bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Escherichia coli, the Predominant Uropathogen in Women and it’s Antimicrobial Susceptibility
Authors: Mawla Nurun Nahar , Sultana Shahin , Hassan Munir
Published: November 2024

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infection in humans and a major cause of morbidity. Most commonly, members of Enterobacteriaceae family, particularly the uropathogenic strains of Escherichia coli is the primary causative organism of UTIs in different parts of the world. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the frequency of uropathogens in different age groups of both sex and to evaluate Escherichia coli as predominant bacteria for urinary tract infection in women with their antimicrobial sensitivity pattern. A total of 1616 urine samples were collected during January to December, 2012, from patients attending at Delta Medical College & Hospital, Dhaka and analyzed for different uropathogens. Urine cultures were carried out and the isolates were identified by standard procedures as needed. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by disk diffusion method according to ‘The Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute’ (CLSI) guidelines. In this present study, prevalence of uropathogens were higher in female patients (77.2%) than male patients (22.8%). The isolates were Escherichia coli (80%), Klebsiella spp. (7.9%), Enterococcus spp. (4.9%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (2%), Proteus (1.4%), Pseudomonas spp. and Staphylococcus aureus (1.2%). The rate of Escherichia coli infection in females of reproductive age group; 15-50 years was higher (61%)  and in that only a particular age group (21-30) was more prone to this pathogen (22.9%). Among the drugs used for testing the antimicrobial susceptibility, Imipenem, Amikacin, Nitrofurantoin and Gentamycin were found to be effective in the treatment of urinary tract infection. As drug resistance to commonly used antimicrobials is increasing, improvement in overall sanitary condition, proper knowledge on personal hygiene would play an important role in reducing the incidence and occurrence of urinary tract infection.
J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2013; 19 (02): 13-18
La utilización de la tecnología de impresión 3D para la recuperación de un patrimonio desaparecido y olvidado: la cueva del Magistral en Guadix (Granada)
Authors: Cambil María de la Encarnación , Cortés Magán Manuel
Published: November 2024

La tecnología de impresión 3D, utilizada habitualmente en arquitectura se ha convertido en un recurso para otras áreas de conocimiento como en este caso la Educación Patrimonial, al permitir pasar desde una planimetría digital a un objeto tridimensional un patrimonio perdido y olvidado, en este caso un ejemplo señero de la arquitectura excavada: La cueva palacio del Magistral en la ciudad de Guadix (Granada).
Fisiologia vegetal: Um estudo investigativo da fotossíntese na base da cadeia alimentar
Authors: Oliveira Marlucia Ximenes , Mendes Maura Rejane de Araújo
Published: November 2024

O estudo realizado em uma escola pública de Campo Maior, Piauí, teve como objetivo melhorar o ensino de botânica, abordando a fisiologia vegetal com foco na fotossíntese, destacada como base da cadeia alimentar. Considerada complexa e abstrata, essa área do conhecimento foi trabalhada de forma a facilitar a compreensão dos alunos. A pesquisa envolveu duas turmas do segundo ano do ensino médio, utilizando uma metodologia que combinou observação, ludicidade, experimentação e montagem de terrários. As atividades iniciaram com um passeio pelos jardins da escola, permitindo aos alunos refletirem sobre as características das plantas e seu papel nos ecossistemas, e culminaram na construção de uma cadeia alimentar. Posteriormente, um vídeo lúdico foi utilizado para explicar as fases da fotossíntese, seguido por atividades práticas no laboratório de ciências, onde os estudantes montaram terrários fechados para consolidar o aprendizado. Ao final, um questionário foi aplicado para avaliar a compreensão dos alunos. Os resultados indicaram que a maioria dos estudantes passaram a entender melhor a importância das plantas na manutenção da vida e dos ecossistemas. O estudo demonstra que abordagens pedagógicas inovadoras, associadas a práticas experimentais, tornam temas complexos mais acessíveis e relevantes, promovendo uma aprendizagem significativa em botânica.
O uso de laserterapia como uma alternativa no tratamento de lesões por pressão: Revisão integrativa
Authors: Silva Júlia Sales da , Vita Simone Nathalie Souto , Ornellas Bruna de Castro
Published: November 2024

A Lesão por Pressão é causada por danos à pele e tecidos moles devido à pressão prolongada ou intensa, resultando em lesão isquêmica. O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar e sintetizar as evidências acerca da eficácia da laserterapia no tratamento de lesões por pressão. Tratou-se de uma revisão integrativa de literatura realizada no mês de março de 2024 nas bases de dados SciELO, BVS, PubMed e Periódicos CAPES. A laserterapia é considerada uma modalidade terapêutica baseada na aplicação de luz laser diretamente na área da lesão, resultando em uma ação analgésica, anti-inflamatória e cicatrizante, possuindo efeitos bioquímicos, bioelétricos e bioenergéticos. Ao final do estudo, constatou-se que a utilização da laserterapia no tratamento de lesões por pressão apresentou resultados significativamente positivos, proporcionando diversos benefícios aos pacientes. A laserterapia demonstrou ser uma alternativa não invasiva altamente viável para o manejo dessas lesões, destacando-se por sua eficácia terapêutica.
Fatores que influenciam o manejo inadequado da anafilaxia em emergências pediátricas: Revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Hermisdorf Júlia Aguiar , Moura Ed Carlos Rey , Oliveira Caio Marcio Barros de , Leal Plinio da Cunha , Gama Monica Elinor Alves , Silva Danilo dos Santos , Almeida Maryane Belshoff de
Published: November 2024

