bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Feasibility of Deploying Technology Enhanced School-Based Teacher Continuous Professional Development in Internet-Limited Environments in Tanzania
Authors: Maro Salome H. , Kondoro Aron W. , Mtebe Joel S. , Proctor Jamie , Komba Aneth , Haßler Björn
Published: May 2024

In low-income countries, the use of technology to enhance teacher continuous professional development (TCPD) activities has been increasing significantly. However, most technology initiatives related to TCPD require the installation of complex information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure in schools or availability of reliable Internet connectivity. While installation of ICT infrastructure is costly, the cost of the Internet is unaffordable to most teachers in low-income countries. This study explored the feasibility of deploying Raspberry Pi computers and tablets as micro-servers to facilitate school-based TCPD activities via a learning management system (LMS) without Internet connectivity. Teachers in eight schools in Dar es Salaam and Lindi accessed a TCPD sample module with Raspberry Pi and tablets providing hotspotting and treated as offline local servers hosting a LMS. After the trial, data was collected through focus group discussion, observation, and LMS logs involving 69 teachers. The findings showed that both Raspberry Pi and tablets could be used as micro-servers to provide access to learning resources in offline environments, but Raspberry Pi fared more favorably. Raspberry Pi was easy to set up and connected more devices than did the tablet. However, Raspberry Pi required careful handling as it is a delicate device. Interestingly, there was no significant difference in terms of the performance and cost of the two micro-servers. This study provided further evidence that both Raspberry Pi and tablets could be cost-effective approaches to deliver TCPD activities without installing complex ICT infrastructure or in areas with limited Internet connectivity.
Perceived Utility and Learning by Dominican University Students in Virtual Teaching–Learning Environments: An Analysis of Multiple Serial Mediation Based on the Extended Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Rodríguez-Sabiote Clemente , Valerio-Peña Ana T. , Batista-Almonte Roberto A. , Úbeda-Sánchez Álvaro M.
Published: May 2024

The global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus brought about a true revolution in the predominant teaching–learning processes (i.e., face-to-face environment) that had been implemented up to that point. In this regard, virtual teaching–learning environments (VTLEs) have gained unprecedented significance. The main objectives of our research were to define an explanatory theoretical model and to test a multiple serial mediation model with four variables in series (one independent variable plus three mediators) to relate perceived utility (independent variable) in the use of a VTLE and perceived learning (dependent or criterion variable) in such contexts, taking into account the mediation of subjective norm (mediator 1), ease of use (mediator 2), and intention to use behavior (mediator 3), and using the extended technology acceptance model as the theoretical framework. Additionally, we aimed to analyze the direct and indirect relationships and effects among the variables that constituted the proposed model. Methodologically, the research can be classified as a cross-sectional causal ex post facto design. A representative sample of students enrolled in higher education institutions in the Dominican Republic was used as the research population, and a standardized Likert scale was administered to measure the five dimensions of the proposed model. Finally, it is worth noting that the obtained results indicate that all direct and indirect effects considered in the model were statistically significant, except for the indirect effect, where the four predictor variables were arranged in series to verify their influence on the criterion variable: perceived learning.
Decoding Video Logs: Unveiling Student Engagement Patterns in Lecture Capture Videos
Authors: Akçapınar Gökhan , Er Erkan , Bayazıt Alper
Published: May 2024

Lecture capture videos, a popular type of instructional content used by instructors to share course recordings online, play a significant role in educational settings. Compared to other educational videos, these recordings require minimal time and effort to produce, making them a preferred choice for disseminating course materials. Despite their numerous benefits, there exists a scarcity of data-driven evidence regarding students’ use of and engagement with lecture capture videos. Most existing studies rely on self-reported data, lacking comprehensive insights into students’ actual video engagement. This research endeavor sought to bridge this gap by investigating university students’ engagement patterns while watching lecture capture videos. To achieve this objective, we conducted an analysis of a large-scale dataset comprising over one million rows of video interaction logs. Leveraging clustering and process mining methodologies, we explored the data to reveal valuable insights into students’ video engagement behaviors. Our findings indicate that in approximately 60% of students’ video-watching sessions, only a small portion of the videos (an average of 7%) is watched. Our results also show that visiting the video page does not necessarily mean that the student watched it. This study may contribute to the existing literature by providing robust data-driven evidence on university students’ lecture capture video engagement patterns. It is also expected to contribute methodologically to capturing, preprocessing, and analyzing students’ video interactions in different contexts.
Marginalization, Technology Access and Study Approaches of Undergraduate Distance Learners during Covid-19 Pandemic in India
Authors: Sanwal Anju
Published: May 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic, for the past years, had led to disruption of classroom activities and adoption of online teaching-learning in almost all parts of the globe, including India.  Sudden switch over from the classroom blackboard to the laptop screen may have influenced study approaches of students especially when there were challenges for access to technology and non-readiness for online learning among the Indian students. Since different social and economic factors bring differences in students’ learning, an online survey was conducted with 296 randomly selected undergraduate distance learning (DL) students of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) to examine how technology access during the pandemic has influenced study approach of Indian DL students belonging to different marginalized and non-marginalized groups. The research results showed that marginalized students had lower access to technology than their non-marginalized counterparts, although no gender differences were found in access to technology in both the groups. Lower access to technology was found associated with more surface approach to study in the DL students in general and the marginalized students in particular. The marginalized females were found at risk in terms of both, access to technology and approaches to study. The findings, as discussed, are intended to further enrich our understanding of the role of technology vis-à-vis study approach of distance learning students during the pandemic, and formulate appropriate teaching-learning strategies for the future.
PEMAHAMAN ZAKAT DI KALANGAN PENGUSAHA RUMAH MAKAN DI KOTA MATARAM
Authors: Marlina Marlina
Published: May 2024

