bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study to Evaluate Relationship between Anxiety Depression and Glycemic Control among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Muhammad Rahimoon  , Husan Bano Channar  , Binafsha Mansoor Syed  , Saad Raza  , Munwar Us Salam  , Abdul Jabbar
Published: December 2024

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most widespread disorders in public health, requiring careful glycemic control to prevent complications. Alongside physical challenges, DM patients often experience psychological distress, particularly anxiety and depression, which can further complicate diabetes management and influence psychological well-being, and diminish the quality of life of individuals. Aim of study: To evaluate the relationship between anxiety, depression, and glycemic control among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 301 Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients at Liaquat University Hospital Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan from May 2024 to October 2024. Non-probability-purposive sampling technique was used to collect data. Anxiety and depression levels were measured using the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scales, respectively. HbA1c level was used to assess glycemic control. Data was analyzed using SPSS 26.0; Descriptive analysis including mean, frequency, percentage, and standard deviation was used along with the Fisher test to analyze significant relationships. Results: Among the 301 T2DM patients, 52.49% were male with a mean age of 46.16 years. Most participants lived in urban areas (69.44%) and 50.5% were intermediate or below in education. Most of the participants (73.09%) were unemployed, and 96.7% were married. In terms of glycemic control (GC), 76.74% of participants had poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7.1). Individuals with poor glycemic control demonstrated significantly higher levels of anxiety (p < 0.009) and depression (p < 0.016). Conclusion: Poor glycemic control is strongly linked to increased anxiety and depression in T2DM patients. These findings highlight the need for incorporating mental health screening and interventions into diabetes care to improve both psychological and physical health outcomes
Interactive module "Environment protection" of Maritime English course on LMS Moodle for future ship engineers
Authors: Kononova Olena , Diahyleva Olena , Yurzhenko Alona
Published: December 2024

As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the imperative to prioritize environmental protection and sustainability becomes increasingly evident. Future ship engineers play a pivotal role in ensuring the maritime sector's compliance with stringent environmental regulations and the reduction of its ecological footprint. This scientific article presents an innovative interactive module designed to educate and engage future ship engineers in the vital area of environmental protection within the context of a Maritime English course. The module integrates cutting-edge pedagogical techniques, multimedia resources, and collaborative learning activities. The module's content is structured to cover crucial topics such as international environmental regulations, emissions control, ballast water management, and sustainable maritime practices. It fosters a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges facing the maritime industry and equips future ship engineers with the knowledge and skills necessary to address them effectively. The interactive nature of the module encourages active cadet participation through quizzes, case studies, discussions, and games. Additionally, it provides real-time feedback and assessment tools for teachers to gauge cadets' progress and comprehension. By utilizing Moodle's collaborative features, cadets can work together on group projects and exchange ideas with his groupmates. The results of this research demonstrate the module's effectiveness in enhancing cadets' environmental awareness, knowledge, and their ability to apply sustainable practices in their future careers as ship engineers. Furthermore, it highlights the potential for scalability and adaptation of this module to other educational contexts, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious maritime industry.
Green cruising: eco-friendly technologies on cruise ships
Authors: Melikjanyan Karina
Published: December 2024

Cruise lines are believed to be the world’s t worst polluters. Even though cruise ships represent only 1% of the global fleet, they have quite a big rate of black carbon emission according to the European Maritime Transport Report 2021. Besides CO2 emissions there are lots of other pollutants like sewage water, gray water, oily bilge water, hazardous and bio-wastes that impact the environment heavily. To overcome the challenge and improve passengers’ perception of the sector, the industry shifts the spotlight to responsible tourism and extensively invests in green technologies. The industry promises net zero carbon neutral cruising by 2050. However, some industry experts and NGOs still sound the alarm regarding not sufficient measures and activities to be taken to ensure eco-friendly tourism.The paper aims at analyzing the progress made by cruise society regarding responsible tourism, namely the effectiveness of green technologies on cruise ships to assess the sufficiency of the current activities. The results of the research provide useful information on tracking the results of the implementation of the intended goals and benchmarking of cruising sustainable development.
Transformación de los métodos de inventario forestal desde técnicas tradicionales hasta herramientas tecnológicas
Authors: Sarango-Ordóñez Jhandry Patricio
Published: December 2024

