bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of subjective well-being on physical frailty in middle-aged and elderly Japanese with high social isolation
Authors: Tanabe Kai , Sugawara Yuki , Sakurai Eiichi , Motomura Yoichi , Okada Yukihiko , Tsukao Akiko , Kuno Shinya
Published: February 2024

Social isolation exacerbates physical frailty and is associated with subjective well-being. Even those with high levels of social isolation may have different health statuses depending on the type of isolation and their subjective well-being. However, the effect of subjective well-being on the relationship between social isolation and physical frailty remains unclear. This study examined whether the risk of physical frailty was the same for individuals with social isolation according to high and low subjective well-being. The study participants included 1,953 middle-aged Japanese adults aged 45 years and older. Physical frailty was assessed using a modified version of the Fried phenotype criteria. Probabilistic Latent Semantic Analysis was used to classify participants according to social isolation indicators. Subsequently, we focused on the groups with high social isolation and classified them according to whether their subjective well-being was high or low. Subjective well-being was evaluated using the Shiawase and Ikigai scales, which are concepts used in Japan. Finally, we used survival time analysis to examine the relationship between Shiawase or Ikigai and physical frailty in groups with high social isolation. The participants were classified into four groups based on their social isolation status. The physical frailty rate of the high social isolation class was 37.0%, which was significantly higher than that of the other classes. Survival time analysis revealed that among people with high social isolation, those with high Shiawase and Ikigai had a significantly lower risk of physical frailty than those with low Shiawase and Ikigai. All individuals with high social isolation are not at a high risk of physical frailty. The findings reveal that even those with high level of social isolation may have a lower risk of physical frailty if their subjective well-being is high. These results will contribute to promoting the prevention of frailty in middle-aged and older adults.
Research on the characteristics and influencing factors of the spatial correlation network of cultivated land utilization ecological efficiency in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, China
Authors: He Wei , Wang FeiFan , Feng Ni
Published: February 2024

Researching the structural characteristics of the spatial correlation network of cultivated land utilization ecological efficiency is of great significance to China’s food security and agricultural green and low-carbon development. Taking 47 cities (autonomous prefectures) in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River as the research object, the ecological efficiency of cultivated land utilization from 2010 to 2020 was measured based on the unexpected output model (Super SBM), and the spatial correlation matrix was constructed using the revised gravity model. The structural characteristics of the spatial correlation network were analyzed using the social network model (SNA), and finally, the factors affecting the spatial correlation network of cultivated land utilization ecological efficiency in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River were analyzed through the quadratic assignment procedure (QAP) model. The results show that: (1) the ecological efficiency of cultivated land utilization in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River has been increasing year by year, but the overall level is low, and there is a large gap among provinces. Sichuan Province has the highest average value of 0.605, and Yunnan Province has the lowest average value of 0.359. (2) The ecological efficiency of cultivated land utilization in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River has broken through the provincial boundaries and has formed an obvious spatial correlation network, but the overall density is low, and the network is still relatively loose, needing further development and improvement. Chengdu, Yibin, Luzhou, and other cities are located in the center of the network and have formed four cohesive subgroups. (3)The differences in the level of agricultural economic development, the rural per capita disposable income, the differences in agricultural mechanization intensity, the regional population differences, and spatial adjacency have an impact on the spatial network of ecological efficiency of cultivated land utilization in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. The difference in the level of agricultural economic development, the rural per capita disposable income, and the differences in agricultural mechanization intensity are negatively correlated, while the regional population differences are positively correlated with spatial adjacency.
Adherence to 24-hour integrated activity guidelines among infants, toddlers and preschool children in Singapore
Authors: Quah Phaik Ling , Loo Benny Kai Guo , Chia Michael Yong Hwa , Chua Terence Buan Kiong , Tan Teresa Shu Zhen , Chan Poh Chong , Tan Kok Hian
Published: February 2024

This study examined children’s adherence to the Singapore Integrated 24-Hour Activity Guidelines for Early Childhood in infants, toddlers and preschoolers aged 0–6 years. A total of 901 caregivers, comprising 219 infants, 379 toddlers, and 303 preschoolers, provided information regarding their children’s physical activity (PA), screen viewing time (SVT), and sleep durations on both weekdays and weekends. Meeting the 24-hour integrated activity guidelines was defined as follows: for infants ≥ 30 minutes per day of tummy time or floor-based play; zero SVT; total sleep of 14–17 hours per day for ages 0–3 months, 12–16 hours per day for ages 4–11 months; for toddlers ≥ 180 minutes of total PA per day; zero SVT under 2 years; <1 hour for ages 2 to less than 3 years; and a total sleep of 11–14 hours per day; for preschoolers ≥ 180 minutes of total PA per day; SVT <1 hour per day; total sleep of 10–13 hours per day for those aged 3–5 years, and 10–11 hours per day for 6-year-olds. Chi-squared tests were used to examine the differences in guideline adherence between weekdays and weekends. Compared to weekdays, during weekends there was a higher proportion of toddlers and preschoolers adhering to the PA guidelines (68.9% vs 50.1%; 78.9% vs 55.4%, respectively, p<0.05), and a lower proportion of toddlers adhering to SVT (38.8% vs 21.8%; p = 0.001). There was a declining adherence to all three activity guidelines as age groups progressed from infants (44.7%) to toddlers (15.8%) and then to preschoolers (9.4%). Concurrently, there was a decrease in adherence to SVT recommendations across the age groups, with adherence rates being highest among infants (83.1%), followed by toddlers (15.8%), and preschoolers (9.4%). Decreasing compliance with all three guidelines, coupled with a corresponding decline in adherence to SVT guidelines as children transition from toddlerhood to preschool age, is a cause for concern. This underscores the need for proactive efforts to educate caregivers about reducing or eliminating SVT among infants and young children.
The impact of COVID-19 on treatment follow-up and medication adherence among patients with epilepsy at a referral hospital in Ethiopia
Authors: Tekleyohannes Bethlehem Abera , Yifru Yared Mamushet , Nasir Beshir Bedru
Published: February 2024

