsorption happened via heterogeneous adsorptive energies on the prepared MMCNF-PNAs. Their desorption and reusability were also studied to verify magnetic responsivity. To sum up, MMCNF-PNAs are promising magnetic and thermal stimuli-responsive adsorbents, showing a controlled adsorption/desorption process.
A Novel Method to Characterize the Damping Capacity of EPDM/CIIR Blends Using Vibrating Rubber Balls
Authors: Liu Zhixin , Wang Kai , Wu Yongqiang , Zhang Hanxiao , Hao Tianyi , Qi Hongyang , Liu Bosong
Published: May 2024

An experimental device fixed with a laser displacement sensor was assembled to investigate the rebound behaviors and damping mechanism of rubber balls prepared with ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM)/chlorinated butyl rubber (CIIR) blends. The result showed that a prediction model was proposed to characterize the damping capacity by using the rebound height of the rubber balls. The lower rebound height corresponded to better damping capacity. A modified equation relating to the rebound height has been obtained from the theoretical derivation on the basis of the dynamic mechanical analysis, showing that the rebound height was affected by the deformation frequency, the external excitation, and the nature of rubber blends. Furthermore, the energy dissipation rate (EDR), defined by the ratio of the height loss to the rebound time, was proposed to further characterize the damping capacity. The EDR value was shown to be highest for the pure CIIR and lowest for the pure EPDM, exhibiting a decreasing trend with the increase in EPDM content in the rubber blends. It can be expected that the damping capacity of the EPDM/CIIR blends decreases with the decrease in external excitation, the conclusion of which plays a key role in the formulation design of viscoelastic damping rubber materials.
The Influence of Environmental Factors on the Degradation of PLA/Diatomaceous Earth Composites
Authors: Dobrosielska Marta , Dobrucka Renata , Brząkalski Dariusz , Pajewska-Szmyt Martyna , Kurzydłowski Krzysztof J. , Przekop Robert E.
Published: May 2024

In the present study, tests were carried out on composite samples on a polylactide matrix containing 25% by weight of mineral filler in the form of diatomaceous earth, base, and silanized with GPTMOS (3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane), OTES (n-octyltriethoxysilane), and MTMOS (methyltrimethoxysilane) silanes. The addition of two types of waxes, synthetic polyamide wax and natural beeswax, were used as a factor to increase the rheological properties of the composites. The obtained samples were characterized in terms of the effect of filler silanization on the degradation rate of the composites. The tests were conducted under different conditioning conditions, i.e., after exposure to strong UV radiation for 250 and 500 h, and under natural sunlight for 21 days. The conditioning carried out under natural conditions showed that the modified samples exhibit up to twice the degradation rate of pure polylactide. The addition of synthetic wax to the composites increases the tendency to agglomerate diatomaceous earth, while natural wax has a positive effect on filler dispersion. For composites modified with GPTMOS and OTES silanes, it was noted that the addition of natural wax inhibited the degree of surface degradation, compared to the addition of synthetic wax, while the addition of MTMOS silane caused the opposite effect and samples with natural wax degraded more strongly. It was shown that, despite the high degree of surface degradation, the process does not occur significantly deep into the composite and stops at a certain depth.
Morphological 3D Analysis of PLGA/Chitosan Blend Polymer Scaffolds and Their Impregnation with Olive Pruning Residues via Supercritical CO2
Authors: García-Casas Ignacio , Valor Diego , Elayoubi Hafsa , Montes Antonio , Pereyra Clara
Published: May 2024

