bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ВИКОРИСТАННЯ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНО-ЦИФРОВИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ ДЛЯ ПОКРАЩЕННЯ МЕНЕДЖМЕНТУ ЯКОСТІ ОСВІТИ В ЗАКЛАДАХ ЗАГАЛЬНОЇ СЕРЕДНЬОЇ ОСВІТИ
Authors: Ямполь Юрій
Published: September 2024

The article explores the role of information and digital technologies (IGT) in the formation of quality education management in secondary educational institutions. The author notes that in the modern world, the development of IGT has a significant impact on all areas of life, including education. The implementation of IGT in secondary educational institutions can contribute to improving the quality of education by enhancing the organization of the learning process, providing access to information resources, increasing student motivation for learning, and ensuring effective communication among all participants in the educational process.
The article investigates the application of Deming’s recommendations, known as one of the pioneers in quality management, to educational institutions, particularly schools. An analysis of Deming’s fundamental principles and recommendations, such as a focus on continuous improvement, a systematic approach, leadership commitment, problem-solving based on facts and data, and promoting collaboration and interaction, is conducted.
The article emphasizes the importance of quality management systems that help educational institutions effectively manage the quality of education, such as the PDCA methodology and Lean approaches.
The author examines specific steps for implementing the IGT utilization strategy in education, including the creation of an integrated information-analytical system, the implementation of an electronic reporting system, the use of electronic textbooks and educational materials, providing access to electronic resources, organizing remote learning, involving students in active participation, and supporting the professional development of teachers.
Overall, the article elucidates the importance and role of IGT in shaping the quality management of education in secondary educational institutions. The integration of IGT into the educational process contributes to improved learning organization, the creation of favorable conditions for student development, enhanced communication efficiency, and expanded access to information resources.
РОЗРОБЛЕННЯ МОБІЛЬНОГО ДОДАТКУ ДЛЯ ВИВЧЕННЯ ІНОЗЕМНИХ МОВ З ВИКОРИСТАННЯМ МАШИННОГО НАВЧАННЯ
Authors: Левківський Віталій , Марчук Дмитро , Кравченко Світлана , Павленко Олексій
Published: September 2024

Recently, Ukrainians, especially those who have suddenly found themselves abroad, have faced the need to learn different languages. Each language is associated with the culture of a country, so by learning it, a person not only gets a communication tool, but also immerses himself in the life and customs of the country. Knowledge of foreign languages opens up opportunities for both study and work outside of Ukraine. The growing popularity of mobile devices and the availability of high-speed Internet make mobile language learning apps increasingly popular and effective tools. The purpose of this work is to investigate the possibility of using machine learning algorithms to create a mobile application for learning a foreign language. The ML Kit SDK was used to create a mobile application with a wide range of functions. In the context of learning a foreign language, ML Kit SDK is used to recognize and process speech, translate text, and identify the most important words or phrases in a text, parts of speech, nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc. The mobile application allows you to create unique and personalized settings for each user based on their personal data and preferences. The application offers users a wide range of features in the form of interactive exercises, personalization, progress tracking, and offline support. The software product helps users memorize new vocabulary faster and easier when learning a foreign language. The app is available on mobile devices, making it convenient to use anywhere and anytime. The target audience is people learning a foreign language, students, professionals who need foreign language vocabulary for work, etc. The mobile application can also be useful for foreign language teachers looking for innovative and effective methods of teaching their students.
Tenofovir e Entricitabina: Impactos, demandas e desafios sociais no tratamento antirretroviral
Authors: Sobrinho Suzy Pereira , Carvalho Jander Lima de , Oliveira Talita Brito de
Published: September 2024

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o impacto da utilização de tenofovir e entricitabina, no tratamento do paciente com HIV, na saúde pública e nas implicações sociais e demográficas. A metodologia do estudo baseia-se em uma revisão de literatura, com pesquisa realizada nas bases de dados: PUBMED, SCIELO (Scientific Eletronic Libray Online) e Google Acadêmico. Foram utilizados 18 artigos científicos. Este estudo analisou detalhadamente o impacto da combinação de tenofovir e entricitabina no tratamento do HIV, destacando suas implicações na saúde pública e nas dimensões sociais e demográficas. A pesquisa evidenciou que, apesar da eficácia comprovada desses medicamentos na supressão viral e no aumento da adesão ao tratamento, há desafios associados ao seu uso. A combinação de tenofovir e entricitabina é amplamente utilizada devido à sua eficácia e conveniência posológica. No entanto, o tratamento com esses antirretrovirais enfrenta desafios, como a potencial toxicidade renal e óssea, interações medicamentosas e a necessidade de monitoramento contínuo. A resistência ao tratamento, embora menos comum, também representa um obstáculo. A principal necessidade no tratamento do HIV é alcançar e manter a supressão viral. Tenofovir e entricitabina oferecem uma barreira robusta à resistência, mas os desafios incluem a toxicidade potencial e as interações medicamentosas. A substituição de tenofovir disoproxil fumarato (TDF) por tenofovir alafenamida (TAF) e a implementação de programas educacionais são estratégias importantes para melhorar a adesão e minimizar os efeitos adversos.
Avaliação comparativa da perda de massa de duas resinas compostas após escovação dental com creme abrasivo
Authors: Medeiros João Marcelo Ferreira de , Rissi Larissa Vieira , Campino Estefani Oliveira , Santana Rachel dos Santos , Lourenço Danilo , Shitsuka Caleb
Published: September 2024