Background

The world continues to be challenged by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and preventive measures like maintaining social distancing and lockdowns challenge patients to attend regular follow-ups and get a refill for medication that causes adherence problems. Hence, this study attempts to assess the impact of COVID-19 on treatment follow-up and medication adherence among patients with epilepsy.

Method

A total of 276 patients with epilepsy were enrolled in the study. Data collection was carried out through medical record reviews and patient interviews. Patients who visited Zewditu Memorial Hospital from August to September 2021 and those who had follow-up at least for two years before the outbreak of the pandemic were included. The data was analyzed using SPSS v.24.

Result

About 69.6% of patients were adherent to their treatment and 83.3% of the patients had a seizure-free period of less than 1 year. Ninety (32.6%) of the participants missed their treatment follow-up during the pandemic, mainly due to fear of being infected with COVID-19. Sixty-eight (24.6%) patients have experienced increased seizure episodes during the pandemic as compared to the previous times. Moreover, 56 (20.3%) participants were not taking their antiseizure medications (ASMs) during the pandemic because of the unavailability of medications and they discontinued hospital visits for their medication refills. Among those who missed their treatment follow-up, 20% had seizure-related physical injuries. Only educational level has a significant association with visiting health facilities during the pandemic. Thus, participants who completed college and above (OR = 2.58, 95% CI (1.32–6.38)) were more likely to attend their follow-up during the pandemics as compared to participants who can’t read and write.

Conclusion

The present study revealed that COVID-19 might have impacts on treatment follow-up and medication adherence due to fear of infection, travel restrictions and the indirect impact on the availability and affordability of medications. These might lead to poor treatment outcomes like increased seizure frequency and seizure-related physical injuries.
Cuproptosis-associated ncRNAs predict breast cancer subtypes
Authors: Xia Qing , Shen Jinze , Wang Qurui , Chen Ruixiu , Zheng Xinying , Yan Qibin , Du Lihua , Li Hanbing , Duan Shiwei
Published: February 2024

Background

Cuproptosis is a novel copper-dependent mode of cell death that has recently been discovered. The relationship between Cuproptosis-related ncRNAs and breast cancer subtypes, however, remains to be studied.

Methods

The aim of this study was to construct a breast cancer subtype prediction model associated with Cuproptosis. This model could be used to determine the subtype of breast cancer patients. To achieve this aim, 21 Cuproptosis-related genes were obtained from published articles and correlation analysis was performed with ncRNAs differentially expressed in breast cancer. Random forest algorithms were subsequently utilized to select important ncRNAs and build breast cancer subtype prediction models.

Results

A total of 94 ncRNAs significantly associated with Cuproptosis were obtained and the top five essential features were chosen to build a predictive model. These five biomarkers were differentially expressed in the five breast cancer subtypes and were closely associated with immune infiltration, RNA modification, and angiogenesis.

Conclusion

The random forest model constructed based on Cuproptosis-related ncRNAs was able to accurately predict breast cancer subtypes, providing a new direction for the study of clinical therapeutic targets.
Identifying Key Stressors & Coping Mechanisms in Secondary School Students
Authors: Muhunthan Hari
Published: February 2024

This study aims to explore the main sources of stress among

secondary school students and assess the effectiveness of

coping mechanisms employed to navigate these stressors.

Conducted through a survey involving 200 participants and

supplemented by randomly selected interviews, the study sought

to identify prevalent stressors and evaluate (and identify)

prevalent coping mechanisms. The primary stressors identified

by students were predominantly academic, with the majority

citing challenges related to school grades, tests, and academic

expectations. Extracurriculars, family problems, and personal

issues also contributed to stress. The research revealed a

diverse array of coping mechanisms employed by students, with

consuming media, solitary relaxation, and spending time with

friends ranking highest in prevalence. Notably, seeking help from

family members or professionals emerged as a less prevalent

strategy but was deemed highly effective. The study found

variations in the perceived effectiveness of coping mechanisms,

highlighting the complexity of individual responses to stress. The

data portrays a clear narrative of the challenges secondary

school students face, primarily rooted in academic stressors. The

study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address

academic pressures and highlights the pivotal role of effective

coping mechanisms, especially those involving familial and

professional support, in promoting mental well-being among

students.
Pensamento econômico de cristina possas sobre a população excedente no capitalismo latino-americano e suas consequências em Sarah Escorel e Hayda Alves
Authors: Oliveira Alex Henrique Brasil Brião de , Pilavdjian Arthur , Kaune Claudia Maria Venegas , Souza Gláucio Nóbrega de , Costa José Ricardo Casarin , Sun Lucas Ming Chian , Kormann Michelle Louise , Silva Sabrina Goretti da
Published: February 2024

