bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Navigating the path of reproducibility in microRNA-based biomarker research with ring trials
Authors: Sopić Miron , Devaux Yvan , de Gonzalo-Calvo David 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
The development of microRNA (miRNA)-based biomarkers has gained significant attention due to their potential diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic applications. However, the reproducibility of miRNA biomarker research faces unique challenges, primarily due to the influence of pre-analytical and analytical factors. The absence of standardized procedures contributes to inconsistencies across studies, alongside challenges in reference gene selection, data analysis methods and miRNA profiling platforms. Inter-laboratory comparison trials, or ring trials, offer a strategic approach to address technical and biological variability in miRNA biomarker studies. These trials promote standardization, identify sources of variability and strengthen the correlation between miRNAs and clinical outcomes. Despite their underutilization in miRNA biomarker research, ring trials represent a valuable tool for enhancing reproducibility and expediting the translation of miRNA-based biomarkers into clinical applications.
The anti-self-dual deformation complex and a conjecture of Singer
Authors: Gover A. Rod , Gursky Matthew J. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Let

(

M
4

,
g
)

(M^{4},g)

be a smooth, closed, oriented anti-self-dual (ASD) four-manifold.

(

M
4

,
g
)

(M^{4},g)

is said to be unobstructed if the cokernel of the linearisation of the self-dual Weyl tensor is trivial.
This condition can also be characterised as the vanishing of the second cohomology group of the ASD deformation complex, and is central to understanding the local structure of the moduli space of ASD conformal structures.
It also arises in construction of ASD manifolds by twistor and gluing methods.
In this article, we give conformally invariant conditions which imply an ASD manifold of positive Yamabe type is unobstructed.
Unraveling Conversational Implicatures: A Study on Arabic EFL Learners
Authors: Rabab’ah Ghaleb , Cheikh Mariam , Al-Deaibes Mutasim 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
The present research aimed to evaluate the comprehension level of conversational implicature among a group of 30 senior Native Arabic-speaking students enrolled in the BA program of English Language and Literature at a UAE university. The participants’ comprehension of implicatures was assessed by providing them with 20 excerpts from the American sitcom Seinfeld (https://www.seinfeldscripts.com/seinfeld-scripts.html). The participants were asked to select the implied meaning of one underlined utterance as it occurred in context. The findings of the study indicate that Arab English as a Foreign Language learners have a slightly below-average proficiency in comprehending implicatures produced by native English speakers, which can be attributed to their lower level of proficiency, lack of pragmatic competence, and their lack of information about the American culture. The most challenging types of implicatures to grasp were those flouting the maxim of manner (35.34%), while the easiest types to interpret were those flouting the maxim of quantity.
Effect of applying a full oxygen blast furnace on carbon emissions based on a carbon metabolism calculation model
Authors: Li Hui , Xia Yuhua , Meng Qingyong , Bai Hao , Xia Yunjin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
In this study, the effects of applying a full oxygen blast furnace (FOBF) on carbon emissions were investigated by determining the ultimate minimum carbon consumption and a carbon metabolism calculation model. The results demonstrate that the minimum coke ratio of the top gas circulation-FOBF (TGR-FOBF) is significantly reduced (from 270 to 207 kg·thm−1) compared to that of the traditional ironmaking blast furnace (TBF). Owing to the complete recycling of the furnace top gas of the TGR-FOBF, the degree of direct reduction of TGR-FOBF significantly decreased to 0.14. The replacement of the TGR-FOBF with the three TBFs significantly reduced the CO2 emissions, which were the highest at 1.761 t-CO2/t-CS. Most of the CO2 emissions were generated by the direct combustion emissions (CDE) and direct process emissions (PDE), with a small amount generated by the electricity indirect emissions (EIE). The CO2 emissions generated by CDE, PDE, and EIE were 0.872 t-CO2/t-CS, 0.840 t-CO2/t-CS, and 0.049 t-CO2/t-CS, respectively. As the amount of TGR-FOBF replaced with the three TBFs increased, the CO2 emissions generated by the CDE and PDE significantly decreased. When all three TBFs were replaced with TGR–FOBF, the CO2 emissions generated by the CDE and PDE decreased to extremely low levels of 0.267 t-CO2/t-CS and 0.065 t-CO2/t-CS, respectively.
Improving lung allograft function in the early post-operative period through the inhibition of pyroptosis
Authors: Gouchoe Doug A. , Zhang Zhentao , Kim Jung-Lye , Lee Yong Gyu , Whitson Bryan A. , Zhu Hua 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Lung transplantation is the only definitive therapy for end-stage pulmonary disease. Less than 20 % of offered lungs are successfully transplanted due to a limited ischemic time window and poor donor lung quality manifested by pulmonary edema, hypoxia, or trauma. Therefore, poor donor organ recovery and utilization are significant barriers to wider implementation of the life-saving therapy of transplantation. While ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) is often identified as the underlying molecular insult leading to immediate poor lung function in the post-operative period, this injury encompasses several pathways of cellular injury in addition to the recruitment of the innate immune system to the site of injury to propagate this inflammatory cascade. Pyroptosis is a central molecular inflammatory pathway that is the most significant contributor to injury in this early post-operative phase. Pyroptosis is another form of programmed cell death and is often associated with IRI. The mitigation of pyroptosis in the early post-operative period following lung transplantation is a potential novel way to prevent poor allograft function and improve outcomes for all recipients. Here we detail the pyroptotic pathway, its importance in lung transplantation, and several therapeutic modalities that can mitigate this harmful inflammatory pathway.
Simple Mobility Tests Predict Use of Assistive Devices in Older Adults
Authors: Matsuda Toru , Muranaga Shingo , Zeni Joseph A. , Yoshida Yuri 
Published: May 2024

