bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural adaptive sliding mode with RBF applied in PMSM
Authors:   Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam, Nguyen Tien Dat ,   Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam, Ho Pham Huy Anh ,   Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
Published: August 2024

In practical applications, permanent magnet synchronous motors’s benefits over brush-type motors, such as compact designs, high torque to inertia ratio, high power density, high air-gap flux density, and high effi-ciency. Moreover, they are also increasingly replacing induction motors in a variety of fields of application. Fast reaction, accurate control, and minimal overshoot feature represent crucial installation considerations while developing a control system for permanent magnet synchronous motors applications. Permanent magnet synchronous motor models are nonlinear and high-order concerning time-varying parameters, so a suitable controller is required. One well-known resilient model base control technique for systems with pa-rameter fluctuations and outside disturbances is sliding mode control. First, the sliding-mode controller is employed to reduce chattering and stabilize the PMSM drive system. On the other hand, modifications to the drive system's configuration and external disturbances might totally destroy the control performance. Therefore, this paper investigates combining neural networks with the sliding mode technique to propose an advanced robust permanent magnet synchronous motors velocity control algorithm. In order to increase the robustness and stability and decrease sliding mode chattering of the controller, our goal is to showcase sev-eral adaptive law designs for updating online sliding mode control laws and composite controller designs using radial basis function neural networks. The suggested adaptive neural network sliding mode controller based on the field-oriented scheme ANSMC-FOC technique, also known as the adaptive neural sliding mode based on a field-oriented control approach, confirms its complete accuracy and achieves outperform-ing control performance compared to PID and classical sliding mode control methods. Thus, the proposed permanent magnet synchronous motors velocity control algorithm is convincingly better than other perma-nent magnet synchronous motors' advanced speed control approaches.
ПІДГОТОВКА ВЧИТЕЛЯ ПОЧАТКОВИХ КЛАСІВ ДО ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ ІННОВАЦІЙНИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ У НАВЧАЛЬНО-ВИХОВНОМУ ПРОЦЕСІ З МАТЕМАТИКИ
Authors: Міськова Н. М.
Published: August 2024

Стаття присвячена вивченню особливостей математичної підготовки майбутніх учителів початкової школи до впровадження інноваційних технологій у навчально-виховному процесі. Особливу увагу акцентовано на тому, що стратегічним завданням вищої школи є формування професійної компетентності майбутнього вчителя, спрямованої на розвиток компетенцій через інноваційні освітні технології. Якість вищої математичної освіти визначається сукупністю показників, які характеризують різні аспекти навчальної діяльності освітньої установи. Автор дійшов висновку, що реалізація професійної спрямованості викладання курсу «Методики навчання математики» тісно пов’язана із впровадженням у навчальний процес педагогічних інновацій. Вони розвивають у студентів навички самостійного оволодіння знаннями, сприяють розвитку творчого потенціалу особистості.
Efectos de la coextensividad del estímulo neutro y distintas longitudes del tiempo discriminativo en un programa definido temporalmente
Authors:   Universidad de Guadalajara, Ribes-Iñesta Emilio , Montes Edgar ,   Universidad de Guadalajara, Mayoral Alfredo ,   Universidad de Guadalajara
Published: August 2024

Se realizó un experimento con 4 ratas albinas machos Wistar. Se evaluó el efecto de hacer coextensivo un estímulo neutro diferencial al subciclo tD en un programa definido temporalmente.Todas las ratas se expusieron a cuatro fases experimentales, en que se varió la longitud del ciclo T (60, 80, 120 y 60 s), manteniendo constante el valor de T en 0.5 y el valor de P de entrega de agua en 1.0 en tD y de 0.0 en t. Cada fase estuvo compuesta de 30 sesiones, en las que se programaron 60 ciclos. El agua se entregó a la primera respuesta en tD. Sin embargo, el estímulo correlacionado con tD se mantuvo presente hasta la terminación del subciclo, como también ocurrió con la presencia del estímulo correlacionado con tD . Los resultados obtenidos muestran que las ratas emitieron el mismo número de respuestas a lo largo del experimento, independientemente de la longitud del ciclo T. No se observó control del estímulo pero, a diferencia de estudios previos, el número de respuestas en tD y en tD fue semejante. El número total de respuestas fue una función del número de entregas de agua obtenidas en los primeros 20 ciclos de cada sesión. Se encontraron más subciclos tD con respuesta que subciclos tD . Se examinan estos resultados en términos de distintas funciones de los estímulos en los programas temporales de estímulo y los programas de tradicionales de reforzamiento.
Reforzar cuatro respuestas por comida establece conducta de observación
Authors:   Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Villegas Taokueneshi , Bruner Carlos A. ,   Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Published: August 2024