A superpopulação relativa, conceito da teoria marxista, determina que o capitalismo tenha o exército industrial de reserva, composto por uma população trabalhadora adicional ou supérflua, além do que o sistema capitalista realmente necessite. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar como Cristina Possas conceitua esta superpopulação, dialogando estritamente com o olhar teórico, tratando a marginalização como uma das consequências inerentes ao capitalismo, e como, 22 anos após, Sarah Maria Escorel de Moraes e Hayda Josiane Alves repaginam o tema da marginalização, trazendo abrangência sobre os reais impactos que a exclusão social pode gerar na sociedade e no ser humano. Usou-se o ensaio crítico como modalidade textual e como método de análise do conteúdo.
Pensamento político-econômico em saúde de Nelson Rodrigues dos Santos e o olhar para o gasto público de Thomas Porcher
Authors: Cruz Andrey Oliveira da , Pontes Camila de Brito , Samaan Farid , Rezende Jennifer , Tupinambá Laura Soares , Leite Mauricio Hideki Yague , Oliveira Viviane Regina
Published: February 2024

Neste ensaio, com olhar para o pensamento político-econômico em saúde, destacam-se as principais contribuições de Nelson Rodrigues dos Santos contidas em um de seus importantes trabalhos: “O Dilema Estatista II: Como é forjado o espaço das Políticas Públicas com exemplos da Área da Saúde”; médico e gestor público de saúde, foi um dos principais atores da Reforma Sanitária Brasileira. Ao mesmo tempo, procura-se inserir na análise de Santos, aspectos do artigo de Thomas Porcher “Gasto Público: por que tanto ódio?”, um economista e professor francês, crítico da economia ortodoxa e da austeridade fiscal. O nosso objetivo foi buscar uma articulação entre os dois autores. Como método, foi utilizada a análise de conteúdo e, estruturalmente, dividiu-se o texto em três partes: breve biografia dos autores, apresentação propriamente dita das contribuições para o campo da política econômica contidas nos textos pré-selecionados e considerações finais.
EEG Signal Analysis for Monitoring Concentration of Operators
Authors: Rykała Łukasz
Published: February 2024

Often, operators of machines, including unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) or working machines, are forced to work in unfavourable conditions, e.g. high temperatures continuously for a long period of time. This has a huge impact on their concentration, which usually determines the success of many tasks entrusted to them. Electroencephalography (EEG) allows the study of the electrical activity of the brain. It allows determining, for example, whether the operator is able to focus on the realization of his tasks. The main goal of the article was to develop an algorithm for determining the state of brain activity by analysing the EEG signal. For this purpose, methods of EEG signal acquisition were described, basic types of brain waves were discussed, and exemplary states of brain activity were recorded. Particular attention was paid to technical aspects related to signal analysis. The LabVIEW environment was used to implement the created algorithm. The results of the research showing the operation of the developed EEG signal analyser were also presented.
Revisitando o variograma e covariância
Authors: Pereira Rogers Ademir Drunn , Moraes Carlito Vieira de , Timm Luis Carlos
Published: February 2024

Este trabalho revisa as funções covariância empírica (CE) e o variograma (VAR), associadas a Colocação por Mínimos Quadrados (CMQ) e a Krigagem, respectivamente. O texto almeja facilitar o aprendizado da técnica aos interessados e chamar a atenção para questões específicas relacionadas às projeções cartográficas. A CMQ e a krigagem são técnicas adotadas nas geociências para análise, predição e interpolação/extrapolação de dados. A sua aplicação adequada pode ser entendida em duas etapas principais: 1) a criação de mais de uma função, CE ou VAR, dependendo do modo como ela foi construída, e 2) o ajustamento dessa função, usualmente adotando o Método dos Mínimos Quadrados (MMQ) para fazer a predição. Este trabalho está concentrado nas funções CE e VAR de modo a recuperar suas definições mais originais com exemplos confeccionados pelos autores. Como aplicação, apresenta diferenças construtivas das CE e VAR geradas partir de coordenadas curvilíneas dos Sistemas Geodésicos de Referência e coordenadas dos Sistemas Projetivos. A exposição dos coeficientes ajustados pelo MMQ torna evidente as diferentes respostas. Por último, sugere cuidados importantes na utilização destas funções a partir de sistemas projetivos.
Tecnologia de Geoinformação na Identificação de Lugares Ótimos para Lazer e Cultura em Divinópolis, MG: Uma Abordagem Didática
Authors: Mourão Moura Ana Clara , Marino Tiago Badre , Lopes Fernanda Carvalho
Published: February 2024

O trabalho utiliza a tecnologia de geoinformação como ferramenta para a análise das dinâmicas urbanas e suas particularidades na cidade de Divinópolis, localizada no centro-oeste do estado de Minas Gerais, de forma a compreender as potencialidades existentes no município para o estímulo ao desenvolvimento dos setores de lazer e cultura. Para tanto, parte da caracterização espacial na área municipal, seguida do detalhamento no recorte da mancha urbana, mapeando condições ambientais, culturais, históricas, econômicas e sociais, a fim de identificar possíveis carências e pontos de interesse para o desenvolvimento de propostas de requalificação urbana e revitalização dos espaços de uso público para a população. Inova no método de trabalho, pois aplica o roteiro: 1) caracterização segundo variáveis principais por geoprocessamento; 2) coleta de opinião cidadã por mapeamento voluntariado por VGI – Volunteered Geographic Information; 3) integração de variáveis por Análise de Multicritérios para análise técnica das áreas com potencialidade (indicação) e vulnerabilidade social (necessidade); 4) comparação do resultado da escuta cidadã com abordagem técnica de indicação de lugares ótimos; 5) escolha da área de projeto e desenvolvimento de proposta de desenho urbano. É, desta forma, uma contribuição metodológica para o ensino do papel do arquiteto urbanista ou geógrafo como um decodificador da vontade cidadã e orquestrador de análise técnica, seguido de atuação autoral no desenho de propostas. Desenvolvido no âmbito de atividades didáticas na EA-UFMG, é uma contribuição à formação do arquiteto-urbanista ou geógrafo.
Generation of a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) Fusioning WV-2 Images and RTK-derived Topobathymetric Data
Authors: Escobar-Silva Elton Vicente , Almeida Cláudia Maria de , Marques-Carvalho Rômulo , Guerrero João Vitor Roque , Oliveira Cleber Gonzales de
Published: February 2024