Pesquisadores aprimoraram qualidades das resinas compostas graças ao grande destaque que está sendo dada à estética na área restauradora em relação ao uso de restaurações em dentes anteriores, recuperando-os seu aspecto natural que atende exigências impostas pelos pacientes. Apesar das resinas compostas ainda apresentem deficiências a busca de material que restaure porção perdida do dente, aproximando-o da forma natural, é o propósito de pesquisas. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar in vitro a alteração da perda da massa entre resina composta de nanopartícula e outra de micropartícula ambas submetidas à ação da escovação simulada com creme dental abrasivo. Confeccionaram 32 corpos-de-prova sendo 16 de cada material, seguiu instruções do fabricante e, em seguida acabamento e polimento padronizado em todos corpos de prova com contínua hidratação. Procederam após tripla pesagem dos corpos de prova em balança digital com quatro dígitos e valores em gramas obtendo-se média aritmética dos corpos de prova de cada amostra registrando em quadro contendo pesagens que determinaram a massa inicial do material examinado. Teste de abrasão foi realizado em máquina de escovação com solução de dentifrício e água com registro de 100.000 ciclos e carga de 200g. Terminado processo de escovação, os corpos de prova foram novamente pesados e esses valores registrados como massa final. Concluíram que após escovação simulada ocorreu perda de massa entre as duas resinas, porém, resina microhíbrida apresentou desgaste superior à resina de nanoparticula.
Mudanças climáticas e seus impactos nas cidades: estudo de caso do fenômeno da seca no Estado do Amazonas, Brasil
Authors: Zogahib André Luiz Nunes , Simas Danielle Costa de Souza , Norte Filho Antônio Ferreira do , Norte Naira Neila Batista de Oliveira , Sales Ricardo Augusto Campolina de , Lima Jonathas Simas de , Braga Mauro Augusto Ponce de Leão
Published: September 2024

O presente artigo tem como objetivo abordar a grave crise climática enfrentada pelo Amazonas devido à seca severa prevista para 2024. Realiza-se um estudo descritivo e exploratório, com numa abordagem qualitativa e procedimento metodológico do estudo de caso, tipo único. As mudanças climáticas, intensificadas pelo desmatamento e pela emissão de gases de efeito estufa, têm causado alterações significativas nos padrões de precipitação e temperatura na região, levando a impactos socioambientais profundos. Comunidades ribeirinhas, indígenas e quilombolas enfrentam dificuldades como falta de água potável, perda de biodiversidade e aumento de doenças. O governo do Amazonas, juntamente com organizações nacionais e internacionais, tem implementado medidas emergenciais para mitigar os efeitos da seca e promover a resiliência das populações afetadas, para minimizar os impactos da seca no Amazonas e as estratégias de mitigação adotadas, destacando a necessidade urgente de políticas públicas eficazes e sustentáveis para garantir a preservação dos recursos naturais e a qualidade de vida na Amazônia.
A influência da espiritualidade e crenças religiosas no enfrentamento e na qualidade de vida das pessoas com doença renal crônica
Authors: Silva Junior Firmino Lopes da , Matos Paulo Jorge de Almeida , Visnes Kai Noe , Monzó Alcón Marta , Tavares Paula Guimarães Brito Costa , Silva Erika de Nazaré Rodrigues da
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: Analisar a relação entre crenças religiosas e/ou espirituais na qualidade de vida das pessoas submetidas à diálise, avaliar a adaptação dessas pessoas ao tratamento e explorar a conexão entre espiritualidade, religiosidade e qualidade de vida. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma Revisão Sistemática da Literatura (RSL) utilizando a metodologia PICO para analisar a relação entre crenças religiosas, espirituais e a qualidade de vida em portadores de doença renal crônica (DRC) submetidos à diálise. Foram selecionados estudos publicados entre 2014 e 2023 em português, inglês e espanhol nas bases de dados B-On e PubMed. Foram identificados sete estudos que exploraram diversas dimensões dessa relação, utilizando abordagens qualitativas e quantitativas. Resultados e Discussão: Os estudos indicam que a espiritualidade e religiosidade desempenham papéis significativos no enfrentamento da DRC e na melhoria da qualidade de vida das pessoas com DRC. Destacam-se também a correlação positiva entre espiritualidade e esperança, é enfatizada a importância da fé na adaptação ao tratamento e no encontro de significado na vida. A diversidade cultural dos estudos selecionados revela nuances na prática espiritual, influenciando a compreensão e aplicabilidade dos resultados globalmente. Considerações finais: Os resultados sugerem que a espiritualidade/religiosidade pode fortalecer a resiliência emocional e melhora o bem-estar da pessoa com DRC, e que pode reduzir a depressão e oferecer suporte emocional. A compreensão das diferenças culturais e a sensibilidade na adaptação de intervenções espirituais são cruciais para oferecer um cuidado mais eficaz e adequado, respeitando as diversas práticas religiosas, espirituais e/ou a ausência delas.
Prevalência e fatores associados às quedas entre idosos atendidos por uma Estratégia de Saúde da Família (ESF) em Itumbiara, GO
Authors: Ávila Carolina Oliveira de , Nogueira Ana Júlia da Cunha , Vitorino Eduarda Bissolotti , Bortolin Giovana Inserra , Campos Graciele Rodrigues , Santos Patrícia Roberta , Vieira Débora
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: Identificar e analisar os fatores associados às quedas em idosos cadastrados em três ESF de Itumbiara. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo exploratório, descritivo, realizado com idosos cadastrados na ESF. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 24 idosos a partir de 60 anos, sendo a faixa etária mais comum entre 66 e 69 anos, em sua maioria com o ensino fundamental completo e renda mensal de 01 salário-mínimo. 2/3 dos entrevistados apresentou comorbidades, sendo a mais comum a hipertensão arterial sistêmica, isoladamente ou associada. Foi visto que 66,66% dos idosos perceberam uma perda na capacidade de fazer suas atividades de vida diária e 75% relatou morar com alguém, e dois terços dos entrevistados informaram que sofreram pelo menos uma queda no último ano. Conclusão: A queda em idosos é uma situação frequente na ESF de Itumbiara, representando um problema de saúde pública, capaz que originar sequelas que cursam com morbidade e incapacitação.
Intermittent upwelling impacts zooplankton and their gray whale predators at multiple scales
Authors: Dawn A , Hildebrand L , Sullivan FA , Barlow D , Torres LG
Published: September 2024