El presente artículo revisa la evolución de los métodos de inventario forestal, desde enfoques tradicionales hasta la integración de tecnologías avanzadas como LiDAR y drones. El objetivo es analizar cómo estos avances han mejorado la precisión y eficiencia en la gestión de los recursos forestales. La metodología consistió en una búsqueda de artículos científicos publicados entre 2019 y 2024 en la base de datos Scopus, seleccionando 117 documentos relevantes. Los resultados muestran que las tecnologías emergentes han permitido superar las limitaciones de los métodos tradicionales, especialmente en áreas de difícil acceso, pero enfrentan barreras económicas y de capacitación. A pesar de los altos costos iniciales, los beneficios a largo plazo, como la mejora en la precisión de los datos sobre biomasa y carbono, justifican su adopción. La discusión resalta que la implementación de estas tecnologías depende de políticas públicas que promuevan su uso, así como de la cooperación internacional para superar las limitaciones técnicas y financieras. En conclusión, el futuro de los inventarios forestales dependerá de la integración coherente de métodos tradicionales y tecnológicos, respaldada por inversiones en formación y tecnología, para asegurar la sostenibilidad de los bosques.
Microscopic and macroscopic features of 91 basal cell carcinoma patients, observed throughout a 2 year-period
Authors: Naie A. , Dumitru A. , Costache S. , Tampa M. , Matei C. , Georgescu S.-R. , Anghel R. , Costache M.
Published: December 2024

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequent skin malignancy, which has been linked over time to multifactorial causes of which the most important is prolong solar exposure. The study aims to find a link between certain age groups, sex and basal cell carcinoma subtypes, both on a microscopic and macroscopic level. The present paper relies on a group of 91 patients diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, whom were registered in the Bucharest University Emergency Hospital’s Pathological Anatomy laboratory database between March 2016, through Fabruary 2018. Values were extrapolated using Microsoft Office Excel 2013. Within certain age groups, it has been observed that basal cell carcinoma, almost regardless of subtype and patient sex, has a tendency of appearing on sun-exposed areas in people with fair skin. The nodular and ulcerated subtypes are the most common. Basal cell carcinoma is an important source of morbidity with a major impact in modern society requiring a better pathological understanding and a new approach regarding screening opportunities.
Patient satisfaction after treatment of Angle class II anomalies using the twin-block orthodontic appliance
Authors: Stana O. L. , Sava-Rosianu R. , Cosoroaba R. M. , Popovici R. A. , Berari A. , Pasca C. , Flueras R. , Lile I. E.
Published: December 2024

The study aims to demonstrate the efficacy of the Twin-Block device in addressing various dental issues, including overjet, overbite, mandibular retrognathism, and facial aesthetics in children. A sample of 64 patients from a clinic in Arad, comprising both treated and ongoing cases with Class II Angle dental anomalies, was examined. Exo- and endo-buccal assessments were conducted to identify functional, pathological, and physiognomy issues, followed by radiological examinations and custom Twin-Block appliances. Of the 64 patients, 39 were female and 25 were male, aged 7 to 14 years. Sixty patients completed treatment, while four discontinued due to non-compliance. All patients exhibited Angle class II malocclusion, with overjet ranging from 7 to 10 mm and overbite from 2/3 to 3/3. Cephalometric analysis revealed ANB angles between 5° and 9°, SNA angles between 83° and 85°, and SNB angles between 75° and 78°. Treatment duration varied, with 91% completing the active phase in 6-9 months, followed by maintenance (3-6 months) and retention (9 months) phases, totaling up to 18 months. In 9% of cases, treatment duration exceeded expectations by 2-5 months. Following treatment completion, 53 patients expressed high satisfaction, seven were satisfied, and four were dissatisfied due to non-compliance with Twin-Block device requirements.
FORECASTING THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE HOUSEHOLD FINAL CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE (HFCE) IN THE PHILIPPINES
Authors:   Accenture Inc., Bonifacio Global City, Uptown Tower 3, Taguig City 1637, Dasmariñas Andre Perry , De Castro Gweneth ,   Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa, Manila 1016, Lazona Bea Jane ,   AMI Risk Consultants Inc., Wilson St., Brgy. Maytunas, San Juan City 1500, Usona Laurence ,   Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa, Manila 1016
Published: December 2024