Background:
Assistive devices (ADs) for ambulation are commonly provided to improve safety and independence in older adults. Despite the common use of these devices, there are no standard prescribing guidelines, and non–health care providers, including caregivers and family members, often make decisions about the need for ADs. Identifying factors or a single screening test associated with AD use would benefit clinicians and non–health care caregivers in making decisions to adopt an AD for patients, clients, and family members.

Purpose/Objectives:
The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to identify the test that best predicts ADs for ambulation and non-AD use among community-dwelling individuals.

Methods:
Eighty-five older adults (81.6 ± 8.2 years old) who underwent outpatient physical therapy participated in this study. They participated in a series of tests, including the Timed Up and Go, handgrip and quadriceps strength, the 30-second chair-rise test, the 5-m fast gait speed, the Functional Independence Measure, the locomotive syndrome tests (stand-up test, 2-step test [2ST], and the Locomo-5 Checklist), and numeric pain scales. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to identify differences between those who did and did not use an AD for ambulation. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine which test best predicted AD use.

Results:
80% of participants (n = 68) used an AD for ambulation. There were significant differences in all test variables between users and nonusers (P = .033 to P < .001), except for quadriceps strength, age, and pain (all P > .05). Only the 2ST was a significant predictor of AD use, with a cutoff distance of the toe-to-toe stride shorter than 93% of body height (sensitivity: 72%, and specificity: 82%, P = .048).

Discussion:
Simple functional measures differed between those who did and did not use ADs for ambulation; however, only the 2ST predicted AD status. Individuals who cannot step 93% of their body height may be appropriate for an AD.

Conclusions:
If comprehensive clinical evaluations are not available to make decisions about AD use, the 2ST can be used to make clinical recommendations for an AD for ambulation.
Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs (STEPS): Assessing Stair Function in Older Adults
Authors: Kegelmeyer Deb , Minarsch Raquel , Marita Katherine , Hoffmeister Audrey , Schnaterbeck Gabrielle , Wohl Timothy , Gokun Yevgeniya , Kloos Anne 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background and Purpose:
Stair negotiation is crucial for functional independence and is a leading cause of fall-related injuries in older adults. The Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs (STEPS) is a quick and easily administered outcome measure for assessing stair negotiation. This study investigated the reliability and concurrent content validity of the STEPS test to determine its usefulness in older adults.