Coastal upwelling dynamics influence the abundance and distribution of marine zooplankton; however, knowledge of how intermittent upwelling patterns impact nearshore prey retention and predator foraging is limited. The Pacific Coast Feeding Group (PCFG) of gray whales forage between northern California and southern British Columbia from early June through the end of November. In Port Orford, Oregon, a subregion of the PCFG foraging range, gray whales demonstrate selection preference for prey patches consisting of elevated zooplankton abundance. Using a 6 yr data set, we characterized the influence of oceanographic conditions on zooplankton relative abundance and gray whale foraging effort in this subregion. Here, we tracked gray whale movements using a theodolite (263 tracklines) and simultaneously quantified prey availability through GoPro camera drops (n = 520) off a research kayak between July and August from 2016-2021. Boosted regression tree models assessed the influence of broad (seasonal) and fine (days to weeks) temporal scale upwelling metrics, sea surface temperature, and kelp condition on daily zooplankton abundance and gray whale foraging effort. Results show that at both temporal scales, environmental factors impact ecological response, with zooplankton abundance and gray whale foraging effort maximal at moderate values of upwelling and relaxation, highlighting the importance of intermittent upwelling. These findings document the role of intermittent upwelling on zooplankton availability and whale foraging effort in a nearshore system, which can improve conservation management of this region.
How Educational, Cultural, and Social Factors Shape Roma’s Improvement of Language Competence in the Greek Case
Authors: Kalogerogianni Foteini
Published: September 2024

In this article, we provide an example of a quasi-experimental intervention that investigates the impact of educational, cultural, and social factors on improving language competence in a specific group of linguistically and culturally diverse pupils. In particular, based on empirical-qualitative and quantitative-data obtained from a specific type of teaching intervention for Roma pupils in the area of Zefiri (Attica), it is examined whether factors related to educational policy, the academic trajectory of each pupil, the cultural code of the child and their family and family practices regarding education contribute positively or negatively on the acquisition and improvement of the pupils' language competence. In this article, we argue that the issue of Roma pupils' language learning is multifactorial. Therefore, the quasi-experimental intervention contributes to exploring in depth the impact of each factor separately on the process of improvement of language competence.
Euler Perfect Box
Authors: Muhammad Taha
Published: September 2024

1- I chose a box of different dimensions. H = a, W = a + r, L = a + k, and (k ≠ r ≠ a) Substitute in equation: g^2 =a^2 +b^2 +c^2, g ∈ N+ ⇒ a =r = k … contradiction to (k ≠ r ≠ a) If (k ≠ r ≠ a) ⇒ g ∉ N+ 2- If W = L, or W = L = H ⇒ d (diagonal) ∉ N+ ∴ from all above the Euler Perfect Box doesn’t exist.
Towards Sustainable Water Management: An Attention-Based Approach to Short-Term Snow Water Equivalent Forecasting
Authors: Patel Rahil , Kankanala Srivarun , Zheng Qinmin
Published: September 2024