Digital terrain models (DTMs) are digital elevation models (DEMs) that represent the bare ground surface. They are created by multiple sources, including satellite remote sensing, aerial photography, and ground-based surveys, and are often combined with other data sources to create highly detailed models. As the demand for accurate and detailed information about the Earth's surface continues to grow, DTMs have become an increasingly important tool for researchers in different fields. This study aims to create a DTM with a spatial resolution of 0.50 m for São Caetano do Sul, São Paulo, Brazil, integrated with a topobathymetric map of three water courses running along the borders of the study area. For the conventional DTM generation, a WV-2 stereo pair was used. A total of 55 ground control points (GCPs) were collected using the GNSS-RTK method, being 60% used for model building and 40% employed for validation. The topobathymetric survey was accomplished using a GNSS-RTK device placed along the analyzed open streams. For validation purposes, we used bias and MAE metrics. Overall, the methodology presented in this article provides a useful approach for generating high-resolution DTMs that can be used in a range of applications, especially in urban hydrodynamic studies.
Efecto del Tratamiento Grupal Breve de Activación Conductual para Depresión (BATD-G) en personas privadas de la libertad
Authors: Hernández-Mariño Eliana , Bianchi Salguero Javier Mauricio , Toro Ronald
Published: February 2024

El Tratamiento Breve de Activación Conductual para Depresión (BATD-R) orienta actividades reforzantes para intervenir sintomatología depresiva. El objetivo fue establecer el efecto del tratamiento en formato grupal (BATD-G) en una muestra no probabilística de seis hombres exmiembros de la fuerza pública privados de la libertad, con depresión. Se utilizó un estudio de caso único A-B con seguimiento. Los instrumentos fueron la Escala de Observación de Recompensa del Entorno, la Escala de Activación Conductual para Depresión, la Escala de Zung para depresión y los Formatos de monitoreo diario. Se encontró que el BATD-G tuvo efecto en la frecuencia de conductas saludables y depresivas, según las diferencias estadísticamente significativas, entre la línea de base, y tratamiento, así como la estabilidad del cambio en el seguimiento. Al mismo tiempo se encontraron cambios clínicos en las medidas de percepción de reforzamiento medioambiental y factores de cambio de la Activación Conductual (activación, evitación/rumia, afectación laboral/académica y deterioro social). Los tamaños del efecto fueron grandes según el no solapamiento de todos los pares en las conductas depresivas, saludables y estado del ánimo. Se concluyó que la intervención tuvo el efecto esperado en formato grupal para esta población, y fueron coherentes con las teorías de la activación conductual.
Teacher Education Policy Issues in Poland: Recommendations for Building a High-Quality Teaching Profession
Authors: Madalińska-Michalak Joanna
Published: February 2024

While there is general agreement that we need to increase the quality of education, there is less agreement on the measures to be taken. This paper focuses on the need to build the high-quality teaching profession to respond to the changing role of teachers in the twenty first century. It is argued that changes in the system of education should include a central place for the teacher and the quality of teacher education. The paper looks at selected aspects of teacher education policy in relation to the Bologna process and changes that were implemented at different levels of the system of education in Poland. A specific concern of this paper is policies that contribute to raising teacher education quality in a way which responds to the challenges of teachers preparation, recruitment, work and careers, and especially teachers’ lifelong learning. The implications of the analysis are that teacher education policy development in Poland should focus on futher actions for attracting to the teaching profession the best candidates and for retaining the best teachers in the school system in order to build a high-quality teaching profession. Some measures for achieving these goals are proposed.
Równowaga pomiędzy nastawieniem na posiadanie a poczuciem odpowiedzialności w życiu
Authors: Czerw Monika , Karpuszenko Elena , Kukla Daniel
Published: February 2024

The present times are, in a way, focused on success and striving to occupy the highest social position. The attitude and the sense of responsibility are shaped throughout life in the process of social development, which thus contributes to the achievement of specific attributes conditioning the functioning in a given community. In the study in the light of the conducted source analyzes and own research, the issue of maintaining the balance between living life and having an attitude towards having is presented, which is also related to the sense of own responsibility.
"ᚁ is Beith and means birch” - an exploration of Ogham in online fanfiction featuring King Alfred the Great
Authors: Mussies Martine
Published: February 2024