Methods:
Eighty-two community-dwelling older adults (mean age 81.2 years, 51 females) were assessed on the STEPS test, Timed Up and Go (TUG), 5-times sit to stand (5XSTS), stair self-efficacy (SSE) questionnaire, and time to ascend and descend stairs. Participants repeated the STEPS test 7 to 14 days later for intrarater reliability by the same rater. Spearman rank and intraclass correlations were used to determine the association of measures and intrarater reliability.

Results and Discussion:
The mean STEPS score was 15.6 (SD = 3.7) out of 20. The STEPS total score demonstrated excellent intra- and interrater reliability. It had moderate to good and significant correlations with TUG, 5XSTS, SSE, and time to ascend and descend measures. Faster performance on the 5XSTS, TUG, and time to ascend and descend correlated with better performance on the STEPS test, indicating validity for assessing balance and mobility during stair negotiation in older adults. Lower SSE correlated with lower observer ratings of performance on stairs (STEPS scores), indicating agreement between participant reports of self-efficacy and observer ratings of performance. Step Test Evaluation of Performance on Stairs items that demonstrated the most frequent loss of points were balance (use of handrail), step continuity, foot placement, and self-propulsion (ascent only).

Conclusions:
Assessment of older adults’ safety and performance on stairs is vital given the increased difficulty of stair navigation and the high risk for injurious falls in this population. This study demonstrates that the STEPS test is a reliable and valid outcome measure for assessing stair performance in older adults.
Correlation between Optical Characteristics of Orodispersible Films with Selected Process Parameters Supported by FTIR Analysis
Authors: Rahić Ognjenka , Tucak-Smajić Amina , Šahinović Merima , Imamović Belma , Hindija Lamija , Hadžiabdić Jasmina , Vranić Edina 
Published: May 2024

Paediatric and geriatric populations, as well as other special patient populations with swallowing problems, require patient-tailored dosage forms. One promising dosage form for these specific populations is orodispersible films.<br />
When preparing orodispersible films using sodium carboxymethyl cellulose as the film-forming polymer and glycerine as the plasticizer, it is essential to determine the optimal mixing time and mixing speed of the casting solution to achieve the desired transparency/opacity of the orodispersible films. In this paper, the primary focus is on mixing time and mixing speed, and determining how these two parameters can influence optical characteristics. All tested parameters are supported by FTIR analysis. The obtained results show that either a mixing speed of 7000 rpm on a high-shear mixer for 15 min or a mixing speed of 9000 rpm for 5 min can produce films with optimal optical characteristics.
Random forest regression on pullout resistance of a pile
Authors: Alsamia Shaymaa , Koch Edina 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis research aims to study the pullout resistance of a helical pile using three methods of machine learning techniques, which are: random forest regression, support vector regression, and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system, based on experimental results of a helical pile. The performance of these three techniques has been d compared and the results show that random forest algorithm has best performance than neuro-fuzzy inference system and support vector technique. The results show that machine learning considered a good tool in terms of estimating the pullout resistance of helical piles in the soil.
Modelo para o mapeamento de competências em equipes de inteligência competitiva
Authors: Amaral Roniberto Morato , Garcia Leonardo Guimarães , Faria Leando Innocentini Lopes de , Aliprandini Dario Henrique 
Published: May 2024