Water obtained from snow serves as a freshwater supply to more than 1.5 billion people. However, estimates of snow melts are often inaccurate due to rising global temperature. This study uses a deep learning approach to analyze remote sensing data--Snow Water Equivalent (SWE), Land Surface Temperature, Precipitation, and Water Vapor--from NASA between 2002 and 2011, which have been validated through numerous validation campaigns. Leveraging recent advancements in attention-based mechanisms for learning spatio-temporal dependencies, we develop a novel model incorporating advances in biomedical image segmentation (U-NET) and the LSTM and a novel feature: Attention-Augmented Skipp Connections (AASC). The model effectively forecasts monthly SWE, achieving an impressive RMSE of 0.0224 on a scale of 1, significantly outperforming traditional methods. This level of accuracy demonstrates the utility of attention-based approaches in analyzing remote-sensing data and related tasks to SWE prediction. Our methodology introduces a unique approach to SWE forecasting by facilitating streamlined visualization through map generation. This study presents a framework for accessible and intuitive insights for stakeholders across various domains. The model's versatility allows for implementation on smaller scales while utilizing more comprehensive data, highlighting its potential as a valuable tool for sustainable water monitoring: irrigation, flood control, power generation, and drought management decisions.
Unlocking the Power of Togetherness: Exploring the Impact of Cooperative Learning on Peer Relationships, Academic Support, and Gains in Secondary School Biology in Gedeo Zone South Ethiopia
Authors:   Hawassa University, Kebede Yidnekachew Awraris , Kebede Zema Firew ,   Hawassa University, Geletu Girma Moti ,   Hawassa University, Zinabu Samuel Assefa ,   Hawassa University
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to assess the relative effectiveness of cooperative learning (CL) strategies on learners’ peer relatedness, academic support (AS), and learning gains in Biology. A quasi-experimental non-equivalent group pre-test post-test design was employed, involving a sample of 81 students. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected, and analyses were conducted using t-tests, one-way MANOVA, bivariate correlation, and regression analysis. As anticipated, the t-test and MANOVA results revealed that participation in CL strategies had a moderate to substantial effect on the measured variables, with Partial η2 values ranging from 0.471 to 0.722. In addition, regression analysis indicated that peer relationships and AS together accounted for 43.2% of the variance in overall learning gains. Qualitative findings highlighted significant challenges to the effective implementation of CL, including students’ unfamiliarity with the method, resource constraints, and teacher resistance. The findings provide preliminary evidence that shifting classroom instruction from a content-centric approach to a learner-centered approach can enhance not only the quality of teaching but also the quality of learning and key indicators of student success.
Impact of Alternative Learning Activity Program on Student Leadership Development in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics School
Authors:   Philippine Science High School-Ilocos Region Campus, Galdonez Dominic Patric
Published: September 2024

This study explored the impact of the alternative learning activity (ALA) program offered in the Philippine Science High School-Ilocos Region Campus toward students’ leadership abilities. A mixed-methods approach was used to conduct the study through a survey of 132 student leaders affiliated with ALA clubs in the years 2022 to 2024. The results indicated that the participants exhibited strong expertise in communication, critical thinking, character development, citizenship, diversity appreciation, global understanding, and skill development in the measured indicators, suggesting that the ALA program is effective in producing well-rounded leaders. The findings also showed that almost all dimensions of leadership qualities exhibited the strong positive relationships between indicators, indicating their significant relationship and hinting that effective leadership is multidimensional. In ALA clubs, it was found that excellent leadership practices include providing diverse learning opportunities (kataguyod), offering targeted skill training (katuwang), offering mentorship and peer support (kaagapay), provision of leadership support (kalakbay), and inclusivity enhancement (kabahagi). These are beneficial practices, not only instill skills among the members but they also promote personal development. These findings show the importance of specialized leadership training in preparation for varied leadership roles.
När AI träder in i naturvetenskaps- och teknikklassrummen: Etiska dilemman för lärare
Authors: Stolpe Karin , Höst Gunnar
Published: September 2024

Artificiell intelligens (AI) förekommer allt mer i diskussioner om skola och utbildning. En utmaning för lärare är att följa med i den tekniska utvecklingen och bristen på adekvat kompetensutveckling. Men även etiska frågor är viktiga, något som diskuteras relativt lite i relation till den svenska skolan. Etiska frågor handlar bland annat att som lärare gå bortom färdiga råd och själv reflektera etiskt kring sin användning av AI i klassrummet. Syftet med artikeln är att lyfta forskning som presenterar etiska principer relevanta för AI i skolan på olika organisatoriska nivåer. Vi ger utifrån detta exempel på etiska dilemman i relation till AI, eleven, läraren och skolan.
Development and validation of a machine learning model integrated with the clinical workflow for inpatient discharge date prediction
Authors: Mahyoub Mohammed A. , Dougherty Kacie , Yadav Ravi R. , Berio-Dorta Raul , Shukla Ajit
Published: September 2024

Background

Discharge date prediction plays a crucial role in healthcare management, enabling efficient resource allocation and patient care planning. Accurate estimation of the discharge date can optimize hospital operations and facilitate better patient outcomes.