Ainda na contemporaneidade, mesmo com protocolos bem estabelecidos para o manejo da anafilaxia em emergências pediátricas, os pacientes frequentemente são tratados com medicações de segunda linha, principalmente devido ao receio dos profissionais de saúde em administrar epinefrina. Ademais, essa condição é frequentemente subdiagnosticada, dada a possibilidade de uma apresentação clínica atípica na faixa etária infantil e a dificuldade dos pacientes, família e profissionais de saúde em reconhecer os sintomas. A subnotificação também persiste como uma realidade, o que dificulta a obtenção de dados precisos sobre a prevalência desta condição. O objetivo deste estudo é identificar os fatores que contribuem para o manejo inadequado da anafilaxia na faixa etária pediátrica e delinear as condutas necessárias para reverter esta situação. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, conduzida de acordo com a metodologia PRISMA, utilizando as plataformas de artigos PubMed e SciELO, com data de publicação limitada aos últimos 5 anos, buscando artigos de estudos realizados tanto em países desenvolvidos quanto em países em desenvolvimento, com as palavras-chave “anafilaxia”, “emergência” e “pediatria” em português e inglês. Constatou-se que, na população pediátrica, os principais fatores predisponentes do manejo inadequado desta afecção incluem principalmente o subdiagnóstico e o uso preferencial de medicações comprovadamente de segunda linha. Parte deste problema advém do não reconhecimento da condição clínica e outra parte do receio médico em relação aos possíveis efeitos colaterais da epinefrina.
Análise da prevalência e tipos de atividades físicas entre idosos acima de 60 anos: Um estudo quantitativo em um ambulatório público de Cascavel
Authors: Maniero Jiovana André , Alves Filho José Roberto
Published: November 2024

O crescimento da população idosa brasileira reflete uma tendência global de envelhecimento demográfico, resultando em um aumento das doenças crônicas associadas ao envelhecimento. A prevenção dessas condições exige a adoção de um estilo de vida saudável, incluindo atividade física regular, alimentação balanceada e acompanhamento médico periódico. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a prevalência e os tipos mais comuns de atividade física entre idosos com mais de 60 anos em um estabelecimento público na cidade de Cascavel. Adotando uma abordagem descritiva e quantitativa, foi aplicado um questionário composto por 17 perguntas objetivas. Participaram do estudo 100 idosos (74,7 ± 8,90 anos) sendo 60% do sexo feminino e 40% do sexo masculino. Em relação ao nível de atividade física, 54% dos idosos avaliados foram classificados como ativos, destes 31,4% consideram importante estarem fisicamente ativos, sendo a caminhada o exercício físico mais praticado e posterior 14,9% academia. Dentre as dificuldades encontradas, 34% dos motivos mais relatados se diz por problemas de saúde e limitações físicas, dos fatores motivacionais 38% realizavam por seguir orientações médicas e 36% prevenção de doenças, aos benefícios 31% observaram melhora na mobilidade e flexibilidade. Os resultados destacam a percepção dos idosos sobre a importância de manter-se fisicamente ativo, evidenciando a necessidade de incluir a atividade física no plano de cuidado farmacoterapêutico, a fim de promover um envelhecimento saudável e melhor qualidade de vida.
Producción científica en las facultades y escuelas de educación universitaria peruana
Authors: Santivañez-Isla Luis A.
Published: November 2024

El estudio analizó la producción científica de decanos de facultad y directores de escuelas de Educación en universidades del Perú. Bajo un enfoque cuantitativo, se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y de corte transversal, analizando la producción científica de directores de escuela y decanos de facultad de educación en SCOPUS, SCIELO y otras bases de datos en el periodo 2023-2024. Los resultados evidenciaron que los directores y decanos publicaron al menos un artículo en carrera profesional indistintamente de la base de datos, de los cuales un 28,9% publicaron al menos un artículo en revistas indizadas en SCIELO y/o SCOPUS, mostrando que la producción científica de decanos de facultad y directores de escuela de Educación en universidades licenciadas del Perú es baja. El índice H y el número de citas es más bajo en facultades y escuelas de educación, el tipo de artículo más frecuente es el artículo original. Es por ello, que se destaca la importancia de los directivos de las facultades de educación como ejemplo y como líderes para que implementen directrices y políticas que establezcan una cultura de investigación en las universidades.
Palabras clave: Investigación científica, Escuela profesional, Perú, Universidad.
AN ASSESSMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PRACTICES IN THE NIGERIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: CHALLENGES, COMPLIANCE AND IMPLICATION FOR WORKER WELL-BEING
Authors:   Department of Quantity Surveying, Enugu State University of Science of Science and Technology ESUT, C. Ajaelu Henry , O. Francisi Obru-Egboro ,   Department of Environmental, Management, ESUT Business School, L. Eke Bemsodi ,   Department of Architecture, Enugu Enugu State University of Science of Science and Technology ESUT
Published: November 2024

