bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensity Thresholds for External Workload Demands in Basketball: Is Individualization Based on Playing Positions Necessary?
Authors: Ibáñez Sergio J. , Gómez-Carmona Carlos D. , López-Sierra Pablo , Feu Sebastián
Published: February 2024

Currently, basketball teams use inertial devices for monitoring external and internal workload demands during training and competitions. However, the intensity thresholds preset by device manufacturers are generic and not adapted for specific sports (e.g., basketball) and players’ positions (e.g., guards, forwards, and centers). Using universal intensity thresholds may lead to failure in accurately capturing the true external load faced by players in different positions. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify external load demands based on playing positions and establish different intensity thresholds based on match demands in order to have specific reference values for teams belonging to the highest competitive level of Spanish basketball. Professional male players (n = 68) from the Spanish ACB league were monitored during preseason official games. Three specific positions were used to group the players: guards, forwards, and centers. Speed, accelerations, decelerations, impacts/min, and player load/min were collected via inertial devices. Two-step clustering and k-means clustering categorized load metrics into intensity zones for guards, forwards, and centers. Guards covered more distance at high speeds (12.72–17.50 km/h) than forwards and centers (p < 0.001). Centers experienced the most impacts/min (p < 0.001). Guards exhibited greater accelerations/decelerations, albeit mostly low magnitude (p < 0.001). K-means clustering allowed the setting of five zones revealing additional thresholds. All positions showed differences in threshold values (p < 0.001). The findings provide insights into potential disparities in the external load during competition and help establish position-specific intensity thresholds for optimal monitoring in basketball. These data are highly applicable to the design of training tasks at the highest competitive level.
Hubble Meets Webb: Image-to-Image Translation in Astronomy
Authors: Kinakh Vitaliy , Belousov Yury , Quétant Guillaume , Drozdova Mariia , Holotyak Taras , Schaerer Daniel , Voloshynovskiy Slava
Published: February 2024

This work explores the generation of James Webb Space Telescope (JWSP) imagery via image-to-image translation from the available Hubble Space Telescope (HST) data. Comparative analysis encompasses the Pix2Pix, CycleGAN, TURBO, and DDPM-based Palette methodologies, assessing the criticality of image registration in astronomy. While the focus of this study is not on the scientific evaluation of model fairness, we note that the techniques employed may bear some limitations and the translated images could include elements that are not present in actual astronomical phenomena. To mitigate this, uncertainty estimation is integrated into our methodology, enhancing the translation’s integrity and assisting astronomers in distinguishing between reliable predictions and those of questionable certainty. The evaluation was performed using metrics including MSE, SSIM, PSNR, LPIPS, and FID. The paper introduces a novel approach to quantifying uncertainty within image translation, leveraging the stochastic nature of DDPMs. This innovation not only bolsters our confidence in the translated images but also provides a valuable tool for future astronomical experiment planning. By offering predictive insights when JWST data are unavailable, our approach allows for informed preparatory strategies for making observations with the upcoming JWST, potentially optimizing its precious observational resources. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first attempt to apply image-to-image translation for astronomical sensor-to-sensor translation.
The Effectiveness of an Adaptive Method to Analyse the Transition between Tumour and Peritumour for Answering Two Clinical Questions in Cancer Imaging
Authors: Mottola Margherita , Golfieri Rita , Bevilacqua Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Based on the well-known role of peritumour characterization in cancer imaging to improve the early diagnosis and timeliness of clinical decisions, this study innovated a state-of-the-art approach for peritumour analysis, mainly relying on extending tumour segmentation by a predefined fixed size. We present a novel, adaptive method to investigate the zone of transition, bestriding tumour and peritumour, thought of as an annular-like shaped area, and detected by analysing gradient variations along tumour edges. For method validation, we applied it on two datasets (hepatocellular carcinoma and locally advanced rectal cancer) imaged by different modalities and exploited the zone of transition regions as well as the peritumour ones derived by adopting the literature approach for building predictive models. To measure the zone of transition’s benefits, we compared the predictivity of models relying on both “standard” and novel peritumour regions. The main comparison metrics were informedness, specificity and sensitivity. As regards hepatocellular carcinoma, having circular and regular shape, all models showed similar performance (informedness = 0.69, sensitivity = 84%, specificity = 85%). As regards locally advanced rectal cancer, with jagged contours, the zone of transition led to the best informedness of 0.68 (sensitivity = 89%, specificity = 79%). The zone of transition advantages include detecting the peritumour adaptively, even when not visually noticeable, and minimizing the risk (higher in the literature approach) of including adjacent diverse structures, which was clearly highlighted during image gradient analysis.
Teachers’ Perception of Some Effects of the COVID-19 Lockdown: The Case Study of Ludovika University of Public Service
Authors: László Gábor , Deutsch Nikolett , Berényi László
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 lockdown has had serious consequences, including rethinking higher education. The study aims to enhance the knowledge base of online education and academic integrity through a case study of the Ludovika University of Public Service (LUPS), Budapest, Hungary. The research aimed to assess the teachers’ experience with distance learning and examinations, including the change in workload, digital competencies, Moodle, Turnitin, and other software used during and after the lockdown. This paper summarizes the university-level policy changes induced during the lockdown, covering the introduction of emergency distance teaching and online examinations in academic integrity at the university. Two years after the first lockdown, the researchers made a survey (n = 145) about the continuation of the introduced solutions. The results show that a remarkable reordering started while the technical and technological backgrounds were available for the changes. The teachers could feel a significant increase in workload with distance education and have low trust in maintaining the standards of academic integrity. However, the research shows moderate and low levels of digital competencies in the majority of teachers, which clearly defines the most crucial task leading to success. Maintaining the monitoring system with objective indicators of the development and the opinions of the interested parties is essential for successful strategies in the field.
Luminous Transmittance and Color Rendering Characteristics of Evaporated Chalcopyrite Thin Films for Semitransparent Photovoltaics
Authors: Guillén Cecilia
Published: February 2024