Natural extracts, such as those from the residues of the Olea europaea industry, offer an opportunity for use due to their richness in antioxidant compounds. These compounds can be incorporated into porous polymeric devices with huge potential for tissue engineering such as bone, cardiovascular, osteogenesis, or neural applications using supercritical CO2. For this purpose, polymeric scaffolds of biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and chitosan, generated in situ by foaming, were employed for the supercritical impregnation of ethanolic olive leaf extract (OLE). The influence of the presence of chitosan on porosity and interconnectivity in the scaffolds, both with and without impregnated extract, was studied. The scaffolds have been characterized by X-ray computed microtomography, scanning electron microscope, measurements of impregnated load, and antioxidant capacity. The expansion factor decreased as the chitosan content rose, which also occurred when OLE was used. Pore diameters varied, reducing from 0.19 mm in pure PLGA to 0.11 mm in the two experiments with the highest chitosan levels. The connectivity was analyzed, showing that in most instances, adding chitosan doubled the average number of connections, increasing it by a factor of 2.5. An experiment was also conducted to investigate the influence of key factors in the impregnation of the extract, such as pressure (10–30 MPa), temperature (308–328 K), and polymer ratio (1:1–9:1 PLGA/chitosan). Increased pressure facilitated increased OLE loading. The scaffolds were evaluated for antioxidant activity and demonstrated substantial oxidation inhibition (up to 82.5% under optimal conditions) and remarkable potential to combat oxidative stress-induced pathologies.
An Innovative Correction–Fusion Approach for Multi-Satellite Precipitation Products Conditioned by Gauge Background Fields over the Lancang River Basin
Authors: Nan Linjiang , Yang Mingxiang , Wang Hao , Wang Hejia , Dong Ningpeng
Published: May 2024

Satellite precipitation products can help improve precipitation estimates where ground-based observations are lacking; however, their relative accuracy and applicability in data-scarce areas remain unclear. Here, we evaluated the accuracy of different satellite precipitation datasets for the Lancang River Basin, Western China, including the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) 3B42RT, the Global Precipitation Measurement Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals (GPM IMERG), and Fengyun 2G (FY-2G) datasets. The results showed that GPM IMERG and FY-2G are superior to TRMM 3B42RT for meeting local research needs. A subsequent bias correction on these two datasets significantly increased the correlation coefficient and probability of detection of the products and reduced error indices such as the root mean square error and mean absolute error. To further improve data quality, we proposed a novel correction–fusion method based on window sliding data correction and Bayesian data fusion. Specifically, the corrected FY-2G dataset was merged with GPM IMERG Early, Late, and Final Runs. The resulting FY-Early, FY-Late, and FY-Final fusion datasets showed high correlation coefficients, strong detection performances, and few observation errors, thereby effectively extending local precipitation data sources. The results of this study provide a scientific basis for the rational use of satellite precipitation products in data-scarce areas, as well as reliable data support for precipitation forecasting and water resource management in the Lancang River Basin.
Research on Input Schemes for Polarimetric SAR Classification Using Deep Learning
Authors: Zhang Shuaiying , Cui Lizhen , Zhang Yue , Xia Tian , Dong Zhen , An Wentao
Published: May 2024

This study employs the reflection symmetry decomposition (RSD) method to extract polarization scattering features from ground object images, aiming to determine the optimal data input scheme for deep learning networks in polarimetric synthetic aperture radar classification. Eight distinct polarizing feature combinations were designed, and the classification accuracy of various approaches was evaluated using the classic convolutional neural networks (CNNs) AlexNet and VGG16. The findings reveal that the commonly employed six-parameter input scheme, favored by many researchers, lacks the comprehensive utilization of polarization information and warrants attention. Intriguingly, leveraging the complete nine-parameter input scheme based on the polarization coherence matrix results in improved classification accuracy. Furthermore, the input scheme incorporating all 21 parameters from the RSD and polarization coherence matrix notably enhances overall accuracy and the Kappa coefficient compared to the other seven schemes. This comprehensive approach maximizes the utilization of polarization scattering information from ground objects, emerging as the most effective CNN input data scheme in this study. Additionally, the classification performance using the second and third component total power values (P2 and P3) from the RSD surpasses the approach utilizing surface scattering power value (PS) and secondary scattering power value (PD) from the same decomposition.
Evaluation and Drivers of Four Evapotranspiration Products in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Jin Lei , Chen Shaodan , Yang Haibo , Zhang Chengcai
Published: May 2024