Through an analysis of three selected case studies, this study unveils how Ogham's integration into contemporary narratives generates fresh layers of meaning and revitalises this ancient alphabet. The chosen focus on Alfredian fanfiction offers a contextualised exploration of the role of this ancient Irish script in shaping novel interpretations, bridging historical languages with the digital age, and shedding light on how fan communities reconfigure cultural heritage across temporal and geographical boundaries within the dynamic landscape of internet culture. By employing a comprehensive approach, this research elucidates the intricate interplay between Ogham, historical narratives, and contemporary fan creativity, providing valuable insights into how this ancient script sparks innovative meanings and propels narratives within the digital realms of fan culture.
Lower basal and postprandial muscle protein synthesis after 2 weeks single‐leg immobilization in older men: No protective effect of anti‐inflammatory medication
Authors: Dideriksen K. , Reitelseder S. , Boesen A. P. , Zillmer M. , Agergaard J. , Kjaer M. , Holm L.
Published: February 2024

Muscle inactivity may reduce basal and postprandial muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates in humans. Anti‐inflammatory treatment alleviates the MPS impairments in younger individuals. The present study explored the influence of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) upon MPS during a period of inactivity in older humans. Eighteen men (age 60–80 years) were allocated to ibuprofen (1200 mg/day, Ibu) or control (Plc) groups. One lower limb was cast immobilized for 2 weeks. Postabsorptive and postprandial MPS was measured before and after the immobilization by L‐[ring‐13C6]‐phenylalanine infusion. The protein expression of select anabolic signaling molecules was investigated by western blot. Basal (0.038 ± 0.002%/h and 0.039 ± 0.005%/h, Plc and Ibu, respectively) and postprandial (0.064 ± 0.004%/h and 0.067 ± 0.010%/h, Plc and Ibu, respectively) MPS rate were higher pre‐immobilization compared to basal (0.019 ± 0.005%/h and 0.020 ± 0.010%/h, Plc and Ibu, respectively) and postprandial (0.033 ± 0.005%/h and 0.037 ± 0.006%/h, Plc and Ibu, respectively) MPS rate post‐immobilization (p < 0.001). NSAID treatment did not affect the suppression of MPS (p > 0.05). The anabolic signaling were in general reduced after immobilization (p < 0.05). These changes were unaffected by NSAID treatment (p > 0.05). Basal and postprandial MPS dropped markedly after 2 weeks of lower limb immobilization. NSAID treatment neither influenced the reduction in MPS nor the anabolic signaling after immobilization in healthy older individuals.
An experimental and numerical study investigating sediment transport position in the bed of sewer pipes in Karbala
Authors: Kokaz Mohammed Aswad , Nile Basim K. , Hassan Waqed H.
Published: February 2024

The complex phenomenon of sedimentation in urban areas is well studied using numerical models. Because they may be used to mimic sediment flow, obstructions, and drainage system optimization, the simulations are useful in urban planning and design. By merging ANSYS Fluent with Rocky, researchers were able to track the motion of sediment particles of various sizes and speeds. The sizes of the sediment particles were measured using a sieve after being collected from the streets of Karbala. The particle sizes established by the sieve analysis were used in both the computational and experimental procedures. Varied particle sizes and velocities, including 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, and 0.49 m/s, as well as varied particle sizes, including 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 0.1, and 1.2 mm, were investigated. Numerical analysis showed that 1.2 mm-sized particles sedimented between 10 and 148 cm from the input pipe’s X coordinate at a rate of 0.49 m/s. A maximum sedimentation distance of 380 cm was also observed for particles with a diameter of 1 mm. Sediment did not include 0.4 mm-sized objects flowing at the same speed. The findings demonstrated that particle size and velocity significantly impacted the quantity of drag and lift forces acting on the particles. As the particle size increased, the drag force increased, which led to more sedimentation. The particle positions along the X coordinate (pipe bed) showed a declining trend. Overall, this work offers crucial insights for understanding sediment transport in urban drainage systems by illuminating the connection between velocity, particle size, and sedimentation behaviour.
Association of hepatokines with markers of endothelial dysfunction and vascular reactivity in obese adolescents
Authors: Stein David , Ovadia Daniela , Katz Stuart , Brar Preneet Cheema
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Obesity-induced insulin resistance (IR) is known to influence hepatic cytokines (hepatokines), including fibroblast growth factor (FGF-21), fetuin-A, and chemerin. This study aimed to investigate the association between hepatokines and markers of endothelial dysfunction and vascular reactivity in obese adolescents.

Methods

A total of 45 obese adolescents were categorized into three groups based on glucose tolerance: normal glucose tolerance (NGT), prediabetes (PD), and type 2 diabetes (T2D). We examined the relationships between FGF-21, fetuin-A, and chemerin with endothelial markers (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 [PAI-1], intercellular adhesion molecule-1 [ICAM-1], and vascular cell adhesion marker-1 [VCAM-1]) and vascular surrogates (brachial artery reactivity testing [BART] and peak reactive hyperemia [PRH]).

Results

Obese adolescents (age 16.2±1.2 years; 62 % female, 65 % Hispanic) with NGT (n=20), PD (n=14), and T2D (n=11) had significant differences between groups in BMI; waist-hip ratio (p=0.05), systolic BP (p=0.008), LDL-C (p=0.02), PAI-1 (p<0.001). FGF-21 pg/mL (mean±SD: NGT vs. PD vs. T2D 54±42; 266±286; 160±126 p=0.006) and fetuin-A ng/mL (266±80; 253±66; 313±50 p=0.018), were significantly different while chemerin ng/mL (26±5; 31±10; 28±2) did not significantly differ between the groups. Positive correlations were found between chemerin and both PAI-1 (r=0.6; p=0.05) and ICAM-1 (r=0.6; p=0.05), FGF-21 and PAI-1 (r=0.6; p<0.001), and fetuin-A with TNFα (r=−0.4; p=0.05). Negative correlations were found between chemerin and PRH (r= −0.5; p=0.017) and fetuin-A and PRH (r=−0.4; p=0.05).