The luminous transmittance and the color rendering index of daylight through semitransparent photovoltaic glazing are essential parameters for visual comfort indoors, and they must be considered for different absorber materials that were traditionally developed for opaque solar cells, such as those of the chalcopyrite type. With this aim, various chalcopyrite compounds (CuInSe2, CuInS2 and CuGaS2) were prepared by means of evaporation and then measured to obtain their optical absorption spectra. These experimental data are used here to calculate the solar absorptance (αS), luminous transmittance (τL) and color rendering index (Ra) as a function of the chalcopyrite film thickness. The comparative analysis of the different factors indicates that 70 nm thick CuInSe2 is optimal to guarantee excellent visual comfort (τL = 50% and Ra = 93%) while absorbing as much solar irradiance (αS = 37%) as 130 nm thick CuInS2 or 900 nm thick CuGaS2. The second option (130 nm thick CuInS2) is also considered good (τL = 40% and Ra = 80%), but for CuGaS2, the thickness should be kept below 250 nm in order to obtain a suitable color rendering Ra ≥ 60%.
An Analysis of the Relationships between Social Capital Levels and Selected Green Economy Indicators on the Example of Polish Voivodeships
Authors: Pawlewicz Katarzyna , Cieślak Iwona
Published: February 2024

This article presents the results of a study analyzing the relationships between social capital levels and the green economy in Polish regions. By linking these concepts and examining the relationships between them, the study can offer valuable insights for promoting the development of social capital and the green economy. Social capital drives individual growth, and sustainable development plays a key role in this process by improving the quality of life and well-being at a level that is permitted by the current level of civilization. Therefore, social capital is a key prerequisite for sustainable development because it regulates the environmental impact of economic growth and lays the foundation for future development. Trust, openness, and the willingness to cooperate contribute to high levels of social capital, and they are essential for pursuing the common good and preventing the misuse of shared resources. The green economy concept paves the way to sustainable development by improving well-being, reducing environmental risks, and preventing resource depletion. The aim of this study was to identify and describe the relationships between social capital levels (measured based on the main criterion and indirect criteria, including public moral norms, engagement and social bonds, and social trust) and selected green economy indicators on the example of Polish voivodeships. The study involved Polish voivodeships, and data for analyses were obtained from statistical databases in the public domain. The analyzed phenomena are complex and multi-faceted, and they were measured with the use of composite variables. Composite indicators were determined with Hellwig’s method. The study revealed low levels of the examined phenomena and considerable differences between Polish regions. Social capital (main criterion) and engagement and social bonds (indirect criterion) were significantly correlated with the composite measure of a green economy. These results indicate that high levels of social capital can contribute to the growth of integrated, stable, and rapidly evolving communities that are able to effectively cope with the challenges of the green economy transition.
Angle-Dependent XRF Analyses: Pros and Cons of a Novel Technique in the Field of Cultural Heritage
Authors: Orsilli Jacopo , Galli Anna
Published: February 2024

In the cultural heritage field, non-invasive analyses are becoming more important as they avoid any sampling, allowing in situ measurements to be performed. XRF is one of the most common among those techniques, as it allows elemental speciation of the sample with a range that goes from F to U. However, the main limitation of this technique on cultural heritage objects is due to their intrinsic inhomogeneity, both lateral and in-depth. If MA-XRF has overcome the lateral inhomogeneity through the collection of multiple XRF spectra in different positions, it is more difficult to find an optimal way to perform in-depth analyses. Now, only confocal micro XRF allows for precise 3D analyses, as other techniques are limited to certain kinds of samples. In recent years, however, angle-resolved XRF has given promising results in the analysis of layered samples. In this study, we will review the information about this new analytical technique and its advantages and disadvantages in studying cultural heritage objects following our recent studies.
Optimizing Recharge Area Delineation for Small- to Medium-Sized Groundwater Systems through Coupling Methods and Numerical Modeling: A Case Study of Linfen City, China
Authors: Lyu Kewei , Zhang Qiulan , Cui Yali , Zhang Yaobin , Zhou Yan , Lyu Lu , Dong Yihan , Shao Jingli
Published: February 2024