the construction industry in Nigeria is notorious for its high incidence of accidents, resulting in severe injuries, disabilities, and even fatalities. Despite the implementation of numerous health and safety regulations by construction firms, hazards and accidents persist on construction sites. This study examines the challenges faced in ensuring compliance with these regulations among construction workers in Nigeria. Data was gathered from safety personnel and construction professionals via questionnaires, with 175 responses analyzed out of 200 distributed. The analysis, conducted using SPSS V 24 and employing Factor analysis and mean item score, reveals that compliance with health and safety requirements among construction workers is subpar. Factors such as inadequate safety equipment, limited awareness of occupational health, and poor adherence to safety protocols emerge as the primary obstacles to compliance. To address these challenges, the study recommends the adoption of innovative measures and advanced technologies, such as radio frequency identification, for more effective monitoring of construction workers. It also suggests involving construction workers in the formulation of health and safety policies. By shedding light on these issues, this research aims to contribute to the enhancement of occupational safety standards on construction sites across the country.
EFFECTIVENESS OF SCRUM MASTER IN AGILE PROJECTS
Authors:   Department of Computer Science HITEC University, Taxila, Punjab, Pakistan, Hamza Muhammad , Arshad Dr. Hasna ,   Department of Computer Science HITEC University, Taxila, Punjab, Pakistan
Published: November 2024

As software industries, adopted different frameworks where Scrum is play a vital role in different software industries. Scrum basis the three main stakeholders i.e. Product Owner, Scrum Master and Development. Where Scrum Master is a very crucial role for any agile project. However, in the past Scrum Master Faces different challenges, which discovered in several studies. However, we need to measure the effectiveness of the Scrum master in Agile Projects, how presently Scrum Master are performing in Pakistani software industries. The main objective of this research to identify the effectiveness of the Scrum Master in agile projects in Pakistani software industries. For this purpose, we gathered the facts from Pakistani software industries by using the qualitative method. We conducted a survey from different software industries; almost 12 participants responded the survey as per their best knowledge as well as they agreed for face- to-face interviews. The results indicated that, mostly organization compliance with the Scrum ceremonies. In addition, 65% Scrum Masters has a great effectiveness in any agile project. 21% of Scrum Master generates negative impact in agile project. The main highlights of this research, we have presented the compliance of the Scrum in different software organization. Further, we explore the both positive and negative impact of the Scrum master in Pakistani software organizations.
Comparative Efficacy of Etmaben and Empagliflozin in Mono- and Combined Therapy of Experimental Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Ivkin D. Yu. , Krasnova M. V. , Semivelichenko E. D. , Karpov A. A. , Kovanskov V. E. , Okovitiy S. V.
Published: November 2024

The cardiotropic activity of etmaben, a malonic acid derivative, has been confirmed by a number of studies. The possibility of using empagliflozin in chronic heart failure has been proven in a number of preclinical and clinical studies. In this study, the efficacy of the drugs in monotherapy and combined use regimens is compared using a model of experimental chronic heart failure in rats. The most effective treatment regimen was found to be etmaben; its combination with empagliflozin led to a decrease in effectiveness, regardless of which of these drugs was the starting drug.
Effect of Xylazine/Zoletil Anesthesia on the Survival of Mice after Exposure to Radiations with Different Values of Linear Energy Transfer
Authors: Strelnikova N. S. , Rozanova O. M. , Smirnova H. N. , Belyakova T. A. , Kuznetsova E. A.
Published: November 2024

The survival of mice was determined 30 days after exposure to protons, carbon ions, or X-rays in the presence and absence of xylazine-zoletil anesthesia. The anesthesia used was shown to increase the lifespan of mice during the specified period for photons and most applied doses of protons and carbon. The maximum effect of anesthesia was observed when irradiated with carbon ions (by 3.3 times), with protons (by 1.7 times), and with X-ray radiation (by 1.7–2 times), which should be taken into account when selecting doses. This indicates the specificity of the combined effect of anesthesia and the physical characteristics of radiation.
Potential of Humic Substances in the Concomitant Therapy of Cancer Patients
Authors: Benderskii N. S. , Safronenko A. V. , Gantsgorn E. V. , Kudelina O. M. , Moroz A. V.
Published: November 2024

Concomitant therapy is an integral part of modern approaches in treating cancer patients, which allows the symptoms of malignant neoplasms to be mitigated and the adverse events of the treatment to be avoided. Therefore, the search for new drugs for supportive therapy of oncopathology patients seems highly relevant. Humic substances represent a promising, although insufficiently studied, group of natural compounds of plant origin. This review article is aimed at generalizing and systematizing the information currently available on the known pharmacological effects and possible action mechani
Application of Langmuir Technology for Profiling Free Fatty Acids by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Gladchuk A. S. , Varioshkin P. N. , Batotsyrenova E. G. , Kalninia Ya. K. , Zolotoverkhaya E. A. , Andreeva A. V. , Podolskaya E. P.
Published: November 2024

The application of Langmuir technology for analyzing free fatty acids makes it possible to obtain monolayers consisting of barium monocarboxylates, while the characteristic isotopic distribution of barium makes it possible to simplify the identification of compounds containing this element in mass spectra. The formation of monomolecular Langmuir films directly on the surface of the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ ionization of the target, reduces and simplifies sample preparation, at the same time as increasing the sensitivity of the technique for profiling of free fatty acids in biological samples of different origin.
Anticancer agents drive from Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Abouelhag Hussien
Published: November 2024

