bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deprem Sonrası Çocuk Özel Eğitim Yerleşkesi Mimari Tasarım Deneyimi
Authors: ZENTER Özge , OZMEN Fulya , YILDIRIM Tayfun
Published: February 2024

Deprem/Afet ile ilgili çalışmalar günümüzde birçok alanda tartışılmaktadır. Maalesef ki hayatımızın kaçınılmaz gerçeklerinden birisi olduğu için tartışmalar daima güncel kalacaktır. Deprem gerçeğinde mimar ve mühendislerin sorumlulukları daha fazladır. Mesleğin temelleri mimarlık eğitiminde atıldığı için bu konuda ilk adım afet bilincine sahip mimarların yetiştirilmesidir. Bu çalışma, Gazi Üniversitesi Mimarlık Fakültesi Mimarlık Bölümü Atölye 4 öğrencilerinin tasarımlarını kapsamaktadır. Mimarlık eğitiminde deprem, en hassas konu olan çocuklar genelinde ele alınmış; “Deprem/Afet Sonrası Çocuk Özel Eğitim Yerleşkesi” teması ile öğrencilerin yapmış olduğu tasarımlar, betimsel analiz yöntemi kullanılarak incelenmiştir. Çalışmada, elde edilen veriler üzerinden bir bilince ulaşılmasını sağlamak ve deprem-mimarlık-çocuk konusundaki çalışmalarda, tasarım süreci-ihtiyaç çerçevesi oluşturmak hedeflenmektedir. Analizler sonucunda, çocukların aidiyet hissi, güvenliği ve temel gereksinimlerinin karşılanması adına, deprem sonrası çocuk özel eğitim yerleşkelerinin ve yerleşke tasarımında sürdürülebilir ve çocuk dostu tasarım prensiplerinin benimsenmesinin önemi açıkça görülmektedir. Bu çalışmanın, deprem sonrası çocukların fiziksel ve ruhsal ihtiyaçlarının karşılanması konusunda farkındalık sağlayacağı düşünülmektedir.
PENGARUH PERCEIVED USERFULNESS DALAM PENGGUNAAN INTERNET BANKING PADA NASABAH BANK NAGARI KANTOR CABANG UTAMA PADANG
Authors: Rishen Pradiktyo Iandra , Syafizal Syafizal
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The study in this study on the analysis of the influence of Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease Of Use, Consumer Innovativeness Against Intention Comsumer In The Use Of Internet Banking On Bank Nagari Customers Branch Office Padang).  The issues raised in this research are: How is the influence of perceived usefulness towards the intention of Comsumer in the use of internet banking at Bank Nagari customer of Padang branch office (2) How is the influence of perceived ease of use towards intention in internet banking usage at Bank Nagari customer of Padang branch office (3 ) How does Consumer Innovativeness impact on the intention of using internet banking to Bank Nagari customers of Padang branch offices? In this research using descriptif analyse. This analysis for give deep arguement and implemented hypotesis that describe in quantitatif analyse, based on questioner list has been filled by employee. Then those data is analysed by statistic with using SPSS 16 application for windows  to testing this research hypotesis with cover Multiple Regression analyse.The result of descriptive analysis shows that there is a positive and significant influence between Perceived Usefulness toward Comsumer intention, there is a positive and significant influence between Perceived Ease Of Use against Comsumer intention there is a positive and significant influence and Consumer Innovativeness towards Comsumer intention there is a positive and significant influence between . Based on the statistical test of three research variables, it is concluded that Perceived Ease Of Use is the most influential variable to comsumer intention.Keywords: Perceived, Userfulness, Internet Banking
ANALISIS FAKTOR KUALITAS JASA TERHADAP KEPUASAN PELANGGAN DI WAROENG CETAKAN CIMAHI
Authors: Putri Pratiwi Dzulfa Amalia , Noor Sa’ad
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Waroeng Cetakan is a company engaged in the printing sector, To maintain and improve customer satisfaction, The company always strives to provide products with better service quality, The purpose of this study was to determine the factors of service quality on customer satisfaction, This study uses the service quality variable (X) as an independent variable consisting of tangible, reability, responsiveness, asurance , emphati and customer satisfaction variables (Y) as dependent variable. The surveys were distributed to 99 respondents using a non-probability sampling technique Then, using SPSS V25, statistical tests (validity, correlation coefficient, coefficient of determination, and hypothesis testing) were performed. The results of data analysis are obtained tarithmetic ttable (7.663 1.988). The value is adjusted R square 0.484 or 48.4% for variables emphati and the significance value of all accumulated service quality (X) 0.000 0.005 which means Service quality has a significant positive effect on customer satisfaction based on the SPSS report. ThisKeywords: Quality, Service, Customer satisfaction
ANALISA PENGARUH NILAI TUKAR, INFLASI, SUKU BUNGA DAN SERTIFIKAT BANK INDONSIA SYARIAH TERHADAP INDEKS SAHAM SYARIAH INDONESIA
Authors: Muzahid Mukhlisul , Prihatin Nanang , Lukman Lukman , Fitria Rozatul
Published: February 2024

