bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Проблеми взаємодії та спілкування серед молоді у векторі розвитку її соціальної компетентностіі міжкультурної адаптації
Authors: Черновська Лілія
Published: July 2024

У статті розкрито проблему взаємодії та спілкування серед молоді у векторі розвитку її соціальної компетентності і міжкультурної адаптації. Показано, що соціальна компетентність – це інтегральна характеристика особистості, яка відображає її досягнення у розвитку відносин з іншими людьми, забезпечує повноцінне оволодіння соціальною реальністю і дає можливість ефективно вибудовувати свою поведінку залежно від ситуації та відповідно до прийнятих у соціумі на даний момент норм і стандартів. Наголошується, що у психологічній науці існує низка підходів до розуміння соціальної компетентності, оскільки, будучи базисною для особистості, ця якість формується у процесі взаємодії і впливає на успішність розвитку особистості, визначаючи її напрямок. Незважаючи на різні підстави для визначення соціальної компетентності у межах різних наукових підходів, в структурі соціальної компетентності можна виділити комунікативну та перцептивну (когнітивну) компетентність і знання у галузі міжособистісної взаємодії. Теоретичними підставами соціальної компетентності є знання про процеси та явища, що відбуваються в соціальній дійсності. Оскільки соціальна компетентність передбачає наявність певних знань про механізми та особливості соціальної взаємодії, розуміння різних ситуацій, особистісну та соціальну ідентифікацію, можна говорити про різні рівні її прояву: рівні політики, рівні соціальних інститутів та спільностей та рівні міжособистісного спілкування.
Інтеракційна толерантність як характеристика соціально-психологічного рівня взаємовідносин між людьми
Authors: Свитко Олег
Published: July 2024

Стаття присвячена актуальній проблематиці інтерактивної толерантності людини в процесі її спілкування і діяльності. В статті стисло розкривається історія терміностановлення толерантності; аспекти, в яких вивчається цей феномен; подається психологічне тлумачення толерантності й визначається інтеракційна толерантність як багатокомпонентне, багатовимірне явище; зазначається, що толерантність являє собою норму цивілізованого компромісу між конкуруючими культурами, готовність прийняти інші логіки і погляди. Через це вона (толерантність) стає умовою збереження різноманітності, своєрідності, індивідуальності, неповторності, виступає певним історичним правом на відмінність, несхожість, інакшість, іншість. Акцентується увага на тому, що інтеракційну толерантність можна одночасно віднести і до соціальної і до психологічної толерантності. Будучи різновидом соціальної толерантності, інтеракційна толерантність представлена як міжіндивідуальною, так і міжсоціумною формами прояву. Як різновид психологічної толерантності, інтеракційна толерантність пов’язана як із специфікою міжгрупових відносин і стосунків, так із тими видами психологічної толерантності, що визначаються специфікою міжгрупової взаємодії. Це, зокрема такі види психічної толерантності, як: міжвидова толерантність (відносини людини з представниками інших біологічних видів), міжстатева толерантність, міжвікова толерантність, міжетнічна толерантність, міжкласоватолерантінсть, міжконфесійна толерантність, міжментальна толерантність.
Мета статті полягає у репрезентуванні загальних розумінь толерантності та характеристиці феномена «інтеракційна толерантність» як предмету психологічного дослідження, описі його істотних властивостей і ознак.
A Beginner’s Guide to Writing Scientific Manuscripts
Authors: Balogh Lajos
Published: July 2024

Publishing articles is an existential need for every scientist. All scientific journal websites have numerous pages describing the requirements for a manuscript. However, how to satisfy those requirements is not explained, which is a real problem for a beginner. Here, I provide a practical guide to less experienced writers by describing the procedure I use to write scientific articles. There are many methods to write a paper, but I can only share mine. Would you like to have more citations? Follow the guidelines below. I hope it helps.
Fenómeno del diente rosado en medicina y odontología forense
Authors: Orozco Orozco Caterine Nataly , González Pazmiño Daniela Lisseth , Daqui Sanaguano Jaime Enrique , Ruiz Fiallos Darwin Marcelo
Published: July 2024

Introducción: La aparición de diente rosado postmortem es un fenómeno que puede ser observado como consecuencia de un aumento venoso y a una presión en la pulpa dental.  Objetivo: Analizar la evidencia científica sobre el Fenómeno del diente rosado en Medicina y Odontología Forense. Metodología: Revisión bibliográfica para la búsqueda de publicaciones de alto impacto, fueron utilizadas las bases de datos ResearchGate, Google scholar, Scopus, Pubmed, Scielo desde el año 2013 al año 2023 en idioma español, inglés y portugués.  Resultados: El fenómeno del diente rosado en la medicina y odontología forense sigue siendo aún estudiado, se presenta como consecuencia del aumento de la presión intrapulpar, la coloración rojiza se debe a una liberación de la hemoglobina soluble alrededor de la pulpa dentaria a partir del proceso de autolisis. Conclusión: El fenómeno del diente rosado postmortem su aparición no se encuentra totalmente esclarecida y no existe evidencia confirmada de su relación directa con ciertas causas de muerte. Área de estudio general: Medicina y Odontología. Área de estudio específica: Medicina y Odontología forense. Tipo de estudio:  Artículo de revisión sistemática.
Retrospective Analysis of Semen Quality Using Sperm Enhancing Technique for Intrauterine Insemination
Authors: Mahmud Nusrat , Mamun Md Arif , Sharmin Eshita , Mirza Farihanehreen , Shamayeen Zayan
Published: July 2024

