bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Home Sweet Home: Setting the Best Thriving Conditions for the Ad Hoc Engineered Microbial Consortium in the Zero Mile System
Authors: Alabiso Annamaria , Frasca Sara , Bartolini Matteo , Congestri Roberta , D’Andrea Marco Maria , Buratti Giorgio , Costa Fiammetta , Meraviglia Matteo , Nebuloni Attilio , Migliore Luciana
Published: March 2024

Wastewaters from household appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, are an untapped resource of recoverable water and/or nutrients. The Zero Mile system has been developed to reuse/upcycle dishwasher wastewaters through bioremediation activity carried out by an ad hoc engineered phototrophic/heterotrophic microbial consortium. The choice of both suitable microorganisms for engineering consortia and detailed knowledge on their structure, behaviour and interaction are essential to optimising consortium culture conditions and drive the biofilter container design (structure and topology). To these aims, the effect of abiotic conditions (i.e., irradiance, pH and organic load) on the microbial consortium growth and its capability to survive and thrive in different dishwasher wastewater dilutions have been evaluated. At the same time, the crucial interplay between biological and design research has allowed us to define the characteristics of the biofilter container and plan its development for the industrial application of the Zero Mile system, bringing sustainability benefits as it moves household wastewater from a traditional linear model to a more sustainable, circular approach.
Wool Agro-Waste Biomass and Spruce Sawdust: Pellets as an Organic Soil Amendment
Authors: Dal Prà Aldo , Ugolini Francesca , Negri Martino , Bortolu Sara , Duce Pierpaolo , Macci Cristina , Lombardo Andrea , Benedetti Martina , Brajon Giovanni , Guazzini Lucia , Casini Stefano , Spagnul Sara , Camilli Francesca
Published: March 2024

The production of wool is an economic burden and an issue for sheep breeders in many countries of the European Union because shorn greasy wool is defined as an animal byproduct (category 3) and must be sent to landfill as a special waste if not addressed in the textile supply chain. Nevertheless, wool is an important source of nitrogen, with high potential as agricultural renewable and sustainable organic fertilizer. To apply wool to soil, any contamination from harmful bacteria (e.g., Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp.) should be excluded. In this study, we developed sheep wool pellets to test their suitability for use as an organic fertilizer. Wool was rich in N (12% of dry material) and was mixed to spruce sawdust at sawdust: wool ratios of at 2:1; 1:1 (v/v) to increase soil organic carbon. Despite the different mix of wool and sawdust, pellets were similar in size (diameter and length), and the content of the elements suited the requirements of fertilizers and did not present harmful bacteria after pelletization. Therefore, wool pellets may represent a feasible solution to provide sheep wool with an added value, introducing it in a circular economy process. However, further study is needed to test the effects of the produced fertilizing pellets in real cropping systems.
An Incidental Discovery of the Intrathoracic Accessory Liver Lobe in a 72-Year-Old Man: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Polikarpova Aleksandra , Bains Harinder K. , Thomson Samuel , Gao Yijun , Morris David L.
Published: March 2024

Accessory liver lobe is a rare finding, with the most common cases being accessory liver tissue on the gallbladder wall separate from the orthotopic liver. As the incidence of the ectopic liver is low there are only several case reports in published literature that describe similar presentations. We report a case of intrathoracic liver lobe that was connected to the main liver by a thick pedicle. Due to benign presentation, the patient was discharged without any surgical intervention. This case highlights the importance of understanding anatomical variability of internal organs, understanding the risks of torsion and malignant transformation of the accessory liver tissue. The literature review provides an excellent overview of published case series and reports, and outlines current recommendations on imaging, diagnosis, and management.
Two Extensions of the Sugeno Class and a Novel Constructed Method of Strong Fuzzy Negation for the Generation of Non-Symmetric Fuzzy Implications
Authors: Rapti Maria N. , Konguetsof Avrilia , Papadopoulos Basil K.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we present two new classes of fuzzy negations. They are an extension of a well-known class of fuzzy negations, the Sugeno Class. We use it as a base for our work for the first two construction methods. The first method generates rational fuzzy negations, where we use a second-degree polynomial with two parameters. We investigate which of these two conditions must be satisfied to be a fuzzy negation. In the second method, we use an increasing function instead of the parameter δ of the Sugeno class. In this method, using an arbitrary increasing function with specific conditions, fuzzy negations are produced, not just rational ones. Moreover, we compare the equilibrium points of the produced fuzzy negation of the first method and the Sugeno class. We use the equilibrium point to present a novel method which produces strong fuzzy negations by using two decreasing functions which satisfy specific conditions. We also investigate the convexity of the new fuzzy negation. We give some conditions that coefficients of fuzzy negation of the first method must satisfy in order to be convex. We present some examples of the new fuzzy negations, and we use them to generate new non-symmetric fuzzy implications by using well-known production methods of non-symmetric fuzzy implications. We use convex fuzzy negations as decreasing functions to construct an Archimedean copula. Finally, we investigate the quadratic form of the copula and the conditions that the coefficients of the first method and the increasing function of the second method must satisfy in order to generate new copulas of this form.
Chemistry for Space Group Symmetry beyond Crystals
Authors: Akitsu Takashiro , Higashi Yuya , Tsuchiya Rin , Imae Taiga , Komatsu Keishiro , Nakane Daisuke , Moon Dohyun
Published: March 2024