En un estudio previo se mostró que entrenamiento preliminar extenso no es necesario para establecer conducta de observación en ratas. En dicho estudio, reforzar previamente la respuesta por comida 13 o 1000 veces fue igualmente efectivo para establecer conducta de observación. En el presente estudio se investigó la posibilidad de establecer conducta de observación reforzando previamente la respuesta por comida 24, 8, 4 o 2 veces para cada tres ratas utilizando un programa intervalo al azar (IA) 4 s. El procedimiento de observación consistió en dos programas de reforzamiento vigentes concurrentemente en dos palancas. Las respuestas en la palanca izquierda produjeron comida conforme a un programa mixto de reforzamiento IA 8 s extinción. Cada respuesta en la palanca derecha encendía estímulos correlacionados diferencialmente con cada componente del programa mixto. El tiempo para establecer conducta de observación fue una función monotónica decreciente del número de respuestas por comida reforzadas previamente. Los resultados muestran que reforzar 4 veces la respuesta por comida es conducente al establecimiento de la conducta de observación. Estos resultados extienden los hallazgos de estudios anteriores sobre la adquisición de nuevas respuestas al caso del patrón de conducta compleja que produce un procedimiento de observación.
Efeito da privação e restrição alimentar no valor reforçador do alimento: um estudo exploratório
Authors:   Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás, Costa Resende Cunha Vivian , Mello Neves Sônia Maria
Published: August 2024

Este estudo avaliou se privação (Priv) e/ou restrição (Rest) alimentar, combinadas ou não com a presença de comer transtornado (CT), influenciam no valor reforçador do alimento. Oito mulheres, quatro classificadas com CT e quatro sem, foram submetidas às sessões experimentais: Priv e Rest, Priv e NRest, NPriv e Rest, NPriv e NRest após jejum mínimo de oito horas. Posteriormente, um jogo foi apresentado no qual as participantes poderiam ganhar pontos para trocar por alimento ou lazer. Na alternativa correspondente a lazer, o esquema programado de liberação de pontos foi a Razão Variável 2 (VR2) e na alternativa correspondente ao alimento, um esquema encadeado (VR2, VR4, VR6, VR8, VR10). Antes do início do jogo foi servida, na condição de NPriv, uma bebida. Na Priv, as participantes não consumiram a bebida por quinze minutos. Na condição de Rest, um prato com alimentos foi apresentado durante quinze minutos, sem que pudessem comer e na NRest, não foi apresentado. Resultados sugerem que a Priv parece ter influenciado mais no valor reforçador do alimento comparada à Rest e os efeitos do CT na escolha por alimento ou lazer não foram claramente identificados,apontando a necessidade de novas pesquisas.
Ensino de relações condicionais por pareamento auditivo-visual e exclusão para uma idosa com afasia fluente
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo, Oliveira Fontanesi Sabrina Roberta , Schmidt Andréia ,   Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia Sobre Comportamento, Cognição e Ensino
Published: August 2024

A afasia frequentemente decorre de acidentes vasculares cerebrais, requerendo intervenções específicas para a recuperação dos repertórios verbais afetados. O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar a efetividade de um procedimento de ensino por exclusão, associado ao pareamento auditivo-visual (PAV) entre palavras ditadas (A), figuras (B) e palavras escritas (C), na aprendizagem de relações condicionais. Adicionalmente, testou-se a emergência de desempenhos não diretamente ensinados (ecoico, nomeação e textual) e a formação de classes de equivalência. A participante (79 anos, com afasia fluente), aprendeu oito relações condicionais envolvendo oito substantivos não familiares. Realizou-se medidas de pré e pós-teste das relações ensinadas (AB/AC) e das relações emergentes de simetria (BA/CA), transitividade (BC/CB), ecoico (AD), nomeação (BD) e textual (CD). A participante não aprendeu as relações AB a partir do procedimento de ensino por exclusão, mas atingiu os critérios de aprendizagem para as relações AB/AC após a associação do ensino por exclusão ao PAV. Verificou-se emergência de relações transitivas, mas os dados de simetria foram inconclusivos. Não houve emergência de repertórios vocais (AD/BD/CD). Discute-se os processos envolvidos na aprendizagem de relações condicionais arbitrárias por idosos e como a afasia pode afetar de forma diferenciada a emergência das propriedades relacionais avaliadas na formação de classes.
Uma interpretação relacional da noção de atividade no comportamentalismo radical
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Silva dos Reis Christian
Published: August 2024

A atividade figura como tema central no estudo dos fenômenos psicológicos usualmente relacionados à autonomia humana. O comportamentalismo radical, por sua vez, é recorrentemente acusado de defender um modelo de indivíduo passivo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi discutir a possibilidade de se conceber o comportamento como ativo na filosofia skinneriana. Sobre a atividade, têm-se que: (A) é ativo tudo aquilo que dá início ou causa algo; (B) é ativo tudo o que produza eventos, estando as variáveis que acompanham tal produção conspícuas ou não. Nossa investigação, de natureza conceitual, visou, primeiramente, analisar a crítica skinneriana a explicações causais do comportamento. Em seguida, utilizou-se o relacionismo para esclarecer que as noções de causa e efeito são incompatíveis com uma perspectiva comportamentalista radical, indicando afinidades da acepção de atividade (B) com os pressupostos skinnerianos. Nossa estratégica analítica foi, então, relacionar acepções de comportamento operante (instância, classe, probabilidade e repertório) à noção de atividade (B), indicando a produção de consequências e a natureza reflexiva do comportamento como sua própria dimensão ativa, descartando a necessidade de uma causa inicial ou de uma cisão entre comportamento e ambiente presentes nos modelos tradicionais de explicação comportamental.
Dependência funcional das funções de ouvinte e falante: Efeito da quantidade de treino
Authors:   Centro Universitário de Brasília – UniCEUB, Walcacer Viegas Eduardo , de Medeiros Carlos Augusto ,   Centro Universitário de Brasília – UniCEUB
Published: August 2024