Conclusions

In our cohort, IR predicted higher FGF-21 levels suggesting a linear relationship may exist between the two parameters. Hepatokines can augment alterations in the microvascular milieu in obese adolescents as demonstrated by their associations with the markers PAI-1, ICAM-1, and PRH.
Modeling of thrust force and torque in drilling aluminum 7050
Authors: Aslan Ebru , Gürkan Kocataş Duygu , Uzun Gültekin
Published: February 2024

The aluminum AA7050 alloy has high toughness and high strength. Despite the high machinability of the AA7050 alloy, hole quality can vary according to tool geometry and drilling parameters. This study investigated the effects of different cutting parameters and three different drill point angles on thrust force and torque. Numerical analyses for thrust force and torque were performed using the finite element method. The lowest thrust force and the highest torque were obtained with the drill at 130° drill point angle, while the highest cutting force and lowest torque were obtained with the drill at 118° drill point angle. There is an average difference of 5.37 and 6.9 % between the experimental and analysis values for thrust forces and torque, respectively, and the applicability of the finite element model has been proven. In the last part of the study, thrust force and torque are modeled with artificial neural networks. The statistical accuracy (R
2) values for the learning and testing values in the thrust force of the equation are 0.997797 and 0.995739, respectively. Torque’s learning and testing accuracy values are 0.987247 and 0.937909, respectively. The obtained equations have a high accuracy rate.
Diguanidinium hexafluoridogermanate(IV) – an organic–inorganic hybrid salt with an antifluorite topology
Authors: Kösters Jutta , Böhnisch David , Jüstel Thomas , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: February 2024

Polycrystalline diguanidinium hexafluoridogermanate (IV) was obtained by co-precipitation from solutions of diguanidinium carbonate and germanium dioxide in 48 % hydrogen fluoride. The [C(NH2)3]2[GeF6] structure was refined from single crystal X-ray diffractometer data: [C(NH2)3]2[TiF6] type, C2/m, a = 1276.67(8), b = 732.70(5), c = 616.37(5) pm, b = 114.497(5)°, wR = 0.0700, 1033 F
2 values, 53 variables. The trigonal planar [C(NH2)3]+ cations and the octahedral [GeF6]2− anions are condensed to double layers through strong H⋯F hydrogen bonds (208–213 pm H⋯F). The centers of gravity of the two building units have an antifluorite-like topology.
Monitoring forest canopy cover change with ICESat-2 Data in fire-prone areas: A case study in Antalya, Türkiye
Authors: Akturk Emre
Published: February 2024

This study presents an innovative approach for monitoring forest canopy cover changes in Antalya, Turkey, a region characterized by rich biodiversity, recurrent forest fires, and rapid rehabilitation efforts. Employing advanced remote sensing techniques, the research integrates ICESat-2 ATL08 segment data, Landsat satellite imagery, and Esri Sentinel-2 Land Cover datasets to generate forest canopy cover (FCC) maps for the years 2019 and 2022. The study area was chosen due to its high population, significant tourism industry, and frequent forest fires, making it a critical region for biodiversity and forest resources in Turkey. The Canopy Cover Estimation Method (CCEM) was employed, achieving accuracy percentages ranging from 77% to 86%, demonstrating its efficacy in estimating FCC without the need for fieldwork. The integration of annual updates from the Esri Sentinel-2 Land Cover dataset as auxiliary data greatly enhanced the reliability and accuracy of the analyses. Despite challenges posed by the study area and differences in spatial resolution among the datasets, the study successfully demonstrated the utility of integrating ICESat-2 segment data and Landsat imagery for understanding the dynamics of FCC in a complex environment. The results contribute to more informed decision-making in forest management and conservation efforts. Future research should focus on refining the methodologies to minimize spectral misclassification, improving the spatial resolution of the FCC maps, and leveraging advancements in remote sensing technology to obtain more accurate and reliable results.
ПЕДАГОГІЧНІ ОСНОВИ ВИКОРИСТАННЯ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНО-КОМУНІКАЦІЙНИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ У НАВЧАННІ УЧНІВ З ОСОБЛИВИМИ ОСВІТНІМИ ПОТРЕБАМИ
Authors: ЧУМАК МИКОЛА , ЄФИМЕНКО ВАСИЛЬ
Published: February 2024

У статті йдеться про те, що процес навчання учнів з особливими освітніми потребами має певні особливості, які можуть бути частково реалізовані в рамках створення та використання електронних засобів навчального призначення: нерегулярність відвідування навчальних занять, що пов’язана з обмеженням у пересуванні; скорочення кількості годин навчального навантаження; зменшення навчального навантаження; обмеження можливості розвитку творчих здібностей. Наголошується, що використання електронних засобів навчального призначення є одним із засобів спеціальних освітніх і корекційно-реабілітаційних технологій, що становлять сукупність організаційних структур і заходів, системних засобів і методів, оптимально забезпечують реалізацію та засвоєння освітніх програм, спрямованих на усунення або якомога більш повну компенсацію обмежень життєдіяльності, викликаних порушенням здоров’я.