This research aims to unveil the understanding of tithe amongrestaurant owners in the city of Mataram. The underlying reason forundertaking this study was due to the fact that the average number of thebusinessmen have understood and done the trading tithe. Drawing on theaforementioned reason, the researcher assumed that the understanding oftithe among the restaurant owners was good in that the researcher intendedto figure out how their understanding about the tithe in the capital city ofMataram. This research pertained to a qualitative research design whoseinquiry involved the data collection and analysis. It focused on the extent towhich the restaurant owners understood the tithe in the city of Mataram. Thefindings showed that the understanding of the restaurant owners pertinent tothe tithe was directly visiting.
RESPON TUAN GURU DI LOMBOK BARAT TERHADAP HUKUM BERISTIDLAL DENGAN KISAH ISRAILIYAT DALAM MENAFSIRKAN AL-QUR’AN
Authors: Usman Usman , Lubna Lubna
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Israiliyyat is a story originating from the Ahl al-Kitab literature sourced from Jews and Christians. In the Qur'an there are many stories of the Prophets and ancient people, but the mention of the story is only globally, and raises some further questions. The stories of israiliyyat are included in the interpretation of the Qur'an. This article aims to elaborate on the views of the Tuan Guru in West Lombok relating to the legal usage of the Israiliyat story in interpreting the Qur'an. This article is the result of field research with a qualitative approach using interviews, observation, triangulation, inductive and deductive methods as well as data analysis. This study succeeded in classifying two views of Tuan Guru, namely groups that are pro and contra. First, the group that accepts carefully with the reason for the existence of a series of way to accept the Isra'ilyyat story is not validated among the ulama. Secondly, the group that refused firmly the application of the story of Israel 'ilyyat. The response of Tuan Guru West Lombok to the pros and cons of using the Isra'iliyyat story is a natural thing considering the various factors and backgrounds that surround it.
Abstrak: Israiliyat merupakan kisah yang bersumber dari literatur Ahl al-Kitab yang bersumber dari orang Yahudi dan Nashrani. Dalam al-Qur’an terdapat banyak kisah para Nabi dan umat terdahulu, namun penyebutan kisah tersebut hanya secara global, dan menimbulkan pertanyaan bagi sahabat, sehingga sebagian mereka menanyakan kepada Ahl al-Kitab.Dari sinilah kisah-kisah israiliyyat masuk dalam penafsiran al-Qur’an.Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengelaborasi pandangan para Tuan Guru di Lombok Barat berkaitan dengan hukum beristidlal menggunakan kisah Israiliyat dalam menafsirkan al-Qur’an.Artikel ini merupakan hasil penelitian lapangan dengan pendekatan kualitatif dengan menggunakan metode wawancara, observasi, triangulasi, induktif dan deduktif sekaligus dalam analisis data.Penelitian ini berhasil mengklasifikasikan dua pandangan Tuan Guru, yaitu kelompok yang pro dan yang kontra. Pertama, kelompok yang menerima dengan penuh kehati-hatian dengan alasan adanya rentetan sanad atau jalan diterimanya kisah Isra’iliyyat itu tidak dipertentangkan kesahihannya di kalangan para ulama.Kedua, kelompok yang menolak dengan tegas beristidlal menggunakan kisah isra’iliyyat.Respon Tuan Guru Lombok Barat terhadap pro-kontra penggunaan kisah Isra’iliyyat adalah hal yang wajar mengingat berbagai faktor dan latar belakang yang melingkupinya.
Multicenter randomized controlled trial of exercise in aortic dissection survivors: rationale, design, and initial hemodynamic data
Authors: Toy Yasmin A. , House Kayla N. , Boyer Leslie M. , McNamara Jennifer L. , Hofmann-Bowman Marion A. , Eagle Kim A. , Lim Michelle S. , Braverman Alan C. , Prakash Siddharth K.
Published: May 2024

Aims: There are currently no evidence-based guidelines for exercise after thoracic aortic dissection (TAD), leading to highly variable recommendations that frequently lead patients to restrict their physical activities. This multicenter randomized controlled trial was intended to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a moderate intensity guided exercise program for TAD survivors.