Evapotranspiration is a key driver of water and energy exchanges between terrestrial surfaces and the atmosphere, significantly influencing ecosystem balances. This study focuses on the Yellow River Basin (YRB), where evapotranspiration impacts both ecological dynamics and human activities. By analyzing actual evapotranspiration data from 1982 to 2017, this research provides insights into its spatial and temporal patterns within the YRB. Furthermore, a comprehensive assessment and comparative analysis were performed on four distinct evapotranspiration product datasets: GLDAS-Noah, ERA5-Land, GLEAM v3.8a, and MOD16A2. Employing the Geodetector model, the research identified seven key influencing factors—the digital elevation model (DEM), slope, aspect, precipitation, temperature, soil moisture, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI)—and analyzed their impact on evapotranspiration variations, yielding the following insights: (1) Based on the monthly-scale actual evapotranspiration dataset from 1982 to 2017, the annual average evapotranspiration in the YRB fluctuated between 375 and 473 mm, with an average value of 425 mm. A declining trend in the region’s overall evapotranspiration was discerned using the Theil–Sen median slope estimator and Mann–Kendall trend test. (2) The datasets from GLDAS-Noah, ERA5-Land, and GLEAM exhibited the highest correlation with the observed datasets, all exceeding a correlation coefficient of 0.96. In contrast, the MOD16A2 dataset showed the least favorable performance. The ERA5-Land dataset was particularly noteworthy for its close alignment with observational benchmarks, as evidenced by the lowest recorded root mean square error (RMSE) of 5.09 mm, indicative of its outstanding precision. (3) Employing the Geodetector model, a thorough analysis was conducted of the interactions between evapotranspiration and seven critical determinants. The findings revealed that precipitation and the NDVI were the most significant factors influencing evapotranspiration, with q-values of 0.59 and 0.42 in 2010, and 0.71 and 0.59 in 2015, respectively. These results underscore their pivotal role as the main drivers of evapotranspiration variability within the YRB. Conversely, the q-values for slope in 2010 and 2015 were only 0.01 and nearly zero, respectively, indicating their minimal impact on the dynamics of evapotranspiration in the YRB.
Influence of Cognitive Factors on Adherence to Social Distancing and the Use of Masks during the COVID-19 Pandemic by Young Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Almeida-Silva Marina , Andrade Graça , Luis Tamara , Santos Margarida , Grilo Ana
Published: May 2024

Social distancing and the use of masks are crucial to prevent the spread of SARS-COV-2. Knowledge of the determinants of this behavior is essential to promote effective communication with the public in future public health crises that require mass public compliance with preventive behaviors. This systematic review focused on scientific evidence related to cognitive factors that underlie the intention of young adults’ intention to adhere to preventive social behavior (distancing and/or the use of facial masks) against COVID-19. A systematic literature search on the electronic database, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO was performed in December 2022 according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The PEO (Population: young adults, Exposure: COVID-19, and Outcome: cognitive factors that underlie the intention of young adults to adhere to social distancing and/or the use of facial masks) was developed to identify search terms and inclusion/exclusion criteria. Eight studies met the eligibility criteria. None of the studies were seriously flawed according to the quality assessment, and they were considered to have a low risk of bias for selection. Several cognitive determinants emerged in the analysis. For both social distancing and the use of masks, the most relevant factors related to adherence include risk perception and perceived severity, the moral value of fairness, social responsibility, trust in the government, respect for authority, and the quality of institutional communication. Adherence to social distancing was found related to self-efficacy. These results reinforce social cognitive models showing the relevance of cognitions to adherence behavior, and highlight the responsibility of official institutions in the development of contexts and in adapting the communication for the effective promotion of adherence to the recommendations they launch.
Experiencing Negative Racial Stereotyping: The Case of Coloured People in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Tewolde Amanuel Isak
Published: May 2024

Scholars examining racial stereotyping and prejudice in racially organised social systems have largely focused on how non-White ethnic and racial groups experience racial stereotyping in White-majority national contexts such as the US, Australia and European countries. There is only scant scholarship on experiences of ethno-racial communities in Black-majority countries such as South Africa, a country where Whites are a minority. Even though there is ample scholarly work on racial stereotyping of racial groups in South Africa such as Coloured people, much of it is focused on their experiences during colonial and Apartheid eras. Little is understood about how Coloured people experience racial stigmatisation in post-Apartheid South Africa. This paper addresses this gap. Based on interviews with fourteen Coloured participants from Westbury, Johannesburg, this study found that many interviewees claimed that Coloured South Africans were negatively racially stereotyped as people who use drugs, as aggressive and violent people, as alcoholics and as criminals. Many participants also resisted and countered the negative stereotypes by talking about Coloured people in positive ways, which shows their agency. The negative stereotyping of Coloured people which prevailed during colonial and Apartheid times is still deployed by society to describe Coloured people in post-Apartheid South Africa. To capture the continuity of negative stereotyping in South Africa about Coloured people, I developed the analytical term of ‘perpetual racial stereotyping’. Many decades after the end of the Apartheid system, negative racial stereotyping of Coloured South Africans still continues in everyday life, and Coloured people are still associated with racist prejudices, narratives, discourses and stereotypes that were invented many decades ago by settler colonialism and Apartheid.
Ecological Suitability Evaluation of Chinese Pearleaf Crabapples in Horqin Right Wing Front Banner Based on GIS
Authors: Lan Xiaozhen , Wang Jixuan , Pei Zhiyong , Li Ying , Via Brian K. , Peng Xinkai , Ma Yicheng
Published: May 2024