Materials and methods

In this study, we employed a systematic approach to develop a discharge date prediction model. We collaborated closely with clinical experts to identify relevant data elements that contribute to the prediction accuracy. Feature engineering was used to extract predictive features from both structured and unstructured data sources. XGBoost, a powerful machine learning algorithm, was employed for the prediction task. Furthermore, the developed model was seamlessly integrated into a widely used Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, ensuring practical usability.

Results

The model achieved a performance surpassing baseline estimates by up to 35.68% in the F1-score. Post-deployment, the model demonstrated operational value by aligning with MS GMLOS and contributing to an 18.96% reduction in excess hospital days.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the effectiveness and potential value of the developed discharge date prediction model in clinical practice. By improving the accuracy of discharge date estimations, the model has the potential to enhance healthcare resource management and patient care planning. Additional research endeavors should prioritize the evaluation of the model's long-term applicability across diverse scenarios and the comprehensive analysis of its influence on patient outcomes.
Longitudinal relations between parenting practices and prosocial behaviors in recent immigrant Latino/a adolescents: Familism values and ethnic identity as mediators
Authors: Maiya Sahitya , Carlo Gustavo , Davis Alexandra N. , Schwartz Seth J. , Unger Jennifer B. , Zamboanga Byron L. , Baezconde-Garbanati Lourdes , Soto Daniel W. , Lorenzo-Blanco Elma I.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The present study investigated the mediating roles of familism values and ethnic identity in longitudinal associations between recent immigrant U.S. Latino/a adolescents' reports of their parents' (i.e., mothers' and fathers') use of social and material rewards and prosocial behaviors.

Methods

Participants included 302 recent immigrant U.S. Latino/a adolescents (M age = 14.5 years at Time 1, range = 13–17 years, 53% male) recruited from Los Angeles and Miami. Participants self-reported on their perceptions of parents' use of social and material rewards (Time 1), familism values (Time 3), ethnic identity (Time 5), and multiple types of prosocial behaviors (Time 6).

Results

Path analyses showed that mothers' use of social rewards was indirectly related (via familism values and ethnic identity) to higher levels of everyday types of helping behaviors seen in youth, whereas mothers' use of material rewards was only directly related to motive-based helping behaviors. In contrast, we found no significant direct or indirect relations from fathers' use of social or material rewards and prosocial behaviors.

Discussion

The discussion describes the parenting and cultural assets that facilitate varied types and motives of prosocial behaviors in recent immigrant U.S. Latino/a youth. Family-based interventions, prosocial development theories, and future research on this topic can target prosocial parenting practices (e.g., social rewards) and cultural assets (e.g., familism values, ethnic identity) to facilitate helping in youth.
Policy for transitioning childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency from pediatric to adult endocrine care in Belgium
Authors: Staels Willem , De Schepper Jean , Becker Marianne , Lysy Philippe , Klink Daniel , Logghe Karl , den Brinker Marieken , Rochtus Anne , Lapauw Bruno , Cools Martine , Alexopoulou Orsalia , Bex Marie , Corvilain Bernard , Crenier Laurent , De Block Christophe , Donckier Julian , Hilbrands Robert , Ponchon Michel , T'Sjoen Guy , Van Den Bruel Annick , Vandewalle Sara , Velkeniers Brigitte
Published: September 2024

Growth hormone (GH) deficiency (GHD) in children and adolescents can vary in severity and origin, with GH replacement therapy proving effective in achieving genetic target height. Optimal outcomes are seen in those treated early and with higher doses. As patients approach adult height, priorities shift towards optimizing metabolic effects, maintaining body composition, and enhancing bone mass and muscle strength. Transitioning from pediatric to adult care presents challenges, including accurately identifying candidates for continued GH therapy, reevaluating persistent GHD, and preventing treatment discontinuation. Assessing readiness for transition and self-management skills is crucial. This Policy and Practice Review provides a comprehensive overview of current policies, regulations, and guidelines pertinent to managing GHD transition in Belgium. We integrate perspectives from national academic and nonacademic clinical stakeholders in pediatric and adult endocrine care to provide an updated policy framework. This framework underscores the importance of sustained GH therapy during transition, particularly for individuals with persistent GHD, with the goal of optimizing practices and improving outcomes during this critical period.
Numerical investigation for the influence of suspended sediment on salinity distribution in the Qiantang Estuary, China
Authors: Rong Zheng , Chunhong Hu , Zhilin Sun , Yizhi Sun
Published: September 2024