Cancer is one of the most fatal diseases that rarely any cancer patient survives from it. Cancer affect different ages and sex causing great humanity losses reaches up to 100,000 patient / year according to the recent statistical analysis. It also, affects different tissues causing irreversible cytopathological changes result in highly undifferentiated cells that hard to be controlled or eradicated. The chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical interference still used in elimination of the disease since decades however both radiotherapy and chemotherapy did not prove acceptable success in the cancer treatment until now, unfortunately the surgical interference could not be more helpful as it did not overcome the malignancy metastasis which gets back wilder after surgical interference due to metastasis. So, it was sound good to use the biological anti-malignancy agents in eradication of cancer cells. Biological anticancer agents provide a confident success in cancer therapy which includes many microbial metabolites derived from the members of Family Bacillacae such as Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus polymixa and other members explored recently in the Saudi environment. For example in a previous studies recorded by us some serovars of Bacillus thuringiensis enzymatically activated parasporal inclusion proteins proved a potent anti-malignancy effect on acute lymphocyte leukemia, lung carcinoma, larynx carcinoma and uterine cervix carcinoma in vitro and a great result was recorded in vivo on the Ehirlch Acites Carcinoma. These biological anti-malignancy agents had a selective direct cytotoxic effect on cancer cells in addition to improving the immune status (immunomodulation) which helps in destruction of the cancer cells and dysfunction of their metastasis properties.
Responding to the literacy load of science in monocultural contexts:
Authors: Duckworth Brian , MacQueen Suzanne , O'Toole J. Mitchell
Published: November 2024

Existing research about literacy within different subjects suggests that specialist language styles add an extra load to student learning. This has resulted in changes to centralized policy mandates in various jurisdictions, eliciting a variety of responses, including enthusiasm, agreement, compliance, neglect, subversion, and/or resistance. This mixed method study investigated whether 55 secondary school teachers from a culturally homogenous coastal region of Eastern Australia recognized literacy issues within science and their responses to such issues. There were three main findings. Firstly, only one third of participating mainstream science teachers accepted direct responsibility for helping their students deal with the literacy load of science, but most participating teachers recognized the literacy nature of more than half of the activities suggested to them. Secondly, participants teaching classes at several grade levels, and female participants, reported using a greater range of literacy activities in their science classes, and more clearly content-related activities were mentioned more frequently. Thirdly, participants who had completed a postgraduate teacher preparation program were more likely to express confidence in dealing with the literacy load of science and acceptance of responsibility for doing so. Time spent on literacy in teacher preparation programs appears to influence positive mainstream science teacher attitudes and practices in response to the literacy load of science. Study findings challenge conventional views of teacher recalcitrance, and they support the maintenance of policy and teacher preparation practices that encourage science teachers to respond productively to student literacy needs that have been identified by on-going research.
Bridging Local Innovations and Global Challenges in STEM Education
Authors: Kusmawan Udan
Published: November 2024

The November 2024 edition of the International Journal of Research in STEM Education (IJRSE) presents a curated collection of eight articles that explore the dynamic intersection of local innovations and global challenges within STEM education. This issue features contributions from 12 universities located across five countries and spanning three continents, illustrating the global scope and diverse perspectives that inform current STEM educational practices. The articles delve into various themes, including the effective integration of indigenous knowledge systems alongside modern educational techniques, the implementation of cutting-edge pedagogical strategies, and the crucial importance of fostering inclusivity and accessibility within STEM fields. Through a detailed examination of these topics, this issue not only highlights the unique contributions of different educational contexts but also underscores the universal challenges and opportunities that shape STEM education in today's interconnected world.
Greening our future: cultural policy and the ecological imperative
Authors: Rodrigues Vânia
Published: November 2024

What is it exactly about the quest to “green” the performing arts that so fundamentally challenges the sector’s modi operandi? A sense of urgency around climate change and ecological degradation is informing profound changes in the way the arts field sees itself and slowly inducing a discussion on the sustainability of its working practices. However, despite the undeniable planetary emergency, the lumping together of environmental issues and cultural policy and management frameworks remains complex and controversial, especially if considered from the perspective of the European semi-peripheries. By exploring the preliminary results of a nation-wide inquiry among 140 performing arts regularly funded organisations based in Portugal, this paper discusses the implications of the overarching challenge of environmental sustainability for cultural policymaking and arts management, seeking to contribute to a more nuanced and context-sensitive understanding of the “green transition.”
Methimazole-induced congenital hypothyroidism affects gonocytes differentiation and arrests meiosis: role of Sertoli cells
Authors: Gómez-Zúñiga Andrea , Landero-Huerta Daniel Adrián , Rojas-Castañeda Julio César , Sánchez-Huerta Karla , Contreras-García Itzel Jatziri , Reynoso-Robles Rafael , Arteaga-Silva Marcela , Vigueras-Villaseñor Rosa María
Published: November 2024

Background

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a pathology that affects various organs, including the testicles. The mechanisms by which this condition alters fertility is unknown. This study aimed at determining if experimental CH affects gonocyte differentiation and arrests meiosis; and the possible role of the Sertoli cell (SC) in this condition.