The Chinese pearleaf crabapple tree, belonging to the Rosaceae family and with the scientific name Malus asiatica, bears fruits that serve as both food and medicine. The Horqin Right Wing Front Banner is a critical node for ecological security in the northern border regions of China, exerting significant influence on ecological health in China. Additionally, the resources in this region are limited, and residents have historically relied solely on maize cultivation for sustenance. Therefore, local measures combining ecological conservation and economic development have been implemented in vigorously promoting the Chinese pearleaf crabapple industry. Hence, it is necessary to study the ecological suitability of the local Chinese pearleaf crabapple. In this study, 15 evaluation indicators are employed for this purpose, with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) used to calculate single-factor weights. Additionally, GIS is utilized to establish membership functions for achieving dimensionless evaluation indicators, as well as a weighted index and model used to compute comprehensive suitability scores. Using the natural breakpoint method, the overall scores were categorized into five groups: most suitable, more suitable, barely suitable, unsuitable, and not applicable. The validation of zoning results includes verification of existing planting locations and conducting principal component analysis of the characteristics and yield of Chinese pearleaf crabapple to ensure the accuracy of the zoning. It is found that the validation results are generally consistent with the zoning results. The results indicate that the most suitable, more suitable, suitable, barely suitable, and unsuitable represent 16.49%, 32.07%, 30.36%, 14.52%, and 6.55% of the total zoning area, respectively. These findings can be applied to land use planning and in expanding the planting area of Chinese pearleaf crabapple.
A Sustainable Approach to Reconstruction: Historical Roof Structure Interventions
Authors: Kirizsán Imola , Tudoreanu-Crișan Adrian
Published: May 2024

The reconstruction of structural subassemblies in historic buildings is a widely debated topic that often arises throughout a building’s lifespan. The most vulnerable structures and, consequently, the most frequently modified are roofs, due to the materials used, which render them susceptible to biological decay or fire. This paper aims to analyse roof reconstructions across various historical periods and under different circumstances depending on the necessity for construction or reconstruction. Several exceptional reconstructions from Europe are examined, where the final solution was determined based on sustainability criteria from the construction period. Wood in roof trusses is often replaced with alternative materials such as metal or reinforced concrete. In the case of the Evangelical Church in Bistrița, destroyed by fire for the second time in 2008, the solution of replication using wood was adopted, and the wooden elements were calculated for fire resistance, according to the Eurocodes. Another important aspect to consider when constructing new roofs is the need for protective or temporary roof structures, where sustainability and reusability are fundamental requirements. The principles used to choose the covering method were different depending on the reconstruction period. Three analysis criteria were defined to compare historical solutions with current sustainability principles in the reconstruction and construction of new roofs for existing buildings.
Modeling the Decision and Coordination Mechanism of Power Battery Closed-Loop Supply Chain Using Markov Decision Processes
Authors: Zhang Huanyong , Li Ningshu , Lin Jinghan
Published: May 2024

With the rapid growth of the new energy vehicle market, efficient management of the closed-loop supply chain of power batteries has become an important issue. Effective closed-loop supply chain management is very critical, which is related to the efficient utilization of resources, environmental responsibility, and the realization of economic benefits. In this paper, the Markov Decision Process (MDP) is used to model the decision-making and coordination mechanism of the closed-loop supply chain of power batteries in order to cope with the challenges in the management process, such as cost, quality, and technological progress. By constructing the MDP model for different supply chain participants, this paper investigates the optimization strategy of the supply chain and applies two solution methods: dynamic programming and reinforcement learning. The case study results show that the model can effectively identify optimized supply chain decisions, improve the overall efficiency of the supply chain, and coordinate the interests among parties. The contribution of this study is to provide a new modeling framework for power battery recycling and to demonstrate the practicality and effectiveness of the method with empirical data. This study demonstrates that the Markov decision-making process can be a powerful tool for closed-loop supply chain management, promotes a deeper understanding of the complex decision-making environment of the supply chain, and provides a new solution path for decision-making and coordination in the supply chain.
Surveillance of Parrot Bornavirus in Taiwan Captive Psittaciformes
Authors: Villanueva Brian , Chen Jin-Yang , Lin Pei-Ju , Minh Hoang , Le Van , Tyan Yu-Chang , Chuang Jen-Pin , Chuang Kuo-Pin
Published: May 2024