In previous investigations, the demarcation of capture zones within a specific research area predominantly relied on a singular method, leading to pronounced limitations and uncertainties. To address this challenge, an extensive field survey was conducted, focusing on the systematic classification of water sources in the Linfen City region. Building upon this classification, an intricate fusion of a hydrogeological analysis and formulaic methodology was employed. This integrated approach, coupled with independent numerical simulation methods, was applied to delineate recharge areas for both alluvial fan pore water in piedmont regions and exposed karst water in small- to medium-sized water sources. Simultaneously, precise spatial interpolation was carried out on water quality monitoring data from supply wells within the water source area for the year 2020. This meticulous analysis facilitated the determination of the spatial distribution characteristics of hydrochemical elements. To assess the water quality within the capture zone, the class III groundwater quality standards of China were employed as a pivotal tool for validating the results of the delineation of water source recharge areas. In the final analysis, a comparative study between the integrated coupling method and numerical simulation outcomes revealed the successful delineation of the boundaries for the water supply areas of Tumen and Caojiapo in Linfen City, covering areas of 5.5 km2 and 22.29 km2, respectively. Simultaneously, the combination of the three methods accurately outlined the boundary of the Hexi water supply area, encompassing an area of 2.5224 km2. These results vividly illustrate that the amalgamation of various methodologies proves more beneficial for the precise delineation of capture zones, particularly in diverse types and scales of groundwater sources. The synergy exhibited by these three methods underscores their collective efficacy, providing a more comprehensive and intuitive delineation of the recharge areas for small- to medium-sized water sources. Consequently, these findings significantly enhance the practical application value of the study and hold promise in making substantial contributions to local groundwater security and management initiatives.
Importance of the Ramsar Site Labudovo Okno for Sustainable Tourism—Evidence from Vojvodina Province
Authors: Trišić Igor , Brđanin Eldin , Majstorović Nevena , Candrea Adina Nicoleta , Štetić Snežana , Nechita Florin , Premović Jelena
Published: February 2024

The Ramsar Site Labudovo Okno (LO) is located in Vojvodina, on the left bank of the Danube. It covers an area of 3733 ha. This wet habitat is valuable for different ecosystems, among which the most important are those inhabited by rare bird species. The main natural resources are wetlands, created by the Danube in this shallow part of its flow. Thirty-seven sustainable tourism (ST) indicators were used to assess the current status and future prospects of tourist growth in the LO. For this study, a total of 625 respondents (255 tourists and 370 residents) were asked through a questionnaire to evaluate the current tourism and the impact on their satisfaction. Additionally, they showed that some resources are either misused or not used sufficiently, which has a detrimental effect on the LO. Part of the research was to determine how satisfied respondents were with ST. Although tourism in LO still has no important mass features, the respondents’ satisfaction with sustainable LO tourism is present to a significant extent. This is vital for ST and the creation of local tourism strategies, because the need for greater valorization of natural and social values, as well as the establishment of the roles of all subjects of tourism development, has been noticed. Certainly, nature-based, ecotourism, scientific research, and nautical and bird-watching tourism must be the primary forms of tourist movements in the LO.
Sublethal Effects of Insecticides on the Parasitism of Acerophagus flavidulus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) Parasitoid of the Obscure Mealybug, Pseudococcus viburni (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Radrigán-Navarro Catalina , Fuentes-Contreras Eduardo
Published: February 2024

Insecticides used to control agricultural pests can interfere with beneficial arthropods. This study determined the sublethal effects of two insect growth regulators—buprofezin and pyriproxyfen—and the neonicotinoid insecticide acetamiprid on adults of Acerophagus flavidulus (Brethés), a parasitoid of the obscure mealybug, Pseudococcus viburni (Signoret). A. flavidulus was exposed to insecticide residues at the minimum recommended rate of buprofezin and pyriproxyfen (1×) and 0.005× of acetamiprid on apple leaves under laboratory conditions. Each female parasitoid was in contact with the insecticide residues for 24 h and then allowed to parasitize three mealybug densities (two, four, and six nymphs) per parasitoid for 24 h. Parasitism, emergence rate, clutch size, development time, longevity, and secondary sex ratio were evaluated under each insecticide treatment and mealybug density. Application of the growth regulators buprofezin and pyriproxyfen at the labeled rate (1×) induced less sublethal effects than acetamiprid applied at a low rate (0.005×) on A. flavidulus. Pyriproxyfen and acetamiprid reduced parasitism, but they did not affect other aspects of development such as emergence rate, clutch size, development time, longevity, and secondary sex ratio. Our data suggest that buprofezin and pyriproxyfen are more compatible with A. flavidulus than acetamiprid, which could be integrated with parasitoid activity only when low residue levels in the field are attained.
Exploring the Impact of Sustainable Entrepreneurial Role Models on Students’ Opportunity Recognition for Sustainable Development in Sustainable Entrepreneurship Education
Authors: Diepolder Charlotte Sophia , Weitzel Holger , Huwer Johannes
Published: February 2024