Material and Methods

Two groups of rats consisting of Control group and Methimazole (MMI) induced CH rats were formed. The induction of CH was achieved by the administration of MMI starting on day 16 postcoitum and continued until euthanized. Euthanasia was performed at 5, 8, 10, 16 and 64 days of age. Following this, the testicular tissue of each animal was extracted and processed for histopathological and ultrastructural analysis. In addition, the tissue was used for the determination of proteins and their transcriptions, events which are characteristics of gonocyte differentiation. The SC functionality proteins was determined immunohistochemically, while sperm parameters of the cauda epididymis were verified.

Results

CH caused a delay in the gonocyte differentiation, and arrested meiosis and spermiogenesis. These events had long-term repercussions on the quality of the seminiferous epithelium. The results show that CH induces alterations in the functional state of SCs that may have led to the deficiency in the synthesis and/or in the release of molecules necessary for gonocyte differentiation; as well as disorders in the process of meiosis that resulted in sperm absence.

Conclusion

These results suggest that CH affects gonocyte differentiation and arrests meiosis, possibly through altering the functional status of SCs.
Nanoparticle-based biomolecules in cancer diagnosis, therapy, drug delivery and prognosis
Authors: SV Sowmya , Augustine Dominic , Hosmani Jagdish , Pagnoni Francesco , Reda Rodolfo , Testarelli Luca , Patil Shankargouda
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Nanoparticles have orchestrated a paradigm shift in the landscape of cancer diagnosis and therapy, presenting a multifaceted approach to tackle the intricacies of malignancies. This comprehensive exposition delves deep into the forefront of nanomedicine, elucidating pivotal strategies and innovations primed to metamorphose the domain of cancer management.

Methodology

Nanoparticles transcend traditional boundaries, enabling meticulous, site-specific drug release while minimizing systemic toxicity. Intricately designed activation mechanisms, encompassing pH and enzymatic responsivity, along with concentration-dependent strategies, exploit the distinctive attributes of cancer cells, heralding an era characterized by unprecedented therapeutic precision. The pervasive influence of nanotechnology extends to diagnostics, unlocking the realm of early disease detection and personalized treatment. These versatile agents bestow empowering capabilities upon sensitive imaging modalities, affording real-time monitoring and theranostic potential.

Results

This exposition showcases the evolution of cutting-edge nanoplatforms, bridging the chasm between diagnosis and therapy, thereby redefining the confines of cancer care. This review elucidates strategies to combat drug resistance, a perennial challenge within cancer management. By targeting efflux transporters, modulating apoptotic pathways, and countering hypoxia-induced resistance, nanoparticles stand at the vanguard of therapeutic innovation, poised to reinvigorate treatment efficacy.

Discussion & Conclusion

Moreover, this exposé underscores the imminent clinical translation of nanoparticle-based drugs, accentuating their potential to metamorphose the landscape of cancer management. Liposomal vaccines, nano-pharmaceuticals, and nanochemodrugs, currently navigating the crucible of clinical trials, bear immense promise in advancing the realm of precision medicine. In this epoch of precision medicine, nanoparticle-fueled innovations stand poised to propel cancer diagnosis and therapy to unprecedented peaks.
Tracing the evolution of STEM education: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Abdi Abdirahman Ibrahim , Omar Abukar Mukhtar , Mahdi Abdikarim Osman , Asiimwe Constance , Osman Mohamed Ali
Published: November 2024

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of scientific research in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. One thousand six hundred twenty-three studies on STEM education published between 2013 and 2023 were analyzed using bibliometric methods to uncover trends over the past decade. The analysis commenced by searching the Scopus database Core Collection for “STEM Education” publications, and bibliometric data associated with these studies was collected. The collected publications were then analyzed using VOS-viewer, a bibliometric analysis tool, to examine various bibliographic attributes. The analysis focused on key aspects such as the number of publications per year, publication types, the language of publications, year Citation Analysis, Country Collaborations, Citation Analysis (Journal, Author, Institution and Document), Co-author Analysis (Author, Countries, Institution), Co-citation Analysis (Author), and Co-occurrences Analysis. The analysis findings were visualized using VOS-viewer, a bibliometric analysis tool to depict collaboration patterns and relationships. The analysis recommends future research in STEM education to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, address the digital divide, and integrate informal learning environments. It also underscores the importance of international collaborations, teacher professional development, and robust assessment frameworks for measuring STEM education effectiveness.
Refined identification of the key parameters of power system synthesis load model based on the improved butterfly algorithm
Authors: Wang Zongyao , Yan Gaoyang , Rong Yi , Wang Han
Published: November 2024