O presente estudo investigou o efeito do tamanho do treino de ouvinte sobre a emissão não treinada de respostas de falante utilizando-se de palavras trissílabas inventadas. Dez universitários foram treinados a montar objetos com peças de Lego diante da apresentação do nome das peças, e depois testados a nomeá-las com as mesmas palavras. O estudo foi dividido em cinco fases experimentais em que variavam as peças de Lego utilizadas, assim como os nomes dos objetos. Os participantes foram distribuídos em dois grupos, que diferiram na quantidade de treino de ouvinte a que foram expostos. Os participantes expostos aos treinos mais longos apresentaram maiores incidências de dependência funcional. Com esses participantes, também foi possível observar maiores efeitos de treinos sucessivos. Esses resultados sugerem o efeito do tamanho do treino de ouvinte no surgimento da função de falante não treinada, ainda que este não seja o único aspecto que influenciou o desempenho dos participantes. Foi discutido que problemas de controle de estímulos nos treinos podem ter influenciado o desempenho dos participantes nos testes. Sugere-se, para novos estudos, realizar treinos de ouvinte com estímulos baseado em diferenças críticas para que o comportamento dos participantes fique sob controle de todos os elementos relevantes do estímulo.
Racismo Institucional: Aspectos Comportamentais e Culturais da Abordagem Policial
Authors:   Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar) y Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco (Univasf), Medrado Mizael Táhcita , Sampaio Angelo A. S. ,   Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar) y Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco (Univasf)
Published: August 2024

É possível analisar o preconceito racial focando tanto nos processos comportamentais individuais, como nos processos culturais envolvidos. Nessa direção, tem-se discutido o racismo institucional (RI): o fracasso das organizações em prover um serviço profissional e adequado às pessoas em virtude de sua cor, cultura, origem racial ou étnica. Levando em consideração os efeitos negativos do preconceito racial e a escassez de estudos da análise do comportamento que foquem nos processos culturais relacionados a esse tema, o objetivo desse trabalho foi apresentar algumas interpretações do RI a partir de uma análise comportamental da cultura. Inicialmente, conceituações do RI e seus indicadores foram apontados. Em seguida, foram expostas concepções comportamentais sobre as organizações e uma interpretação sobre o RI nas abordagens da Polícia Militar, sugerindo que, para sua modificação, alterações no seu ambiente selecionador seriam necessárias. A aprendizagem direta do preconceito racial que pode ocorrer a partir do alto número de ocorrências com pessoas negras, a justificativa à abordagem diferenciada a partir da “guerra às drogas” e o macrocomportamento de abordar majoritariamente pessoas negras e pobres, gerando como efeito cumulativo um número desproporcional de ocorrências com essa população também foram destacados como aspectos culturais envolvidos no RI. Por fim, eventos que contribuem para a manutenção do RI e sugestões de onde intervir em cada um dos fatores supracitados também foram propostos.
Repeated administration of nitrate-rich interventions on blood pressure and arterial stiffness: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in individuals with and without cardiovascular disease risk
Authors: Li Dandan , Nishi Stephanie , Jovanovski Elena , Zurbau Andreea , Komishon Allison , Mejía Sonia Blanco , Khan Tauseef A. , L. Sievenpiper John , Milicic Davor , Jenkins Alexandra , Vuksan Vladimir
Published: August 2024

Objective: We aim to synthesize effects of repeated administration (≥3 days) of inorganic nitrate on blood pressure and arterial stiffness measures.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with at least 3 days treatment of inorganic nitrate on blood pressure and arterial stiffness in individuals with or without elevated cardiovascular disease risk. MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were searched through 2 July 2019. Two independent reviewers extracted relevant study data. Data were pooled using the generic inverse variance method with random-effects model, and expressed as mean differences with 95% confidence intervals. Certainty in the evidence was assessed using GRADE.

Results: Forty-seven trials were included (n = 1101). Administration of inorganic nitrate significantly lowered SBP [mean difference: -2.91 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): -3.92 to -1.89, I = 76%], DBP (mean difference: -1.45 mmHg, 95% CI: -2.22 to -0.68, I = 78%], central SBP (mean difference: -1.56 mmHg, 95% CI: -2.62 to -0.50, I = 30%) and central DBP (mean difference: -1.99 mmHg, 95% CI: -2.37 to -1.60, I = 0%). There was no effect on 24-h blood pressure, augmentation index or pulse wave velocity. Certainty in the evidence was graded moderate for central blood pressure, pulse wave velocity and low for peripheral blood pressure, 24-h blood pressure and augmentation index.