The transformation toward a sustainable economy is considered one of the most effective measures to accelerate the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for 2030. Sustainable entrepreneurs contribute to this transformation by identifying and exploiting business opportunities based on sustainability challenges such as biodiversity loss. Recognizing a business opportunity to achieve sustainable development characterizes the beginning of the sustainable entrepreneurial process. Sustainable entrepreneurship education (SEE) aims to foster skills, knowledge, and attitudes to accomplish tasks within this complex process. Role models are a common pedagogical instrument in educational settings, such as SEE at higher education institutions, where sustainable entrepreneurs are integrated into the curriculum to enhance learning outcomes. Given the limited research on SEE for secondary education, an exploratory study is conducted to investigate the effects of sustainable entrepreneurial role models on opportunity recognition for sustainable development. A total of 136 secondary school students participated in a program that guided them through the first steps of the sustainable entrepreneurial process. A total of 68 students were non-randomly assigned to sustainable entrepreneurial role models, providing support and feedback. During the program, groups of 3–5 students generated opportunity ideas (n = 35) for sustainable development. The quality of the opportunity ideas is explored by a qualitative content analysis. The obtained data is further analyzed for statistical group differences. The findings indicate the potential positive effects of sustainable entrepreneurial role models on idea generation for sustainable development. The results can advise educators and researchers on the design and investigation of SEE for secondary education.
The Effect of CuO on the Thermal Behavior and Combustion Features of Pyrotechnic Compositions with AN/MgAl
Authors: Ketegenov Tlek , Nadirov Rashid , Teltayev Bagdat , Milikhat Bagdatgul , Kalmuratova Bakhyt , Keiichi Hori , Kamunur Kaster
Published: February 2024

Ammonium nitrate (AN) is of considerable interest to researchers in developing new types of energetic mixtures due to the release of environmentally benign gaseous products during burning and thermal decomposition. However, poor ignition and a low burning rate require special additives to speed up this process. The advantage of this research is the use of high-energy aluminum-based alloys as fuel to compensate for the disadvantages of AN. In addition, the effect of copper oxide (CuO) on the burning kinetics and thermodynamics of the energetic mixture based on ammonium nitrate–magnesium–aluminum alloys (AN/MgAl) is investigated. Alloys based on aluminum were created through a process of high-temperature diffusion welding, conducted in an environment of argon gas. The structure and thermal characteristics of alloys are determined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and DTA-TG analyses. It has been found that CuO has significant effects on the thermal decomposition of an AN/MgAl-based energetic mixture by shifting the decomposition temperature from 269.33 °C to 261.34 °C and decreasing the activation energy from 91.41 kJ mol−1 to 89.26 kJ mol−1. Adding CuO reduced the pressure deflagration limit from 2 MPa to 1 MPa, and the linear burning rate of the AN/MgAl energetic mixture increased approximately twice (rb = 6.17 mm/s vs. rb = 15.44 mm/s, at a chamber pressure of P0 = 5 MPa).
Evaluating the Spatial Evolution of the Eco-Economy Harmony in Anxi County, China, Based on Ecosystem Services Value
Authors: Hong Xiaoyan , Peng Qingxia , Zheng Rongrong , Lin Wenxiong , Fan Shuisheng , Su Kai
Published: February 2024

The harmonious development of the ecological environment and the economy is extremely important to achieve regional ecological construction and sustainable development. To properly assess the status of the harmonious development of the ecosystem and the economy, this study constructed an improved ecosystem services value (ESV) and eco-economic harmony (EEH) model to analyze the coordination relationships between the ecosystem and the economy in this region, based on Landsat TM/OLI data of Anxi County in 1999, 2009, and 2019. The results were as follows. (1) Significant changes in land- use occurred in Anxi County between 1999 and 2019. While grassland, cultivated land, and water bodies decreased by 22.91%, 36.82%, and 8.18%, respectively, other land-use types expanded including construction land (206.10%), garden land (56.39%), forest land (10.37%), and unutilized land (90.43%). (2) The ESV decreased by CNY 41.02 billion during this period, with the largest contribution from forest land and the most important service function being regulating services, and mountainous townships made a great contribution to the total ESV. (3) The eco-economic system of Anxi County was at an inharmonic level. The evaluation model produced more favorable results, especially at the township scale, which is highly sensitive to economic policy. This can provide scientific evidence for inter-regional ecological compensation and sustainable development while providing reference and inspiration for similar areas around the world to carry out relevant research.
Enhancing Fire Resilience in High-Tech Electronic Plants for Sustainable Development: Combining System Composition with Organizational Management
Authors: Xu Xianghua , Zeng Ningshuang , Li Mengmei , Liu Yan , Li Qiming
Published: February 2024