With the improvement in power grid simulation accuracy requirements, the existing typical load model parameters can no longer meet the accuracy requirements and become the short board that restricts the stable operation of power system. This paper mainly proposes an improved butterfly optimization algorithm based on the population optimization and dynamic strategy (PODSBOA) for commonly used synthesis load model (SLM) parameters to realize the refined and personalized identification of SLM key parameters:[pu, qu, Rs, Xs, Rr, Xr, Km, and Mif]. The results indicate that in the 2-s load data experiment, the identification error is 0.02, the identification accuracy is 4.09, and the convergence time of the PODSBOA is 12.048 s. In the 5-s load data experiment, the identification error is 0.013, the identification accuracy is 6.65, and the convergence time of the PODSBOA is 23.405 s. The identification errors in the two sets of experiments are reduced by 0.02023–0.06443 compared with other algorithms. The comparison results of different load model parameter identification algorithms indicate that the improved PODSBOA proposed in this paper has high recognition accuracy and fast convergence speed and solves the problem of low accuracy and instability of the identification results of the existing identification schemes.
Research on a dust concentration prediction model for open-pit mines based on error reciprocal integration GA-LSSVM and Elman-Adaboost
Authors: Zhiguo Chang , Shuangshuang Xiao , Jin Liu
Published: November 2024

Graphical Abstract
State land supervision system and low-carbon transformation of agriculture: a quasi-natural experiment from China’s routine land inspections
Authors: Qian Jingjing , Xu Ning
Published: November 2024

As a high-intensity, high-standard institutional mechanism in land supervision and management, the State Land Supervision System (SLSS) plays a crucial role in deterring land-related violations, enforcing farmland protection, ensuring national food security, and facilitating sustainable agricultural development. However, previous research has seldom examined how the SLSS contributes to the low-carbon transformation of agriculture (LCTA). This study treats China’s routine land inspections as a quasi-natural experiment, utilizing panel data from 283 prefecture-level and higher cities from 2005 to 2016 to empirically analyze whether and how the SLSS supports LCTA. The findings reveal that the SLSS significantly advances LCTA, with the low-carbon agricultural development level in inspected cities increasing by approximately 2.17%. The SLSS promotes LCTA primarily through enhancing agricultural technological progress and encouraging agricultural scale operations. Compared to major grain-producing regions, high-poverty areas, and regions under significant fiscal pressure, the SLSS more effectively fosters LCTA in non-grain-producing areas, regions with lower poverty rates, and areas facing less fiscal strain. Furthermore, the SLSS has a more pronounced effect on advancing low-carbon agricultural development in cities that already demonstrate higher levels of low-carbon progress. This study provides novel empirical evidence regarding the environmental impacts of SLSS in the agricultural sector, offering insights relevant to the pursuit of agricultural modernization.
Tick population dynamics in the city of Košice (Eastern Slovakia): a public health study
Authors: Hajdová Blažena , Cellengová Zuzana , Peťko Branislav , Ondrejková Anna , Lipinský Jakub , Drážovská Monika
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Urban habitats, including green spaces, host diverse ecosystems where ticks and their hosts thrive, posing public health risks. Understanding the presence of ticks in urban areas is crucial for the effective management of those parasites.

Methods

A three-year study (2021 - 2023) on the presence of ticks in urban green spaces was conducted in the city of Košice, Slovakia. A total of 3443 ticks were collected in woodland and scrubby vegetation areas located in the town by applying the flagging methods.

Results

Three different species of ticks – Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor reticulatus, and Dermacentor marginatus, were found in the urban spaces, while I. ricinus was the most prevalent tick species (64.7%), followed by D. reticulatus (35.2%). Dermacentor reticulatus, typically found in rural habitats, was detected right in the city centre, where its typical habitat is absent. Significant differences in tick abundance were observed between the scrubby areas (55.9%) and the woodland areas (44.5%), with D. reticulatus being predominantly found in the former. Monthly tick density varied across years, with D. reticulatus activity starting early in February.

Discussion

The findings of the study highlight the importance of considering geographical and ecological factors in tick distribution studies, especially in urban settings. Effective public health management strategies should incorporate efforts aimed at understanding the presence and behaviour of ticks in urban environments, emphasising the need for monitoring those species and taking necessary measures, such as vegetation maintenance, in order to mitigate the tick-related risks in urban areas.
Modulation of the hepatic RANK-RANKL-OPG axis by combined C5 and CD14 inhibition in a long-term polytrauma model
Authors: Li Yang , Horst Klemens , Greven Johannes , Mert Ümit , Lupu Ludmila , Palmer Annette , Doerfer Lena , Zhao Qun , Zhang Xing , Halbgebauer Rebecca , Ignatius Anita , Marzi Ingo , van Griensven Martijn , Balmayor Elizabeth , Hildebrand Frank , Mollnes Tom Eirik , Huber-Lang Markus
Published: November 2024

Background

Polytrauma and hemorrhagic shock can lead to direct and indirect liver damage involving intricate pathophysiologic mechanisms. While hepatic function has been frequently highlighted, there is minimal research on how the receptor activator of the NF-κB (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG) system is regulated in the liver following trauma. Furthermore, cross-talking complement and toll-like-receptor (TLR) systems can contribute to the posttraumatic response. Therefore, we investigated the hepatic consequences of polytrauma focusing on the RANK-RANKL-OPG axis, and evaluated the effects of a dual blockade of complement factor C5 and TLR-cofactor CD14 on hepatic features.