Abstract:  This study aims to determine the effect of kurs, inflation, interest rates, and Bank Indonesia Sharia Certificates on the Indonesian Sharia Stock Index. The data used in this study is in the form of panel data using a sample of 26 companies listed on the Indonesian Sharia Stock Index for 2017-2021. The data analysis technique in this study uses panel data analysis with the Fixed Effect Model. The results of the study show that simultaneously the kurs, inflation, interest rates, and Bank Indonesia Sharia Certificates have a significant effect on the Indonesian Sharia Stock Index. This is based on the results of the F test, namely the calculated F value F table (47.86140 2.44) with a prob level (F-Statistic) of 0.000 using an α level of 0.05 or 5%. While partially the exchange rate and inflation have no effect on the Indonesian Sharia Stock Index, however, interest rates and Bank Indonesia Sharia Certificates have a significant effect on the Indonesian Sharia Stock Index.Keywords: Indonesian Sharia Stock Index, Exchange Rates, Inflation, Interest Rates, Bank Indonesia Sharia Certificates
Students' Learning Styles (VRAK Model) in Learning English
Authors: Noviska Della Wilza , Anastasia Faurina
Published: February 2024

Many teachers still remain unaware of their students' learning styles, which hinders their ability to consider individual student preferences and optimize instructional methods. This research aims to investigate students' learning styles using VRAK (visual, read-write, audio, and kinesthetic) model by Fleming in English language learning. The study adopted a qualitative research design and utilized the case study method involving 27 students at Senior High School 1 Sungai Penuh, Jambi. Data were collected through interviews and observations. Qualitative thematic analysis was employed, involving three stages: data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing or verification. The findings reveal that 56% of the students possess a kinesthetic learning style. The remaining 22%, 11%, and 11% of students have visual, auditory, and read-write learning styles, respectively. Understanding students' diverse learning styles in the context of English language learning has significant implications for instructional practices. It enables teachers to optimize their efforts in selecting and implementing differentiated teaching methods tailored to their students' individual needs.Keywords: English learning, Learning styles, VRAK
Description of Family Support for the Elderly Hypertension
Authors: Erni Tri Indarti  , Puji Astutik  , Binti Jumi Astutik
Published: February 2024

One of the most common diseases in the elderly is hypertension. Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is constantly elevated. Lack of adherence and support for hypertension testing is one of the reasons for uncontrolled blood pressure, while family support is the most important factor, especially in terms of health. The purpose of this study was to determine family support for the elderly with hypertension in the elderly Posyandu, Nglaban Hamlet, Nglaban Village, Loceret District. The design of this research a descriptive design, which was conducted on 26th September 2023 at the Posyandu for the elderly in Nglaban Hamlet, Nglaban Village, Loceret District, Nganjuk Regency. The population in this study was 30 hypertensive elderly who attended the Posyandu for the Elderly in Nglaban Hamlet, Nglaban Village, Loceret District, Nganjuk Regency, a sample of 22 respondents taken using the Puprosive sampling technique. The inclusion criteria in this research are hypertensive elderly who live at home with their family. The variable in this study is family support for hypertensive elderly. The instrument used was a questionnaire The results showed that of the 22 respondents, the majority, namely 12 respondents (54.5%), received adequate family support and nearly half, namely 10 respondents (45.5%), received less family support. Family support is needed because it can reduce feelings of anxiety in the elderly, increase enthusiasm for life, involve the elderly in carrying out hypertension treatment so as to obtain the goals of hypertension treatment. So that the family should always provide motivation and support for the elderly with hypertension to make health care efforts and help carry out routine controls in existing health services
MONITORING OF WATER BODIES AND RECLAIMED LANDS AFFECTED BY WARFARE USING SATELLITE DATA
Authors: Vlasova O. V. , Shevchenko A. M. , Shevchenko I. A. , Kozytsky O. M.
Published: February 2024

The paper presents the results of monitoring the state of water bodies and reclaimed lands affected by warfare using remote sensing methods and in-situ surveys. On the example of the flooding of the floodplain of the Irpin river by the waters of the Kyiv reservoir as a result of the destruction of the culvert structure, as well as the flooding of the floodplain of the Dnipro river near village Otradokamyanka after the explosion of the Kakhovska hydro power plant (HPP), the change in the area of inundation was calculated based on spectral index maps and surface classification using Sentinel-2 L2A imagery. On the base of Sentinel-2 L2A images, maps of SAVI and NDWI indices were obtained. They revealed the places of soil cover by sediments and the increase of the area of water bodies. Monitoring of reclaimed lands affected by warfare was carried out in the floodplain of the Irpin river on the Irpin Drainage and Moistening System during three time intervals: before the war in 2019; during the fighting in the spring of 2022 and a year after the end of military actions. Studies have shown a significant prevalence of waterlogged areas in the present time, which confirms the destruction of drainage network.The calculated values of the NDVI index turned out to be too high for agricultural crops, which indicates that the lands is overgrown with shrubs. Based on the results of the conducted monitoring, the territory was classified according to the degree of its damage by shell craters. Based on the results of the studies, it is recommended to monitor water bodies and reclaimed lands that have been affected by the war using images of different spatial resolution, a complex of spectral indices, a combination of image bands and in-situ surveys.
Association between Pre-Pregnancy Body Mass Index, Gestational Weight Gain, and Birth Defects, a Retrospective Study
Authors: Chu Zhou , Qi Mingming , Yu Zaili , Mi Li , Long Jin , Hu Guohong
Published: February 2024