Objective: To use sperm wash swim up technique as a diagnostic tool in Intra Uterine Insemination.
Design: Male semen data was recorded for 181 couples who chose to undergo IUI procedures at the Bangladesh Institute of Research & Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) Centre for Assisted Reproduction (CARE) from 2013- 2016. Couples were selected for IUI based on initial complaints of primary or secondary subfertility. The female partner had at least patent one tube based on hysterosalphingogram or laparoscopy results. Polycystic ovarian syndrome and minimal to mild endometriosis cases were included. Male factor includes sexual dysfunction and moderate sperm abnormalities.
Statistical Analysis: Baseline and stratified analyses were conducted using semen data form.
Results: There were 181 IUI cycles done in total. 126 couples (70%) suffered from primary sub fertility while 55 couples (30%) suffered from secondary subfertility. The baseline findings show that morphology of samples is improved by nearly 28%, while rapid linear motility improves by 50% after the first wash and has less variation after the second wash. Concentration, rapid linear motility, and morphology, all have strengthened parameters with each progressive wash process (p< .0001, p< .0001, and p = .0004, respectively).
Conclusions: The result of our study provides some interesting observations in the treatment modalities for male infertility. Relatively low cost, less time consuming Swim up sperm wash technique can improve the quality of semen in a great extent.
Bangladesh Journal of Urology, Vol. 20, No. 1, January 2017 p.36-41
Detoxifying enzyme profiles in pesticide tolerant strains of Trichogramma chilonis Ishii, a hymenopteran parasitoid
Authors: Charles V. , Vijayan V.A. , Jalali S.K. , Mahadevaswamy M.
Published: July 2024

Investigation on enzyme assays were carried out for carboxyl esterase (á and â esterase) and glutathione s-transferase in the susceptible and pesticide tolerant Trichogramma chilonis Ishii strains such as TCT1, TCT4, TCT5 and TCCb tolerant to endosulfan, spinosad, lamda-cyhalothrin and indoxycarb respectively. The electrophoretic profile of á-esterase enzyme in the susceptible Trichogramma strain showed 3 alleles in comparison with tolerant Trichogramma strains TcT5, TCT1, TCCb and TCT4 which depicted 5, 4, 3 and 2 alleles respectively. Similarly, â-esterases profile in the susceptible indicated 4 alleles compared to TCT5, TCT1, TCCb and TCT4 strains which showed 6, 5, 3 and 3 alleles respectively. The results of the quantitative analysis showed an increased enzyme activity in the tolerant strains. The increase in á-esterase activity in the tolerant strains TCT1, TCT4 and TCT5 was 2.07, 1.53 and 1.51 times more than the susceptible one and the mean difference was statistically significant and â-esterase activity in the tolerant strains TCT1, TCT4 and TCT5 was 1.41, 1.69 and 1.16 times more than the susceptible one. In the glutathione s-transferase enzyme activity, the mean value of the susceptible strain was 0.029?M and in tolerant strains, TCT1, TCT4 and TCT5 the values were 0.0243, 0.0289 and 0.023?M respectively indicating that the tolerant strains had lesser activity than the susceptible one. Such an increase in enzyme activity indicated the elevated production of detoxifying enzymes such as carboxylesterase to sustain the parasitoid in the field.
Biology and morphometrics of Bradysia tritici (Coq.) (Diptera, Sciaridae) on milky mushroom in Navasari, Gujarat, India
Authors: Likhitha B , Shukla Abhishek
Published: July 2024

Biology and morphometrics of Bradysia tritici (Coq.), a major pest of milky mushroom (Calocybe indica P&C), were studied. Adult longevity of male and female was 4.75±1.64 and 6.10±0.91 days, respectively. The female laid an average of 40.45±5.21 eggs in her life period. The eggs were singly laid in clusters of 2 to 3 and hatched in 2.50±0.51days and the viability of eggs were 83.26±5.88 per cent. The larval stage completed in 11.10±1.07 days. The pre-pupal, pupal stages and total life cycle of male and female lasted for 1.60, 2.70.47.0 and 20.15 and 21.50 days, respectively.
PENGEMBANGAN INSTRUMEN UNTUK MENGUKUR KOMPETENSI SOSIAL GURU BERBASIS GENDER EQUALITY AND SOCIAL INCLUSION (GESI) DI SEKOLAH INKLUSI
Authors: Rosita Tita , Ningrum Devy Sekar Ayu , Septian Muhammad Rezza , Sukinah Sukinah , Safitri Mutiara Tectonia
Published: July 2024

The social competence of teachers based on gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) in this research is the teacher's ability to communicate with children with special needs based on managing social dynamics and the teacher's framework for promoting social inclusion. The aim of this research is to create an instrument to measure teachers' social competence based on gender equality and social inclusion (GESI). The research method used is quantitative descriptive research. The development of the questionnaire in this study incorporates a measurement framework that provides a systematic method based on a combination of theoretical and psychometric approaches. The sample was 91 teachers who taught in four Bandung City State Elementary Schools. Based on the research results, data was obtained that the GESI-based social competency questionnaire consists of three aspects, namely attitudes towards inclusive education, empathy for students with special needs, and problem solving. The number of items in the questionnaire, namely 36 items, has met the standards of reliability, content validity, construct validity, and provides initial evidence for the use of the instrument with the aim of measuring the social competence of GESI-based teachers in inclusive schools.
KEBAHAGIAAN SISWA BOARDING SCHOOL: MENELAAH PERAN PENTING ORIENTASI RELIGIUS DAN KUALITAS PERTEMANAN
Authors: Fahrezi Syahrizal Yogi , Na'imah Tri , Nur'aeni Nur'aeni , Dwiyanti Retno
Published: July 2024