Methods

The established pig model of polytrauma (PT) and hemorrhagic shock included pulmonary contusion, hepatic dissection, and bilateral femur fractures, surgically addressed either by external fixation (Fix ex) or intramedullary nailing (Nail). Four groups were investigated: 1) sham animals; 2) PT treated by Fix ex (Fix ex); 3) PT by Nail (Nail); or 4) PT by Nail plus combined C5/CD14 inhibition (Nail+Therapy). Serum samples were obtained between 0 - 72 h, and liver samples at 72 h after PT. Liver tissues were histologically scored and subjected to RT-qPCR-analyses, immunohistochemistry and ELISAs to evaluate the posttraumatic hepatic response with a focus on the RANK-RANKL-OPG system.

Results

Following PT, the liver injury score of the Nail+Therapy group was significantly lower than in the Fix ex or Nail group without immunomodulation (p<0.05). Similarly, the degree of necrosis, lobular stasis, and inflammation were significantly reduced when treated with C5/CD14-inhibitors. Compared to the Nail group, AST serum concentrations were significantly decreased in the Nail+Therapy group after 72 h (p<0.05). PCR analyses indicated that RANK, RANKL, and OPG levels in the liver were increased after PT in the Nail group compared to lower levels in the Nail+Therapy group. Furthermore, liver tissue analyses revealed increased RANK protein levels and cellular immunostaining for RANK in the Nail group, both of which were significantly reduced in the case of C5/CD14-inhibition (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Following experimental PT, dual inhibition of C5/CD14 resulted in altered, mainly reduced hepatic synthesis of proteins relevant to bone repair. However, a comprehensive investigation of the subsequent effects on the liver-bone axis are needed.
Characterization of class-switched B cells in chickens
Authors: von La Roche Dominik , Schumacher Magdalena , Kohn Marina , Trapp Johanna , Schusser Benjamin , Rautenschlein Silke , Härtle Sonja
Published: November 2024

While B cell development in the birds’ primary B cell organ, the bursa Fabricius, is relatively well understood, very little is known about post bursal B cell differentiation into plasma and memory cells though these cells are essential for a protecting antibody response and so far, no specific markers for these cells were available. Since immunoglobulin class switch is one part of the B cell differentiation process, our objective was to conduct a first detailed investigation of class-switched chicken B cells. As only very few IgY and IgA expressing cells were detected in lymphoid organs of young chickens, we used CD40L and IL-10 to establish a prolonged in vitro culture system, which induces B cell proliferation, class switch to IgY and IgA and enhanced antibody secretion. This enabled a phenotypic analysis of differentiating B cells. Importantly, these cells lost surface expression of the B cell markers chB6 and BAFF-R. B cell receptor surface expression remained unchanged, showing that while differentiating toward plasma cells, B cells can be addressed by L chain staining. Newly generated potential plasma cell markers CD138 and TACI showed only a transient expression on cultured cells and rather act as markers for B cell activation than plasma/memory cells in general. CD57 upregulation was connected to activation and blast formation but not to class switch. We also examined potential changes in class-switched cells in different age groups and post vaccination. Surprisingly, bursa involution, laying and age had no distinct effects on the presence of class-switched cells, but we detected significantly more class-switched B cells post vaccination. Hence, we are now able to generate class-switched plasmablasts in vitro for a more detailed characterization and can address them under different conditions in chickens for further analysis of their B cell response.
Long-term COVID-19 vaccine- and Omicron infection-induced humoral and cell-mediated immunity
Authors: Belik Milja , Reinholm Arttu , Kolehmainen Pekka , Heroum Jemna , Maljanen Sari , Altan Eda , Österlund Pamela , Laine Larissa , Ritvos Olli , Pasternack Arja , Naves Rauno A. , Iakubovskaia Alina , Barkoff Alex-Mikael , He Qiushui , Lempainen Johanna , Tähtinen Paula A. , Ivaska Lauri , Jalkanen Pinja , Julkunen Ilkka , Kakkola Laura
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Mutations occurring in the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 enables the virus to evade COVID-19 vaccine- and infection-induced immunity.

Methods

Here we provide a comprehensive analysis of humoral and cell-mediated immunity in 111 healthcare workers who received three or four vaccine doses and were followed up to 12 and 6 months, respectively, after the last vaccine dose. Omicron breakthrough infection occurred in 71% of the vaccinees, enabling evaluation of vaccine- and vaccine/infection-induced hybrid immunity.

Results

Neutralizing antibodies were the highest against the ancestral D614G and were sequentially reduced against the Omicron variants BA.2, BA.5 and XBB.1.5. S1-specific IgG and neutralizing antibody levels were significantly higher in infected than in uninfected vaccinees, and the fourth vaccine dose in combination with a breakthrough infection resulted in high neutralizing antibody levels against all variants. T cell-mediated immunity, instead, was well retained already after two vaccine doses, and was not significantly strengthened by additional booster vaccine doses or Omicron breakthrough infections.

Discussion

While humoral immunity is sensitive to mutations in the S protein and thus declined rapidly, the cell-mediated immunity is durable to antigenic variation, which may explain the good efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines against a severe disease.
Bridging Natural Language Processing and psycholinguistics: computationally grounded semantic similarity datasets for Basque and Spanish
Authors: Goikoetxea Josu , San Martin Itziar , Arantzeta Miren
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Semantic relations are crucial in various cognitive processes, highlighting the need to understand concept interactions and how such relations are represented in the brain. Psycholinguistics research requires computationally grounded datasets that include word similarity measures controlled for the variables that play a significant role in lexical processing. This work presents a dataset for noun pairs in Basque and European Spanish based on two well-known Natural Language Processing resources: text corpora and knowledge bases.