Conclusion: Repeated administration (≥3 days) of inorganic nitrate lower peripheral and central blood pressure. Results appear to be driven by beneficial effects in healthy and hypertensive individuals. More studies are required to increase certainty in the evidence.
ANALISIS PERSEPSI PRODUK TEMBAKAU ALTERNATIF PT XYZ : STUDI PERILAKU KONSUMEN PEROKOK DEWASA DI INDONESIA
Authors: Eling Anindita Raden , Nadlifatin Reny , Ratnasari Vita
Published: August 2024

To face the challenges of changing business landscapes in the cigarette industry driven by regulations and shifting consumer behavior trends, PT XZY launched alternative tobacco product innovations. This research intends to analyze the understanding of adult smokers and the factors that influence their behavior in switching from conventional cigarettes to alternative tobacco products as new products where market characteristics have not yet been identified academically in Indonesia. The research was carried out using a qualitative approach through field observations, document analysis and in-depth interviews (phenomenology). Research identifies that in the product aspect, consumers appreciate the superiority of hygiene (free of smoke, ash and odor) and lower risk compared to conventional cigarettes (although not completely risk free) which is influenced by the nicotine extraction mechanism in tobacco by heating rather than burning. However, users still emphasize the different taste and experience compared to conventional cigarettes (especially kretek). Several main factors that influence the switch from conventional cigarettes to alternative products are emotional benefits (customer engagement), financial (price of devices and tobacco sticks), marketing campaigns (through WoM and media), human resources (product experts) and hygienic products. Then there are social environmental factors (family and community encouragement), availability (distribution) and the existence of official kiosks which are managed directly by the company (sales channels). Marketing strategy design needs to emphasize expanding customer advice or advocacy (positive conversations) and human aspects (human centric), including personalization of information, interaction and total immersion (omnichannel). Marketing should be oriented towards customer behavior aimed at humanizing the brand with human-like attributes with appropriate marketing metrics and the widest use of digital technology.
INFLUENCE OF TAXPAYER AWARENESS, AND TAXATION SOCIALIZATION ON MOTOR VEHICLE TAXPAYER COMPLIANCE IN THE CITY OF PROBOLINGGO
Authors: Soetomo Fernando Yorhans , Aisyaturrahmi
Published: August 2024

The aim of this research is to see the level of motor vehicle tax compliance in Probolinggo City. A good level of compliance can be achieved if taxpayers are aware of their tax obligations and the government carries out outreach to provide the latest information regarding taxation. This type of research is research using quantitative methods by distributing questionnaires. The population in this study were taxpayers registered with UPT SAMSAT Probolinggo City and the sample used in this study was 400 respondents. The results of this research indicate that taxpayers in Probolinggo City are aware of their tax responsibilities and want more comprehensive socialization so that it can influence taxpayers to better comply with applicable tax regulations.
INFLUENCE OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE, WORK COMPETENCE, AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY OF PT. ZONA KARYA MENDUNIA IN SUKOHARJO
Authors: Fahmi Shoahudin , Sundjoto  , Rahayu Sri
Published: August 2024

Employee productivity plays an important role in the company, in order to continue to increase, the human resources owned must have a good organizational culture, adequate competence, and continue to develop themselves to be highly competitive. This study examines the influence of organizational culture, work competence, and career development on the productivity of PT. Zona Karya Mendunia is worldwide both partially and simultaneously. The population in this study amounted to 55 people. Data collection techniques use questionnaire instruments that have been tested for validity, reliability, normality tests, multicollinearity tests, heteroscedasticity tests, and autocorrelation tests. The analysis tool used is multiple linear regression. Based on the results of the analysis showed that partially the organizational culture variable obtained a calculated t value of 5.241 greater than t table 2.007, so that H0 was rejected and H1 was accepted. The variable work competence obtained t count 1.113 smaller than t table 2.007. so H0 is accepted and H1 is rejected. The career development variable obtained a calculated t value of 1.093 smaller than t table 2.007, so that H0 was accepted and H1 was rejected. While in the simultaneous F test, the variables of organizational culture, work competence, and career development on employee productivity obtained a calculated F value of 56.296 and a significance value of 0.000 which turned out to be smaller than the degree of freedom used which was 0.05 (0.000 < 0.05), so that H0 was rejected and H1 was accepted. The conclusion of this study shows that organizational culture partially has a positive effect on employee productivity, while work competence and career development partially have no effect on the productivity of PT. Zona Karya Mendunia employees. Worldwide Work Zone in Sukoharjo. As for the results of research consisting of organizational culture, work competence, and career development together (simultaneously) have a significant effect on employee productivity at PT. Zona Karya Mendunia in Sukoharjo.
Wpływ pracy zdalnej na projekty realizowane przy wykorzystaniu metodyki scrum
Authors: Ragin-Skorecka Katarzyna , Pikula Kamil
Published: August 2024

Artykuł koncentruje się na analizie korzyści i zagrożeń związanych ze stosowaniem zasad scrum w środowisku pracy zdalnej. Postawiony problem badawczy odnosi się do oceny pracy zdalnej w projektach realizowanych przy wykorzystaniu metodyki scrum. W toku rozważań zdefiniowano cztery główne pytania badawcze, dotyczące wydajności pracy zdalnej w scrum, stopnia skomplikowania prowadzonych w ten sposób projektów oraz dostrzeganych przez respondentów korzyści i zagrożeń wynikających z realizacji projektów zgodnie z metodyką scrum w porównaniu z pracą zdalną. W badaniu posłużono się metodą ankietową i zastosowano technikę ankiety internetowej. Dobór respondentów do badań był celowy ze względu na ich miejsce zatrudnienia – branża IT. Praca zdalna przy realizacji projektów informatycznych niesie ze sobą według respondentów wymierne korzyści w postaci komunikacji asynchronicznej, lepszej wydajności oraz zwiększonej odpowiedzialności za wykonywaną pracę. Z kolei największe zagrożenie to liczba i długość spotkań.
EVALUATION OF ORAL AND DENTAL HEALTH POLYCLINICS IN TERMS OF ERGONOMIC DESIGN FACTORS
Authors: Hacıoğlu Ebru , Canbay Türkyılmaz Çiğdem
Published: August 2024