This study aims to examine the extent to which religious orientation and friendship quality can influence student happiness at SMP Muhammadiyah Boarding School ‘X’ in Banyumas Regency, Central Java. This study used a quantitative approach to analyse the relationship between variables. Data were collected using the Orientation to Happiness (OTH) scale, Religious Orientation Scale (ROS), and Friendship Qualities Scale (FQS). By applying the Partial Least Square (PLS)-SEM method, the results showed that religious orientation and friendship qualities play a significant role in achieving students' happiness in boarding schools. The findings of this study provide a stronger basis for the development of interventions or programmes aimed at increasing students' happiness in boarding schools.  For future researchers, it is recommended to conduct a broader and more comprehensive study involving mediator and moderator variables.
Vespa Motorcycle Lighting Modification Using AHP System With Fullwave Ignition
Authors: Tjiptady Bella Cornelia , Fitriani Indah Martha , Rahman Rifki Zainur , Zamzami Muhammad Rizal Akbar , Zamzami Muhammad Ana , Darmawan Kiki
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on the modification of Vespa motorbike lighting by implementing the Aho system with Fullwave charging. The process involves replacing the regulator cable line with a Honda Tiger regulator to convert the AC lighting system to full wave. Additionally, the upgrade includes replacing the halfwave regulator with a fullwave kiprok type using 4 diode bridges to convert AC to DC current efficiently. LED lamps are also substituted for their energy efficiency and optimal performance with DC current. The research emphasizes the importance of enhancing lighting systems for motorcycle safety and compliance with traffic regulations. The findings highlight the benefits of these modifications in improving lighting efficiency and overall safety for Vespa motorbike users.
Effectiveness of Circuit and Fartlek Exercises to Increase Aerobic Endurance in Adolescent Futsal Players
Authors: Satria M Haris , Juhanis Juhanis , Da'i Mohamad , Isnaini Lalu Moh Yudha , Anam Khaerul , Dwijayanti Karlina
Published: July 2024

Aerobic endurance is an important component in futsal sports games, so it requires an exercise that can increase aerobic endurance. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of circuit training with fartlek exercises to increase aerobic endurance futsal players Bina Darma. The research method used was an experiment with the design of the control group pre-test post-test. The study population of 40 Bina Darma futsal players was divided evenly into two groups, namely the circuit training group and the fartlek training group consisting of 20 samples. Each group performed the exercises for 8 weeks with a frequency of 3 times a week. Aerobic endurance measurements were taken before and after the exercise program using the Bleep Test. Analysis Data obtained from VO2 max test will be analyzed using statistical software SPSS 23. Statistical analysis that will be used is an Paired Samples Test to compare the increase in aerobic endurance between circuit training group and fartlek exercise group. The results showed a significant increase in aerobic endurance in all groups after the exercise programme. The results of this study showed that the circuit training group was more significant than the fartlek training group with very high statistical significance (p< .001), showing that the difference between circuit training and fartlek training in improving aerobic endurance was significant. In conclusion, circuit training is a more effective option for improving aerobic endurance in Bina Darma futsal players. Choosing the right type of sport can increase the aerobic endurance of futsal players.
PHENOLIC AND ANTIOXIDANT PROFILE: FTIR AND LC-MS ANALYSES OF SERAPIAS ORIENTALIS
Authors: Aytar Erdi Can , Özdener Kömpe Yasemin
Published: July 2024