Numerous studies have demonstrated that high suspended sediment concentration (SSC) can change density distribution and affect water mixing, but few scholars have investigated this impact on numerical simulations of estuarian salinity distribution. The Qiantang Estuary is a macro-tidal estuary with high SSC, which has a more significant influence on water density than that of salinity. Therefore, this paper established a three-dimensional (3D) numerical model coupling flow, salinity and SSC based on Delft3D and first analyzes the impact of SSC on salinity distribution under different runoff and tidal conditions in the Qiantang Estuary. The results indicated that simulated salinity generally decreases when considering the impact of SSC, suggesting a weakening effect on saltwater intrusion. The distribution of salinity difference (ΔS) and SSC show a strong spatial and temporal correlation, and ΔS peak increases and shifts upstream as the tidal range increases or runoff discharge decreases. The mechanism of SSC influencing saltwater intrusion can be summarized as follows: On the one hand, SSC increases the water density, which weakens the driving force for saltwater to move upstream, causing a decrease in flood current velocity and water level, and thereby diminishing the advective transport of salinity. On the other hand, SSC enhances density stratification, which weakens vertical turbulence and reduces the dispersive transport of salinity. These combined effects reduce both the advective and diffusive salinity fluxes during the flood tide, ultimately leading to a decrease in upstream salinity. Therefore, neglecting this effect in estuaries with high SSC can cause significant deviations in salinity simulation results, especially under low-flow and high-tide conditions.
Coral reefs of Pakistan: a comprehensive review of anthropogenic threats, climate change, and conservation status
Authors: Ahmad Ishfaq , Guo Pu , Zhao Mei-Xia , Zhong Yu , Zheng Xiao-Yun , Zhang Shu-Qi , Qiu Jian-Wen , Shi Qi , Yan Hong-Qiang , Tao Shi-Chen , Xu Li-Jia
Published: September 2024

The coral reefs along Pakistan’s coastline are of ecological and economic significance. However, they are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic threats and climate change. These vulnerable ecosystems are declining due to various factors such as sedimentation, climate change, overfishing, destructive fishing practices, marine pollution, and tourism development. We found that 29%, 24%, 26%, 16% and 18% of the studies exceeding, marine pollution, overfishing/destructive fishing, coastal tourism, climate change and sedimentation, respectively; thus, indicating inadequate water quality status in part of Pakistan coastal water. These influences lead to several negative impacts, such as jeopardized coral health, decline in biodiversity, and the simplification of reef structures. In response to these threats, conservation efforts are imperative. This literature review provides an in-depth analysis of anthropogenic threats, climate change and the conservation of coral reefs in Pakistan. This review provides suggestions on how the country could better conserve its coral reef ecosystem. These include (1) initiatives such as establishing marine protected areas (MPAs), (2) encouraging sustainable fishing practices and reducing pollution, (3) developing the country as an ecotourism destination and implementing climate change adaptation measures, and (4) community engagement through awareness campaigns and fostering collaboration among, governmental organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and scientists. These comprehensive conservation policies address human-caused and other challenges, safeguarding their ecological, economic, and cultural relevance for future generations.
Quantitative analysis of the fluvial geomorphology and erosion on Hainan island: implications for the source-to-sink system in the NW South China Sea
Authors: Qiu Kai , Lei Chao , Tang Chao , Yang Rong , Willett Sean , Ren Jianye
Published: September 2024

The sediment delivery from Hainan island into the NW South China Sea during the Quaternary is less well-defined. An investigation into the uplift, exhumation and fluvial geomorphology of the Hainan island is crucial for improving our understanding on the source-to-sink system in this region. In this study, we employed the digital elevation analysis, the stream power incision model and the cosmogenic nuclide isotope analysis to unravel how and why the Hainan island provide sediment to the NW South China Sea. The results show that the average HI values of the main catchments on the Hainan island are below 0.35, which indicates that the rivers on the Hainan island tend to be stable. After mapping the channel steepness index of the Hainan island, a high channel steepness index is constrained in the central and western Hainan island. The χ analysis shows minor variations in χ values across the Hainan island, except of the watershed between the Wanquanhe and Nandujiang rivers, as well as that between the Changhuajiang and Nandujiang rivers, which indicates the potential migration of the river watersheds here. In addition, we carried out the cosmogenic nuclide 10Be analysis on the river sand from the Hainan island. The spatial distribution of 10Be concentrations is identified to be high in the west and low in the east. The catchment-averaged erosion rates are quantified to be 35 m/Myr, 42.5 m/Myr and 69.9 m/Myr for the Changhuajiang, Wanquanhe and Lingshuihe catchments, respectively. We also estimated the sediment deliveries from the Changhuajiang, Wanquanhe and Lingshuihe catchments to the Qiongdongnan and Yinggehai Basins to be 0.46 Mt/yr, 0.45 Mt/yr and 0.21 Mt/yr, respectively. We compared our results of the fluvial geomorphology analysis and erosion rate estimates of the Hainan island with those of the Taiwan island. We concluded that the difference of the erosion pattern and river evolution of the Hainan and Taiwan islands may be associated with the variation of the tectonics. Our investigation on the evolution of the Hainan island will improve our understanding on the source-to-sink systems in the NW South China Sea.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound and microwave ablation of Epstein–Barr virus associated smooth muscle tumors in a patient with AIDS: a case report
Authors: Yang Yuanping , Bai Xiumei , Wu Yuquan , Yang Hong , He Yun
Published: September 2024