Автори охарактеризували сучасні інформаційно-комунікаційні технології з позиції їх використання як: засіб навчання; технічний засіб автоматизації процесу пізнавальної та творчої діяльності особистості, який дозволяє мобільно працювати з текстом, графічним, звуковим або відеодокументом, робити складні розрахунки, якісно подавати інформацію, обробляти її, спілкуватися з однолітками зрізних країн світу; зразок інноваційних технологій, що розвиває навички оволодіння ними, дає знання про функціональне призначення складових елементів і системи зв’язків, принципи роботи апаратного і програмного забезпечення; ефективний тренажер, що розвиває пізнавальну і творчу активність особистості, спонукає її приймати власні оригінальні рішення, бачити їх результат і перевіряти правомірність тощо.
ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ І ПРОВЕДЕННЯ КОНТРОЛЮ ЗНАНЬ, УМІНЬ І НАВИЧОК СТУДЕНТІВ НА ФІЗИЧНИХ СПЕЦІАЛЬНОСТЯХ ЗАКЛАДІВ ВИЩОЇ ОСВІТИ
Authors: ГАМАРНИК АННА , ЯЦУРА МИХАЙЛО , РАЧІЙ БОГДАН
Published: February 2024

Однією з важливих та актуальних проблем методики викладання будь-якої дисципліни в закладі вищої освіти є ефективна організація і проведення виявлення об’єктивного рівня знань, умінь  і навичок, яких студенти набувають у процесі вивченні дисципліни. Сьогодні у закладах вищої освіти використовуються чимало методів перевірки і оцінки знань, у тому числі і комп’ютерне тестування, але  переважна більшість випадків вони розглядаються незалежно один від одного, однак, оскільки вони застосовуються з однією метою, то повинні бути пов’язані та доповнювати один одного. Отже, необхідна єдина система методів перевірки і оцінки знань, зрозуміло, для кожного напряму галузі знань, зі своєю специфікою. Колектив кафедри матеріалознавства і новітніх технологій Прикарпатського національного університету імені Василя Стефаника протягом останніх років набув певного досвіду, узагальнивши його в статті і робивши спробу поділитися власним баченням, як має бути організований на сучасному рівні контроль знань, умінь і навичок студентів, котрі навчаються на фізичних спеціальностях закладів вищої освіти.
ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ ЗМІШАНОГО НАВЧАННЯ У ЗАКЛАДІ ВИЩОЇ ОСВІТИ
Authors: КРИШТАНОВИЧ СВІТЛАНА , КРИШТАНОВИЧ МИРОСЛАВ
Published: February 2024

У статті подана характеристика особливостей застосування технологій змішаного навчання у закладі вищої освіти; доведено, що сучасні проблеми їх використання вимагають комплексного підходу до рішень стосовно поліпшення технічної бази, професійного розвитку викладачів, переосмислення методів викладання та адаптації до нових реалій. Визначено основні технології змішаного навчання в закладах вищої освіти, що дозволяє підтримувати стандарти якості освіти попри фізичні та психологічні перешкоди, викликані воєнним станом. Виокремлено, що застосування змішаної моделі навчання дозволяє студентам навчатися у будь-який час та в будь-якому місці, змінювати методи та моделі навчання, підвищувати здатність до самонавчання внаслідок самомотивації. Автором наголошено, що в умовах війни утримання стабільного доступу до інтернету та енергоресурсів для організації змішаного навчання стає складним завданням. З’ясовано, що застосування технологій змішаного навчання у закладі вищої освіти являє собою використання комбінованого підходу до навчання, що інтегрує традиційні особистісні взаємодії в аудиторії з онлайн-технологіями і методами.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПІДВИЩЕННЯ КВАЛІФІКАЦІЇ ВИКЛАДАЧІВ У ЗАКЛАДІ ПІСЛЯДИПЛОМНОЇ ОСВІТИ
Authors: БІЛОВУС ДМИТРО
Published: February 2024

У статті розкрито особливості підвищення кваліфікації викладачів у закладі післядипломної освіти в Україні. Наголошується, що важливою формою в даному випадку є підвищення кваліфікації у закладі післядипломної освіти на рівні вимог сьогодення. Подано характеристику неперервної освіти, яка сьогодні слугує основою ефективної діяльності викладача, котрий має постійно розвиватися і вдосконалюватися.

Досліджуючи питання, пов’язані з підвищенням кваліфікації викладачів у закладі післядипломної освіти, це є найпоширенішим варіантом інтеграції змісту і посилення міждисциплінарних зв’язків це введення системи інтегративних курсів, що доповнюють навчальний план спеціальності. Курси підвищенням кваліфікації можна включити в освітній процес за рахунок годин, відведених на дисципліни за вибором студентів, а також перетворення існуючих дисциплін, що мають синтетичний характер, на інтегративні.

Зокрема, згідно “Концепції неперервного підвищення кваліфікації та перепідготовки педагогічних кадрів”, на державному рівні визначено, що саме післядипломна освіта створює умови для задоволення різноманітних освітніх і професійних потреб викладача, а також соціальних запитів щодо подолання розриву між набутим в освітньому закладі рівнем професійної підготовки та сучасними вимогами. Це потребує поглиблення, розширення й оновлення професійних знань, умінь і навичок викладача на основі впровадження сучасних технологій навчання.
ТЕОРЕТИКО-МЕТОДОЛОГІЧНІ ПРОБЛЕМИ ЩОДО ПІДГОТОВКИ МАЙБУТНЬОГО ВИКЛАДАЧА АСТРОНОМІЇ
Authors: ГРАНАТ РІТА , РОКИЦЬКА ГАЛИНА
Published: February 2024