Methods: Participants were eligible if they had a Type A or Type B dissection at least 90 days before enrollment and could attend two in-person study visits. The guided exercise circuit consisted of six aerobic, isotonic, or isometric exercises that participants continued at home with virtual follow-up sessions. The primary endpoint is the change in the composite anxiety and depression PROMIS-29 T-score at 12 months. Secondary endpoints include changes in grip strength, weight, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure, and arterial biomechanical properties measured by central arterial waveform analysis.

Results: Preliminary analysis of the first 81 enrolled participants demonstrated that the guided exercise circuit was completed safely and was not associated with severe hypertension, injury, or adverse cardiovascular events. At enrollment, adverse central waveform or ABPM characteristics were prevalent and were significantly associated with exertional hypertension.

Conclusions: Guided exercise is safe for aortic dissection survivors. Follow-up of enrolled participants will conclude in October 2024.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ALGORITHMIC AND SOFTWARE SOFTWARE FOR MODELING PROCESSES IN SYSTEMS WITH ACTIVE CONSUMERS WITH PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATION
Authors: Bohoiko Ihor
Published: May 2024

The article considers the use of algorithmic and software in the context of smart grid development. It has been determined that energy storage systems are key elements of energy management systems for smart communities, as they allow storing energy generated by renewable energy sources (RES) and compensating for the uneven demand for electricity. A comparative analysis of different EMS strategies that combine solar panels and batteries is carried out.
The main energy management strategies are analyzed and the advantages and disadvantages that should be taken into account when choosing them are identified. The concept of smart inverters and their integration into energy storage systems is considered. The structure of hybrid energy storage systems and the main roles of energy storage are presented. The economic benefits of implementing Microgrid and Smart Grid in the energy sector are shown. The development of integrated strategies for managing energy storage systems that take into account all aspects of electricity generation, storage and distribution in smart grids, promoting sustainable and efficient use of resources, is proposed.
The main models and frameworks used for modeling energy systems are considered and the advantages and disadvantages of the models that should be taken into account when researching clear issues in the context of energy management systems development are identified.
STUDY OF THE EFFICIENCY OF HEAT PUMPS FOR ENERGY SUPPLY OF APARTMENT BUILDINGS
Authors: Shovkaliuk Maryna , Kononenko Ihor
Published: May 2024

The relevance of using energy obtained from the external environment with the help of heat pumps for energy supply of buildings is due to the increase in costs for centralized energy supply; improving technologies and reducing the cost of implementing similar technical solutions; active development of this direction in the European Union and changes in the legislative framework in Ukraine to stimulate the wider implementation of the use of renewable energy sources.
Research object: energy consumption processes and technical and economic indicators of combined energy supply of multi-apartment buildings using heat pumps.
The subject of the study is methods and tools for evaluating the effectiveness of heat pumps for the needs of hot water supply and heating of multi-apartment buildings using a heat pump and centralized heat supply. Research methods: analytical methods, system analysis, mathematical modeling, the method of comparative and structural analysis. This study was carried out as part of a master's thesis. The practical significance of the results lies in the application of the developed mathematical model for simulating the operation of the heat pump taking into account the dynamic change of COP and water distribution on the example of multi-apartment buildings.
CALCULATION OF COMPLEX RELIABILITY INDICATORS OF THE AUTOMATED EQUIPMENT MONITORING SYSTEM
Authors: Spodynskyi Oleksandr
Published: May 2024

In the modern industrial environment, automated equipment monitoring systems play an important role in ensuring the efficiency and safety of technological processes. However, ensuring the reliability of these systems requires careful calculation of complex indicators. Research is focused on the development of methodologies and algorithms for calculating the reliability of automated monitoring systems.
   The article provides an overview of the comprehensive reliability indicators of the automated equipment monitoring system. First of all, the work defines the critical components of the system, evaluates their reliability and interaction. Reliability analysis methods include elements of probability theory and mathematical statistics. Among them is the calculation of the average time of failure-free operation, the probability of failure and other criteria that allow evaluating the functioning of the system in real conditions. In accordance with regulatory documents, a list of reliability indicators for equipment and the monitoring system as a whole has been created. The methodology for calculating complex indicators of the reliability of the automated monitoring system is given. An example of failure intensity calculation and complex reliability indicators for an analog measuring channel of an automated equipment monitoring system is given. The calculation example shows the estimated failure intensities of the components of the calculated analog channel and the total working time per failure.
   Therefore, the research is focused on the development and optimization of methods for calculating complex indicators of the reliability of automated equipment monitoring systems, which helps to improve their functionality and ensures effective control of technical processes in industrial conditions.
Problems with the Institutional Form of the Implementing Agency of Social Security in Indonesia
Authors: Rohanawati Ayunita Nur , Eka Yuniza Mailinda
Published: May 2024