The comfort conditions of oral and dental health clinics depend on physical environment factors. The satisfaction of the patient, physician, and staff is directly proportional to the suitability of the ergonomic conditions of the environment. Physical factors affect the health and performance of physicians and personnel working all day long. At the same time, the spatial and technical organization of clinic structures is very important for patient health and comfort. In the literature research, there were no adequate studies on the physical risk factors that the dentist, staff, and patients are exposed to during clinical applications in terms of architectural discipline. This study aims to reveal the ergonomic comfort conditions of dentists, staff, and patients in the oral and dental health outpatient clinic. The research method is fieldwork. An oral and dental health polyclinic in Istanbul was determined as the research area. The research technique is “on-site observation,” “measurement,” “survey” and “interview”. "Luxury Light Meter", "Sound Meter" and "Thermometer" applications were used to measure the light, sound, and temperature values of the space. A questionnaire with the Likert Scaling Model was administered to patients, physicians, and staff. As a result, patients prefer to be treated in the outpatient clinic where they feel comfortable, and dentists and their staff can work more motivated and more efficiently in environments where they feel comfortable and healthy. To provide quality service in an oral and dental health clinic, attention should be paid to physical environmental factors, spatial and technical characteristics, and the comfort of patients, dentists, and staff should be considered.
Knižnice 2022 – Priestor pre všetkých
Authors: Látka Ondrej
Published: August 2024

Príspevky z celoslovenskej konferencie konanej 4. – 5. októbra 2022 v Liptovskom Jáne
Stress Academic Dalam Mengerjakan Tugas Akhir Pada Mahasiswa Perantau: Adakah Pengaruh Self Efficacy Terhadap Stress academic ?
Authors: Aprilia Yosi Harsa , Ishar Meilia , Syah Tansri Adzlan
Published: August 2024

Academic stress is an individual’s perception of stressors originating from academics and seeing how the individual reacts consisting of physical, behavioral, cognitive and emotional reactions (Gadzella & Masten, 2005). Various factors cause academic stress in students including pressure, conflict, frustration, coercion, and change. This research aims to determine the effect of self efficacy on academic stress in completing final assignments among migrant students at state university (PTN) X in Lampung. The population in this study were students working on final assignments or theses, who came from outside Lampung or from West Sumatra who were residing or studying in Lampung (migrant) totaling 189 students. This research is a quantitative research with a samplingtechnique of 65 students. Data collection techniques use self efficacy and academic stress scales. The data analysis technique used in this research uses statistical methods with the help of IBM SPSS Statistics 25 software. The research results show r=0,669 with p0,000, which means there is a positive and significant relationship between self efficacy and academic stress. Self-efficacy makes an effective contribution of 44,8% to academic stress. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that there is a significant positive influence between self efficacy and academic stress in overseas students who are working on their final assignments at State University (PTN) X in Lampung. This means that the higher the self efficacy, the lower the academic stress behavior, and conversely the lower the self efficacy, the higher the academic stress behavior in overseas students who are working on their final assignments. The effective contribution of the self-efficacy variable is 44,8% to academic stress and the rest is influenced by variables outside this research.
Lizard visual ecology
Authors: Fleishman Leo J.
Published: August 2024

Visual ecology is the study of how visual systems are evolutionarily adapted to the light conditions animals experience and the visual tasks they must perform. The greatest progress in this field has been made in studies of aquatic systems. Our understanding of the influence of how different terrestrial habitats have shaped the evolution of visual physiology and anatomy is more limited. Lizards are an excellent model system for examining terrestrial visual ecology because in most cases, each species experiences a limited range of habitat light conditions and these differ among species. Some aspects of visual physiology and anatomy have evolved in response to habitat conditions, while others are widely shared by a great diversity of species, suggesting that their features are largely inherited and have changed very little through evolutionary time. Understanding which features have evolved as specializations to current conditions and which are inherited and largely unchanged is critical to understanding the role that visual ecology plays in shaping behavior. In this article I review some basic features of the lizard visual system, including the processes by which lizards estimate distance and depth. I then explore the evolutionary response (or lack thereof) to differences in habitat structure, light intensity and spectral quality. I also explore some relationships between lizard color patterns and their color perception. The phylogenetic range of species that have been studied is small, and many key aspects of behavior have received relatively little attention. These are potentially rich areas for future study.
Bioactive plant waste components targeting oral bacterial pathogens as a promising strategy for biofilm eradication
Authors: Mashal Saima , Siddiqua Aisha , Ullah Niamat , Baloch Rabia , Khan Momin , Hasnain Syed Zia Ul , Imran Aziz Muhammad , Huseynov Elchin , Selakovic Dragica , Rosic Gvozden , Makhkamov Trobjon , Yuldashev Akramjon , Islamov Sokhib , Abdullayeva Nilufar , Khujanazarov Uktam , Amin Adnan
Published: August 2024