Com o intuito de contribuir para o aumento da eficiência e eficácia das unidades de inteligência competitiva (IC) no âmbito da gestão de pessoas, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo geral desenvolver um modelo para mapear conhecimentos, habilidades e atitudes de profissionais de IC, com vistas ao estabelecimento do processo de gestão de pessoas por competências (GPPC). O método de pesquisa adotado foi a pesquisa-ação, e a aplicação foi realizada junto ao Núcleo de Informação Tecnológica em Materiais (NIT/Materiais) da Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar). Foram os seguintes resultados obtidos: a) uma base de referência para apoio ao mapeamento de competências em IC; b) um glossário de atributos de competência de IC (conhecimentos, habilidades e atitudes); c) a ferramenta “Coletor de percepções de competências”, para a coleta e análise de atributos de competência; d) procedimento para iniciar a gestão das competências individuais. A partir dos resultados obtidos e da discussão suscitada em torno da temática das competências em IC, foi possível concluir que o modelo de mapeamento pode contribuir para a criação e desenvolvimento de equipes de IC, em um processo de melhoria contínua. Palavras-chave Mapeamento de competências. Inteligência competitiva. Gestão de pessoas por competências. Unidade de inteligência. Equipe de inteligência competitiva. Competência. Model for mapping competencies in a team of competitive intelligence Abstract With the aim of contributing to the improvement of efficiency and effectiveness of units of Competitive Intelligence (CI) in the area of people management, the goal of this study was to develop a model for mapping knowledge, abilities and attitudes of CI professionals, with a view to establishing the process for competence-based management. The method adopted was action research and the application was conducted at the Center for Technological Information in Materials (NIT/Materiais) at the Federal University of São Carlos. The results were: a) a reference frame for supporting the mapping of competencies in CI; b) a glossary of competence attributes of CI (knowledge, abilities and attitudes); c) the tool “Collector of perceptions of competence”, for the collection and analysis of attributes of competence; and d) procedure to start the management of individual competencies. From the results obtained and the discussion raised about the theme of competencies in CI, it is possible to conclude that the model for mapping could contribute to the creation and development of CI teams, from the perspective of continuous improvement. Keywords Competencies mapping. Competitive intelligence. Competence-based management. Unit of intelligence. Unit of competitive intelligence team. Competencies.
A disseminação de conteúdos em periódicos: propriedades bibliométricas, representações e medidas
Authors: Rummler Guido 
Published: May 2024

Compreende-se por disseminação bibliométrica um fenômeno que está relacionado à situação de veiculação de um conteúdo em diferentes unidades bibliográficas. O presente estudo objetiva estabelecer um indicador a ser utilizado na análise da disseminação de, por exemplo, citações a autores ou a publicações, de metodologias ou técnicas, de terminologias, editais, assuntos, etc. O estudo tem por subjacência o que é enunciado como “lei da distribuição de conteúdos em periódicos”. A disseminação é graficamente representada segundo níveis de distribuição (revista, volume, fascículo, artigo) do objeto de análise. São identificadas quatro propriedades da disseminação (espalhamento, expansividade, cronicidade e penetrabilidade), matematicamente representadas por coeficientes. Estes compõem um “índice de disseminação ponderada (IDP)”, assim adjetivado por atender diferenças hierárquicas quanto à natureza dos elementos bibliográficos que contemplam o objeto de análise. Em que pese a multidimensionalidade conjugada nesse indicador (4 variáveis abrangendo os domínios físico, temporal e cognitivo) sua utilização compreende baixa complexidade, demonstrada por aplicação a um exemplo empírico. Palavras-chave Disseminação. Indicadores. Bibliometria. Periódicos. Cientometria. Informetria. Contents’ dissemination in journals: bibliometric properties, representations and measures Abstract Bibliometric dissemination is regarded as a phenomena related to the distribution pattern of a content in different bibliographic elements. The present study aims to establish an indicator applicable in the dissemination analysis of publication or author citations, dissemination of certain methodology or technique, terms, themes, edicts, etc. As underlying the study a “law of content’s distribution in periodicals” is enunciated. The dissemination is graphically represented in terms of distribution levels [periodical, volume (year), issue (number), article] of the object of analysis. Four properties of dissemination are identified (spreading, chronically, expansively and penetration), mathematically expressed by coefficients. These coefficients compose an “index of ponderal dissemination (IPD)” regarding hierarchical differences between the bibliographic elements. Although the multidimensionality (4 variables embracing physical, temporal and cognitive domains) the application of IPD represents low complexity according evidenced by an empirical example. Keywords Dissemination. Indicators. Bibliometrics. Journals. Scientometrics. Informetrics.
Avaliação da qualidade de serviços de uma biblioteca universitária: um estudo de caso utilizando o modelo SERVQUAL
Authors: Freitas André Luís Policani , Bolsanello Franz Marx Carvalho , Viana Nathália Ribeiro Nunes Gomes 
Published: May 2024