The administration of social security in Indonesia is entrusted to two newly formed institutions as mandated by Law Number 40 of 2004 concerning National Social Security System, namely BPJS for Health and BPJS for Employment. The basis for the operation of these two institutions is Law Number 24 of 2011 concerning the Implementing Agency of Social Security. These two bodies are public legal entities that were formed from the transition to the previous form of a limited liability company, namely PT Jamsostek (persero) and PT Askes (persero). The new form of the social security implementing agency as mentioned creates problems that need to find solutions to various problems that occur. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to find out what are the problems with the institutional forms of the Implementing Agency of Social Security in Indonesia. The method used in this research is to use juridical, namely by examining the legal materials, both primary legal materials, secondary legal materials, and tertiary legal materials used. The approach used is a statutory approach and a comparative approach. The research results show that there are problems that arise in the institutions administering social security in Indonesia. These problems are related to the governance of the agency, from the formation process, changes in characteristics from a limited liability company to a public legal entity, the failure to merge social security administering bodies as contained in Law Number 24 of 2011 concerning Social Security Administering Bodies and related to employment aspects in the social security administration body.
Perundungan Siber (Cyberbullying) Melalui Media Sosial Instagram dalam Teori the Space Transition of Cybercrimes
Authors: Martha Aroma Elmina
Published: May 2024

Spatial transition theory defines that people behave differently in the cyber world than in the physical world. This theory attempts to explain patterns of cyber-criminal behavior by categorizing cyber-crimes into four main categories of cyber offenses, namely violent behavior, cyberbullying, fraud, cyber theft, and cyber pornography. The topic of cyber bullying is highlighted in this study since this behavior appears to have turned into something that is taken lightly in Indonesian society. Acts of bullying in cyberspace are carried out without burden by the perpetrator. The belief that bullying behavior becomes tolerated and will not raise legal consequences had made the perpetrator feel free. Bullying brings effects to the victim which severely impact their psychological welfare, which may even lead to depression and even death. This research describes cyberbullying behavior in the study of the spatial transition of cybercrimes theory as an effort to examine and to identify the background of why the perpetrator has the heart and courage to commit such crime. By utilising a criminological approach, the data collected were classified with cases of cyberbullying in the previous year of 2022-2023, in the form of social media information via Instagram. This research explores cases of cyberbullying which mainly poses an impact on the psychological losses of victims of crimes that occur on social media in Indonesia. This research is expected to provide an understanding of cybercrime patterns for the purpose of preventing cyberbullying behavior.
The model for assessing the significance of side effects in the use of several drugs
Authors: Orlov Yurii Nikolaevich , Sivakova Tatiana Vladimirovna
Published: May 2024

The model for ranking side effects in the combined use of drugs is constructed using the example of chronic heart failure. A numerical algorithm based on the allocation of fully connected subgraphs has been developed, which reduces the amount of calculations when analyzing combinations of several drugs. The results of the test calculations are presented. The program being developed can be useful as a medical decision support system.
Examining Relationships Among Turkey, Israel, and the United States in Terms of Interest Similarity
Authors: Çalık Topuz Zuhal , Spector Jonathan Michael
Published: May 2024

Interest similarity is defined as the affinity of national interests in global affairs. This research aims to examine the interest similarity among Turkey, Israel, and the US. Interest similarity of countries has been examined by taking into account the factors of (a) alliance portfolio, (b) MID data, and (c) UNGA voting records. Quantitative data regarding these factors have been analyzed with correlation and regression models. The findings show that the interest similarities among these three countries have a statistically significant correlation. This research also examines the relationships between the three states to better understand which factors affect their interest similarity, and how. Thus, this study contributes to the political science and international relations literature by analyzing quantitative data while examining the interest similarity among Turkey, Israel, and the US.
Changes in Racial and Ethnic Inequities in Pregnancy-Associated Death in the United States During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Margerison Claire E. , Wang Xueshi , Goldman-Mellor Sidra , Muzik Maria , Gemmill Alison
Published: May 2024

Objectives. To examine changes in cause-specific pregnancy-associated deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic by race and ethnicity and assess changes in racial and ethnic inequities in pregnancy-associated deaths.

Methods. We used US vital statistics mortality data from 2018 to 2021 to identify pregnancy-associated deaths among females aged 15 to 44 years. We calculated crude pregnancy-associated death rates (deaths per 100 000 live births) by year, cause, and race/ethnicity, percent change in death rate, and the inequity (difference) in rate for each racial or ethnic group compared with non-Hispanic White people.

Results. The pregnancy-associated death rate for obstetric, drug-related, homicide, and other causes of death increased during 2020, and obstetric deaths continued to increase in 2021. Overall estimates mask 2021 increases in drug-related deaths among Hispanic, non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN), and non-Hispanic Asian people; increases in homicide among most racial and ethnic groups; and increases in suicide among Hispanic, non-Hispanic AI/AN, and non-Hispanic Asian people.