Objective: The objective of this study is to characterize the aerial parts of S. orientalis using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, evaluate the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of seeds, stems, and flowers, and conduct quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds using LC-MS/MS.
Material and Method: Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to characterize the aerial parts of S. orientalis. The analysis focused on identifying various functional groups such as -OH vibrations associated with polysaccharides, C-H vibrations from lipids and lignin compounds, and C=O vibrations related to cellulose derivatives. The total phenolic, flavonoid, flavanol, tannin, and proanthocyanidin contents of S. orientalis seeds, stems, and flowers were evaluated using standard analytical methods. DPPH radical scavenging activity was determined to assess antioxidant potential, with IC50 values calculated for each plant part. Quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds in the plant extract was conducted using LC-MS/MS. The abundance of various phenolic acids including P-coumaric acid, trans-ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and vanillic acid was determined. Additionally, other phenolic compounds such as gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, salicylic acid, (+) taxifolin, rutin hydrate, ellagic acid, quercetin dihydrate, and apigenin were also detected and quantified.
Result and Discussion: The evaluation of phenolic content showed differences among different plant parts, with flowers exhibiting the highest total phenolic and proanthocyanidin content. Seeds demonstrated superior DPPH radical scavenging activity. Quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds using LC-MS/MS highlighted the abundance of various phenolic acids and other phenolic compounds in S. orientalis. These findings underscore the potential of S. orientalis as a valuable source of natural antioxidants. Overall, the results suggest that S. orientalis possesses significant phenolic diversity and antioxidant activity, which could contribute to its potential applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.
Comparison of real data and simulated data analysis of a stopping rule based on the standard error of measurement in computerized adaptive testing for medical examinations in Korea: a psychometric study
Authors: Seo Dong Gi , Choi Jeongwook , Kim Jinha
Published: July 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to compare and evaluate the efficiency and accuracy of computerized adaptive testing (CAT) under 2 stopping rules (standard error of measurement [SEM]=0.3 and 0.25) using both real and simulated data in medical examinations in Korea.Methods: This study employed post-hoc simulation and real data analysis to explore the optimal stopping rule for CAT in medical examinations. The real data were obtained from the responses of 3rd-year medical students during examinations in 2020 at Hallym University College of Medicine. Simulated data were generated using estimated parameters from a real item bank in R. Outcome variables included the number of examinees’ passing or failing with SEM values of 0.25 and 0.30, the number of items administered, and the correlation. The consistency of real CAT result was evaluated by examining consistency of pass or fail based on a cut score of 0.0. The efficiency of all CAT designs was assessed by comparing the average number of items administered under both stopping rules.Results: Both SEM 0.25 and SEM 0.30 provided a good balance between accuracy and efficiency in CAT. The real data showed minimal differences in pass/fail outcomes between the 2 SEM conditions, with a high correlation (r=0.99) between ability estimates. The simulation results confirmed these findings, indicating similar average item numbers between real and simulated data.Conclusion: The findings suggest that both SEM 0.25 and 0.30 are effective termination criteria in the context of the Rasch model, balancing accuracy and efficiency in CAT.
VICTIMISATION OF TEACHERS AS A FACTOR THREATENING THEIR WELLBEING (WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE SLOVAK AND CZECH REPUBLICS)
Authors: EMMEROVÁ INGRID , JABLONSKÝ TOMÁŠ
Published: July 2024

The study focuses on the issue of aggressive behaviour of pupils towards teachers in Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Its occurrence is confirmed by the results of objective research. Aggressive behaviour of pupils towards teachers is a serious educational problem. Such behaviour seriously undermines the well-being of teachers. The satisfaction and wellbeing of teachers and other school staff is not only important for their mental health, but also for the wellbeing of their pupils.
Pengaruh Pendidikan Kesehatan Tentang Fast Action Pada Serangan Stroke Terhadap Pengetahuan Masyarakat di RT 04/RW 04 Kelurahan Sepanjang Jaya Tahun 2023
Authors: Roulita Roulita , Ramadhan Kankan , Oliviawati Mega
Published: July 2024

Stroke merupakan penyebab kematian kedua di seluruh dunia setelah penyakit jantung dengan persentase sebesar 11,8%. Setiap enam detik, satu individu kehilangan nyawanya akibat serangan stroke. Ada 15 juta individu di seluruh dunia yang mengalami serangan Stroke, dengan 5 juta di antaranya meninggal dan 5 juta lagi mengalami disabilitas. Pada tahun 2007, dampak stroke menyebabkan lebih dari 2 juta individu menderita cacat. Pengenalan awal adalah strategi early warning sign bagi kelompok yang berisiko tinggi yang merupakan konsep pokok dalam rangkaian langkah penyelamatan pasien stroke. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain Pre-Eksperimen, yang mana terdiri dari satu kelompok dan dilakukan pretest-posttest. Peneliti ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi apakah pendidikan kesehatan memiliki pengaruh terhadap pengetahuan masyarakat. Populasi penelitian yang akan digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penduduk yang tinggal di Rt 04/Rw 04 Kelurahan Sepanjang Jaya pada tahun 2023, dan sampel penelitian akan dipilih menggunakan metode purposive sampling. Metode yang digunakan untuk menganalisis data adalah Uji-Paired T-test.
Pendampingan Remaja dalam Upaya Pencegahan Perilaku Bullying di Dukuh Kupang Karangdowo
Authors: Ratna Agustiningrum  , Agustina Nur Wulan , Handayani Sri , Irawan AM Adi , Rozani Moh
Published: July 2024