Background: To explore the correlation of pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) with the occurrence of birth defects. Methods: Clinical data of pregnant women were collected in Zhuzhou Central Hospital from January 2019 to December 2021. A total of 10,086 newborns, including 175 newborns with birth defects. Birth defect cases were identified, and 350 cases of pregnant women without birth defects were randomly selected as the control group by control case matching (1:2). Clinical baseline data were compared between the two groups, and logistic single-factor analysis was performed to examine the correlation between pre-pregnancy BMI, GWG, and birth defects. Results: The study consisted of a total of 175 cases of birth defects, including circulatory system 114 (65.14%) cases, musculoskeletal system 34 (19.43%) cases, urinary system 15 (8.57%) cases, and 12 (6.86%) cases of other birth defects. There were no statistical differences in parity between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, statistically significant differences were observed in maternal age, pre-pregnancy medication history, and the perinatal TORCH (Toxoplass, Other (Syphilis, Hepatitis B), Rubivirus, Cytomegalovirus, Herpesvirus) (p < 0.05). Logistic single-factor analysis revealed that the proportion of birth defects in obese women was significantly higher than that in the control group (5.14% vs. 1.14%, p = 0.013). In the birth defect group, the distribution of inadequate, appropriate, and excessive GWG was 9.71%, 34.86%, and 55.43%, respectively. However, no statistical differences were found in the types of birth defects based on maternal BMI and GWG. Conclusion: The primary focus on addressing birth defects should center around the prevention and control of congenital heart disease. Abnormal pre-pregnancy BMI is a risk factor for birth defects. Effective control of GWG contributes to preventing adverse outcomes in newborns. Therefore, both women of childbearing age and pregnant women need to pay attention to weight management.
Xrn1 Exoribonuclease—An Intrinsic Marker of Yeast Population Growth
Authors: Grousl Tomas , Vomastek Tomas
Published: February 2024

Background: Xrn1 exoribonuclease is the major mRNA degradation enzyme in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In exponentially growing cells, Xrn1 is localised in the yeast cells and directs the degradation of mRNA molecules. Xrn1 is gradually deposited and presumably inactivated in the processing bodies (P-bodies) as the yeast population ages. Xrn1 can also localise to the membrane compartment of the arginine permease Can1/eisosome compartment at the yeast plasma membrane. This localisation correlates with the metabolic (diauxic) shift from glucose fermentation to respiration, although the relevance of this Xrn1 localisation remains unknown. Methods: We monitored the growth rates and morphology of Xrn1-green fluorescent protein (GFP) cells compared to wild-type and Δxrn1 cells and observed the Xrn1-GFP localisation pattern in different media types for up to 72 hours using fluorescence microscopy. Results: We present the dynamic changes in the localisation of Xrn1 as a versatile tool for monitoring the growth of yeast populations at the single-cell level using fluorescence microscopy. Conclusions: The dynamic changes in the localisation of Xrn1 can be a versatile tool for monitoring the growth of yeast populations at the single-cell level. Simultaneously, Xrn1 localisation outside of P-bodies in post-diauxic cells supports its storage and cytoprotective function, yet the role of P-bodies in cell metabolism has still not yet been entirely elucidated.
PPP3CB Inhibits Cell Proliferation and the Warburg Effect in Bladder Cancer by Blocking PDHK1
Authors: Qiu Xiangmin , Jiang Ziqing , Luo Yu , Tian Dayu , Song Tao , Li Qianyin
Published: February 2024

Background: Cancer treatment has recently shifted towards metabolic approaches aimed at enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Somewhat surprisingly, a known regulator of energy metabolism in normal tissues, PPP3CB, is down-regulated in bladder cancer. This suggests that PPP3CB could exert an inhibitory effect on bladder cancer through its role in energy metabolism. Methods: To explore the above hypothesis, we employed non-targeted metabolism screening in bladder cancer cells with knockdown of PPP3CB. Glucose uptake and lactate production were carefully measured using specialized assay kits for glucose/lactic acid content. Western blot analysis was also used to evaluate the expression levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDHK1) and p-PDHA1 in cells with PPP3CB knockdown. To substantiate the findings, co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) experiments were performed to validate the interaction between PPP3CB and PDHK1. Various in vitro assays were also performed, including clone formation assay and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) viability assays. The in vivo anti-tumor potential of PPP3CB in bladder cancer was also studied using a nude mouse tumorigenesis model. Results: Significant down-regulation of PPP3CB was observed in bladder tumors, and potent anti-tumor effects of PPP3CB were observed in vitro. Investigation of the underlying mechanism by which PPP3CB hampers glycolysis in bladder cancer cells revealed that it interacted with PDHK1 to inhibit its protein stabilization. PDHK1 thus appears to be a crucial mediator through which PPP3CB exerts its inhibitory effects on bladder cancer cells. Conclusions: In summary, PPP3CB exerts strong inhibitory influences on bladder cancer cell proliferation and glycolysis via its destabilization of PDHK1. These results highlight the potential of PPP3CB as a novel regulator of the Warburg effect. Interestingly, the downregulation of PPP3CB in bladder cancer cells increases the Warburg effect, thereby generating more lactic acid and reshaping the tumor microenvironment so as to promote tumor cell proliferation.
Regulation of Sirtuins in Sepsis-Induced Myocardial Damage: The Underlying Mechanisms for Cardioprotection
Authors: Pei Zuowei , Yao Wei , Wang Shuo , Wu Yaoxin
Published: February 2024