Methods

The dataset creation consisted of three steps, (1) computing four key psycholinguistic features for each noun; concreteness, frequency, semantic, and phonological neighborhood density; (2) pairing nouns across these four variables; (3) for each noun pair, assigning three types of word similarity measurements, computed out of text, Wordnet and hybrid embeddings.

Results

A dataset of noun pairs in Basque and Spanish involving three types of word similarity measurements, along with four lexical features for each of the nouns in the pair, namely, word frequency, concreteness, and semantic and phonological neighbors. The selection of the nouns for each pair was controlled by the mentioned variables, which play a significant role in lexical processing. The dataset includes three similarity measurements, based on their embedding computation: semantic relatedness from text-based embeddings, pure similarity from Wordnet-based embeddings and both categorical and associative relations from hybrid embeddings.

Discussion

The present work covers an existent gap in Basque and Spanish in terms of the lack of datasets that include both word similarity and detailed lexical properties, which provides a more useful resource for psycholinguistics research in those languages.
Historical fishing regimes uncover deep-sea productivity hotspots in the SW Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Perez Jose Angel A. , Gavazzoni Lucas , Sant’Ana Rodrigo
Published: November 2024

In the deep-sea, abundant and diverse biological communities tend to occur in areas where combinations of geological, physical and biological processes locally enhance trophic-wide productivity, sustaining aggregations of consumers and top predators. These areas are ‘productivity hotspots’ and their delimitation should improve the effectiveness of area-based strategies designed to manage human activities and protect the deep-sea. We explored the premise that fishing operations in association with geomorphological features are effective surrogates for delimiting productivity hotspots distribution in the Brazilian Meridional Margin (BMM; 18°S - 35°S; 200 – 3300 m). We described along-slope and across-slope geoforms and related them with catch patterns of fishes, deep-sea shrimps, deep-sea crabs and squids in 23565 fishing hauls conducted between 2000 and 2007. Over 97% of the total catch was obtained in Santos (42.7%) and Pelotas (54.8%) sedimentary basins. In the former, 55.7% of all fishing hauls and 38.6% of the catch were obtained from one of 12 slope geoforms, which covered 22% of the available fishing area. In the Pelotas basin, a shelf break geoform covering 6% of the fishing area concentrated 29.5% of the fishing hauls and 30.2% of the catch. Best fit delta-lognormal Generalized Linear Models (explaining >50% of the total variance) highlighted the positive effect of shelf break embayments of Santos Basin in occurrence and abundance of the pool of species targeted by fisheries. Within these embayments, sectors incurvated and excavated by erosive action of the Brazil Current positively affected abundance and occurrences of fishes and deep-sea shrimps, respectively. The upper slope (300 – 500 m depths) were particularly favorable for fishes and squid concentrations, whereas the lower slope (600 – 800 m depths) increased the probability of deep-sea shrimp catches. We propose that the Santos Basin shelf break embayments host mesoscale and sub-mesoscale productivity hotspots, sustained by biophysical processes promoted by the Brazil Current flow, coupled with biological active transport of pelagic and demersal vertical migrators, some of them targeted by bottom fisheries. We advocate that these are unique features, in the otherwise oligotrophic SW Atlantic subtropical gyre, that should be taking into consideration in regional systematic conservation plans.
How to possess an electronic bill of lading as information? A comparative perspective of the legislation on the “possession problem” of electronic bills of lading
Authors: Sun Siqi , He Ran
Published: November 2024

The possession of the paper B/Ls is the basis of the function of a B/L as a document of title in common law systems and the delivery effect of B/Ls in civil law systems. The “possession problem” of eB/Ls is how to ensure that eB/Ls, as intangible objects, continue to have this basis. In the international level, the MLETR creates the concept of “control” of electronic transferable records as a functional equivalent to possession of paper B/Ls. Although the CMI Rules and the Rotterdam Rules involve control, neither of them makes specific provisions for control. In the national level, there are three solutions to the “possession problem”: First, expand the objects of possession to cover eB/Ls, such as the United Kingdom. Second, adopt the same approach as the MLETR, creating a concept of control as a functional equivalent of possession, such as Singapore and Japan, which is in the process of legislating, as well as Abu Dhabi Global Market and other 6 jurisdictions which have directly transplanted Article 11 of the MLETR. Third, establish a central registry system so that possession of eB/Ls does not have to be demonstrated. A typical example is South Korea, where the legislation on eB/Ls preceded the MLETR. The revision of Chinese Maritime Code currently does not pay sufficient attention to the “possession problem” of eB/Ls. The countermeasure should be to first stipulate the delivery effect of paper B/Ls, and then provide a solution to the “possession problem” of eB/Ls.
Nanomaterials engineering for enhanced low energy nuclear reactions: a comprehensive review and future prospects
Authors: Bakranov Nurlan , Kuli Zhanserik , Nagel David , Bakranova Dina
Published: November 2024

Graphical Abstract

Graphical abstract for LENR review article.