Bullying ini banyak terjadi diberbagai sekolah maypun masyarakat,, bahkan di pesatren ataupun di masyarakat. Bullying merujuk pada perilaku yang dilakukan berulang-ulang oleh seseorang atau sekelompok yang memiliki kekuasaan terhadap orang lain yang lebih lemah dengan tujuan menyakiti orang tersebut. Kekerasan masih banyak ditemukan di sekolah-sekolah, maupun di masyarakat. Penelitian yang dilakukan oleh Sejiwa (2008) menyebutkan bahwa terdapat 27% guru yang memandang bahwa bullying adalah perilaku normal dan sah-sah saja, bahkan guru menganggap bahwa verbal bullying adalah hal yang lumrah terjadi di dalam pergaulan. Data lain menyebutkan bahwa 13.1 % siswa menjadi pelaku bullying (Sulistyowati, 2022). Adapun masalah yang lebih mungkin diderita remaja yang menjadi korban bullying, antara lain munculnya berbagai masalah mental seperti depresi, kegelisahan dan masalah tidur yang mungkin akan terbawa hingga dewasa, keluhan kesehatan fisik, seperti sakit kepala, sakit perut dan ketegangan otot, rasa tidak aman saat berada di lingkungan sekolah, dan penurunan semangat belajar dan prestasi akademis. Dalam kasus yang cukup langka, remaja  korban bullying mungkin akan menunjukkan sifat kekerasan.
Using health belief model constructs to understand the role of perceived disease threat and resilience in responding to COVID-19 among people who use drugs: a cluster analysis
Authors: Paulus Kirsten , Bass Sarah Bauerle , Kelly Patrick J. A. , Pilla Jenine , Otor AnnaMarie , Scialanca Madison , Arroyo Anamarys , Faison Namaijah
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The Health Belief Model (HBM) has been successfully applied to understanding adherence to COVID-19 prevention practices. It has not, however, been used to understand behavior in people who use drugs (PWUD). The aim of this study was to use the HBM to better understand COVID-19 perceptions among PWUD and understand how resiliency affects those perceptions.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional survey was completed from September to December 2021 with PWUD (n = 75) who utilize services at a large harm reduction organization in Philadelphia. Segmentation analysis was done using a k-means clustering approach. Two clusters emerged based on perceived COVID-19 personal impact and resiliency (Less COVID impact/High resilience (NoCOV/HR) and High COVID impact/Low resilience (COV/LR). Differences in responses by cluster to perceptions of COVID-19 and individual pandemic response grouped by HBM constructs were assessed using Student’s t-test and chi squares.

Results

Significant differences in HBM constructs were seen between clusters. Those in the COV/LR cluster were more likely to think they were susceptible to getting COVID-19 and less likely to believe they knew how to protect themselves. The NoCOV/HR cluster believed they were able to protect themselves from COVID-19 and that they were able to easily understand messages about protecting themselves.

Conclusion

Understanding how PWUD conceptualize disease threat and using HBM can better inform interventions to improve future pandemic response. Findings suggest that resilience is key to protecting PWUD from future infectious disease outbreaks. Interventions aimed at increasing resiliency among PWUD may improve preventative behavior and decrease disease burden in this vulnerable population.
Insight into a single-chamber air-cathode microbial fuel cell for nitrate removal and ecological roles
Authors: Jin Xiaojun , Yang Nuan , Xu Dake , Song Cheng , Liu Hong
Published: July 2024

Bioelectrochemical systems are sustainable and potential technology systems in wastewater treatment for nitrogen removal. The present study fabricated an air-cathode denitrifying microbial fuel cell (DNMFC) with a revisable modular design and investigated metabolic processes using nutrients together with the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of dominated microorganisms. Based on the detection of organics and solvable nitrogen concentrations as well as electron generations in DNMFCs under different conditions, the distribution pattern of nutrients could be quantified. By calculation, it was found that heterotrophic denitrification performed in DNMFCs using 56.6% COD decreased the Coulombic efficiency from 38.0% to 16.5% at a COD/NO3−-N ratio of 7. Furthermore, biological denitrification removed 92.3% of the nitrate, while the residual was reduced via electrochemical denitrification in the cathode. Correspondingly, nitrate as the electron acceptor consumed 16.7% of all the generated electrons, and the residual electrons were accepted by oxygen. Microbial community analysis revealed that bifunctional bacteria of electroactive denitrifying bacteria distributed all over the reactor determined the DNMFC performance; meanwhile, electroactive bacteria were mainly distributed in the anode biofilm, anaerobic denitrifying bacteria adhered to the wall, and facultative anaerobic denitrifying bacteria were distributed in the wall and cathode. Characterizing the contribution of specific microorganisms in DNMFCs comprehensively revealed the significant role of electroactive denitrifying bacteria and their cooperative relationship with other functional bacteria.
Robust decentralized adaptive compensation for the multi-axial real-time hybrid simulation benchmark
Authors: Quiroz María , Gálmez Cristóbal , Fermandois Gastón A.
Published: July 2024

Real-time hybrid simulation (RTHS) is a powerful and highly reliable technique integrating experimental testing with numerical modeling for studying rate-dependent components under realistic conditions. One of its key advantages is its cost-effectiveness compared to large-scale shake table testing, which is attained by selectively conducting experimental testing on critical parts of the analyzed structure, thus avoiding the assembly of the entire system. One of the fundamental advancements in RTHS methods is the development of multi-dimensional dynamic testing. In particular, multi-axial RTHS (maRTHS) aims to prescribe multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) loading from the numerical substructure over the test specimen. Under these conditions, synchronization is a significant challenge in multiple actuator loading assemblies. This study proposes a robust and decentralized adaptive compensation (RoDeAC) method for the next-generation maRTHS benchmark problem. An initial calibration of the dynamic compensator is carried out through offline numerical simulations. Subsequently, the compensator parameters are updated in real-time during the test using a recursive least squares adaptive algorithm. The results demonstrate outstanding performance in experiment synchronization, even in uncertain conditions, due to the variability of reference structures, seismic loading, and multi-actuator properties. Notably, this achievement is accomplished without needing detailed information about the test specimen, streamlining the procedure and reducing the risk of specimen deterioration. Additionally, the tracking performance of the tests closely aligns with the reference structure, further affirming the excellence of the outcomes.
A prediction model for secondary invasive fungal infection among severe SARS-CoV-2 positive patients in ICU
Authors: Su Leilei , Yu Tong , Zhang Chunmei , Huo Pengfei , Zhao Zhongyan
Published: July 2024

Background

The global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in over seven million deaths, and IFI can further complicate the clinical course of COVID-19. Coinfection of COVID-19 and IFI (secondary IFI) pose significant threats not only to healthcare systems but also to patient lives. After the control measures for COVID-19 were lifted in China, we observed a substantial number of ICU patients developing COVID-19-associated IFI. This creates an urgent need for predictive assessment of COVID-19 patients in the ICU environment for early detection of suspected fungal infection cases.