Sepsis is defined as “a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection”. Although the treatment of sepsis has evolved rapidly in the last few years, the morbidity and mortality of sepsis in clinical treatment are still climbing. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are a highly conserved family of histone deacetylation involved in energy metabolism. There are many mechanisms of sepsis-induced myocardial damage, and more and more evidence show that SIRTs play a vital role in the occurrence and development of sepsis-induced myocardial damage, including the regulation of sepsis inflammation, oxidative stress and metabolic signals. This review describes our understanding of the molecular mechanisms and pathophysiology of sepsis-induced myocardial damage, with a focus on disrupted SIRTs regulation. In addition, this review also describes the research status of related therapeutic drugs, so as to provide reference for the treatment of sepsis.
Single-Cell Transcriptome Analysis Identified Core Genes and Transcription Factors in Mesenchymal Cell Differentiation during Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Dai Xue , Zheng Hui-Lin , Ma Ya-Xin , Wang Yun-Yan , Wang Mai-Qiu , Cai Hai-Ying , Hu Zhen-Hua , Wan Jian , Zhang Lei
Published: February 2024

Background: Mesenchymal cells, including hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), fibroblasts (FBs), myofibroblasts (MFBs), and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), are the main cells that affect liver fibrosis and play crucial roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis. The dynamic evolution of mesenchymal cells is very important but remains to be explored for researching the reversible mechanism of hepatic fibrosis and its evolution mechanism of hepatic fibrosis to cirrhosis. Methods: Here, we analysed the transcriptomes of more than 50,000 human single cells from three cirrhotic and three healthy liver tissue samples and the mouse hepatic mesenchymal cells of two healthy and two fibrotic livers to reconstruct the evolutionary trajectory of hepatic mesenchymal cells from a healthy to a cirrhotic state, and a subsequent integrative analysis of bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data of HSCs from quiescent to active (using transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) to stimulate LX-2) to inactive states. Results: We identified core genes and transcription factors (TFs) involved in mesenchymal cell differentiation. In healthy human and mouse livers, the expression of NR1H4 and members of the ZEB families (ZEB1 and ZEB2) changed significantly with the differentiation of FB into HSC and VSMC. In cirrhotic human livers, VSMCs transformed into HSCs with downregulation of MYH11, ACTA2, and JUNB and upregulation of PDGFRB, RGS5, IGFBP5, CD36, A2M, SOX5, and MEF2C. Following HSCs differentiation into MFBs with the upregulation of COL1A1, TIMP1, and NR1H4, a small number of MFBs reverted to inactivated HSCs (iHSCs). The differentiation trajectory of mouse hepatic mesenchymal cells was similar to that in humans; however, the evolution trajectory and proportion of cell subpopulations that reverted from MFBs to iHSCs suggest that the mouse model may not accurately reflect disease progression and outcome in humans. Conclusions: Our analysis elucidates primary genes and TFs involved in mesenchymal cell differentiation during liver fibrosis using scRNA-seq data, and demonstrated the core genes and TFs in process of HSC activation to MFB and MFB reversal to iHSC using bulk RNA-seq data of human fibrosis induced by TGF-β1. Furthermore, our findings suggest promising targets for the treatment of liver fibrosis and provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying its onset and progression.
Novel Prognostic Model Construction of Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma Based on Apigenin-Associated Genes
Authors: Lai Jianfei , Fang Chen , Zhang Guohua , Shi Chao , Yu Feng , Gu Weiguo , Deng Jianxiong , Xu Jingbiao , Liu Chaoxing , Qiu Feng
Published: February 2024

Background: Clinical indexes are often selected as relevant factors for constructing prognostic models of tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) patients, while factors related to therapeutic targets are less frequently included. As Apigenin (API) shows anti-tumor properties in many tumors, in this study, we construct a novel prognostic model for TSCC patients based on Apigenin-associated genes through transcriptomic analysis. Methods: The effect of Apigenin (API) on the cell characteristics of TSCC cells was measured by several phenotype experiments. RNA-seq was executed to ensure differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in squamous cell carcinoma-9 (SCC-9) cells after API treatment. Furthermore, reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry were performed to verify the expression of API-related genes. Then, combined with the gene expression data and relevant individual information of TSCC samples acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), an API-related model was built through Lasso regression and multivariate Cox regression. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and a nomogram and calibration curve were created to forecast patient outcomes to improve the clinical suitability of the API-related signature. The relationships between the two risk groups and function enrichment, immune infiltration characteristics, and drug susceptibility were analyzed. Results: We demonstrated that API could inhibit the malignant behavior of TSCC cells. Among API-related genes, TSCC cells treated with API, compared to the control group, have higher levels of transmembrane protein 213 (TMEM213) and G protein-coupled receptor 158 (GPR158), and lower levels of caspase 14 (CASP14) and integrin subunit alpha 5 (ITGA5). An 7 API-associated gene model was built through Lasso regression and multivariate Cox regression that could direct TSCC prognostic status and tumor immune cell infiltration. In addition, we acquired 6 potential therapeutic agents for TSCC based on the prognostic model. Conclusions: Our research suggested the inhibition effect of API on TSCC cells and provided a novel prognostic model combined with therapeutic factors that can guide the prognosis of TSCC and clinical decision-making in TSCC.
A Novel Predictive Model for Acute Kidney Injury Following Surgery of the Aorta
Authors: Chen Mingjian , Zhao Sheng , Chen Pengfei , Zhao Diming , Wang Liqing , Chen Zhaoyang
Published: February 2024