In the realm of sustainable advancements, high-tech electronics plants have evolved concomitantly with the innovations in environmentally conscious high-tech manufacturing. Nonetheless, the potential for fires in these establishments presents a profound challenge, jeopardizing both human resources and assets, while also bearing ecological implications. However, difficulty exists in understanding the system composition and fire protection features specific to the production environment. Meanwhile, sustainable development-oriented organizational countermeasures for fire resilience are rarely explored in the operations environment. Through a literature review, hypotheses development, an industrial survey, and PLS-SEM analysis using data from 84 questionnaires, this research aims to fill this gap by analyzing the system composition of high-tech electronics plants and its influence on fire resilience, emphasizing the organizational perspective. This study delves into the fire resilience of high-tech electronics plants, drawing particular attention to the imperative of fire prevention, detection, and mitigation measures. The discourse is framed within the paradigm of design-for-sustainability thinking, underscoring the integration of sustainable practices in enhancing fire resilience. By examining the interplay between various functional and organizational system composition elements, three key aspects are extracted to enhance fire resilience: (1) fire protection design measure improvement, (2) sustainable and fireproof construction facility, and (3) organizational management support. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the complex nature of high-tech electronics plants, and provide actionable insights for enhancing both fire resilience and sustainable practices in these establishments.
The Impact of LEADER Funding in Romania
Authors: Crunțeanu Monica Elena , Comșa Mircea , Fîntîneru Gina
Published: February 2024

Established in 1991 as a European initiative to enhance innovation in rural areas, the LEADER programme became an important tool for the spread of sustainable local development actions in almost all regions of the EU. In Romania, although the programme has generated the implementation of many successful local projects since 2007, quantitative evaluations of its socio-economic impact are extremely limited. The aim of this paper is to evaluate whether LEADER funding has had any effect on the eligible territory of Romania, using multiple linear regression analysis with the evolution of demographic and socio-economic indicators for the 2017–2023 period. The results show that, over a certain amount of euros/capita absorbed from LEADER at the administrative level (UAT), the positive dynamics of the statistical indicators is confirmed. This analysis represents quantitative proof of the LEADER programme’s added value, maintaining or increasing its European role in the future as a sustainable policy directed towards communities.
A Methodology to Evaluate GHG Emissions for Large Sports Events
Authors: Gandola Dante M. , Asdrubali Francesco
Published: February 2024

Determining whether a large sports event is sustainable or not is one of the main objectives of the sports industry in the coming years. Indeed, there are several sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within a sports event that are not directly controlled by the sports companies but are linked to the event itself. The literature does not offer a standardized methodology for calculating the CO2 emissions of sports events, and consequently, there are different approaches. The objective of this article is to provide an updated state-of-the-art on the topic and to propose an innovative methodology for the calculation of Greenhouse Gas emission of a large sport event. The methodology entails the analysis of purchased goods and services, fuel and energy consumption, waste generation, business travel, and the impact of accommodations. Within the analysis, tools are provided to calculate carbon emissions for each category based on easily understandable data and utilizing reference conversion factors. The research presented in this paper may be useful for professionals in the sector in identifying a comprehensive methodology to quantify greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for a large sports event.
Maximum Coverage by k Lines
Authors: Chung Chaeyoon , Vigneron Antoine , Ahn Hee-Kap
Published: February 2024

Given a set of n disks in the plane, we study the problem of finding k lines that together intersect the maximum number of input disks. We consider three variants of this problem with the following constraints on the solution: (1) no constraint on the lines, (2) the k lines should be parallel and (3) the k lines should pass through a common point. For k=2, we give O(n3logn)-time algorithms for all three cases. For any fixed k≥3, we give an O(n3k/2)-time algorithm for (1). For variants (2) and (3), the running times of our algorithms vary from O(n4) to O(n6).
Non-Lie Reduction Operators and Potential Transformations for a Special System with Applications in Plasma Physics
Authors: Sophocleous Christodoulos
Published: February 2024

Non-Lie reduction operators, also known as nonclassical symmetries, are derived for special systems that appear in Plasma Physics. These operators are used to construct similarity mappings, which reduce the systems under study into systems of ordinary differential equations. Furthermore, potential equivalence transformations are presented. Based on these results, a number of exact solutions are constructed.
Criteria for the Uniqueness of a Solution to a Differential-Operator Equation with Non-Degenerate Conditions
Authors: Kanguzhin Baltabek , Koshanov Bakytbek
Published: February 2024

In this article, the symmetric operator L corresponding to the boundary value problem is represented as the difference of two commuting operators A and B. The uniqueness of the solution is guaranteed if the spectra of the operators A and B do not intersect and the domain of the operator B is given by non-degenerate boundary conditions. In contrast to the existing papers, the criterion for the uniqueness of the boundary value problem formulated in this paper is satisfied even when the system of root functions of the operator B does not form a basis in the corresponding space. At the same time, only the closedness of the linear operator A is required.
Quantity or Quality? The Impact of Multilevel Network Structural Holes on Firm Innovation
Authors: Zhao Yan , Li Qiuying , Lyu Jianlin
Published: February 2024