This case report presents a rare case regarding the contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features and minimally invasive treatment of Epstein–Barr virus associated smooth muscle tumors (EBV-SMT) in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV). Currently, there are few studies involving hepatic EBV-SMT. According to WHO guidelines, the malignant potential of the disease is uncertain. The features of CEUS suggest that these hepatic lesions tend to be malignant and are often misdiagnosed as other malignant neoplasms. Presently, hepatic resection is the first choice for treating hepatic EBV-SMT. However, immunocompromised patients may benefit more from minimally invasive microwave ablation therapy (MWA). Since there is no standard diagnosis and therapy are available at present, our findings in this case may contribute to promoting standardized diagnosis and treatment of EBV-SMT.
Histopathology in focus: a review on explainable multi-modal approaches for breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Abdullakutty Faseela , Akbari Younes , Al-Maadeed Somaya , Bouridane Ahmed , Talaat Iman M. , Hamoudi Rifat
Published: September 2024

Precision and timeliness in breast cancer detection are paramount for improving patient outcomes. Traditional diagnostic methods have predominantly relied on unimodal approaches, but recent advancements in medical data analytics have enabled the integration of diverse data sources beyond conventional imaging techniques. This review critically examines the transformative potential of integrating histopathology images with genomic data, clinical records, and patient histories to enhance diagnostic accuracy and comprehensiveness in multi-modal diagnostic techniques. It explores early, intermediate, and late fusion methods, as well as advanced deep multimodal fusion techniques, including encoder-decoder architectures, attention-based mechanisms, and graph neural networks. An overview of recent advancements in multimodal tasks such as Visual Question Answering (VQA), report generation, semantic segmentation, and cross-modal retrieval is provided, highlighting the utilization of generative AI and visual language models. Additionally, the review delves into the role of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) in elucidating the decision-making processes of sophisticated diagnostic algorithms, emphasizing the critical need for transparency and interpretability. By showcasing the importance of explainability, we demonstrate how XAI methods, including Grad-CAM, SHAP, LIME, trainable attention, and image captioning, enhance diagnostic precision, strengthen clinician confidence, and foster patient engagement. The review also discusses the latest XAI developments, such as X-VARs, LeGrad, LangXAI, LVLM-Interpret, and ex-ILP, to demonstrate their potential utility in multimodal breast cancer detection, while identifying key research gaps and proposing future directions for advancing the field.
Case report: Multiple facial trichoepitheliomas caused by p.Val835SerfsTer52 variant of CYLD gene
Authors: Gaydina Tatiana A. , Patsap Olga I. , Buianova Anastasiia A.
Published: September 2024

Brooke–Spiegler syndrome (BSS) is an autosomal dominant disease associated with the CYLD gene, which manifests itself as multiple benign skin tumors. We presented a young female patient with a previously undescribed heterozygous de novo mutation c.2501dupC (p.Val835SerfsTer52) of the CYLD gene. The nucleotide sequence variant was detected by clinical exome sequencing and validated by Sanger sequencing in her parents and sister. A histological examination of the elements identified multiple trichoepitheliomas. Radical removal of the largest formations of the facial skin was performed under local infiltration anesthesia with wound treatment with a CO2 laser in a pulsed-periodic mode. Nevertheless, new formations began to appear on the patient’s facial skin of the forehead, upper eyelids, nasolabial triangle, prone to growth and requiring removal. Domain modeling of the mutant protein proved its conformational difference from the wild type, as well as altered physicochemical properties.

Conclusion

The new CYLD gene variant p.Val835SerfsTer52 causes the development of multiple familial trichoepitheliomas in BSS and confirms the hypothesis of the association of this gene variant with loss-of-function mutations. We have verified that removing multiple trichoepitheliomas simultaneously with a CO2 laser does not impede the pathological process. Therefore, hopes are placed on targeted therapy, which is currently not developed for this disease.
High-altitude cerebral oxygen saturation detection using wireless wearable cerebral oximeter
Authors: Si Juanning , He Yifang , Yao Junyuan , Yu Jian , Jing Rixing , He Qing , Zhang Xin , Xiao Lijun
Published: September 2024

Background

Hypobaric hypoxic conditions encountered at high altitudes can significantly impact the physiological functions of human body. Therefore, accurate and real-time monitoring of physiological characteristics is crucial for the prevention of brain injuries in individuals with acute and chronic high-altitude exposure.

Methods

In this study, a wireless wearable cerebral oximeter (WORTH band) was used for the continuous, real-time monitoring of physiological parameters, including regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) and heart rate (HR), among subjects with high-altitude exposure.

Results

During the high-altitude (from 46 m to 4300 m) expedition task, there was a significant decrease in rSO2 accompanied by a corresponding increase in heart rate as the altitude increased. Additionally, during the long-term (52 days) high-altitude (from 356 m to 4658 m) cycling task, the altitudes were significantly correlated with the rSO2 and SpO2 in the elderly subjects.