The significance of this study lies in its exploration of bioactive plant extracts as a promising avenue for combating oral bacterial pathogens, offering a novel strategy for biofilm eradication that could potentially revolutionize oral health treatments. Oral bacterial infections are common in diabetic patients; however, due to the development of resistance, treatment options are limited. Considering the excellent antimicrobial properties of phenolic compounds, we investigated them against isolated oral pathogens using in silico and in vitro models. We performed antibiogram studies and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), antibiofilm, and antiquorum sensing activities covering phenolic compounds. Bacterial strains were isolated from female diabetic patients and identified by using 16S rRNA sequencing as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus chungangensis, Bacillus paramycoides, and Paenibacillus dendritiformis. Antibiogram studies confirmed that all strains were resistant to most tested antibiotics except imipenem and ciprofloxacin. Molecular docking analysis revealed the significant interaction of rutin, quercetin, gallic acid, and catechin with transcription regulator genes 1RO5, 4B2O, and 5OE3. All tested molecules followed drug-likeness rules except rutin. The MIC values of the tested compounds varied from 0.0625 to 0.5 mg/mL against clinical isolates. Significant antibiofilm activity was recorded in the case of catechin (73.5% ± 1.6% inhibition against B. paramycoides), cinnamic acid (80.9% ± 1.1% inhibition against P. aeruginosa), and vanillic acid and quercetin (65.5% ± 1.7% and 87.4% ± 1.4% inhibition, respectively, against B. chungangensis) at 0.25–0.125 mg/mL. None of the phenolic compounds presented antiquorum sensing activity. It was, therefore, concluded that polyphenolic compounds may have the potential to be used against oral bacterial biofilms, and further detailed mechanistic investigations should be performed.
Analytical methods and experimental quality in studies targeting carbonyls in electronic cigarette aerosols
Authors: Sussman Roberto A. , Sipala Federica Maria , Ronsisvalle Simone , Soulet Sebastien
Published: August 2024

We provide an extensive review of 14 studies (11 independent and three industry-funded) on emissions generated by Electronic Cigarettes (ECs), specifically focusing on the evaluation of carbonyls present in these emissions and emphasizing a meticulous evaluation of their analytical methods and experimental procedures. Since the presence of carbonyl by-products in EC aerosol is concerning, it is important to evaluate the reliability of emission studies quantifying these compounds by verifying their compliance with the following criteria of experimental quality: authors must 1) supply sufficient information on the devices and experimental procedures to allow for potentially reproducing or replicating the experiments, 2) use of appropriate puffing protocols that approach consumer usage as best as possible, 3) use of appropriate analytical methods and 4) usage of blank samples to avoid false positive detection. Outcomes were classified in terms of the fulfilment of these conditions as reliable in seven studies, partially reliable in five studies, and unreliable in two studies. However, only five studies used blank samples and six studies failed the reproducibility criterion. Carbonyl yields were far below their yields in tobacco smoke in all reproducible studies, even in the partially reliable ones, thus supporting the role of ECs (when properly tested and operated) as harm reduction products. This review highlights the necessity to evaluate the quality of laboratory standards in testing EC emissions to achieve an objective assessment of the risk profile of ECs.
Gut microbiome characteristics of women with hypothyroidism during early pregnancy detected by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomic
Authors: Hu Lin , Xu Yajuan , Li Jingjing , Zhang Miao , Sun Zongzong , Ban Yanjie , Tian Xin , Liu Dong , Hu Lulu
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore the correlation between microbiota dysbiosis and hypothyroidism in early pregnancy by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing combined with metagenomic sequencing.

Methods

Sixty pregnant women (30 with hypothyroidism and 30 normal controls) were recruited for 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and 6 patients from each group were randomly selected for metagenomic sequencing to assess the gut microbiome profile.

Results

The 16S rRNA results showed that beta-diversity in the hypothyroidism group was decreased. The relative abundances of the Prevotella and Paraprevotella genera increased in the hypothyroidism group, and Blautia predominated in the controls. The metagenomics results revealed that Prevotella_stercorea_CAG_629, Prevotella_hominis, Prevotella_sp_AM34_19LB, etc. were enriched in the hypothyroidism group at the species level. Functional analysis revealed that the pyridoxal 5’-phosphate synthase pdxT subunit module was decreased, and the short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) transporter and phospholipase/carboxylesterase modules were strongly enriched in the hypothyroidism group. Hypothyroidism patients had increased C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels. The pyridoxal 5’-phosphate synthase pdxT subunit, the SCFA transporter, and the phospholipase/carboxylesterase module were associated with different Prevotella species.