The Household Final Consumption Expenditure (HFCE) is a significant component of the Philippine economy. The term "HFCE" refers to families' spending on necessities such as food and drink, clothing, shelter, and health care. The gathered data from this study covers the country’s quarterly HFCE from 2001-2021. The study used various forecasting methods, including Triple Exponential Smoothing, Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA), and TBATS in modeling time series data to depict the effects of COVID-19 on the country’s HFCE Growth Rate. The best model to predict the quarterly HFCE growth rate from 2022 to 2026 was identified using error metrics, particularly RMSE, MSE, and MAE. The SARIMA model had the lowest combined error of the train and test set, marking it as the best model for predicting the HFCE growth rate. Moreover, the HFCE growth rate was also predicted using various machine learning regression algorithms (SVR, XGBoost, and kNN), with a variety of economic indicators as the independent variables, including the inflation rate, unemployment rate, import of goods growth rate, import of services growth rate, export of goods growth rate, and export of services growth rates. The results of error metrics showed that SVR was the best regression algorithm for predicting the Philippines’ quarterly HFCE Growth Rate. The findings of this study indicate that as COVID-19 spread over the country, the HFCE growth rate dramatically decreased. Therefore, models used to predict the HFCE growth rate over the next five years are significantly impacted using historical data, including the years when COVID-19 occurred.
INVESTIGATION ON THE EFFECTS OF RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGE QUALITY ATTRIBUTES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF CONVOLUTIONAL NEURAL NETWORKS (CNNS) IN DETECTING COVID-19
Authors:   Department of Physical Sciences, College of Science, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Mesuga Reymond , Pernes Cloyd Raymond ,   Department of Physical Sciences, College of Science, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Villacruz Luther ,   Department of Physics, School of Science and Engineering, Ateneo de Manila, Loyola Heights, Quezon City, Burgonio Mark Anthony ,   Cebu Cancer Institute, Perpetual Succour Hospital of Cebu, Inc., Cebu City 6000
Published: December 2024

Radiographic image quality is one of the factors that impacts professionals’ decisions when diagnosing lung diseases using X-ray images. Hence, poor radiographic image quality could result in a misleading diagnosis affecting the person being investigated. This is true in human vision, as well as the computer vision. This study investigated the effects of different radiographic image quality attributes (i.e., contrast, Gaussian blur, Gaussian noise, and salt-and-pepper noise) on the performance of various Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) models. We use COVID-19 x-ray data as an initiative to the pandemic, apply different radiographic image quality attributes, and test the performance of CNN models in the effects of the attributes in the classification task. The results showed the following: (i) increasing levels of experimented noises (i.e., Gaussian and salt-and-pepper noise) rapidly decreases the performance of the models with no sign of resiliency; (ii) decreasing contrast appears to be beneficial at some particular level (e.g., contrast factor = 3); and (iii) increasing Gaussian blur decreases the performance of models but less rapidly than that of noises. As a conclusion, increasing noise like Gaussian and salt-and-pepper noise can be considered as a hindrance to the performance of CNNs while decreasing contrast and increasing Gaussian blur seemed to be beneficial especially if applied for data augmentation or enhancement techniques as the performance of the CNNs were observed to be more resilient against these two attributes than that of noises.
Ali Reguigui (1958-2023)
Authors: Boissonneault Julie
Published: December 2024

Comme les jours, les années se suivent et, de temps à autre, elles charrient de déplorables ressemblances avec celles qui les ont devancées. Ce quinzième Cahier Charlevoix en procure un nouvel exemple, car il s’ouvre, comme le précédent, sur un hommage à un estimé confrère disparu : Ali Reguigui (1958-2023), décédé prématurément dans un accident de la route le 29 novembre 2023. Élu en 2015 au sixième fauteuil de la Société Charlevoix, il a publié entre 2016 et 2022 quatre articles dans notre collectif. Avec sa collègue et collaboratrice Julie Boissonneault, élue en même temps et rédactrice de son éloge, il apportait à notre confrérie un regard de linguiste et de phonéticien, contribuant à élargir le spectre de nos études sur l’Ontario français. Cet « homme de mots », d’un abord discret et toujours pertinent dans nos échanges, se passionnait pour la langue française de son pays d’adoption et s’employait « dans les coulisses universitaires » à la promouvoir et à la faire rayonner par tous les moyens à sa disposition. À notre réunion d’avril 2024, Ali Reguigui a été nommé membre émérite de notre société.
De quelques marqueurs discursifs chez les francophones du Nord-Est ontarien : valeurs, usages et différences intergénérationnelles
Authors: Boissonneault Julie
Published: December 2024