Значні трансформації у сферах економіки, політики, соціальних відносинах, науці та технологіях значно змінили умови суспільного розвитку і пришвидшили еволюцію вищої освіти. Ці зміни поставили нові завдання перед сучасним вищим навчальним закладом, і аналіз проблем освіти неможливий без врахування цих змін. Для сучасної системи вищої освіти особливо важливою стала якість підготовки фахівців, оскільки освіта сама по собі вже не є вирішальним фактором на світовому ринку. Створення сучасної економіки та суспільних відносин, а також розвиток соціальної і культурної сфери суспільства вимагають відповідної якості освіти, яка є ключем до багатства та процвітання будь-якої країни. Інноваційний підхід до вирішення цієї проблеми супроводжується введенням нових ініціатив та покращень, які в сукупності призводять до глибоких змін у сфері освіти, включаючи перетворення її змісту та якості.
ІННОВАЦІЙНІ ТЕХНОЛОГІЇ У СИСТЕМІ ПІДГОТОВКИ ФАХОВИХ МОЛОДШИХ БАКАЛАВРІВ
Authors: СОРОКОЛІТА ОЛЬГА
Published: February 2024

У статті репрезентуються окремі інноваційні аспекти підготовки фахових молодших бакалаврів. Ключовою ідеєю є інтеграційні підходи в системі підготовки фахівців цього рівня, а також застосування зазначених методик у початковій школі. У запропонованому матеріалі висвітлені окремі теоретичні положення з апеляцією до напрацювань у галузі педагогіки, психології, соціології тощо. Форматом публікації слугує визначення рівня дослідження відповідного кола питань, а також пріоритетні напрями, які необхідно системно описати. Крім цього, робиться акцент і на практичному аспекті. Тож у результаті роботи обрамлено ідею інноваційних технологій та визначено окремі орієнтири. Також обстоюється ідея цілісності та доцільності окремих інтеграційних процедур, необхідності створення гнучкої програми і перманентних кореляцій динаміки пошуку оптимального формату методологічних рішень. Підготовка фахових молодших бакалаврів і навчання у молодших класах розглядаються у контексті інтегральних методик як цілісна освітня модель.
Preface
Authors: Dunajevas Eugenijus
Published: February 2024

-
The use of English among Latvian adolescents: A study of multilingual identity and language dominance
Authors: Bondare Justīne
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the effects of virtual communication on language use among Latvian students aged 13-25, aiming to investigate whether language proficiency, language attitudes and identity construction are mediated by language dominance and global trends foregrounded by the dominant use of English on social media. The research material consists of 1) Bilingual Language Profile (Birdsong et al. 2012), a questionnaire that targets a variety of sociolinguistic factors and assesses language dominance; 2) a questionnaire on language use across various domains as well as language ideologies. The questionnaire results indicate Latvian language dominance in terms of language history and active use, but English is regarded as a beneficial language and used as a receptive language in entertainment and with peers. The findings of the study suggest English is associated with a multilingual identity, however, this does not seem to impact the expression of adolescents’ national identity.
Sympathetic blockade on diet induced thermogenesis in the congenic LA/Ntul//-cp rat
Authors: L Tulp Orien
Published: February 2024

The effects of overfeeding highly palatable diets via the cafeteria feeding diet method (Café) has been shown to be a reliable experimental model to induce diet induced thermogenesis (DIT) in young adult normally lean rats of several strains. Groups of young adult lean LA/Ntul//-cp rats were offered a Purina chow diet (CHOW) or the same diet plus a daily café supplement both ad libitum from 10 until 24 weeks of age. The drug α-methylparatyrosine (α-MPT) was administered to groups (250 mg α-MPT/kg BW, i.p.) to ablate sympathetic (SNS) activity or a sham injection of physiologic saline given, and measures of fasting resting thermogenesis obtained at thermal neutrality (30°C) before and after the α-MPT or sham administration. The Café diet resulted in a 67% increase in body weight (BW) and a ~25% increase in resting oxygen consumption (VO2) following café overfeeding in both groups, while only a 40% increase in BW and no additional increase in VO2 occurred in normally CHOW fed rats while the sham injection was without any variations from normal physiologic responses as predicted. Sympathetic blockade with α-MPT was associated with modest decreases in body temperature and an average ~12-15% decrease in VO2 in the café treated group, but when the VO2 data were arithmetically corrected to isothermal conditions only a net 3% decrease occurred in CHOW fed rats and was without effect on the SHAM group. Serum T3 concentrations increased by 92% and urinary catecholamine excretion of VMA >250% following the café diet, but the urinary vanilmandelic acid (VMA) excretion was virtually nil following the sympathetic blockade. These observations indicate that the SNS-mediated contribution component to DIT following prolonged café overfeeding under conditions of thermal neutrality contribute approximately 50% of the thermic response. while under normal long term CHOW feeding the SNS component may be as little as 3 % of the thermic response, and thus, the total thermic response of DIT likely represents a combination of short acting SNS and longer acting non-SNS mechanisms, including a likely significant thyroidal component in normally lean animals.
Shift workers in health care: endocrine age-related mechanisms of morbidity and mortality in the onto pathogenic model
Authors: I Goudochnikov Viktor
Published: February 2024

The mini-review is presented on the role of stress mediators and melatonin in age-related morbidity and mortality, as referred to shift work in health care. A short discussion at the end of the article concerns with the ways of confronting a challenge of information overload, greatly amplified during the last years of Covid-19 pandemics. A conclusion is made on the necessity of expanding the research on stress proteins in association with processes of tiredness and fatigue, as well as in sleepiness.