Embedding collaboration networks in the context of open innovation can facilitate firm innovation. Previous studies have not considered the impact of multilevel network structural embedding on firm innovation. In this study, organizational collaboration networks, knowledge networks, and urban collaboration networks are viewed as systems to explore their impact on innovation quantity and innovation quality. We validate the research hypotheses using data from Chinese high-tech firms in the field of artificial intelligence and intelligent manufacturing equipment. The results indicate that structural holes occupied by firms in organizational collaboration networks can increase the innovation quantity and have a U-shaped effect on innovation quality. Knowledge network structural holes and urban collaboration network structural holes moderate the relationship between organizational collaboration network structural holes and innovation quantity and quality. Our findings will help firms to efficiently utilize the advantages of multilevel network structural holes to improve the innovation quantity and innovation quality.
Acellular Human Amniotic Fluid-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as Novel Anti-Inflammatory Therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Chanda Debarati , Del Rivero Tania , Ghimire Roshan , More Sunil , Mitrani Maria Ines , Bellio Michael A. , Channappanavar Rudragouda
Published: February 2024

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 is associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and fatal pneumonia. Excessive inflammation caused by SARS-CoV-2 is the key driver of ARDS and lethal disease. Several FDA-approved drugs that suppress virus replication are in clinical use. However, despite strong evidence for the role of virus-induced inflammation in severe COVID-19, no effective anti-inflammatory drug is available to control fatal inflammation as well as efficiently clear the virus. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify biologically derived immunomodulators that suppress inflammation and promote antiviral immunity. In this study, we evaluated acellular human amniotic fluid (acAF) containing extracellular vesicles (hAF-EVs) as a potential non-toxic and safe biologic for immunomodulation during COVID-19. Our in vitro results showed that acAF significantly reduced inflammatory cytokine production in TLR2/4/7 and SARS-CoV-2 structural protein-stimulated mouse macrophages. Importantly, an intraperitoneal administration of acAF reduced morbidity and mortality in SARS-CoV-2-infected mice. A detailed examination of SARS-CoV-2-infected lungs revealed that the increased protection in acAF-treated mice was associated with reduced viral titers and levels of inflammatory myeloid cell infiltration. Collectively, our results identify a novel biologic that has potential to suppress excessive inflammation and enhance survival following SARS-CoV-2 infection, highlighting the translational potential of acAF against COVID-19.
COVID-19 Vaccinations, Trust, and Vaccination Decisions within the Refugee Community of Calgary, Canada
Authors: Aghajafari Fariba , Wall Laurent , Weightman Amanda , Ness Alyssa , Lake Deidre , Anupindi Krishna , Moorthi Gayatri , Kuk Bryan , Santana Maria , Coakley Annalee
Published: February 2024

Refugee decisions to vaccinate for COVID-19 are a complex interplay of factors which include individual perceptions, access barriers, trust, and COVID-19 specific factors, which contribute to lower vaccine uptake. To address this, the WHO calls for localized solutions to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake for refugees and evidence to inform future vaccination efforts. However, limited evidence engages directly with refugees about their experiences with COVID-19 vaccinations. To address this gap, researchers conducted qualitative interviews (N = 61) with refugees (n = 45), sponsors of refugees (n = 3), and key informants (n = 13) connected to local COVID-19 vaccination efforts for refugees in Calgary. Thematic analysis was conducted to synthesize themes related to vaccine perspectives, vaccination experiences, and patient intersections with policies and systems. Findings reveal that refugees benefit from ample services that are delivered at various stages, that are not solely related to vaccinations, and which create multiple positive touch points with health and immigration systems. This builds trust and vaccine confidence and promotes COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Despite multiple factors affecting vaccination decisions, a key reason for vaccination was timely and credible information delivered through trusted intermediaries and in an environment that addressed refugee needs and concerns. As refugees placed trust and relationships at the core of decision-making and vaccination, it is recommended that healthcare systems work through trust and relationships to reach refugees. This can be targeted through culturally responsive healthcare delivery that meets patients where they are, including barrier reduction measures such as translation and on-site vaccinations, and educational and outreach partnerships with private groups, community organizations and leaders.
Musical Imagination and Reading: The Role of Sight-Reading in the Constitution of Brazilian Musical Genres
Authors: Sá Paulo , Nogueira Marcos , Maeshiro Midori
Published: February 2024