Conclusions. We found disproportionate increases in pregnancy-associated deaths from nonobstetric causes among minoritized racial and ethnic groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(7):733–742. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307651 )
An Anatomical Study to Identify the Variations in Occipital Artery
Authors:   Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Nagpur 441108, Maharashtra, India., Deshmukh Vishwajit
Published: May 2024

Out of total twenty-one cadavers studied, in a 62 years old male donated cadaver, we found the Right Occipital artery was discovered to be dilated (enlarged). The left occipital artery was normal and unremarkable. The origin and course of both sided occipital arteries was as usual. In vascular lesions, the Occipital artery is a crucial artery. It is also one of the most suitable donor arteries in conditions like aneurysms.
Hybrid Technique for Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection in Morbid Obese Patient
Authors:   Director and Chief Consultant, Calicut  673001, Kerala, India., P.K. Nishad , P. P Abdussamed ,   Director and Chief Consultant, Calicut  673001, Kerala, India.
Published: May 2024

Incidence of back pain related to disc prolapse is higher in morbid obesepatients. Treatment options including epidural injections and surgery is difficult in such patients. Here we are discussing a case of successful Hybrid technique for caudal epidural steroid injection in a morbidly obese patient.
Clinical Profile Analysis of Diabetic Foot
Authors:   Department of General Surgery, Karwar Institute of Medical Sciences, Karwar, Uttara Kannada 581301, Karnataka, India, K.S. Savita
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Diabetic foot is one of the common problems encountered by surgeons in India. The surgeon would be better equipped to treat if data regarding the demographics, clinical presentation and factors leading to foot complications in diabetics is available along with the treatment and outcomes. Materials and Methods: This study aims to describe the clinical profile of patients with diabetic foot. This is a retrospective study. The study material was obtained from the patient records from 2018 to 2019. A total of 40 patients were included in the study. The demographics, clinical features, treatment and outcomes were noted. Statistical analysis was done. Results: Most common presentation was diabetic foot ulcers in 50% patients. Other presentations included cellulitis and gangrene. In 20% cases, diabetes was newly diagnosed. The mean duration of diabetes was 5 years. Treatment included regular dressings for 27.5% patients, debridement for 30%, incision and drainage in 15% and amputations in 15% patients. Empirical antibiotics given were amoxicillin-clavulanate and cephalosporins. The mean duration of hospital stay was 12.9 days. All patients improved with treatment. Conclusion: Early treatment is effective and limb saving. This study suggests inadequate control of diabetes and infection as a major cause for diabetic foot which may progress to sepsis with/without gangrene in the presence of PAD or neuropathy.
Image quality assessment of fractures of metallic objects
Authors: Golub Yu. I. , Starovoitov V. V.
Published: May 2024

The problem of calculating a quantitative quality assessment of digital images of metal object fractures recorded by a camera or a digital microscope is considered. Quality assessment is performed when the reference images are absent. The paper presents an approach based on calculation of local estimates followed by analysis of their distribution. Several variants for calculation of local estimates have been studied. Those whose distribution is unimodal were selected. It is shown that the average of local estimates is an acceptable general characteristic of image quality if they have a normal (Gaussian) distribution. In this case, the average is one of its parameters. Otherwise, the parameters of the Weibull distribution can serve as more accurate quantitative characteristics of image quality in general. The proposed approach divides more objectively the set of the analyzed images into two groups those with satisfactory or unsatisfactory quality for performing expert studies using images. Examples of the quality assessment of different object images recorded at different resolutions are presented.
Lessons learned during a twelve-year monitoring project with the endangered Magdalena River turtle (Podocnemis lewyana): Hunting pressure, habitat degradation, and methodological considerations
Authors: Páez Vivian P. , Bock Brian , Toro-Cardona Felipe A. , Cartagena-Otálvaro Viviana M.
Published: May 2024

Turtle species in the Family Podocnemididae, including the Colombian endemic and critically endangered Magdalena River Turtle Podocnemis lewyana, characteristically present low recapture rates that precludes estimation of population parameters using maximum likelihood modelling. In our twelve-year monitoring project with this species, we evaluated changes in relative abundances, proportions of sex/size classes, and individual body sizes and body conditions in a population in four channels in the middle Magdalena River drainage. We also inspected for associations between trends in changes in these variables and differences in hunting pressure and habitat degradation. To inspect for temporal and spatial demographic dynamics, we estimated variation in relative abundances using the Catch Per Unit Effort index, the total number of turtles captured over an entire five-day sampling period using ten baited funnel traps. Relative abundances and the proportions of sex/size classes were different between sites and years. We found a significant decline in the proportion of females and juveniles over time, along with evidence that the females still present were smaller in body size. Our results support the hypothesis that hunting eliminates adult females from these sites, perhaps also translating into a reduction in recruitment. The lack of evidence of generalized declines in body condition of all size classes suggests that habitat degradation might contribute less to the population declines in this region. Our results also illustrate that even when recapture rates are low, monitoring turtles via standardized trapping may yield insights into the population's conservation status that other types of relative abundance indices cannot.
A Unified Framework of Scaffold-Lab for Critical Assessment of Protein Backbone Generation Methods
Authors: chen Haifeng , Zheng Zhuoqi , Zhang Bo , Zhong Bozitao , Liu Kexin , Li Zhengxin , Zhu Junjie , Yu JIngyu , Wei Ting
Published: May 2024