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) frequently occurs after aortic surgery and has a significant impact on patient outcomes. Early detection or prediction of AKI is crucial for timely interventions. This study aims to develop and validate a novel model for predicting AKI following aortic surgery. Methods: We enrolled 156 patients who underwent on-pump aortic surgery in our hospital from February 2023 to April 2023. Postoperative levels of eight cytokines related to macrophage polarization analyzed using a multiplex cytokine assay. All-subset regression was used to select the optimal cytokines to predict AKI. A logistic regression model incorporating the selected cytokines was used for internal validation in combination with a bootstrapping technique. The model’s ability to discriminate between cases of AKI and non-AKI was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: Of the 156 patients, 109 (69.87%) developed postoperative AKI. Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were identified as candidate AKI predictors. The cytokine-based model including IFN-γ and IL-4 demonstrated excellent discrimination (C-statistic: 0.90) and good calibration (Brier score: 0.11). A clinical nomogram was generated, and decision curve analysis revealed that the cytokine-based model outperformed the clinical factor-based model in terms of net benefit. Moreover, both IFN-γ and IL-4 emerged as independent risk factors for AKI. Patients in the second and third tertiles of IFN-γ and IL-4 concentrations had a significantly higher risk of severe AKI, a higher likelihood of requiring renal replacement therapy, or experiencing in-hospital death. These patients also had extended durations of mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit stays, compared with those in the first tertile (all p for group trend <0.001). Conclusions: We successfully established a novel and powerful predictive model for AKI, and demonstrating the significance of IFN-γ and IL-4 as valuable clinical markers. These cytokines not only predict the risk of AKI following aortic surgery but are also linked to adverse in-hospital outcomes. This model offers a promising avenue for the early identification of high-risk patients, potentially improving clinical decision-making and patient care.
Circulating Myokines as Novel Biomarkers for Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Lyu Jin-xiu , Guo Dan-dan , Song Yu-chen , Zhang Man-ru , Ge Feng-qin , Zhao Jing , Zhu Hua , Hang Peng-zhou
Published: February 2024

Myokines are a group of cytokines or polypeptides released from skeletal muscle during exercise. Growing evidence suggests that myokines are associated with the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Moreover, several myokines in peripheral blood exhibit dynamic changes in different CVD stages. This review summarizes the potential roles of myokines such as myostatin, irisin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, mitsugumin 53, meteorin-like, and apelin in various CVD, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes. The association of these myokines with biomarkers currently being used in clinical practice is also discussed. Furthermore, the review considers the emerging role of myokines in CVD and addresses the challenges remaining in translating these discoveries into novel clinical biomarkers for CVD.
Data gaps in transport behavior are bottleneck for tracking health implications of climate action in European cities
Authors: Chevance Guillaume , Nieuwenhuijsen Mark , Braga Kaue , Clifton Kelly , Hoadley Suzanne , Kaack Lynn , Kaiser Silke K , Lampkowski Marcelo , LUPU Luliana , Radics Miklos , Velazquez Daniel , Williams Sarah , Woodcock James , Tonne Cathryn
Published: February 2024

Shifting to healthy, sustainable transport modes is essential to reduce greenhouse gases emissions, improve air quality, and promote physical activity in European cities. To date, a major barrier to monitoring progress towards this objective has been the absence of harmonized passenger transport data across cities. This Perspective synthesizes the outcome of a workshop bringing together experts in urban transportation, climate change mitigation, and health with the aim to identify solutions to overcome this barrier. We identified four data streams that could improve monitoring shifts towards active and public transport at the European level: (i) surveys, (ii) mobile phone data, (iii) street view data and (iv) bicycle and pedestrian counters. We examined the strengths and limitations of each data source and mapped publicly available datasets. We identified few coordinated efforts to collect active travel data among European cities; data gaps remain a critical bottleneck for research, benchmarking, and monitoring progress. Priorities for addressing these gaps include survey harmonization and support for longitudinal monitoring, the expansion of street view data and bicycle counter networks and the sustainable development of open access data repositories.
The sensorimotor foundations of bodily self-consciousness in utero
Authors: Delafield-Butt Jonathan , Ciaunica Anna
Published: February 2024