Conclusion

The current findings indicate that the WORTH band oximeter can serve as a promising instrument for measuring rSO2 at high altitudes. We hope that the insights derived from this study could contribute to the management of cerebral oxygenation for individuals with high-altitude exposure and further expand the existing understanding of brain functional detection at high altitudes.
High fat, high sucrose diet promotes increased expression of ACE2 receptor in the SIV-infected host: implications for SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Delery Elizabeth C. , Levitt Danielle E. , Amedee Angela M. , Molina Patricia E. , Simon Liz
Published: September 2024

Introduction

People with pre-existing conditions, including metabolic comorbidities, are at greater risk for complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection and expression of machinery required for viral entry into host cells may be a contributing factor. This study tested the hypothesis that high fat, high sucrose diet (HFSD) and alcohol use increase expression of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) in tissues isolated from simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infected macaques, the most clinically relevant model for the study of HIV.

Methods

Biospecimens obtained from a longitudinal study of SIV-infected, antiretroviral therapy (ART)-treated female rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) were used to determine whether HFSD and chronic binge alcohol (CBA) increased ACE2 and TMPRSS2 protein and gene expression. Macaques (n = 10) were assigned to HFSD or standard diet (SD) for 3 months before CBA or vehicle administration. Three months later, macaques were infected with SIV; ART was initiated 2.5 months thereafter. Tissue samples including lung, pancreas, and kidney were collected at study endpoint (12 months post-SIV infection).

Results

Protein expression of ACE2 in the lung, whole pancreas, and pancreatic islets was significantly greater in HFSD- than SD-fed macaques with no significant differences in protein expression of TMPRSS2 or mRNA expression of ACE2 or TMPRSS2. CBA did not significantly alter any measures.

Discussion

The increased ACE2 receptor expression observed in lung and pancreas of SIV-infected HFSD-fed female rhesus macaques aligns with reports that diet may increase susceptibility to COVID-19. These data provide direct evidence for a link between dietary quality and cellular adaptations that may increase the risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Gaze communicates both cue direction and agent mental states
Authors: Mayrand Florence , Capozzi Francesca , Ristic Jelena
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Although it is well established that humans spontaneously attend to where others are looking, it remains debated whether this gaze following behavior occurs because gaze communicates directional information (i.e., where an agent is looking) or because gaze communicates an agent’s inferred mental content (i.e., what an agent perceives), both of which rely on the processes involved in the general Theory of Mind ability.

Methods

To address this question, in two Experiments we used a novel task to measure how spatially dissociated and spatially combined effects of an agent’s gaze direction and perceived mental content influence target performance. We also contrasted performance for social directional cues and nonsocial arrows.

Results

Our data revealed that performance was compromised when cue direction and mental content dissociated relative to when they combined. Performance for dissociated components was especially prominent when a social avatar served as a cue relative to a comparison arrow.

Discussion

Together, these data show that a typical gaze signal communicates information about both where an agent is attending and what they are attending to.
Stressors during the prodromal phase of major depressive episode (CHR-D)
Authors: Meisenzahl Eva , Schultze-Lutter Frauke , Stegmüller Veronika , Schulte-Körne Gerd , Greimel Ellen , Klingele Cosima , Dannlowski Udo , Hahn Tim , Romer Georg , Romanos Marcel , Deserno Lorenz , Theisen Christian , Kujovic Milenko , Ruhrmann Stefan , Forstner Andreas J. , Wege Natalia
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Early recognition and indicated prevention is a promising approach to decrease the incidence of Major depressive episodes (MDE), targeting the patients during their clinical high-risk state of MDE (CHR-D). The identification of a set of stressors at the CHR-D increases the success of indicated prevention with personalized early interventions. The study evaluated stressors in the early phase of depression, developed on the basis of a patient survey on stressors.

Methods

Sixty-eight inpatients (ICD10: F3x.xx) with a reported high risk state for major depressive episode (CHR-D) were included in the current study. Stressors during CHR-D were retrospectively explored using a semi-structured clinical interview supplemented by open-ended questions. A qualitative explorative content analysis was provided to identify a pattern of stressors during the prodromal phase of the patients, based on the patient’s perspective. A frequency analysis was performed for the evaluation of the prevalence of reported source of stress.

Results

All patients reported stressors in the prodromal phase of depression. Results demonstrates that patients with depressive disorder typically report multiple stressors, with the most common number being four. First, 18 stressors-groups were identified during coding. Interpersonal conflicts and disappointments in close relationships were most frequently reported stressors during the prodromal phase at 44.1%. The second most frequent stressor mentioned was the high qualitative or quantitative demands at work (38.2%). The third frequent source of stress was changes in close relationships and in family relationships (33.8%). Based on the categories of stressors described in the patient survey during the prodromal phase we suggested a model of stressors in CHR-D during the prodromal phase of the MDE.

Discussion

The identification of a set of stressors at the early stage of MDE may increase opportunities for early intervention. In everyday clinical practice, preventive psychiatry needs clinical and adapted instruments for recording stressors in today’s society. This knowledge is necessary in order to develop precisely indicated prevention for depressive disorders.