De novo protein design has undergone a rapid development in recent years, especially for backbone generation, which stands out as more challenging yet valuable, offering the ability to design novel protein folds with fewer constraints. However, a comprehensive delineation of its potential for practical application in protein engineering remains lacking, as does a standardized evaluation framework to accurately assess the diverse methodologies within this field. Here, we proposed Scaffold-Lab benchmark focusing on evaluating unconditional generation across metrics like designability, novelty, diversity, efficiency and structural properties. We also extrapolated our benchmark to include the motif-scaffolding problem, demonstrating the utility of these conditional generation models. Our findings reveal that FrameFlow and RFdiffusion in unconditional generation and GPDL-H in conditional generation showcased the most outstanding performances. Furthermore, we described a systematic study to investigate conditional generation and applied it to the motif-scaffolding task, offering a novel perspective for the analysis and development of conditional protein design methods. All data and scripts are available at https://github.com/Immortals-33/Scaffold-Lab.
Association between Metabolic flexibility and Hepatic fat content in individuals with Non- alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Huang Wei , He Yifei , Ruan Weiqi , Zhai Haonan , Lin Yanyu , Dai Xiangdi , Wang Tian , Huo Cuilan , Zhuang Jie , Lu Jin
Published: May 2024

Our study investigated the relationship between metabolic flexibility (MetF) and hepatic fat content (HFC) in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Men and women who met the diagnostic criteria for NAFLD were recruited. MetF was evaluated by the change of respiratory exchange ratio (ΔRER) from resting to exercise. Body composition, hepatic fat content (HFC), and clinical blood metabolic profiles were assessed. The study included 30 subjects (16 males). Subjects were classified into HMF (higher MetF) group and LMF (lower MetF) group based on the median ΔRER of 0.12. Subjects in the LMF group demonstrated significantly higher waist circumference(p=0.048), waist to hip ratio(p=0.043), HFC (p<0.001), visceral fat(p=0.039), and android fat to gynoid fat ratio(p=0.027). The LMF group exhibited higher levels of triglycerides (p=0.040), total cholesterol(p=0.001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(p<0.001), and liver enzyme compared to HMF group. The AUC of glucose (p=0.030), free fat acids(p=0.024), and triglyceride (p=0.033) in LMF group were greater than those in HMF group, respectively. Metabolic flexibility reflects metabolic health in NAFLD, with lower MetF associated with higher abdominal fat and worse metabolic profiles. Enhancing fat oxidation at rest and carbohydrate oxidation during exercise may reduce HFC. High-intensity exercise is recommended to improve metabolic outcomes in NAFLD patients.
Relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and obesity in sarcopenia and presarcopenia among elderly people
Authors: Huang Shih-Wei , Chang Wen-Jui , Tung Pi-Hung , Liao Ting-Wei , Liu Geng-Hao , Lin Shih-Wei , Hu Han-Chung , Chen Ning-Hung , Fang Ji-Tseng , Chuang Li-Pang
Published: May 2024

Background
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), obesity and sarcopenia are issues have been attracting increasing attention. The associations between OSA, obesity and sarcopenia have rarely been investigated in previous studies.
Methods
We invited healthy adults aged 60 years or older who lived in Chang Gung Health and Culture Village in Taoyuan or Songshan District in Taipei city between September 2019 and October 2020 to participate in this study. Demographics were collected from the electronic medical records of our hospital or statements of the participants. Full-channel home polysomnography (PSG), handgrip strength, the 4-meter walk test, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) were used to evaluate OSA and sarcopenia.
Results
A total of 96 participants were included. Considering the small number of sarcopenia participants and the pathophysiology of OSA, we included presarcopenia participants in the sarcopenia group. The severity of OSA and BMI increased with age, and the peak values were observed between 70 and 80 years of age. A delayed increase in the severity of OSA in females was observed. Males were more likely to be obese than females. The prevalence of sarcopenia increased with age and was greater in females. In those without sarcopenia, a positive correlation was observed between the severity of OSA and obesity (p = 0.043).
Conclusions
Sarcopenia and low muscle mass may be confounding factors when evaluating the relationship between OSA and obesity in elderly individuals.
Bogong moths use a stellar compass for long-distance navigation at night
Authors: Warrant Eric , Dreyer David , Adden Andrea , Chen Hui , Frost Barrie , Mouritsen Henrik , Xu Jingjing , Green Ken , Whitehouse Mary , Chahl Javaan , Wallace Jesse , Hu Gao , Foster James , Heinze Stanley
Published: May 2024

Each spring, billions of Bogong moths escape hot conditions across southeast Australia by migrating up to 1000 km to a place they have never previously visited – a limited number of cool caves in the Australian Alps, historically used for aestivating over summer1,2. At the beginning of autumn the same individuals make a return migration to their breeding grounds to reproduce and die. Here we show that Bogong moths use the starry night sky as a compass to distinguish geographic cardinal directions and to steer migration in their inherited migratory direction, the first invertebrate known with this ability. By tethering spring and autumn migratory moths in a flight simulator3-5, we found that under naturalistic moonless night skies, and in a nulled geomagnetic field (disabling the moth’s known magnetic sense4), moths flew in their seasonally appropriate migratory directions. Visual interneurons in different regions of the moth’s brain responded specifically to rotations of the night sky and were tuned to a common sky orientation, firing maximally when the moth was headed southwards. Our results suggest that Bogong moths use stellar cues and the Earth’s magnetic field to create a robust compass system for long-distance nocturnal navigation
LOWEL AI Using technology and machine learning algorithms to detect harmful bacteria present in water
Authors: Jallow Cherno
Published: May 2024