As a recent cutting-edge research target, the prediction of crystal systems or space groups using machine learning based on databases has been actively reported [...]
Nonequilibrium Casimir–Polder Force between Nanoparticles and Graphene-Coated Silica Plate: Combined Effect of the Chemical Potential and Mass Gap
Authors: Klimchitskaya Galina L. , Korikov Constantine C. , Mostepanenko Vladimir M.
Published: March 2024

The Casimir–Polder force between spherical nanoparticles and a graphene-coated silica plate is investigated in situations out of thermal equilibrium, i.e., with broken time-reversal symmetry. The response of the graphene coating to the electromagnetic field is described on the basis of first principles of quantum electrodynamics at nonzero temperature using the formalism of the polarization tensor in the framework of the Dirac model. The nonequilibrium Casimir–Polder force is calculated as a function of the mass-gap parameter, the chemical potential of graphene, and the temperature of the graphene-coated plate, which can be both higher or lower than that of the environment. It is shown that the force value increases with the increasing chemical potential, and this increase is more pronounced when the temperature of a graphene-coated plate is lower than that of the environment. The nonequilibrium force also increases with increasing temperature of the graphene-coated plate. This increase is larger when the plate is hotter than the environment. The effect is revealed that the combined impact of the chemical potential, μ, and mass gap, Δ, of the graphene coating depends on the relationship between Δ and 2μ. If 2μ>Δ, the magnitude of the nonequilibrium force between nanoparticles and a cooled graphene-coated plate becomes much larger than for a graphene coating with μ=0. The physical reasons explaining this effect are elucidated. Possible applications of the obtained results are discussed.
Deep Reinforcement Learning for Load Frequency Control in Isolated Microgrids: A Knowledge Aggregation Approach with Emphasis on Power Symmetry and Balance
Authors: Wu Min , Ma Dakui , Xiong Kaiqing , Yuan Linkun
Published: March 2024

To address the issues of instability and inefficiency that the fluctuating and uncertain characteristics of renewable energy sources impose on low-carbon microgrids, this research introduces a novel Knowledge-Data-Driven Load Frequency Control (KDD-LFC) approach. This advanced strategy seamlessly combines pre-existing knowledge frameworks with the capabilities of deep learning neural networks, enabling the adaptive management and multi-faceted optimization of microgrid functionalities, with a keen emphasis on the symmetry and equilibrium of active power. Initially, the process involves the cultivation of foundational knowledge through established methodologies to augment the reservoir of experience. Following this, a Knowledge-Aggregation-based Proximal Policy Optimization (KA-PPO) technique is employed, which proficiently acquires an understanding of the microgrid’s state representations and operational tactics. This strategy meticulously navigates the delicate balance between the exploration of new strategies and the exploitation of known efficacies, ensuring the harmonization of frequency stability, precision in tracking, and the optimization of control expenditures through the strategic formulation of the reward function. The empirical validation of the KDD-LFC method’s effectiveness and its superiority are demonstrated via simulation tests conducted on the load frequency control (LFC) framework of the Sansha isolated island microgrid, which is under the administration of the China Southern Grid.
Curve-Surface Pairs on Embedded Surfaces and Involute D-Scroll of the Curve-Surface Pair in E3
Authors: Ertem Kaya Filiz , Şenyurt Süleyman
Published: March 2024

Willmore defined embedded surfaces on f:S→E3, which is the embedding of S into Euclidean 3-space. He investigated the Euclidean metric of E3, inducing a Riemannian structure on f(S). The expression analogous to the left-hand member of the curvature K is replaced by the mean curvature H2 on f(S). Our aim is to observe the Gaussian and mean curvatures of curve–surface pairs using embedded surfaces in different curve–surface pairs and to define some developable operations on their curve–surface pairs. We also investigate the embedded surfaces using the Willmore method. We first recall the Darboux curve–surface and derive the new characterizations. This curve–surface pair is called the osculating Darboux curve–surface if its position vector always lies in the osculating Darboux plane spanned by a Darboux frame. Thus, we observed an osculating Darboux curve–surface pair. We also obtained the D∼-scroll of the curve–surface pair and involute D∼-scroll of the curve–surface pair with some differential geometric elements and found D∼(α,M)(s) and D∗∼(α,M)(s)-scrolls of the curve–surface pair (α,M).
Sustaining the Continued Effectiveness of an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in Preterm Infants
Authors: Zini Tommaso , Miselli Francesca , D’Esposito Chiara , Fidanza Lucia , Cuoghi Costantini Riccardo , Corso Lucia , Mazzotti Sofia , Rossi Cecilia , Spaggiari Eugenio , Rossi Katia , Lugli Licia , Bedetti Luca , Berardi Alberto
Published: March 2024