In this review, we look at recent work that examines the genesis of conscious awareness in utero in humans. We focus on observable behaviours that suggest a state of anticipatory perceptual awareness evident in the foetal period, and the foetus’ first expression of agency through self-generative engagement with it. This predictive, anticipatory awareness is first evident in the prospective sensorimotor organisation of bodily movements of the second trimester foetus, revealing an early adaptive awareness and agency that establishes the foundation for additional forms of abstract, reflective, and conceptually-backed conscious experience in adults. Improved understanding of these early sensorimotor foundations of psychological development and health affords an improved understanding adult human consciousness, the nature of its early ontogeny, and its particular expression mediated by the integrative nervous system.
Valence Sound Symbolism Facilitates Classification of Vowels and Emotional Facial Expressions
Authors: Schmidtke David , Körner Anita , Glim Sarah , Rummer Ralf
Published: February 2024

Research on iconicity or sound symbolism chronicles associations between aspects of word meaning and word form. In valence sound symbolism, specifically, vowels were demonstrated to be associated with valence, so that the vowel /i/ (as in English sea) is judged to fit positively valenced stimuli whereas the vowel /o/ (as in German Boot) is judged to fit negatively valenced stimuli. However, because previous findings were based on judgements or name invention tasks, they may reflect deliberate strategies. The present research aims at demonstrating the automaticity of valence sound symbolism in online language processing by means of a speeded response task. A total of 163 participants performed a speeded categorization task in which they were requested to classify one of two simultaneously presented stimuli, pseudowords containing the vowels /i/ or /o/ and pictures with positive or negative emotional facial expressions. Thus, stimulus pairings could be either congruent (/i/-words and positive expressions; /o/-words and negative expressions) or incongruent (/i/-words and negative expressions; /o/-words and positive expressions). We observed faster and more accurate responses for congruent over incongruent combinations (the simple effects were significant for positive but not for negative expressions). Thus, sound symbolic congruency (vs. incongruency) of an irrelevant stimulus facilitated responses, which accords with an automatic process contributing to valence sound symbolism and indicates that valence sound symbolism is deeply engrained in the human cognitive system.
When Forever Does Not Mean Forever: Perspectives of Foster Care Alum Following Legal Permanency Disruptions
Authors: Osborn Kimberly D. , Cruce Amanda , Stevens Bailey , Hartley Scout , Roundtree-Swain Dakota
Published: February 2024

Despite the emphasis on increasing permanency for youth in foster care, outcomes are seldom systematically evaluated after youth achieve legal permanency. This study aimed to understand the experiences of young people who achieved legal, but not relational permanency. Using interpretive phenomenological analysis, we gathered rich and detailed narratives of five adults who underwent a disrupted adoption or guardianship. Findings reveal insight into factors of disruption and the ramifications, showing a complex phenomenon in need of further research.
Lifetime prevalence of questionable health behaviors and their psychological roots: A preregistered nationally representative survey
Authors: Knezevic Goran , Petrović Marija , Ninković Milica , Zupan Zorana , Purić Danka , Lukic Petar , Zivanovic Marko , Teovanovic Predrag , Stanković Sanda , Zezelj Iris
Published: February 2024

A growing body of evidence suggests that questionable health behaviors- not following medical recommendations and resorting to non-evidence based treatments - are more frequent than previously thought, and that they seem to have strong psychological roots. We thus aimed to: 1) document the lifetime prevalence of intentional non-adherence to medical recommendations (iNAR) and use of traditional, complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) in Serbia and 2) understand how they relate to ‘distal’ psychological predictors - personality traits and thinking dispositions, and ‘proximal’ predictors - a set of beliefs and cognitive biases under the term ‘irrational mindset’. In this preregistered cross-sectional study on a nationally representative sample (N=1003), we observed high lifetime prevalence of iNAR (91.3%) and TCAM (99.2%). Irrational beliefs, especially magical health beliefs and medical conspiracy theories, were the strongest predictors of TCAM. They also mediated the relation between Disintegration/lower cognitive reflectiveness and TCAM. High Disintegration, and low Conscientiousness predicted iNAR directly, whilst negative experiences with the healthcare system facilitated both types of questionable health practices. The established psychological profile of people prone to questionable health behaviors and the fact they can be tracked to negative experiences with the system can be used by healthcare workers and policy makers.
Determinación de caudales utilizando compuertas en sistemas de riego por gravedad
Authors: Bentancor Lisette , Pedocchi Francisco
Published: February 2024

Las compuertas se utilizan para la derivación de agua a parcelas de producción de arroz en el este de Uruguay. En este trabajo se determinan las curvas de funcionamiento de compuertas rectangulares instaladas al ingreso de tuberías de sección circular en condiciones de descarga sumergida, pudiendo entonces utilizarlas como estructuras de aforo. Para los ensayos las compuertas fueron montadas en el extremo de entrada de tuberías de PVC tipo sanitario de 6 m de longitud y diámetro nominal de 250 y 315 mm. Esta configuración es análoga a la utilizada en sistemas de riego por gravedad. Se presenta la derivación de las ecuaciones de funcionamiento de las compuertas en esta configuración. Los coeficientes de descarga (Cd) obtenidos experimentalmente muestran que la descarga bajo la compuerta es dependiente de la apertura y la diferencia de tirantes aguas arriba y aguas abajo, además del número de Reynolds bajo la compuerta. La dependencia del número de Reynolds, que usualmente se omite en otras aplicaciones, es relevante en el caso del riego de arroz, dadas las bajas velocidades, y permite su uso como estructura de regulación y aforo de agua en estos sistemas.
Calibración de canales aforadores en sistemas irrigados mediante el procesamiento de imágenes de video y la inferencia bayesiana
Authors: Navas Rafael , Monetta Alejandro , Roel Álvaro , Blanco Nicolás , Gil Alfredo , Gamazo Pablo
Published: February 2024