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), each year, approximately 1.8 million people die from diarrheal diseases caused by contaminated water[1]. Consuming contaminated water can transmit various diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea, dysentery and typhoid. This pressing global challenge of water contamination has shown the need for innovative solutions for the detection of harmful bacteria present in water sources. LOWEL AI (Learning from Observations to Improve Water Efficiency and Life) is emerging as a technological innovation aimed at revolutionizing water quality assessment by developing a machine learning model that can detect harmful bacteria present in water samples. This paper discusses the potential of LOWEL AI, an emerging research work that outlines the integration of machine learning algorithms, bioluminescent sensors and microscopic cameras to detect harmful bacteria present in water and predict future water conditions by the measurement and observation of certain molecules related to bacteria.
The researcher predicts significant findings from this study which includes compelling correlations between ATP(adenosine triphosphate) levels and bacterial concentration (r = 0.75, p < 0.05), as well as the observation of an inverse relationship between bacterial presence and levels of nitrates (r = -0.62, p < 0.05). These findings highlight the effectiveness of ATP-based bacterial detection and shows the relevance of the sensors in real-time monitoring capabilities.
It is important to note that at this stage, LOWEL AI is a concept and theoretical framework, no practical, hands on implementation or experimentation has been conducted as of yet. The paper discusses potential correlations and data validation measures that will be explored in a future practical implementation of the LOWEL AI framework. Emphasizing that this work serves as a foundational step towards shaping the future of water quality management.
IMPORTANCIA DE LA AUDITORÍA EN EL CUMPLIMIENTO DE OBJETIVOS INSTITUCIONALES
Authors: Calle García Aldrin Jefferson , Goya Alvarado Dilan Aytor , Choez Moran César Elvis , Mejía Arévalo Heydi Yalila
Published: May 2024

Este estudio se enfoca en examinar la importancia de la auditoría en el cumplimiento de objetivos institucionales, abordando los aspectos clave que incluyen la mejora de la transparencia y rendición de cuentas, la identificación de riesgos y oportunidades de mejora, así como el fortalecimiento de la gestión estratégica. La investigación tiene como objetivo principal analizar minuciosamente el papel que desempeña la auditoría en la consecución de objetivos institucionales. Para lograr esto, se empleó una metodología que combinó la revisión bibliográfica y el análisis de casos prácticos, permitiendo obtener una comprensión profunda y completa del tema. Los resultados revelaron que el 78% de las empresas de un estudio afirmaron que la auditoría les ayudó a identificar áreas de mejora en la divulgación de información financiera, mientras que en otra investigación destacada mencionó que el 82% de las empresas informaron que la auditoría externa les ayudó a identificar riesgos operativos y financieros significativos, por otra parte, el 70% de las empresas informaron que la auditoría proporcionó información clave que ayudó a la alta dirección en la formulación de estrategias y la toma de decisiones.
LA GESTIÓN PÚBLICA DESDE EL ENFOQUE DE LA APLICACIÓN DE NORMATIVAS EN EL ECUADOR
Authors: Aguilera Robles Rosa Mayte , Cedeño Cevallos Daniela Viviana , Zambrano Rodríguez Harry Yahir , Tumbaco Tumbaco Anthony Abelardo
Published: May 2024

Este estudio aborda la gestión pública desde el enfoque de la aplicación de normativas en Ecuador, para ello se analizaron varias normativas como la Ley Orgánica de Servicio Público y otras leyes que regulan el sector público. En este sentido, el objetivo fue analizar cómo estas normativas influyen en la eficiencia y calidad de la administración pública. La metodología combinó enfoques cualitativos y cuantitativos, incluyendo análisis documental y estadístico. Los resultados destacaron avances en un 80% respecto a la percepción en transparencia y participación ciudadana, pero también desafíos como la falta de recursos y la resistencia al cambio. Por tal razón, se concluye que la implementación efectiva de normativas es fundamental para promover la rendición de cuentas y reducir la desigualdad. Además, se enfatiza la necesidad de fortalecer capacidades institucionales y fomentar una cultura de integridad en el servicio público para lograr un desarrollo equitativo y sostenible en Ecuador.
LA AUDITORÍA EXTERNA COMO ESTRATEGIA EMPRESARIAL PARA OPTIMIZAR RECURSOS
Authors: Calle García Aldrin Jefferson , Rodríguez Pareja Bexy Maluly , Anchundia Posligua Eduardo Alexander , López Olivo Danna Jarley
Published: May 2024