Background: There are wide variations in antibiotic use in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Limited data are available on antimicrobial stewardship (AS) programs and long-term maintenance of AS interventions in preterm very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants. Methods: We extended a single-centre observational study carried out in an Italian NICU. Three periods were compared: I. “baseline” (2011–2012), II. “intervention” (2016–2017), and III. “maintenance” (2020–2021). Intensive training of medical and nursing staff on AS occurred between periods I and II. AS protocols and algorithms were maintained and implemented between periods II and III. Results: There were 111, 119, and 100 VLBW infants in periods I, II, and III, respectively. In the “intervention period”, there was a reduction in antibiotic use, reported as days of antibiotic therapy per 1000 patient days (215 vs. 302, p < 0.01). In the “maintenance period”, the number of culture-proven sepsis increased. Nevertheless, antibiotic exposure of uninfected VLBW infants was lower, while no sepsis-related deaths occurred. Our restriction was mostly directed at shortening antibiotic regimens with a policy of 48 h rule-out sepsis (median days of early empiric antibiotics: 6 vs. 3 vs. 2 in periods I, II, and III, respectively, p < 0.001). Moreover, antibiotics administered for so-called culture-negative sepsis were reduced (22% vs. 11% vs. 6%, p = 0.002), especially in infants with a birth weight between 1000 and 1499 g. Conclusions: AS is feasible in preterm VLBW infants, and antibiotic use can be safely reduced. AS interventions, namely, the shortening of antibiotic courses in uninfected infants, can be sustained over time with periodic clinical audits and daily discussion of antimicrobial therapies among staff members.
Flublok Quadrivalent Vaccine Adjuvanted with R-DOTAP Elicits a Robust and Multifunctional CD4 T Cell Response That Is of Greater Magnitude and Functional Diversity Than Conventional Adjuvant Systems
Authors: White Chantelle L. , Glover Maryah A. , Gandhapudi Siva K. , Richards Katherine A. , Sant Andrea J.
Published: March 2024

It is clear that new approaches are needed to promote broadly protective immunity to viral pathogens, particularly those that are prone to mutation and escape from antibody-mediated immunity. CD4+ T cells, known to target many viral proteins and highly conserved peptide epitopes, can contribute greatly to protective immunity through multiple mechanisms. Despite this potential, CD4+ T cells are often poorly recruited by current vaccine strategies. Here, we have analyzed a promising new adjuvant (R-DOTAP), as well as conventional adjuvant systems AddaVax with or without an added TLR9 agonist CpG, to promote CD4+ T cell responses to the licensed vaccine Flublok containing H1, H3, and HA-B proteins. Our studies, using a preclinical mouse model of vaccination, revealed that the addition of R-DOTAP to Flublok dramatically enhances the magnitude and functionality of CD4+ T cells specific for HA-derived CD4+ T cell epitopes, far outperforming conventional adjuvant systems based on cytokine EliSpot assays and multiparameter flow cytometry. The elicited CD4+ T cells specific for HA-derived epitopes produce IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-4/5, and granzyme B and have multifunctional potential. Hence, R-DOTAP, which has been verified safe by human studies, can offer exciting opportunities as an immune stimulant for next-generation prophylactic recombinant protein-based vaccines.
The grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella in the southern Western Siberia
Authors:   Novosibirsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (ZapSibNIRO), Russia, Novosibirsk, Interesova E.A. ,   Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals SB RAS, Russia, Novosibirsk, Shatalin V.A. ,   Novosibirsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (ZapSibNIRO), Russia, Novosibirsk, Morozko A.V. ,   Novosibirsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (ZapSibNIRO), Russia, Novosibirsk, Tsapenkov A.V. ,   Novosibirsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (ZapSibNIRO), Russia, Novosibirsk, Zaitsev V.F. ,   Novosibirsk Branch of Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (ZapSibNIRO), Russia, Novosibirsk, Serbina E.A. ,   Laboratory of Parasitology, Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals SB RAS, Novosibirsk,
Published: March 2024

The natural area of grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella includes the river basins of East Asia from the Amur to Xijiang. The habitat of grass carp is rivers, lakes and ponds. It spawning is in rivers with high flow rates, during pronounced rises in water levels, at temperatures above 18 °С (usually 22–24 °С). It feeds mainly on aquatic vegetation. The grass carp is very common aquaculture object, currently it ranks first in the world in terms of commercial cultivation. In the south of Western Siberia, there is significant interest to grass carp not only as an object of cultivation for commercial fish products, but also as a biological meliorator. However, the possibilities of its cultivation are limited by the climatic features of the region. The problem can be solved by obtaining large grass carp fish seeding material under RAS. There are known cases of single captures of individuals of this species of different ages in the Ob, Irtysh, Tom rivers and in the Novosibirsk reservoir, where they probably end up from nearby fish farms. Currently, data about the natural reproduction of the grass carp in the Ob river basin is missing (except, perhaps, the Belovsky Reservoir).
Comunidades de frontera en los andes patagónicos binacionales
Authors: Nuñez Paula Gabriela , Freddi Andrea
Published: March 2024