Parrot bornavirus (PaBV) is an infectious disease linked with proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) with severe digestive and neurological symptoms affecting psittacine birds. Despite its detection in 2008, PaBV prevalence in Taiwan remains unexplored. Taiwan is one of the leading psittacine bird breeders; hence, understanding the distribution of PaBV aids preventive measures in controlling spread, early disease recognition, epidemiology, and transmission dynamics. Here, we aimed to detect the prevalence rate of PaBV and assess its genetic variation in Taiwan. Among 124 psittacine birds tested, fifty-seven were PaBV-positive, a prevalence rate of 45.97%. Most of the PaBV infections were adult psittacine birds, with five birds surviving the infection, resulting in a low survival rate (8.77%). A year of parrot bornavirus surveillance presented a seasonal pattern, with peak PaBV infection rates occurring in the spring season (68%) and the least in the summer season (25%), indicating the occurrence of PaBV infections linked to seasonal factors. Histopathology reveals severe meningoencephalitis in the cerebellum and dilated cardiomyopathy of the heart in psittacine birds who suffered from PDD. Three brain samples underwent X/P gene sequencing, revealing PaBV-2 and PaBV-4 viral genotypes through phylogenetic analyses. This underscores the necessity for ongoing PaBV surveillance and further investigation into its pathophysiology and transmission routes.
Dengue Virus and Zika Virus Seroprevalence in the South Pacific Populations of the Cook Islands and Vanuatu
Authors: Saretzki Charlotte E. B. , Dobler Gerhard , Iro Elizabeth , Heussen Nicole , Küpper Thomas
Published: May 2024

Arboviral diseases are serious threats to global health with increasing prevalence and potentially severe complications. Significant arthropod-borne viruses are the dengue viruses (DENV 1-4), the Zika virus (ZIKV), and the chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Among the areas most affected is the South Pacific Region (SPR). Here, arboviruses not only cause a high local burden of disease, but the region has also proven to contribute to their global spread. Outpatient serum samples collected between 08/2016 and 04/2017 on three islands of the island states of Vanuatu and the Cook Islands were tested for anti-DENV- and anti-ZIKV-specific antibodies (IgG) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). ELISA test results showed 89% of all test sera from the Cook Islands and 85% of the Vanuatu samples to be positive for anti-DENV-specific antibodies. Anti-ZIKV antibodies were identified in 66% and 52%, respectively, of the test populations. Statistically significant differences in standardized immunity levels were found only at the intranational level. Our results show that in both the Cook Islands and Vanuatu, residents were exposed to significant Flavivirus transmission. Compared to other seroprevalence studies, the marked difference between ZIKV immunity levels and previously published CHIKV seroprevalence rates in our study populations is surprising. We propose the timing of ZIKV and CHIKV emergence in relation to recurrent DENV outbreaks and the impact of seasonality as explanatory external factors for this observation. Our data add to the knowledge of arboviral epidemics in the SPR and contribute to a better understanding of virus spread, including external conditions with potential influence on outbreak dynamics. These data may support preventive and rapid response measures in the affected areas, travel-related risk assessment, and infection identification in locals and returning travelers.
Advancements in Research on Duck Tembusu Virus Infections
Authors: Cheng Yuting , Wang Ruoheng , Wu Qingguo , Chen Jinying , Wang Anping , Wu Zhi , Sun Fang , Zhu Shanyuan
Published: May 2024