Conclusion

In early pregnancy, women with hypothyroidism exhibit microbiota dysbiosis, and Prevotella may affect the metabolism of glutamate, SCFA, and phospholipases, which could be involved in the development of hypothyroidism during pregnancy.
Lower respiratory tract microbiome and lung cancer risk prediction in patients with diffuse lung parenchymal lesions
Authors: Wang Xiaochang , Xiao Tianchi , Lu Mingqing , Wu Zhaoqing , Chen Lingdan , Zhang Zili , Lu Wenju
Published: August 2024

Objective

In clinical practice, imaging manifestations of diffuse lung parenchymal lesions are common and indicative of various diseases, making differential diagnosis difficult. Some of these lesions are eventually diagnosed as lung cancer.

Methods

Because respiratory microorganisms play an important role in lung cancer development, we searched for microbial markers that could predict the risk of lung cancer by retrospectively analyzing the lower respiratory tract (LRT) microbiome of 158 patients who were hospitalized in the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (March 2021–March 2023) with diffuse lung parenchymal lesions. The final diagnosis was lung cancer in 21 cases, lung infection in 93 cases, and other conditions (other than malignancy and infections) in 44 cases. The patient’s clinical characteristics and the results of metagenomic next-generation sequencing of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were analyzed.

Results

Body mass index (BMI) and LRT microbial diversity (Shannon, Simpson, species richness, and Choa1 index) were significantly lower (P< 0.001, respectively) and Lactobacillus acidophilus relative abundance in the LRT was significantly higher (P< 0.001) in patients with lung cancer. The relative abundance of L. acidophilus in BALF combined with BMI was a good predictor of lung cancer risk (area under the curve = 0.985, accuracy = 98.46%, sensitivity = 95.24%, and specificity = 100.00%; P< 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study showed that an imbalance in the component ratio of the microbial community, diminished microbial diversity, and the presence of specific microbial markers in the LRT predicted lung cancer risk in patients with imaging manifestations of diffuse lung parenchymal lesions.
Investigation and genetic polymorphism analysis of rodents infected with Echinococcus in Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
Authors: Wang Bingjie , Zhao Li , Ban Wanli , Zhang Xu , Quan Chenxi , Teliewuhan Munila , He Lixiong , Chen Zhaoyang , Zhang Zhuangzhi
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a life-threatening disease in humans caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus multilocularis. Domestic animals, dogs, foxes, and small mammals constitute the circular chain of AE. To evaluate the infection, distribution, and genetic polymorphism of AE in the Ili Prefecture (Nilka, Xinyuan and Zhaosu), we conducted this survey.

Methods

In June and July 2018, 267 small mammals were captured using water-infusion and mousetrap methods. Combined pathogenic and molecular biological methods were used to observe the histopathology of Echinococcus carried by rodents, amplify the mitochondrial nad1 gene of the pathogen, and investigate the genotype and haplotype diversity of Echinococcus in rodents in Ili Prefecture.

Results

Morphological identification revealed that these captured small mammals belonged to three species, with Microtus gregalis being the dominant species (183/267). Pathological and molecular biological results confirmed that E. multilocularis was the pathogen of echinococcosis in small mammals, with an infection rate of 15.73% (42/267). Among the three areas sampled, the highest infection rate of rodents was 25.45% (14/55) in Nilka County. However, there was no significant difference in the infection rates between regions (χ2 = 5.119, p > 0.05). Of the three captured rodent species, M. gregalis had the highest infection rate of 17.49% (32/183), but there was no significant difference in infection rates between the rodent species (χ2 = 1.364, p > 0.05). Phylogenetic analyses showed that the nad1 gene sequences obtained in this study clustered in the same clade as isolates from China. These isolates contained 21 haplotypes (Hap_1-21); Hap_2 was the most common haplotype (9/42). Furthermore, haplotype diversity (0.925 ± 0.027) and nucleotide diversity (0.01139 ± 0.00119) were higher in the Ili Prefecture than in other regions, indicating that population differentiation was high. Tajima’s D and Fu’s Fs tests were negative (p > 0.10), indicating that the population had expanded. The low fixation index (Fst) ranged from 0.00000 to 0.16945, indicating that the degree of genetic differentiation was different among different populations.

Discussion

In summary, Ili Prefecture is a high incidence area of AE, and Microtus spp. may play an important role in the transmission of AE in this area. The results of this study provide basic data for further study of the molecular epidemiology, genetic differences, and control of E. multilocularis in the Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang.
The optimal timing for intervention in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Yi , Li Meng , Wu Yanqing
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The optimal timing for nonculprit vascular reconstruction surgery in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multivessel coronary disease (MVD) is still controversial. Our aim was to explore the optimal intervention time for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in STEMI patients who underwent MVD.

Methods

The PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched from inception to January 1, 2024 for clinical studies comparing immediate multivessel PCI and staged multivessel PCI in patients with STEMI. The primary outcomes were death from any cause, cardiovascular death, noncardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI) and unplanned ischemia-driven revascularization. The secondary outcomes were ischemic stroke, stent thrombosis, renal dysfunction and major bleeding. The risk ratios (RRs) and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with fixed-effects models and random-effects models, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Findings

Five randomized trials with 2,782 patients and six prospective observational studies with 3,131 patients were selected for inclusion in this meta-analysis. The staged PCI group had significantly lower pooled RRs for myocardial infarction (0.43, 95% CI = 0.27–0.67; P = 0.0002) and unplanned ischemia-driven revascularization (0.57, 95% CI = 0.41–0.78; P = 0.0004). There were no significant differences in any cause of death, cardiovascular cause of death, or noncardiac cause of death. However, the results of prospective observational studies in the real world indicated that the staged PCI group had significantly lower pooled ORs for all-cause mortality (2.30, 95% CI = 1.22–4.34; P = 0.01), cardiovascular death (2.29, 95% CI = 1.10–4.77; P = 0.03), and noncardiovascular death (3.46, 95% CI = 1.40–8.56; P = 0.007).