El arroz es un cultivo que requiere gran cantidad de agua a lo largo de todo su ciclo productivo para garantizar un buen rendimiento, lo que lleva a un gasto de agua mayor en comparación con otros cultivos. Uruguay siembra alrededor de 160.000 ha/año, lo que demanda unos 1.760 hm3/año de agua, obteniendo valores promedio de productividad muy altos a nivel internacional de 9.000 kg/ha. El riego por lo general se hace por inundación, conduciendo el agua a través de canales excavados donde se utilizan compuertas para la regulación del agua y, en algunos pocos casos, se instalan dispositivos para su medición. La creciente presión que existe sobre el recurso agua genera la necesidad de ampliar el conocimiento de los consumos de agua a nivel de chacras. Los canales aforadores son una oportunidad en este sentido, pero, sin embargo, requieren calibración y ajuste con mediciones, lo que generalmente es omitido por su alto costo y complejidad. Este trabajo propone una metodología económica para la calibración de canales aforadores mediante el procesamiento de imágenes de video. La metodología utiliza el software RIveR (https://riverdischarge.blogspot.com/) para procesar las imágenes de video, y el software BaRatinAGE para construir la relación nivel-caudal mediante la inferencia bayesiana. Como sensores de referencia se utiliza un radar de velocidad superficial y un velocímetro de efecto acústico doppler. La metodología se prueba en un canal aforador de garganta cortada. El experimento se realizó en un establecimiento arrocero en el norte de Uruguay. Los resultados sugieren que los canales aforadores se pueden calibrar mediante procesamiento de imágenes de video y que la incertidumbre puede ser cuantificada mediante inferencia bayesiana. Un beneficio del método propuesto es que utiliza software libre que puede ser aplicado de forma sencilla en pequeños establecimientos agrícolas.
Adjustment of the AquaCrop model in maize with different levels of irrigation in southern Uruguay temperate climate conditions
Authors: Hayashi Raquel , Dogliotti Santiago
Published: February 2024

The AquaCrop model allows evaluating and designing irrigation strategies that improve the use of irrigation water. The objective of this research was to calibrate and validate the AquaCrop model for maize to the climatic conditions of southern Uruguay, with different irrigation water management. This model was calibrated and validated for corn using experimental data from irrigation trials with different deficit levels in three seasons, 2015-16 and 2016-17 (calibration) and 2014-15 (validation). Three maximum irrigation depths were evaluated: 3, 6 and 9 mm day-1, and rainfed (rainfall only). The crop was parameterized for local conditions and water stress coefficients were adjusted. The calibration simulated the yield, biomass and soil moisture in the irrigated treatments with good performance. All the statistic indexes used to evaluate the adjustment between the observed and simulated data model indicated a good model performance, with the exception of the efficiency coefficient of the Nash-Sutcliffe (EF) model. The model underestimated the yield in the rainfed treatment (EF of -0.52) when root depth was limited to 0.7 m. However, the test soil allowed for greater radical exploration than the initially used. At 0.90 m root depth, the model was good at simulating the yields in the rainfed treatment, mainly in dry years (EF of 0.79). The model predicts the yield with good adjustment in different irrigation and rainfall situations if the stress coefficients are adjusted and the crop is properly parameterized, mainly the root depth.
Fitting a numerical model for the analysis of wet bulb dimensions by drip irrigation
Authors: Sastre María Teresa , Silveira Luis , Gamazo Pablo
Published: February 2024