Duck Tembusu Virus (DTMUV) is a pathogen of the Flaviviridae family that causes infections in poultry, leading to significant economic losses in the duck farming industry in recent years. Ducks infected with this virus exhibit clinical symptoms such as decreased egg production and neurological disorders, along with serious consequences such as ovarian hemorrhage, organ enlargement, and necrosis. Variations in morbidity and mortality rates exist across different age groups of ducks. It is worth noting that DTMUV is not limited to ducks alone; it can also spread to other poultry such as chickens and geese, and antibodies related to DTMUV have even been found in duck farm workers, suggesting a potential risk of zoonotic transmission. This article provides a detailed overview of DTMUV research, delving into its genomic characteristics, vaccines, and the interplay with host immune responses. These in-depth research findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the virus’s transmission mechanism and pathogenic process, offering crucial scientific support for epidemic prevention and control.
Acesso precoce à fisioterapia após a alta hospitalar de uma Unidade de AVC em Joinville
Authors: Preis Sabrina , Eckermann da Silva Helton , Klitzke Fabiane Maria , Beiersdorff Klug Adriana , Engster Maria Paula
Published: May 2024

Objetivo. Caracterizar o acesso à reabilitação após AVC na rede pública da região de saúde de Joinville, as barreiras e facilitadores encontrados pelos usuários. Método. Estudo observacional, longitudinal e prospectivo realizado na Unidade de AVC do Hospital Municipal São José entre abril e julho de 2023. A amostra incluiu pacientes com AVC, com idade ≥18 anos, indicados para reabilitação fisioterapêutica e que assinaram o TCLE. Os participantes foram avaliados com um questionário sociodemográfico e clínico, além de um questionário de acesso após 30 dias da alta hospitalar. Resultados. Foram incluídos 45 pacientes, com idade média de 65,12±13,47 anos, principalmente do município de Joinville (67,5%). A maioria tinha fatores de risco como hipertensão (70,0%) e diabetes (52,5%). Após a alta, 65,0% iniciaram a reabilitação em até 30 dias, com média de 8,5±7,7 dias na região e 14,5±9,8 dias em Joinville. A condução própria foi um facilitador (61,5%), enquanto a fila de espera nas clínicas do SUS foi a principal barreira (35,0%). Conclusões. O acesso à reabilitação foi efetivo para mais da metade dos pacientes em até 30 dias, com indicadores similares ou superiores à literatura brasileira. Facilitadores incluíram protocolos estabelecidos, equipe multiprofissional, estratégias de educação em saúde, realização de encaminhamentos na alta e posse de condução própria. A principal barreira foi a fila de espera nos serviços públicos, impossibilitando o acesso precoce e levando os usuários e familiares a buscarem serviços particulares.
Sensorial Investigation for Automated Patient Data Collection in Hospital Triage: An Exploratory Assessment of the Literature
Authors: Victor Guerra de Araújo e Souza  , Ana Luiza Cantharino Maciel  , Vitor Yan Miranda Basañez1  , Thâmara Raíssa Monteiro Lins
Published: May 2024

This paper delves into the proposal of integrating a comprehensive system of vital signs sensors to advance the BayIEEEmax project, which aims to develop an autonomous robot to aid in the triage process within hospital settings. A thorough investigation was conducted to explore commercially available sensor types capable of measuring patients' body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. The research focused on assessing the identified sensor models' feasibility and compatibility with the prototype's requisite automation criteria. Ultimately, the selected set of sensors will be incorporated into a printed circuit board and integrated into the physical model of the robot for experimental validation.
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) as a Facilitator of Organizational Culture for the Implementation of Key Indicators (KPIs)
Authors: Nelson Mendes Nunes  , Ana Paula Bernardo Mendonça  , José Orbílio de Souza Abreu  , Katharine Valéria Saraiva Hodel  , Bruna Aparecida Souza Machado  , Fernando Medina
Published: May 2024

The study is based on literature reviews focusing on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), organizational culture, and corporate Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). Its objective is to identify synergies and intersections related to these themes and provide guidelines for constructing a learning model centered on MOOCs. The findings suggest that MOOCs can contribute to fostering a performance-oriented organizational culture by enhancing technical and adjacent skills, thus aiding in adopting KPIs within organizations. The study proposes a set of guidelines comprising 10 distinct elements for implementing a learning model based on MOOCs.
Enhancing Anaerobic Digestion Process: A Comprehensive Optimization Study
Authors: Camila Santos Oliveira  , Luciano Sergio Hocevar  , Jadiel dos Santos Pereira  , Felipe Andrade Torres  , Carine Tondo Alves
Published: May 2024