Este articulo reflexiona sobre el concepto de comunidad en la zona patagónica andina, dividida políticamente entre Chile y Argentina. Tomamos como fuentes datos etnográficos y revisión de bibliografía que consideran distintos casos, procedentes de ambos lados de los Andes, donde la referencia a lo comunitario aparece a nivel de poblado con administración estatal y de poblado de estructura familiar. El enfoque comparativo entre Argentina y Chile permite evidenciar cómo la emergencia de lo comunitario, a pesar de vincularse con un relato introspectivo, siempre devela la presencia del Estado-nación como interlocutor inescapable.
Asimismo, se resaltan factores vinculados con la constitución comunitaria: la amenaza y la organización. Proponemos que, si bien la amenaza induce a fortalecer los lazos sociales y a desarrollar un sentido de pertenencia confrontativo, esto logra ser constituyente en el momento en que se articula una organización interna basada en elementos afectivos.
Habilidades cognitivas lectoras básicas que favorecen el crecimiento y desarrollo personal del niño en preescolar
Authors: Marlene Múzquiz-Flores , Gabriela Ávila-Camacho Martha , Aracely Alvarado-Chavarría Cristina
Published: March 2024

La lectura como una actividad cognitiva implica una serie de procesos y estrategias que el niño de tercer grado de preescolar en el trascurso del desarrollo de habilidades cognitivas guiadas por su aprendizaje escolar debe dominar. Como docentes, identificar diferentes estrategias de lectura en el ámbito de preescolar presenta un gran impacto, son herramientas y recursos de las educadoras de forma flexible que facilitan el aprendizaje en los estudiantes. En la actualidad, la importancia de que los niños de preescolar concluyan este nivel básico aprendiendo a leer, es muy poca puesto que los docentes les dan más énfasis a actividades de escritura, pensamiento matemático, educación socioemocional e incluso artes y educación física, sin embargo, en el campo de formación académica que más impacto tiene en el aprendizaje del niño es lenguaje y comunicación, el cual se da a través de la lectura. El propósito de esta investigación es aplicar estrategias didácticas que coadyuven a valorar el logro de aprendizaje de las habilidades cognitivas lectoras básicas en el niño de tercero de preescolar para favorecer su crecimiento y desarrollo personal. La metodología puesta en práctica presenta un enfoque cuantitativo, es aplicada, explicativa, descriptiva y está orientada a la adquisición de conocimiento para dar respuesta a problemas concretos y a un cambio o mejora de la práctica educativa.
Jigsaw: uma proposta cooperativa para a educação ambiental em Manaus-AM
Authors: De Souza Paloma Kaline Costa , Oliveira André Fernandes de , Chagas Jéssica da Cruz , Erazo Rafael de Lima , Ferreira Rosilene Gomes da Silva
Published: March 2024

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as contribuições do uso da técnica Jigsaw para o processo de ensino-aprendizagem de Educação Ambiental com alunos de uma escola pública de Manaus-AM. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa baseada em um estudo de caso, com metodologia híbrida, aplicada com alunos do 6º ano do Ensino Fundamental da Escola Estadual Letício de Campos Dantas. Formou-se 5 grupos para estudarem problemáticas ambientais, usando uma metodologia cooperativa ao ensinar uns aos outros o conteúdo proposto. Os resultados foram satisfatórios, pois em uma avaliação formativa os alunos conseguiram aprender e obter senso crítico pelas questões ambientais, além de conseguirem trabalhar em grupo e transmitirem o que aprenderam de forma coerente e objetiva em um Podcast. Conclui-se que recursos tecnológicos são bem utilizados quando há estímulo a curiosidade e propostas de atividades em grupos fazem os alunos cooperarem melhor para a resoluções de problemas e estudo do conteúdo.
Following WHO Guidelines to Respond to a Water Contamination Outbreak in the Edge of Hamadan, West of Iran
Authors: Torkaman Asadi Fateme , Rafati Lida , Moeini Fahime , Khazaei Salman , Taghi Hajilouei Taghi , Khodabakhshi Mahdi , Javaheri Masoumeh
Published: March 2024

Background: Water and foodborne disease outbreaks continually present formidable challenges to healthcare systems, leading to morbidity, mortality, and substantial economic losses. Investigating and reporting these outbreaks play a pivotal role in effectively controlling and mitigating future occurrences. This study endeavors to scrutinize an outbreak of water contamination in Mariyanaj, Hamadan, Iran, employing the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) comprehensive 10-step framework. Methods: In this descriptive study, we meticulously adhered to the WHO outbreak investigation and reporting guidelines, systematically progressing through each step to investigate and report the outbreak. Symptom/exposure samples, involving two samples per symptomatic individual, were collected and sent to the Center for Disease Control’s laboratory for examination. Additionally, we executed a case-control study (Step 7) to discern the root cause of the outbreak. Results: The outbreak affected 919 individuals among 12115 residents of Mariyanaj city, with a male prevalence of 57.7%. The most impacted age group was 10-14 years. Predominant symptoms included abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Through meticulous field investigations and the case-control study, the contaminated water source was identified. Human samples exhibited Escherichia coli and norovirus as the most prevalent pathogens, with E. coli also detected in water samples. Conclusion: Despite advancements in outbreak investigation and reporting systems, the utilization of a standardized step-by-step approach proves more effective in identifying and managing outbreaks. The consistent monitoring of drinking water quality, particularly in times of water crises, emerges as a crucial factor in significantly preventing waterborne diseases.
Determining the Molecular Identity of Two Virulence Genes mec-A and lukS/F-PV of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated From the Lung Secretions of Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Units in Kerman, Iran
Authors: Zare Mitra , Pouladi Iman , Kheirkhah Babak
Published: March 2024