Methods

This study is a single-center, retrospective research endeavor. We conducted a case-control study on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive patients. The cases consisted of patients who developed any secondary IFI during their ICU stay at Jilin University China-Japan Union Hospital in Changchun, Jilin Province, China, from December 1st, 2022, to August 31st, 2023. The control group consisted of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients without secondary IFI. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed, and a logistic regression prediction model for secondary IFI in COVID-19 patients was established. Additionally, we observed an increased incidence of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) during this pandemic. Therefore, we conducted a univariate subgroup analysis on top of IFI, using non-CAPA patients as the control subgroup.

Results

From multivariate analysis, the prediction model identified 6 factors that are significantly associated with IFI, including the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics for more than 2 weeks (aOR=4.14, 95% CI 2.03-8.67), fever (aOR=2.3, 95%CI 1.16-4.55), elevated log IL-6 levels (aOR=1.22, 95% CI 1.04-1.43) and prone position ventilation (aOR=2.38, 95%CI 1.15-4.97) as independent risk factors for COVID-19 secondary IFI. High BMI (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2) (aOR=0.85, 95% CI 0.75-0.94) and the use of COVID-19 immunoglobulin (aOR=0.45, 95% CI 0.2-0.97) were identified as independent protective factors against COVID-19 secondary IFI. The Receiver Operating Curve (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) of this model was 0.81, indicating good classification.

Conclusion

We recommend paying special attention for the occurrence of secondary IFI in COVID-19 patients with low BMI (BMI < 28 kg/m2), elevated log IL-6 levels and fever. Additionally, during the treatment of COVID-19 patients, we emphasize the importance of minimizing the duration of broad-spectrum antibiotic use and highlight the potential of immunoglobulin application in reducing the incidence of IFI.
Long-term association of remnant cholesterol with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality: a nationally representative cohort study
Authors: Chen Min , Chen Zhi , Ye Huarong , Cheng Yuanling , Jin Zhigang , Cai Shaoqian
Published: July 2024

Background and objectives

Despite reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to the normal range, residual cardiovascular risk remain. Remnant cholesterol (RC) exerts a potential residual risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention, and the long-term longitudinal association between RC and mortality has yet to be well elucidated.

Methods

This study examined a nationally representative sample of 13,383 adults aged 20 years or older (mean age 45.7 and 52% women) who participated in the NHANES III (from1988 to1994). Causes of death were ascertained by linkage to death records through December 31, 2019. The relations of RC with all-cause and CVD mortality were tested using weighted Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

Through a median follow-up of 26.6 years, 5,044 deaths were reported, comprising 1,741 deaths of CVD [1,409 deaths of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and 332 deaths of stroke] and 1,126 of cancer. Compared to those with RC <14.26 mg/dl (lowest quartile), participants with RC ≥29.80 mg/dl (highest quartile) had multivariable-adjusted HRs of 1.23 (95% CI: 1.07–1.42) for all-cause mortality, 1.22 (95% CI: 0.97–1.53) for CVD mortality, and 1.32 (95% CI: 1.03–1.69) for IHD mortality, and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.55–1.43) for stroke mortality, and 1.17 (95% CI 0.90–1.52) for cancer mortality. We observed that elevated RC levels increased CVD risk and IHD mortality despite LDL-C being in the normal range.

Conclusions

Elevated blood RC was associated with an increased long-term risk of all-cause, CVD, and IHD mortality. These associations were independent of socioeconomic factors, lifestyles, and history of diseases, and remained robust across the LDL-C stratum. Measuring RC levels might favor clinical assessment of early CVD risk. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the optimal range of RC levels for cardiovascular disease health in the general population.
The role of transformational leadership in enhancing school culture and teaching performance in Yemeni public schools
Authors: Alzoraiki Mohammed , Ahmad Abd Rahman , Ateeq Ali , Milhem Marwan
Published: July 2024

This study examined the mediating effect of school culture on the relationship between transformational leadership and teaching performance in Yemeni public schools. A stratified random sample of 375 teachers from schools in Sana’a, Yemen, was selected to participate. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using structural equation modeling with SmartPLS 3. The results showed that transformational leadership and a positive school culture significantly predicted better teaching performance. Furthermore, school culture mediated the positive relationship between transformational leadership and teaching performance. These findings provide valuable insights for school leaders on the critical role of school culture in achieving teaching excellence. The results also shed light on mechanisms to improve school culture and educational leadership to implement policies for better student outcomes. Thus, this study addressed a gap in research on the connections between leadership styles, teaching performance, and school culture in the understudied context of Yemen’s education system.
Clinical and molecular study of patients with thyroid dyshormogenesis and variants in the thyroglobulin gene
Authors: Fernández-Cancio Mónica , Antolín María , Clemente María , Campos-Martorell Ariadna , Mogas Eduard , Baz-Redón Noelia , Leno-Colorado Jordi , Comas-Armangué Gemma , García-Arumí Elena , Soler-Colomer Laura , González-Llorens Núria , Camats-Tarruella Núria , Yeste Diego
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Defects in any thyroid hormone synthesis steps cause thyroid dyshormonogenesis (THD). THD due to thyroglobulin (TG) gene variants is a cause of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) with a wide clinical spectrum, ranging from mild to severe permanent hypothyroidism. We present high-throughput sequencing results of patients with TG variants.