Implications

According to our randomized trial analysis, staged multivessel PCI significantly reduces the risk of myocardial infarction and unplanned ischemia-driven revascularization compared to immediate multivessel PCI. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, or noncardiovascular mortality risk. However, prospective non-randomized studies suggest there might be a benefit in mortality in the staged PCI group. Therefore, staged multivessel PCI may be the optimal PCI strategy for STEMI patients with MVD.
On the design and development of a handheld electrocardiogram device in a clinical setting
Authors: Zepeda-Echavarria Alejandra , Ratering Arntz Niek C. M. , Westra Albert H. , van Schelven Leonard J. , Euwe Froukje E. , Noordmans Herke Jan , Vessies Melle , van de Leur Rutger R. , Hassink Rutger J. , Wildbergh Thierry X. , van der Zee Rien , Doevendans Pieter A. , van Es René , Jaspers Joris E. N.
Published: August 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a global burden that requires attention. For the detection and diagnosis of CVDs, the 12-lead ECG is a key tool. With technological advancements, ECG devices are becoming smaller and available for home use. Most of these devices contain a limited number of leads and are aimed to detect atrial fibrillation (AF). To investigate whether a four-electrode arrangement could provide enough information to diagnose other CVDs, further research is necessary. At the University Medical Center Utrecht in a multidisciplinary team, we developed the miniECG, a four-electrode ECG handheld system for scientific research in clinical environments (TRL6). This paper describes the process followed during the development of the miniECG. From assembling a multidisciplinary team, which includes engineers, cardiologists, and clinical physicians to the contribution of team members in the design input, design, and testing for safety and functionality of the device. Finally, we detail how the development process was composed by iterative design steps based on user input and intended use evolution. The miniECG is a device compliant for scientific research with patients within Dutch Medical Centers. We believe that hospital-based development led to a streamlined process, which could be applied for the design and development of other technologies used for scientific research in clinical environments.
The causal relationship between antihypertensive drugs and depression: a Mendelian randomization study of drug targets
Authors: Yang Zixian , Li Jinshuai , Huang Peichu , Li Zhichang , He Jianfeng , Cai Dongchun , Lai Yuzheng
Published: August 2024

Background

Depression ranks as a leading contributor to the global disease burden. The potential causal relationship between the use of antihypertensive medications and depression has garnered significant interest. Despite extensive investigation, the nature of this relationship remains a subject of ongoing debate. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the influence of antihypertensive medications on depression by conducting a Mendelian randomization study focused on drug targets.

Method

We focused on the targets of five antihypertensive drug categories: ACE Inhibitors (ACEIs), Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (ARBs), Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs), Beta-Blockers (BBs), and Thiazide Diuretics (TDs). We collected single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with these drug targets from genome-wide association study (GWAS) statistics, using them as proxies for the drugs. Subsequently, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis targeting these drugs to explore their potential impact on depression.

Results

Our findings revealed that genetic proxies for Beta-Blockers (BBs) were associated with an elevated risk of depression (OR [95%CI] = 1.027 [1.013, 1.040], p < 0.001). Similarly, genetic proxies for Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs) were linked to an increased risk of depression (OR [95%CI] = 1.030 [1.009, 1.051], p = 0.006). No significant associations were identified between the genetic markers of other antihypertensive medications and depression risk.

Conclusion

The study suggests that genetic proxies associated with Beta-Blockers (BBs) and Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs) could potentially elevate the risk of depression among patients. These findings underscore the importance of considering genetic predispositions when prescribing these medications, offering a strategic approach to preventing depression in susceptible individuals.
The analysis of the threshold value of the complex short-circuit ratio index and its significance in the context of static voltage stability
Authors: Lei Pan , Zhao Jinquan
Published: August 2024

The short-circuit ratio index (SCR) can effectively quantify the voltage support strength in traditional DC grid-connected scenarios, yet it cannot reasonably describe the voltage support strength in diverse device grid connection scenarios. This paper introduces a new calculation method of the complex short-circuit ratio index (SCR∼) and derives the threshold value of the complex short-circuit ratio index to enable a comprehensive quantitative assessment of grid voltage support strength across diverse device grid connection scenarios. Firstly, critical short-circuit ratio (CSCR) under different assumed conditions were derived based on the short-circuit ratio index. Secondly, the calculation method of the complex short-circuit ratio index was introduced, considering both the equivalent impedance angle of the device and the Thevenin equivalent impedance angle. This was followed by the determination of the threshold value of the complex short-circuit ratio (CSCR∼), enabling a precise quantitative evaluation of power grid voltage support strength in diverse device grid connection scenarios. Finally, the example analysis proves the accuracy and efficacy of the complex short-circuit ratio index in assessing the voltage support strength of diverse devices in grid-connected scenarios.