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common hospital- and community-acquired pathogens. This bacterium has different virulence factors, and today’s reports show that the prevalence of methicillin resistance in S. aureus is increasing in different regions of the world. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was performed on 60 hospital samples. First, biochemical tests were conducted on the samples to separate and confirm the genus of S. aureus. After the enrichment and isolation of bacteria and extraction of the DNA of mec-A and lukS/F-PV genes, they were evaluated by multiplex polymerase chain reactions (PCR). Results: In this study, 20 isolates of S. aureus were obtained from a total of 60 samples. In these 20 S. aureus isolates, the frequency of the lukS/F-PV gene was reported in 12 isolates, and the frequency of the mecA gene was reported in 8 isolates, of which 4 isolates had both genes. Conclusion: According to the results, the identification of genes related to the severity of the disease and antibiotic resistance can play an effective role in the identification of the antibiotic-resistant population and subsequent planning to deal with antibiotic resistance. In addition, multiplex PCR, as a low-cost and specific method, was used to identify infectious agents of pathogens related to their virulence.
Control of Filamentous Bacteria overgrowth by Changing the Hydraulic Flow Distribution of a Step-feed Biological Nitrogen Removal (SFBNR) Process-based WWTP: A Full-scale Study
Authors: Ghanbari Pak Majid , Shokoohi Reza , Godini Kazem , Azarian Ghasem
Published: March 2024

To facilitate the wastewater recycling process while adhering to environmental and industrial regulations, it becomes imperative to meet stringent standards. This necessitates the effective elimination of organic substances, with particular emphasis on nitrogen-based compounds. To this end, activated sludge methods, particularly the step-feed biological nitrogen removal (SFBNR) process, are employed. Although various operational measures are employed in SFBNR systems, including the elimination of complex substrates, modifications in aeration conditions, the utilization of piston hydraulic flow, and the appropriate distribution of substrates, these systems remain susceptible to the excessive growth of filamentous bacteria. The current study aimed to examine the change in the distribution of the hydraulic flow entering this system on a real scale over a period of five years. It was observed that the quality of sludge settling improved and accordingly the overgrowth of filamentous Microthrix parvicella declined, thereby enhancing the quality of the effluent.
Exploring the Midwives’ Experiences of Providing Delivery Care for Women with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19 Infection: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Jafarzadeh-Kenarsari Fatemeh , Ghasab-Shirazi Morvarid , Abouzari-Gazafroodi Kobra , Donyaei-Mobarrez Yalda
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Midwives were at the forefront of caring for pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore, the present study was conducted with the purpose of exploring midwives’ experiences of providing delivery care for women with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection. Methods: In this qualitative study, 18 midwives working in the public hospitals affiliated with Guilan University of Medical Sciences (Iran). Who had experience in providing delivery care to women with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected via individual semi-structured interviews until reaching data saturation, and analyzed through conventional content analysis. Results: Data analysis led to the extraction of three main categories and six sub-categories. The main categories included "COVID-19 and organizational support" with two sub-categories including lack of resources/neglecting the role of midwives, "COVID-19 and positive achievements" with two sub-categories including professional resilience/turning threats into opportunities, "COVID-19 and informational support" with two sub-categories, including up-to-date training/empowering pregnant women. Conclusion: According to the findings, to realize and guarantee the provision of high-quality maternity care to pregnant women in dealing with epidemic diseases such as COVID-19 in the future, the attention of policymakers and healthcare service officials to the physical and psychological needs of midwives is necessary. Also, organizational and informational support, improving job satisfaction, and paying attention to the importance of midwives’ role in the medical team are recommended. Moreover, empowering pregnant women during epidemic diseases is essential.
The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Hemodialysis
Authors: Masoumi Maryam , Shahidi Mohammad , Montazeri Seyed Mohammad Hashem , Vahedian Mostafa , Bitarafan Bita , Farhadi Mohadeseh , Feingold Cailan , Smiley Abbas
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is a common disorder that puts patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. To our knowledge, there is no published study in Pub Med which evaluated both lifestyle and metabolic syndrome in hemodialysis patients. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and investigate the potential risk factors in hemodialysis patients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 204 patients enrolled conveniently. National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria considered for Metabolic Syndrome. Demographics, lifestyle, and disease characteristics were gathered. The relationship between metabolic syndrome and its severity with independent variables was investigated through multivariable multivariate logistic and linear regressions. Results: The mean (SD) age was 55 (14) years and 42% were women. 42.6% had metabolic syndrome. Low high-density lipoprotein (HDL), high fasting blood sugar, high blood pressure (BP), increased waist circumference (WC), and high triglyceride were observed in decreasing order of frequency in 54.4%, 44.1%, 38.7%, 33.3% 28.9% of patients, respectively. The logistic regression model revealed significant associations between metabolic syndrome and physical activity (OR=0.85, 95% CI : 0.74-0.97), mood (OR=1.04, 95% CI : 1.002-1.078), age (OR=1.023, 95% CI : 1.001-1.046), and missed work (OR=0.86, 95% CI : 0.76-0.97). The linear regression model revealed significant associations between metabolic syndrome severity score and physical activity (B=-0.12, 95% CI : -0.21-0.02) and sleep quality (B=0.017, 95% CI : 0.001-0.033). Conclusion: Poorer sleep quality, lower physical activity, lower mood status, and older age were associated with higher odds of metabolic syndrome/metabolic syndrome severity score in hemodialysis patients.
An Investigation of the Effectiveness of Distance Learning on Nutrition Quality of Hemodialysis Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Single-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Rafiee Mahdieh , Khandan Maryam
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has limited hemodialysis patient’s attendance in healthcare centers and receiving diet education. This study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of distance learning on the nutrition quality of hemodialysis patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In the single-blind randomized clinical trial, 60 patients undergoing hemodialysis were randomly divided into control (n=30) and experimental (n=30) groups. Before and after the intervention, Dialysis Malnutrition Score (DMS), Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS) (primary outcome), albumin, the total iron-binding capacity of the blood (TIBC), and body mass index (BMI) (Secondary outcome) were investigated. The experimental group received educational content through social networks for three months, whereas the control group received routine care and training. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean of DMS, MIS, albumin, and TIBC before the intervention. Pre-test BMI had a confounding effect; therefore, an analysis of covariance was performed to eliminate that effect. This analysis showed significant differences in the post-test mean DMS, MIS, TIBC, and BMI between the two groups. In the control group, significant differences were observed in MIS and BMI toward deterioration. The results also indicated a significant relationship between education level and age with TIBC and between marital status and albumin index. Conclusion: Distance learning can be considered by healthcare managers and police makers as a suitable alternative to the classic face-to-face learning method to enhance hemodialysis patients’ nutrition quality during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Relationship between nursing stress and forgotten nursing care in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Farzanehfar Mohammad , Amiri Bonyad Sajjad , Yousofvand Vahid , Karampourian Arezou , Khazaei Salman
Published: March 2024