Este estudio investiga el papel de la auditoría externa como estrategia empresarial para optimizar recursos. Comenzando con una introducción detallada sobre los fundamentos y principios de la auditoría externa, el objetivo del estudio es abordar sus beneficios, desafíos y limitaciones en el contexto empresarial actual. La metodología empleada combinó enfoques cualitativos y cuantitativos, incluyendo casos de estudios, para obtener una comprensión completa de la implementación y efectividad de la auditoría externa. Los resultados muestran que el 75% de las empresas participantes han implementado programas de auditoría externa, destacando su importancia en la mejora de la transparencia financiera y la identificación de áreas de mejora interna. Sin embargo, el estudio identifica desafíos significativos, como los altos costos y la resistencia interna, que afectan la efectividad de la auditoría externa. En conclusión, se recomienda adoptar enfoques flexibles, promover una cultura de transparencia y abordar la resistencia interna para maximizar los beneficios de la auditoría externa en la gestión empresarial contemporánea.
FACTORES CLAVES DE LA AUDITORÍA EN EL SUBSISTEMA DE FORMACIÓN Y CAPACITACIÓN DEL TALENTO HUMANO
Authors: Espinoza Tuárez Yixcely Maribel , Menéndez Parrales María Isabel , Ramírez Rebolledo Naralyn Damaris , Aguilera Martínez Yipsi Gisela
Published: May 2024

En un contexto empresarial donde la gestión eficaz del talento humano es importante, el estudio se enfocó en los factores clave de la auditoría en el subsistema de formación y capacitación. El objetivo principal fue analizar los factores clave que influyen en la auditoría del subsistema de formación y capacitación del talento humano en las organizaciones. Para ello, se empleó una metodología mixta que combinó análisis documental y casos de estudio. Los resultados revelaron que, aunque la mayoría de las empresas cuentan con políticas formales de auditoría, estas tienden a priorizar el reclutamiento y selección sobre la formación y capacitación del personal, evidenciando una brecha en la atención prestada a este aspecto fundamental del desarrollo de habilidades. Además, se identificaron desafíos significativos en la implementación de prácticas de auditoría efectivas, como la falta de recursos dedicados y la falta de claridad en los criterios de evaluación. Sorprendentemente, solo el 25% de las organizaciones encuestadas asignan recursos específicos para la auditoría de formación.
ARTE Y LECTOESCRITURA EN NIÑOS DE 5 A 6 AÑOS
Authors: Mendieta Toledo Lenin Byron , Chunga Escolar José Adolfo , Mendieta Toledo Lenin Rijkaard , Peralta Castro Josselyne Doménica , Zamora León Lorena María
Published: May 2024

La lectoescritura es una actividad fundamental para el desarrollo cognitivo de los niños, el objetivo del estudio fue Determinar la incidencia del arte en el aprendizaje de la lectoescritura en niños de 5 a 6 años de la escuela de Educación Básica Fiscal Mixta Nahím Isaías Bárquet en el periodo lectivo 2022-2023, a través de una construcción teórica-epistémica y de campo para el diseño de una guía de actividades para docentes. Fue un estudio cuanti-cualitativo, descriptivo, bibliográfico, documental y de campo, de tipo descriptivo, no experimental y transversal; los métodos empleados fueron la observación y medición; se emplearon las técnicas de la observación y las encuestas y los instrumentos utilizados fueron los cuestionarios.Los resultados obtenidos fueron que los docentes no emplean guías de actividades aunque si diseñan material didáctico. Las conclusiones a las que se llegaron fueron que el arte coadyuva al proceso de interaprendizaje de la lectoescritura, la institución no cuenta con material didáctico pertinente para la enseñanza de la lectoescritura, y, existe incidencia del arte en el aprendizaje de la lectoescritura en los participantes del estudio.
How does the daily regulation hydropower station reduce the hydrological regime impact? A case study in upper Yellow River
Authors: Yang Xue , Li Fengnian , Li Shi , Fu Xiaohua , Luo Jungang , Zuo Ganggang , Xu Chong-Yu
Published: May 2024

Human activities, particularly the regulation of hydropower stations, have profoundly altered river flow patterns. While studies have extensively assessed the impact of large or multi-year regulated hydropower stations on hydrological regimes using indicators of hydrological alteration (IHA) and range of variability approach (RVA), the impact of daily regulation hydropower stations has received comparatively less attention. This study aims to evaluate the influence of daily regulation hydropower stations on hydrological regime changes, focusing on the upper Yellow River region in China. Using daily runoff data from 1954 to 2020 at the Guide station, the study compares the impacts of multi-year regulated (Longyangxia) and daily regulation (Laxiwa and Nina) hydropower stations. The Mann-Kendall test showed that 27 out of 32 Indicators of Hydrological Alteration (IHAs) had significant trends under Longyangxia operation, which reduced to 18 IHAs with the inclusion of daily regulation stations. The Range of Variability Approach (RVA) revealed that only 46.87% of IHAs exhibited high alteration from the natural regime when daily regulation was considered, down from 75.00% with Longyangxia alone. This suggests that daily regulation can mitigate the negative impacts of multi-year regulation, potentially enhancing the river's eco-hydrological health.