We focus on professional Brazilian music of the instrumental genre and address the crucial role of sight-reading in its development. We argue that in addition to the standard concept of sight-reading — related to the strict deciphering of signs on the pentagram — other reading praxis founded, over the last two centuries, what came to be recognized as Brazilian music. In this sense, we highlight that the notational format internationally known as lead sheet (the notational standard used in the context in question) not only enabled the availability of essen-tial musical elements for the singularization of work and authorship but also led to the con-solidation of the collection of images musicals that constituted the genre in question. In this way, the interaction of imagined simulations of generic patterns—the action of embodied memory — with reading the lead sheet gave rise to works and defined a repertoire. Consid-ering assumptions of embodied cognition of music, stylistic-musical foundations, and the analysis of recordings and transcriptions, we speculate attributing a central role to sight-read-ing in the constitution of the stylistic field addressed — primarily represented by Choro. It is a musical production originated by and in performance, encompassing phrasal and harmonic improvisation, modes of articulation, and sonority.
EFECTIVIDAD DEL CONSUMO DE BROWNIES DE SANGRECITA Y EL NIVEL DE HEMOGLOBINA EN NIÑOS DE UNA INSTITUCIÓN EDUCATIVA INICIAL PÚBLICA, ICA
Authors: Tineo Cayo María del Carmen , Hernández Diaz Melanny Alexia , Morote Córdova María Guadalupe , Palpan Vargas Angie Guadalupe , Santiago Martínez Anthony , Vera López Javier Aldahir , Curro Urbano Olga María
Published: February 2024

Según la OPS, los países desarrollados alcanzan un 11% de prevalencia de anemia, mientras que en los países en vías de desarrollo afecta al tercio poblacional, llegando a superar el 50% en el continente africano y asiático. El estudio tuvo como Objetivo: Analizar la efectividad del consumo de brownies de sangrecita sobre los niveles de hemoglobina en niños de la Institución Educativa Inicial Pública, Ica. Material y métodos: Para el desarrollo se utilizó la metodología de tipo cuasiexperimental, nivel aplicativo y de enfoque cuantitativo. La población de estudio estuvo conformada por 100 niños, se realizó el descarte de anemia mediante el analizador de hemoglobina (hemoQ), micro cubetas, lancetas y demás implementos médicos. Para analizar los resultados se tuvo en consideración los valores normales emitidos por el Ministerio de Salud(MINSA) y se utilizaron fichas de control. Resultados: Se captó a 4 niños de la IEI Nº14 Mercedes Dibós de Camino al realizar el tamizaje inicial de anemia, quienes tenían un nivel de hemoglobina inferior a los valores normales de acuerdo a la normativa del MINSA; luego de consumir los brownies de sangrecita en un intervalo de 3 veces por semana durante 7 semanas se evidenció un incremento en sus niveles de hemoglobina respecto al tamizaje inicial. Conclusiones: El consumo de brownie de sangrecita es efectivo en el tratamiento de la anemia en los niños, incrementando su nivel de hemoglobina entre 1.9 g/dl a 2.3 g/dl.
Kajian Modal Sosial Kelompok Tani Tulus Di Desa ponompiaan Kecamatan Dumoga Kabupaten Bolaang Mongondow
Authors: Tumbelaka Kristian Markopolo , Ngangi Charles Reijnaldo , Sendow Martha Mareyke
Published: February 2024