Background and aims: Long-term stress can lead to forgetfulness of nursing care and reduce the quality of nursing care. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between nursing stresses and missed nursing care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study. This study included 268 nurses from various hospitals in 2022. Sampling was done by stratified quota method. Kalish and Williams’ Forgotten Nursing Care and French’s nursing stress questionnaires were used to collect data. Data were analyzed using Stata 14 at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The study showed a significant relationship between the expression of nursing stress and forgotten nursing care (P≤0.001). Average stress scores for nursing care and forgotten nursing care were obtained as 137.90±36.70 and 32.71±8.72, respectively. Conclusion: Most nurses reported much stress. Considering the positive correlation between nursing stress and forgotten nursing care, nursing managers are suggested to reduce missed nursing care with stress reduction workshops.
The effect of assertiveness-based empowerment on professional commitment and moral courage of nurses working in Shahrekord educational hospitals
Authors: Nouroozi Azadeh , Etemadifar Shahram , Deris Fatemeh , Davoodvand Shirmohammad
Published: March 2024

Background and aims: Professional commitment and moral courage affect the quality of nursing care. Assertiveness is a necessary communication skill for nurses. The studies have less focused on the relationship between the mentioned variables. Therefore, this study examined the impact of assertiveness-based empowerment on professional commitment and moral courage. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 70 nurses of Shahrekord educational hospitals who entered the study via available sampling and random allocation in intervention and control groups in 2021. Then, the assertiveness-based program was implemented in six 2-hour sessions for the intervention group. In both groups, data were collected before, immediately, and three months after the intervention using the Nurses’ Professional Commitment Standard questionnaire (NPCS) and Sekerka’s moral courage. The data was analyzed using SPSS software version 18. One sample t-test, chi-square, and repeated measurements analysis were used. Results: Before the study, neither group showed significant differences in demographic data, professional commitment, and moral courage (P>0.05). However, this difference was significant immediately after the intervention and three months later (P<0.001). Conclusion: The empowerment program based on assertiveness improved nurses’ professional commitment and moral courage. Therefore, it is appropriate to use these moral virtues in the professional training of nurses to provide high-quality care to patients.
Application of Scheffe's Simplex Lattice Model in concrete mixture design and performance enhancement
Authors: Agunwamba Jonah , Okafor Fidelis , Tiza Michael Toryila
Published: March 2024

This comprehensive literature review delves into the application of Scheffe's Simplex Lattice Model for optimizing cement concrete mixtures, with a particular emphasis on its impact on material properties and sustainability. The review meticulously outlines the principles, historical context, and advantages of Scheffe's model, providing a nuanced understanding of its significance. Comparative analyses with traditional and alternative optimization techniques in concrete mix design illuminate the distinct advantages of statistical methods, especially Scheffe's model. The review critically examines the challenges and limitations associated with applying Scheffe's model, addressing issues related to the complexity of concrete mixtures and computational demands. Potential avenues for improvement are explored, suggesting refinements to handle non-linearity, incorporate advanced optimization algorithms, and streamline computational requirements. Additionally, the review highlights emerging trends in statistical modeling for concrete mixture optimization, such as the integration of machine learning and data-driven approaches, signaling the evolving landscape of concrete technology. In conclusion, the literature underscores Scheffe's Simplex Lattice Model as a valuable and versatile tool with far-reaching implications for the advancement of concrete mixture design methodologies. The call to action encourages ongoing research and development to refine the model, explore emerging trends, and address practical challenges, positioning Scheffe's model as a cornerstone in the pursuit of sustainable, resilient, and high-performance concrete materials. The study highlights Scheffe's Simplex Lattice Model as a robust statistical tool for optimizing cement concrete mixtures, demonstrating its efficacy in improving performance indicators like compressive strength and durability. This systematic approach offers a paradigm shift from empirical methods, fostering a nuanced understanding of concrete components' relationships and paving the way for tailored material properties and enhanced sustainability in construction. The call to action urges further research to refine the model, address challenges, and explore hybrid approaches, ultimately advancing concrete mixture design methodologies towards greater efficiency and precision.
ÖZEL EĞİTİM ÖĞRETMENLERİNİN MESLEKİ BAĞLILIK VE TÜKENMİŞLİK DÜZEYLERİ ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİNİN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: Tümkaya Gülşah Selin
Published: March 2024