Anaerobic digestion constitutes a series of chemical reactions facilitated by anaerobic microorganisms, wherein organic matter is converted into biofuels. We did a bibliometric study to comprehend the factors influencing the optimization of this process. This investigation underscored crucial parameters affecting methane and biogas production: temperature, pH, hydraulic retention time (HRT), carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, and sample preparation and treatment procedures. We recommend an average of parameters as T = 35°C, pH = 6, HRT = 21 days, and total chemical oxygen demand > 8.5 COD/m³.d to attain optimal outcomes, it is recommended to maintain. By adhering to these guidelines, the process can be enhanced, thereby fostering greater efficiency in biogas production.
Development of Hydrophobic Fabrics Modified with Graphene: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rodrigo Denizarte de Oliveira Polkowski  , Pollyana Silva Melo  , Leonardo Freitas  , Katielly Vianna Polkowski
Published: May 2024

Pursuing fabric with hydrophobicity and self-cleaning properties has been a focal point across various applications. Graphene has emerged as a prominent contender for fabric modification to augment hydrophobicity. This study endeavors to conduct a systematic review of fabrics imbued with graphene for hydrophobic applications, concentrating on the most recent five years and employing the PRISMA method (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses). Articles were curated from reputable databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct. Following meticulous inclusion/exclusion criteria, thirty-seven studies were deemed eligible for inclusion in the review.
V. V. Nikitin’s life and scintific path
Authors: Matveev I. Yu.
Published: May 2024

The article analyzes the life and scientific path of mineralogist and geologist, director of the Mining Institute V. V. Nikitin. A talented student of the outstanding Russian crystallographer E. S. Fedorov, V. V. Nikitin devoted his life to mining and science. Thanks to foreign sources, the author managed to compile a more detailed biography of V. V. Nikitin after his emigration from the USSR to Yugoslavia.
Charitable activities of the fraternity of St. Anastasia in Menton (France) in the 1920s and attempts to sequester the property of the Russian Church Abroad
Authors: Khmyrov (Hieromonk Nikodim) D. N.
Published: May 2024

The article deals with charity work of the fraternity of St. Anastasia in Menton (France) in 1920s. This period of life of the Russian Orthodox parish has not been given detailed attention by researches yet. The important issues are considered reflecting the specifics of the life of Russian emigrants: reviving the parish’s activities, in new historical circumstances, overcoming material and judicial difficulties, protecting the church property from the assault of Soviet government from the materials from the State Archive of the Russian Federation. Charity was one of the most important issues of the Synod of Bishop of ROCOR besides dealing with financial issues, the appointment of clergymen, organization of educational and publishing activities. An important role in that was played by orthodoxy fraternity and sorority sisters, each of which had its own task. The location of the Russian house in Menton in France, on the French Riviera (“Cote d'Azur” (Fr.)), caused the type of activity of the fraternity of St. Anastasia. Its aim was to help elderly Russian emigrants, to take care of sick and who died. The main peculiarity of the Fraternity was its independent financial position. It was the only charitable organization of Russian emigrants in France that existed independently of private donations, fees, subscriptions, charity concerts and bazaars, because it had valuable social and national property. Due to the competent management of the Fraternity Council in different periods, regardless of the jurisdictional membership of its members, it was possible to save the Russian house as a public institution that maintains a connection with orthodox traditions in care and charity.
Taste is king, metaphtonymy is tool
Authors: Remyannikova D. O.
Published: May 2024

Advertisements and advertising slogans are around us all the time. There is not a day when we would not come across at least one advertisement that would not be accompanied by a slogan. Current research paper focuses on analyzing metaphtonymy in Burger King advertising slogan: “Taste is king”. Step metaphtonymy analysis is applied in order to study pragmatic, syntagmatic and paradigmatic relations. Association experiment is carried out to increase availability of the results and to identify the peculiarity of consumer consciousness. The results of the research demonstrate that most associations connected with the lexeme “king” have positive reactions.
Parody as a way of comprehension of Benjamin Disraeli’s creative search
Authors: Ivanova L. A.
Published: May 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the experience of parodic comprehension of the artistic discoveries of Benjamin Disraeli (1804–1881), an outstanding British statesman and talented writer, one of the founders of the socio-political novel genre in world literature. In the context of intensive study of the political activity and creative heritage of Disraeli, the parodic interpretation of the artistic reality of his novels in the work of the American writer Francis Bret Harte (1836–1902) is of particular interest. The critical and cognitive potential of Bret Harte's parody “Lothaw” from the series “Condensed Novels” is explored. The main methods of this research are cultural-historical, comparative-historical and intertextual analysis methods, as well as a receptive aesthetics method and biographical commentary.
KOLIADKAS IN CHRISTMAS RITUALS (PSKOV-PECHORA OBOZERYE AND VELIKORECHYE REGIONS)
Authors: Yurchuk L. A.
Published: May 2024