Methods

A CH high-throughput sequencing-panel of the main genes involved in the regulation of thyroid hormonogenesis was performed to identify those TG variants that may be related to patient THD phenotype.

Results

We identified 21 TG gene variants in 19 patients (11.8%) which could explain their phenotype. Ten of those (47.6%) were not previously described. CH was biochemically severe in these 19 patients. Eight of them were reevaluated after one month of discontinuing LT4 treatment and all had severe permanent hypothyroidism. We also identified another 16 patients who presented heterozygous TG variants, of whom, at reevaluation, five had mild permanent and only one had severe permanent hypothyroidisms.

Discussions

In this study, 10 novel and 11 previously reported variants in the TG gene have been identified that could explain the phenotype of 19 patients from non-consanguineous families from a large THD cohort. Although not all these TG gene variants can explain all the patients’ THD phenotypes, some of them had severe or mild permanent hypothyroidism at reevaluation.
The predictive role of the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio for the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis: a nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Yan Cheng , Zhang Weichang , Xiao Yangyan , Sun Yuxin , Peng Xinke , Cai Wenwu
Published: July 2024

Background

The associations between platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis are unclear, and there are still no effective means for diagnosing or monitoring disease progression.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were collected for analysis. Logistic regression and restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate the associations between PLR and NAFLD and cirrhosis in different populations. The Area Under Curve Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUCROC) was used to distinguish the models. Threshold analysis was performed by constructing a two-piecewise linear regression. Correlation analysis was performed separately on either side of the inflection point.

Results

A total of 5724 adults were included. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the PLR was associated with NAFLD and cirrhosis (AUCROC of NAFLD: 0.803; AUCROC of cirrhosis: 0.851). The AUCROC of the PLR for predicting NAFLD incidence was 0.762 in the diabetic population and 0.804 in the nondiabetic population. High PLR predicted cirrhosis in the diabetic population, with an AUCROC of 0.824, whereas a high PLR was not associated with cirrhosis in the nondiabetic population. The restricted cubic spline revealed a negative linear correlation between the PLR and NAFLD incidence. The inflection point of the PLR for NAFLD was 180.74. A PLR ≤180.74 was statistically significant (odds ratio=0.997, 95% confidence interval=0.995-0.999). In the NAFLD population, the PLR was negatively correlated with cirrhosis at a PLR ≤130.5 (odds ratio=0.987, 95% confidence interval=0.977-0.996) and positively correlated with cirrhosis at a PLR > 130.5 (odds ratio=1.006, 95% confidence interval=1.001-1.012).

Conclusions

The PLR and NAFLD were negatively correlated in the U.S. population. The PLR had a U-shaped relationship with cirrhosis in the NAFLD population. The PLR has potential value in monitoring NAFLD patient progression to cirrhosis.
Perirenal fat thickness contributes to the estimated 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wang Wei , Lv Feng Yan , Tu Mei , Guo Xiu Li
Published: July 2024

Objective

Perirenal adipose tissue (PAT) has emerged as a potential therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the relationship between increased perirenal fat thickness (PrFT) and CVD risks in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the association between PrFT and the estimated 10-year risk of CVD and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in T2DM.

Method

The final analysis included 704 participants. PrFT was quantified using non-enhanced computed tomography scans, while the estimated 10-year CVD and ASCVD risk assessments were based on the Framingham and China-PAR equation risk scores, respectively. Multiple regression analysis was employed to analyze the correlation between PrFT and these risk scores.

Results

Higher quartiles of PrFT displayed elevated Framingham and China-PAR equation risk scores (P<0.001). After adjusting for cardiometabolic risk factors and visceral fat area, PrFT remained significantly correlated with Framingham equation risk scores in men (β=0.098, P=0.036) and women (β=0.099, P=0.032). Similar correlations were observed between PrFT and China-PAR equation risk scores in men (β=0.106, P=0.009) and women (β=0.108, P=0.007). Moreover, PrFT emerged as an independent variable associated with a high estimated 10-year risk of CVD and ASCVD, with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.14 (95% CI: 1.04-1.25, P=0.016) in men and 1.20 (95% CI: 1.11-1.31, P<0.001) in women for high estimated CVD risk, and ORs of 1.22 (95% CI: 1.08-1.41, P=0.009) in men and 1.34 (95% CI: 1.12-1.60, P<0.001) in women for high estimated 10-year ASCVD risk. Furthermore, restricted cubic spline analyses confirmed a nonlinear relationship between PrFT and high estimated CVD and ASCVD risk in both genders (P for nonlinearity and overall < 0.05).