Bu araştırmada özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin mesleki bağlılıkları ile tükenmişlik düzeyleri arasındaki ilişkisinin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma ilişkisel tarama modeli ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın örneklemi Türkiye’nin farklı illerinden katılım göstermeye gönüllü olan ve devlet okullarının farklı kademelerinde çalışan 200 özel eğitim öğretmeninden oluşmuştur. Araştırmada verileri toplamak için, Mesleki Bağlılık Ölçeği ve Maslach Tükenmişlik Envanteri- Eğitimci Formu kullanılmıştır. Verilerin analizinde t testi, Pearson korelasyon ve çoklu doğrusal regresyon tekniğinden yararlanılmıştır. Araştırmada özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin mesleki bağlılık düzeylerinin ortalamanın üstünde olduğu belirlenmiştir. Özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin, duygusal tükenme düzeylerinin ‘orta’ duyarsızlaşma ve kişisel başarısızlıktaki tükenmişlik düzeylerinin ise ‘düşük’ olduğu saptanmıştır. Cinsiyetin mesleki bağlılıkta etkili bir değişken olduğu ve kadın özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin mesleki bağlılık düzeylerinin erkek öğretmenlerden daha yüksek olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin tükenmişlik düzeylerini belirlemede cinsiyet değişkeninin bir etkisinin olmadığı ortaya çıkmıştır. Araştırmada, özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin mesleki bağlılık algıları ile tükenmişliğin; duygusal tükenme ve duyarsızlaşma alt boyutları arasında negatif yönde orta düzeyde; kişisel başarısızlık alt boyutu arasında ise pozitif yönde orta düzeyde anlamlı bir ilişki olduğu belirlenmiştir. Aynı zamanda tükenmişliğin, duygusal tükenme ve kişisel başarısızlık alt boyutlarının mesleki bağlılığın anlamlı bir yordayıcısı olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Özel eğitim öğretmenlerinde mesleki bağlılığı arttırmak için tükenmişliği azaltıcı kurumsal ve bireysel önlemlerin alınması önerilmiştir.
Datafication of Education and Machine Learning Techniques in Education Research: A Critical Review
Authors:   The Institute of Educational research Chonnam National University, Shin SuYeong
Published: March 2024

The aim of the study is to discuss the technical and ethical considerations regarding the current applications of the emerging data science techniques in the field of education. Based on the literature review, this study provides an overview of machine learning approaches that have been used to answer to educational research agenda in South Korea. By comparing the logical features of these computational techniques to the conventional statistical methodologies, the authors highlight the unique challenges and opportunities associated with educational data science and discuss what that means to developing scientific knowledge in the field of education research. The authors argue the importance of the awareness of the differences in data conditions and causal inferences between computational approaches and conventional statistical modelings. Computational techniques using big data are not a magical tool to discover knowledge. This study explains why researchers’ domain knowledge and rigorous data preparation have bigger impacts on drawing reliable and meaningful information for educational intervention. This study encourages critical inquiry into the implications of data science for education. By revisiting the goals of public education, the authors call for the future research to host open discussion of the potential of educational data sciences.
PENINGKATAN PENGETAHUAN ANAK SEKOLAH DASAR MENGENAI SARAPAN DENGAN PERMAINAN KARTU KUARTET
Authors: Nugroho Kartika Amin , Septriana Septriana , Yuliati Endri
Published: March 2024

Latar belakang: : Sebuah penelitian di salah satu sekolah dasar (SD) di Surakarta menunjukkan bahwa kebiasaan sarapan pagi pada anak SD masih rendah yaitu 15%. Melewatkan sarapan pada anak-anak dapat menurunkan daya konsentrasi, mengantuk, dan mudah stres. Pengetahuan dapat mempengaruhi perilaku. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan suatu metode edukasi yang menarik bagi anak-anak untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan tentang sarapan, salah satunya adalah dengan permainan kartu kuartet. Tujuan: untuk mengetahui pengaruh permainan kartu kuartet terhadap pengetahuan siswa mengenai sarapan. Metode : Penelitian quasi eksperimental ini menggunakan rancangan One-Group Pretest-Posttest Design yang dilakukan di SDIT Jumapolo, Karanganyar, Jawa Tengah pada bulan Juli 2019. Responden berjumlah 84 siswa kelas V dengan intervensi berupa permainan kartu kuartet. Pengetahuan tentang sarapan sebelum dan setelah intervensi diukur dengan kuesioner yang telah divalidasi dan dianalisis dengan uji Wilcoxon. Hasil: Setelah intervensi, terjadi peningkatan pengetahuan yang signifikan (p=0,000), dari nilai median pretest 40 menjadi 50 pada posttest. Kesimpulan: permainan kartu kuartet dapat meningkatkan pengetahuan siswa mengenai sarapan di SDIT Jumapolo, Karanganyar, Jawa Tengah.
KADAR GULA DARAH DENGAN TINGKAT DEPRESI PADA DIABETESI
Authors: Wahyuningsih Siti , Astuti Ari Tri , Nofiartika Fera , Sulistyowati Yeny , Fitriani Sinta , Fitriyah Mawaddah , Wardianingsih Faras , Nurmaulida Rahma Cicik , Saputri Rissa Fadilla
Published: March 2024