This research aims to identify and understand social capital in the Tulus Farmer Group in Ponompiaan Village, Dumoga Sub-district, Bolaang Mongondow Regency. The research was conducted for 3 months, from May to July 2023. Data collection methods in this study used primary data and secondary data. Primary data was obtained from direct interviews with members of the Tulus Farmer Group using a list of questions that had been prepared in the form of a questionnaire. Secondary data was obtained from institutions related to the research problem, namely the Ponompiaan Village government. Sampling was done purposively (purposive sampling), the sample taken was the Tulus Farmer Group with a total of 15 farmer group members/respondents. The data analysis method was descriptive qualitative. Based on a survey in the field, the Tulus Farmer Group established good social relations in the form of mutual trust between fellow members and mutual trust between farmer groups and other farmer groups. The highest social capital is in the trust indicator, followed by the social network indicator and finally the social norm indicator.
Keuntungan Pedangan Pengecer Sayur Kangkung di Pasar Wilken Tomohon Kecamatan Tomohon Timur Kota Tomohon
Authors: Walone Anggelina , Talumingan Celcius , Pangemanan Lyndon Reinhardt Jacob
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the profit of kale vegetable retailers in Wilken Tomohon Market, East Tomohon District, Tomohon City. This research was conducted for two months from June to July 2023 from the preparation stage to the preparation of research results located at Wilken Tomohon Market, East Tomohon District, Tomohon City. The data used in this research are primary data and secondary data. Primary data was obtained through interviews using a list of questions (questionnaires) to kale vegetable traders in Wilken Market, Tomohon City. Secondary data were obtained from available books, such as local books and the internet and accessing articles from various scientific journals. The sampling method was simple random sampling and a sample of 10 kale traders was taken. The research data analysis method is based on the data obtained, processed and tabulated in accordance with the results of the analysis, to test the data that has been collected in order to obtain the amount of profit, which is obtained through profit analysis. Based on the results of the study, it shows that the profit of kale vegetable retailers at Wilken Tomohon Market is obtained from total revenue of Rp1,142,000 per week less total costs of Rp703,020 per week, the profit of kale vegetable retailers is Rp438,980 per week.
Seroprevalence of COVID-19 antibodies in babies born to COVID positive or suspected mothers and their outcome
Authors: Aijaz Nighat , Bham Dr Shireen Qassim , Hassan Faiqa , Huda Nasrul , Kauser Shaheen , Sharif Umer Hayat Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Background & Objective: COVID-19 infection has been the most researched topic since its emergence in 2019. Little is known about the vertical transmission of this disease and its effects on the babies of the infected mothers in our country. We evaluated the antibody titers of babies born to COVID-19 positive or suspected COVID mothers and observed the immediate and short-term outcome of such babies. We share our experience of 43 babies born to known or suspected COVID positive mothers in a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study conducted in the departments of gynecology/obstetrics and the pediatrics of Memon Medical Institute Hospital, Karachi. Cases delivered during December 2020 till May 2021 were included in this study. Mothers known or suspected COVID positive were included and their newborn babies were screened for antibody titer. Babies were followed up for any sign of the disease for six months. Results: Out of a total of 547 deliveries conducted in our hospital during the study period, PCR test was performed amongst 43 suspected mothers and 41 (95.34%) came out to be positive on PCR, while two mothers had antibodies in their blood, so were included in the study. The antibody titer was positive in 17 (39.53%) of babies of all PCR positive mothers, and 41.46% of the babies of all confirmed COVID positive mothers. Conclusion: The results of our study conclude that the babies of a fair proportion of all the COVID affected women exhibited a good antibody response, and no disease manifestation was noticed in them for six months after birth. Key words: COVID-19; Vertical transmission; Antibody titers Citation: Aijaz N, Bham SQ, Hassan F, Huda N, Kauser S, Sharif UHA. Seroprevalence of COVID-19 antibodies in babies born to COVID positive or suspected mothers and their outcome. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2023;27(3):332−337. DOI: 10.35975/apic.v27i3.2003 Received: September 19, 2022; Reviewed: November 30, 2022; Accepted: April 4, 2023
Patients self-proning with high-flow nasal cannula improves oxygenation in mild ARDS patients: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Nasrallah Beshoy Zarief Nassar , Mahmoud Mohamed Sidky , ElGendy Hanaa Mohamed Abdallah , Mahmoud Noura M. Youssri , Aly ElGendy Mohamed Abd Elsalam
Published: February 2024

Background & Objective: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by the acute onset of tachypnea, hypoxemia, and loss of lung compliance. Clinicians have employed various means to improve oxygenation in these patients. We evaluated the effect of self-proning with a high-flow nasal cannula in patients with ARDS on oxygenation and the incidence of intubation. Methodology: Ninety patients, aged above 18 y old, patients with BMI below 30 kg/m2, from both genders, suffering from COVID-19 and mild ARDS, participated in this prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial at Ain Shams University hospitals. Participants were allocated into two equal groups; Group 1: Patients were subjected to HFNC with a target SpO2 ≥ 90% with FiO2 < 0.6. Group 2: Patients were subjected to HFNC with a target of SpO2 > 90% with FiO2 ≤ 0.6, and combined with self proning. Upon ICU admission, age, weight, BMI, sex, baseline PcO2/FiO2 (P/F) ratio, baseline SpO2 and baseline heart rate were noted. During ICU stay, hemodynamic data and respiratory rate, ABG’s were recorded on admission and every six hours after therapy 6, 12, 24, 48, and 96 h till the patient was discharged from ICU. CXR was obtained on admission and at 24 h, and assessed by Berlin criteria. Assuming a rate of intubation of 50% in the group without prone position setting power at 80% and alpha error at 0.05, a sample size of 45 patients per group was needed. Results: HFNC with proning was effective in improving oxygenation of the mild ARDS patients and decreasing the incidence of intubation; 11 patients in Group 1 and 4 in Group 2 needed to be intubated. Regarding mortality 35 patients survived in Group 1 compared to 42 in Group 2. The median ICU stay was significantly shorter in Group II, 12 (10–12) days compared to Group I, 19 (18–21); P = 0.000. Conclusion: The use of high-flow nasal cannula and proning reduced the frequency of intubation in mild ARDS patients in ICU, and also decreased the ICU stay and improved the outcome of patients with mild ARDS. Abbreviations: ARDS: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome; ICU: Intensive Care Unit; HFNC: High-Flow Nasal Cannula; NIV: Non-Invasive Ventilation Key words: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome; COVID-19; High Flow Nasal Cannula; Proning. Nasrallah BZN, et al Patients self-proning with high-flow nasal cannula www.apicareonline.com 352 Open access attribution (CC BY-NC 4.0) Citation: Nasrallah BZN, Mahmoud MS, Abdallah ElGendy HM, Youssri Mahmoud NM, Aly ElGendy MAE. Patients self-proning with high-flow nasal cannula improves oxygenation in ARDS patients: a randomized clinical trial. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2023;27(3):351−355; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v27i3.2079 Received: November 23, 2022; Reviewed: December 22, 2022; Accepted: April 08, 2023