Conclusions

PrFT contributed as an independent variable to the estimated 10-year risk of CVD and ASCVD in T2DM.
Low-voltage ride-through strategy for an integrated permanent magnet synchronous generator in a flexible interconnected distribution network
Authors: Yang Lin , Li Yang , Zhang Yu , Xie Zhongren , Chen Julong , Qu Yinlong , Shi Gang
Published: July 2024

For the permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) integrated into the flexible interconnected distribution network (FIDN), its low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) strategy needs to be designed to enhance the transient operation capability of the FIDN. The design of the LVRT strategy also needs to take the fault location of the FIDN into consideration. To deal with faults occurring on the integrated feeder of the PMSG, the PMSG needs to realize successful LVRT using the hardware protection equipment. To deal with faults occurring on the feeder adjacent to the integrated feeder of the PMSG, the PMSG needs to release its stored energy to temporarily increase its active power output, which is then supplied to the loads on the faulted feeder that are isolated from the fault through the soft open point (SOP). In this paper, a novel LVRT strategy designed for the PMSG integrated into the FIDN is proposed, which includes dual operation modes that are separately applied to different fault locations. If PMSG is on the faulted feeder, the DC-link voltage of the PMSG is maintained with the controllable resistive fault current limiter (CRFCL), while the maximized stored kinetic energy is reserved to enhance the generation efficiency during the LVRT. If PMSG is on the feeder adjacent to the faulted feeder, the control strategy of the converters of the PMSG is adjusted in response to the power regulation goal at the SOP. Meanwhile, the maximum releasable kinetic energy of the PMSG is considered when increasing its active power output. The feasibility and effectiveness of the LVRT strategy for the PMSG are verified based on the numerical analysis.
Enhancing participatory governance in biosphere reserves through co-creation of transdisciplinary and intergenerational knowledge
Authors: Leguia-Cruz Marcelo , Cerda Claudia , Ortiz-Cubillos Natalia , Mansilla-Quiñones Pablo , Moreira-Muñoz Andrés
Published: July 2024

In the context of the current global climate and biodiversity crisis, urgent action is needed to improve participatory and co-productive governance in territories under sustainability directives, such as biosphere reserves. These territories comprise a global network with the potential to apply and replicate sustainability actions, improve livelihoods, and boost climate change resilience while reducing impacts on the environment and the biodiversity in all continents. In the biosphere reserves network’s 50 years of existence, progress and setbacks have been reported in different regions around the world, and there is an urgent need to envision alternative futures. In this contribution, we describe the results and reflections of our ‘Open Academy’ that enhanced the participatory governance in La Campana–Peñuelas Biosphere Reserve in Central Chile. We crossed the traditional assessment with the principles of transdisciplinary and intergenerational knowledge co-creation. The results show that the traditional performance assessment shows a generally poor performance and reveals the weaknesses of the governance system of the reserve’s management. The extraction of water by mining and agroindustry, uncontrolled urbanization, wildfires, weak social participation, and low integration of indigenous communities are crucial issues for the performance of biosphere reserves. On the other hand, these territories have the potential as models toward post-extractive economies. Enhancing participatory governance, biosphere reserves shall serve as a) agents for configuring the future as an eco-social pact with the territory; b) pilot test areas for alternative futures; and c) places to promote the social collective as a conscious agent of the future.
Taxonomic and functional diversity along successional stages on post-coalmine spoil heaps
Authors: Bakr Jawdat , Kompała-Bąba Agnieszka , Bierza Wojciech , Chmura Damian , Hutniczak Agnieszka , Błońska Agnieszka , Nowak Teresa , Magurno Franco , Jagodziński Andrzej M. , Woźniak Gabriela
Published: July 2024

Coal is the most abundant fossil fuel in Europe, but the excavation of hard coal has covered large areas with disposed rock waste, and turned the natural habitats into disturbed novel ecosystems with harsh conditions differ in time and space. To examine the spontaneous complex successional gradient, we studied a large number of post coalmine heaps in Upper Silesia, which differ in vegetation type and age. Cluster analysis based on plant community composition (367 species in total) separated all surveyed plots on coal mining spoil heaps with herbaceous vegetation from Late Stage (LS) forests aged 14–56 years. Furthermore, the herbaceous vegetation was sub-grouped to three stages: Initial Stage (IS) aged 2–5 years, Early Stage (ES) aged 3–8 years and Mid-Stage (MS) aged 5–12 years. MS vegetation was characterised by the highest species richness and diversity (47 and 2.79) compared to ES (30 and 2.18) and IS (9 and 1.6), but higher species number and a similar diversity index occurred in LS (37 and 2.81). Functional diversity (FD) and community weighted mean (CWM) of nine functional traits showed higher (23.1) functional richness, higher (0.72) functional divergence, higher (4.5) functional dispersion, and higher value (24.4) of Rao’s quadratic entropy in LS compared to those calculated from the first three stages. Species at the initial successional stage (IS) were characterised by lower canopy height, seed mass, higher lateral spread, and specific leaf area (SLA). Additionally, the lowest (0.22 mg CO2 per hour per square metre) soil respiration (Sr) rate was recorded from IS compared to (0.53, 0.82 and 1.00) from ES, LS and MS, respectively. The soil water content (SWC) was the most important factor affecting the soil respiration, while the soil temperature (St) did not follow the well-studied relationship between soil respiration and soil temperature. Our spatial and temporal analyses illustrated changes in plant community assembly processes in the course of spontaneous vegetation succession on post coalmine spoil heaps. The importance of trait mediated abiotic filtration in community assembly in initial-, early-, and mid-stages of succession with an increase in competitive exclusion at the late successional stage was emphasized.