Latar belakang: Prevalensi diabetes mellitus terdiagnosis dokter di Kabupaten Sleman lebih tinggi dari angka nasional (1,5%) dan menempati posisi tertinggi ketiga dari semua kabupaten Provinsi DIY sebesar 2,47 %. Jumlah penderita DM di Jakarta Utara dan Kabupaten Tasikmalaya juga  tinggi. Terdapat beberapa factor yang mempengaruhi terjadinya DM seperti perilaku tidak tepat yang dapat meningkatkan kadar gula darah, antara lain gaya hidup yang berlebih, merokok, dan tidak patuh terhadap diit. Hal ini dapat menyebabkan diabetisi mudah terkena depresi. Beberapa penelitian menyatakan sebagian besar diabetesi mengalami depresi. Tujuan: untuk mengetahui hubungan kadar gula darah dengan tingkat depresi pada diabetisi. Metode: Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian observasional dengan desain cross sectional yang dilakukan di wilayah Yogyakarta, Jakarta Utara dan Tasikmalaya pada bulan April – Desember 2023 (9 bulan). Sampel penelitian ini merupakan diabetesi yang aktif menjadi anggota Prolanis di wilayah Yogyakarta, Jakarta Utara dan Tasikmalaya yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi sebanyak 120 orang. Gula darah yang diambil ada dua yaitu gula darah sewaktu secara langsung dan kadar HbA1c  dari data sekunder. Penilaian skor depresi diukur menggunakan DASS-21. Analisis data menggunakan Uji korelasi Spearman. Hasil: Hasil uji korelasi Spearman antara kadar GDS dengan skor depresi menunjukkan r = -0,285 dengan nilai ρ = 0,002 (ρ < 0,05). Hasil Uji Spearman antara kadar HbA1c dengan skor depresi menunjukkan r = -0,293 dengan nilai ρ = 0,002 (ρ < 0,05). Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan antara kadar GDS dan HbA1c dengan skor depresi. Kesimpulan: Ada hubungan kadar gula darah dengan tingkat depresi.
DROPOUTS OF TRANSGENDER IN THE SCHOOLS OF DELHI: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY
Authors: Kumar Jitendra , Soni Khare Priya
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this article is to raise the issue of school dropouts and the educational rights of
transgender individuals in Delhi. The topic itself is a subject of debate within the gender community in this
area. The article utilizes secondary data. The transgender society in Delhi has an organized association to address acts of
injustice, and through questionnaires and direct interviews, the researchers gathered additional information about school
dropouts. To gain a better understanding of this issue, the researchers reviewed numerous publications by scholars. The paper
also provides recommendations for reducing the dropout rate among transgender students, making it a highly relevant
contribution to this eld of study.
Selective Influence of Chromolaena odorata Extracts on the Germination and Growth of Vegetable Crops: A Comparative Study of Aqueous and Methanolic Solutions
Authors: Akter Pervin , Begum Rabeya
Published: March 2024

This study conducted a thorough assessment of how germination and growth of shoots and roots in eight vegetable crops are influenced by aqueous and methanolic extracts from Chromolaena odorata. Findings reveal a broad spectrum of germination responses to leaf extracts (13.3% to 86.7%), signaling the intricate dynamics at play between the plant's chemical compounds and the germination mechanism. Notably, Cucumis sativus (70% at AQE 5%) and Phaseolus vulgaris (56.70% at AQE 10%), displayed remarkable resilience and even stimulation of germination under specific extract concentrations, suggesting a potential selective stimulatory effect. For root extracts, the introduction of AQE and MTE decreased germination percentages across crops. A. esculentus had the highest germination rate at AQE 20%, significantly lower than the control (60%). Solanum. melongena tolerated AQE 5% best, while MTE 20% was most inhibitory. Conversely, Solanum lycopersicum experienced complete germination inhibition in both AQE and MTE of leaf and root extracts, indicating species-specific vulnerability to the allelopathic compounds within the extracts. Shoot growth mostly declined with higher extract concentrations, except in Solanum melongena, Capsicum annuum, and Zea mays, which saw increased shoot lengths under certain conditions. Root growth responses were mixed; Abelmoschus esculentus and Zea mays showed growth increases at some concentrations, in contrast to Cucumis sativus and Solanum melongena, which had limited growth. Methanolic extracts had a stronger inhibitory effect, likely due to their potent bioactive compounds. These findings highlight the importance of extract type, concentration, and crop species in weed management, providing insights for sustainable agricultural practices.