Nas últimas duas décadas, pesquisadores em ciência da informação têm investigado o valor dos serviços em bibliotecas de acordo com as percepções, expectativas e necessidades dos usuários. No Brasil, a avaliação de bibliotecas universitárias tem desempenhado um importante papel nas avaliações das instituições de educação superior e dos cursos de graduação. Neste contexto, é essencial que exista um procedimento eficiente para monitorar a qualidade dos serviços prestados por bibliotecas universitárias. Visando a contribuir para esta questão, este trabalho utilizou o modelo Servqual para avaliar a qualidade dos serviços de uma biblioteca de uma universidade. Através de um estudo de caso, foram identificadas as fraquezas/potencialidades e os aspectos críticos que devem ser priorizados para melhorar a qualidade dos serviços prestados. Palavras-chave Bibliotecas universitárias. Qualidade em serviços. Servqual. Evaluating service quality of an academic library: a case study using the Servqual model Abstract Over the last two decades, researchers in Information Science have investigated the value of library services according to the user’s perceptions, expectative and needs. In Brazil, the evaluation of academic libraries has played an important role in the evaluation of the performance of Universities and University Degree Courses. In this context, it’s essential that exists an efficient procedure for monitoring the service quality provided by academic libraries. In order to contribute to this issue, this work used the Servqual model for evaluating the service quality of an academic library. By conducting a case study, the weaknesses/potentialities and the critical points which must be priority in order to improve the Service Quality were identified. Keywords Academic libraries. Service quality. Servqual.
Revisão realista: uma abordagem de síntese de pesquisas para fundamentar a teorização e a prática baseada em evidências
Authors: Tractenberg Leonel , Struchiner Miriam 
Published: May 2024

A revisão (ou síntese) realista é uma abordagem de síntese de pesquisas de natureza qualitativa que visa o desenvolvimento de modelos e teorias, bem como a prática baseada em evidências, em intervenções sociais complexas. Apesar da crescente importância das práticas e políticas baseadas em evidências e das potenciais contribuições dessa abordagem diante das limitações de outros métodos de síntese de pesquisas, a revisão realista é uma abordagem pouco difundida no Brasil, especialmente no âmbito da pesquisa social. A partir da revisão das principais publicações sobre o tema, este trabalho apresenta uma descrição teórico-metodológica da abordagem de revisão realista, seus fundamentos, procedimentos, potenciais contribuições, e conclui discutindo alguns desafios relativos à sua implementação. Pretende, assim, contribuir para a disseminação desse novo método de síntese de pesquisas, aplicável a variadas áreas de conhecimento.Palavras-chaveSíntese de pesquisas. Revisão de literatura. Prática baseada em evidências. Síntese realista. Revisão realista. Teorização.Realist review: an approach of synthesis of research to back the theorization and practice based on evidenceAbstractRealist synthesis (or realist review) is a method of qualitative research synthesis to support theory building and evidence-based practices in complex social interventions. Despite the growing importance of evidencebased practices and policies, and of the contributions of this method when confronted with the limitations of other methods of research synthesis, the realist review approach is little known in Brazil, especially among social researchers. This article presents a theoretical and methodological description of the realist synthesis method, its rationale, procedures and potential contributions, and discusses some issues relevant to its implementation. Therefore, it aims to contribute to the dissemination of this new method of research synthesis, applicable to different knowledge domains.KeywordsResearch synthesis. Literature reviews. Evidence-based practice. Realist synthesis. Realist review. Theory building.