The article, based on an analysis of materials from the folklore archive of Pskov
State University, recorded on the territory of the Pskov-Pechora Obozerye and
Velikorechye regions during folklore expeditions of the 1970s–2010s, presents the place
of koliadkas in the Christmas and New Year home-to-home walk complex and identifies
stable elements of their structures. The practice of “under the window” performance of
koliadkas of a general type (addressed to the whole family) in the period from Christmas
Eve to Epiphany by mixed gender and age groups of singers, often mummers, has been
noted. An analysis of the structure of koliadkas showed an almost universal absence of a
benevolent and majestic part in their composition, which indicates a transformation of
the genre, as it leads to the loss of the song’s original semantics, that is a spell for
the well-being of the family for the coming year. Koliadkas of the Pskov-Pechora
Obozerye and Velikorechye regions are usually short texts that open with a ritual
beginning and continue with a request, demand and threat in the main part.
EDUCATIONAL SECONDARY TEXT: CONCEPT CONTENT
Authors: Zaika V. I. , Yashina D. S.
Published: May 2024

The work examines educational secondary text, which is understood as the result of
the speech activity of a student performing a task to transform a literary text. In the
process of clarifying the content of the central concept, the content of terminological
elements is considered in detail including textual, secondary, educational; as well as
terms denoting related phenomena. The source text is understood as a text-object to
which the reader's attention is directed; the referential space (written work) is
understood as a product of perception, understanding and experience of the source text;
the primary text is understood as the result of the perception of the source text with
the intention of creating the secondary text. The referential space and the primary text
are a mental formation, an intermediate link in the process of transforming the source
text into the secondary one. One can only guess about the peculiarities of the structure
of the referential space; about the primary text, one can only assume in explicated
terms. The secondary text is socially conditioned, that is, it is written according to
generally accepted norms and is open to understanding by any native speaker, including
teachers. This factor is enhanced by the formulated task – the second source text for
writing the secondary text. The concepts described in the article related to the
educational secondary text should be considered when considering the parameters of
describing these texts for the zones of the referential space and the primary text,
which are hidden from direct observation by the mechanisms of transformation of a
literary text into an educational secondary text.
Desafíos a la sindicalización en democracias contemporáneas
Authors: Carneiro Fabricio , Traversa Federico
Published: May 2024

Durante los últimos cincuenta años la proporción de trabajadoras y trabajadores sindicalizados ha disminuido en términos generales en el mundo, muy especialmente en los países de mayor desarrollo relativo. Uno de los factores que puede incidir en esta tendencia, son los cambios en las condiciones de trabajo, ligados a la caída del empleo industrial, la desregulación e informalización, y la segmentación general de las condiciones de trabajo, que afectan los incentivos a la sindicalización en el lugar de trabajo. Este trabajo analiza como estas tendencias puede afectar los incentivos a la sindicalización y expone la incidencia de estos factores a través de un estudio de datos sobre la sindicalización de primer grado en el Uruguay reciente
Poder desde la Información y la Propaganda
Authors: Da Silva Rodrigues Charles Ysaacc
Published: May 2024

La interacción, creación y difusión de contenidos digitales en la red genera una cierta angustia en quienes creían controlar la información en sus entornos, sobre todo, cuando piensan en la cantidad de información disponible en esta nueva sociedad digital. Una forma de servidumbre voluntaria que limita la libertad de la ciber humanidad, porque según Étienne de la Boétie las sociedades permiten que un único hombre, quien gobierna, dirija la vida de las personas, entonces, todos los datos disponibles en la red podrían establecer un proceso propagandístico sin precedente, con el propósito único del adoctrinamiento y tiranía. Estas formas de manipulación no son más, que la inversión de la necesidad social, por desgracia, en los tiempos que corren, estos mecanismos se basan en las fake news, cancel culture y otras estrategias de la psicopolítica que igualmente se fundamentan en mensajes de obediencia