Drip irrigation is globally acknowledged as the most efficient system. However, the concept of "efficiency" relies on irrigation cultural practices, local agro-climatic conditions, and soil characteristics. In Uruguay, the absence of accurate wet bulb shape prediction often leads to common over-irrigation practices. Consequently, water loss through deep percolation, groundwater contamination, reduced crop yields, higher energy expenditure, and elevated fertilizer usage introduce uncertainties about the true efficiency of drip irrigation. The primary objective of this study is to develop a methodology for estimating wet bulb dimensions and their dynamics under drip irrigation. To achieve this, an experiment was conducted using a lysimeter containing representative soil from southern Uruguay. Alfalfa was irrigated using a central dripper with varying application times and flow rates. The lysimeter was equipped with tensiometers, and moisture observations were made with a neutron probe. The collected data were used to calibrate a numerical model implemented in the Code Bright program (UPC, Barcelona, Spain). The model exhibited a good fit in the upper strata (h<60cm), and revealed a deeper and thinner bulb compared to estimates found in the literature for soils of similar texture. This model, accurately computing the wet bulb's shape in heavy and stratified soils in Uruguay, allows simulations of various irrigation scenarios. Consequently, this work holds great potential for improving the efficiency of drip irrigation in the region.
Application of the Flood Guidance Model (FG) in the Yi River basin in Uruguay
Authors: Hastings Florencia , Chreties Christian , Narbondo Santiago , Uriburu Marcelo
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on the application/adaptation of the Flash Flood Guidance (FFG) model developed by the National Weather Service (NWS). The FFG is defined as the total amount of rainfall of a given duration sufficient to cause bankfull flow at the outlet of the watershed. Since flash floods do not occur in Uruguay due to the slower hydrologic response of the watershed, an adaptation of the above model is evaluated and renamed Flood Guidance (FG). Nine storm events that occurred between 2014 and 2020 in the Yi River basin in Uruguay were analyzed. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Curve Number model, a simple and widely used model, is used to determine effective precipitation. Two alternatives are considered to determine the antecedent soil moisture: the use of an antecedent precipitation index (API), and the use of SMOS satellite imagery. The FG is then calculated and compared to the precipitation forecast to determine if there is a risk of flooding at the watershed outlet. The results are compared to observations to evaluate the quality of the warning forecast. The application for forecasting flooded rural and agricultural areas using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and the NDWI index is considered and analyzed.
Integrated catchment models for policy development and decision making
Authors: Vervoort R. Willem , Nervi Eliana , Baethgen Walter
Published: February 2024

Land-system change, freshwater use, biodiversity loss, and changes in biogeochemical flows affect the resilience of the Earth system as a whole. Effective communication between scientists and policy makers is critical in addressing these challenges. Simulation models can be used as integrators of knowledge and data, and play a key role in facilitating effective boundary work between science and policy. Key issues identified are the reliability of model outcomes and the acknowledgement of their uncertainty. However, the use of models provides an advantage when analysing scenarios. Integrated catchment models can provide feedback about joint interpretation of the data and conceptual understanding, resulting in the identification of data needs. The difficulties related to improving how science informs policy is one of communication and negotiation at the boundary, and models can assist in the co-production between researchers and decision makers.
Impacts of irrigation development on water quality in the San Salvador watershed (Part 1)
Authors: Hastings Florencia , Pérez-Bidegain Mario , Navas Rafael , Gorgoglione Angela
Published: February 2024

The development of irrigation involves a change in land use and management and has implications for water quality and quantity. It is critical to design conservation practices and best management practices consistent with sustainable agricultural intensification. The objective of this work was to understand and characterize key processes affecting hydrology, nutrient export and transport, and quantify impacts in the San Salvador watershed. For such purpose, the Soil & Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was implemented, calibrated for water quantity, and water quality was adjusted using soft calibration techniques. The model reproduces water quantity and nutrient balance, and aids in characterizing the nutrient delivery and transport in the watershed. The magnitude of runoff affects the balance of nutrients. In high flows, diffuse sources are more prevalent, while in low flows, point sources and direct livestock manure to the river are more significant. The main outcomes of this work contribute to the design of strategies to achieve sustainable agricultural intensification. It also describes a new modeling tool freely available that could be used in further studies.
Impacts of irrigation development on water quality in the San Salvador watershed (Part 2)
Authors: Hastings Florencia , Pérez-Bidegain Mario , Navas Rafael , Gorgoglione Angela
Published: February 2024

Intensive agricultural activities pose a significant threat to water quality as critical non-point sources of pollution. Effective mitigation strategies demand understanding the causes and processes of water pollution. This study aimed to quantify the impacts of irrigation development on water quality and assess best management practices for sustainable agriculture intensification. Employing the calibrated SWAT model for the San Salvador watershed (baseline scenario), two scenarios were implemented and evaluated: the first one depicted irrigation development from a future reservoir, and the second integrated riparian buffer zones to minimize nutrient and sediment losses. Notably the baseline scenario did not achieve nutrient water quality objectives. Results revealed that irrigation development increases nutrient yields, driving the future reservoir toward eutrophication. Implementing riparian buffer zones reduced nutrient loss, but additional measures are necessary for sustainable environmental goals at the basin scale. This research contributes with valuable insights for formulating effective management strategies to minimize nutrient pollution in water and safeguard water quality and biodiversity in the basin.
Advances in Water in Agroscience
Authors: Gorgoglione Angela , Puppo Lucía , Gamazo Pablo , García Claudio , Otero Álvaro
Published: February 2024

Worldwide, water is essential for maintaining an adequate agricultural production and fostering a sustainable ecosystem for humanity alongside diverse flora, fauna, and microbial life. However, the intensification of anthropogenic activities, the occurrence of climate variability, and the presence of environmental issues are still threatening the quantity and quality of fresh water. Therefore, integrated water management is critical for the sustainable development of a region. This Agrociencia Uruguay Special Issue on “Advances in Water in Agroscience” is designed to draw attention to new concepts, approaches, methodologies, and novel applications aiming to improve sustainable and integrated water resource management. This Special Issue contains fifteen publications sorted into the following macro fields: irrigation and water management, integrated catchment management, and water quality and environmental sustainability.