La cinquième étude de Julie Boissonneault donne suite à celle parue précédemment dans ces cahiers, où notre consoeur a examiné une dizaine de marqueurs utilisés à des fins grammaticales et à des fins pragmatiques dans le discours de francophones du Nord-Est ontarien. Cette analyse mettait en relief les changements intergénérationnels qui s’étaient opérés au fil du temps, soit par la progression de certains marqueurs anglais (so et like), soit par l’étiolement de certaines formes françaises (alors, (ça) fait que et en tout cas) ; elle avait aussi montré la prévalence de marqueurs de langue anglaise sur leurs homologues français (anyway/anyways), mais également celle de marqueurs de langue française sur leurs homologues anglais (comme et donc). Cette fois, en se penchant sur d’autres marqueurs discursifs – coudon, voyons, okay, d’accord, t’sais, vous savez, you know, disons et tiens – dans le discours de locuteurs du français habitant le même milieu, elle fait voir l’évolution des usages et en brosse un portrait intergénérationnel sur plus d’un siècle. Les analyses font aussi valoir la polysémie des marqueurs, qui revêtent une valeur autre que celle qu’admettent les catégories traditionnelles qu’enseigne l’école, en illustrant les valeurs que les informateurs leur accordent. Ce portrait analytique permet une plus grande appréciation de l’oralité et de sa richesse.
Défis contemporains en recherche interculturelle : regards de jeunes chercheuses et chercheurs
Authors: Rennie Clency , Oulahal Rachid , Bonvin Florie
Published: December 2024

Les travaux au sein de l’axe « Jeunes chercheuses et chercheurs de l’ARIC » nous ont permis l’organisation de symposiums lors du 18e et du 19e congrès international de l’ARIC, à partir desquels ce numéro spécial s’est construit. Le rappel de la diversité des sens donnés à la notion d’interculturel nous enjoint à faire oeuvre de clarté quant au registre auquel nous nous adressons et quant à la position épistémologique, éthique, voire politique dans laquelle nous nous situons comme chercheuses et chercheurs. La diversité des postures épistémologiques et des positionnements théoriques entraîne avec elle continuité, renouvellement et émergence de méthodologies visant à opérationnaliser ces différentes conceptions du monde afin d’appréhender et comprendre les enjeux de l’interculturel de notre époque. Ce numéro s’est aiinsi construit progressivement non pas sur un objet spécifique, mais plutôt à partir d’une invitation plus large à partager des réflexions d’ordres conceptuel, épistémologique et méthodologique, à partir des enjeux rencontrés dans l’élaboration d’un projet de recherche, qu’il soit doctoral ou non. La somme des articles ne prétend donc pas faire le tour d’un sujet particulier, mais constitue plutôt une « fenêtre » sur des questions rencontrées par de jeunes chercheuses et chercheurs dans des contextes de diversité culturelle.
Le processus analytique entre ouverture sur l’informe et quête de sens
Authors: Press Jacques
Published: December 2024

L’auteur défend l’idée que le sens n’est pas donné d’emblée, mais qu’il advient dans la cure à partir d’une ouverture sur l’informe (Winnicott), « anti-notion » pour lui essentielle, et grâce à la capacité du couple analytique de laisser l’espace nécessaire à son déploiement et à sa transformation. Il insiste sur l’importance des ratés de communication entre analysant et analyste, ratés qui suscitent chez ce dernier ce qu’il nomme à la suite de de M’Uzan un « dérangement », prélude nécessaire au changement. Il souligne combien il importe que l’analyste soit prêt à vivre ce dérangement en lui-même pour qu’il puisse éventuellement advenir chez l’analysant. À l’aide d’une vignette issue d’une supervision, l’auteur illustre ce processus, dont il met en évidence la dimension corporelle, qui prend souvent une première forme psychique à travers des signifiants formels (« ça bouge », « ça change », etc.). Il insiste enfin sur l’importance que revêt la capacité de l’analyste à « s’indifférencier » de son patient, cette indifférenciation seule permettant à certains moments cruciaux de saisir les enjeux et les visées d’une contrainte de répétition et/ou de modalités de défense à première vue mutilantes.
Les formes de l’expérience psychique. Une lecture de Freud revisitée
Authors: Reid Wilfrid
Published: December 2024

Le développement de la pratique analytique a mis en évidence la présence de nouveaux enjeux cliniques, en particulier la problématique de l’expérience subjective des formations psychiques. Dès lors, ont vu le jour de nouveaux modèles métapsychologiques portant sur la genèse et les destins des structures sous-jacentes au langage dans la cure, soit la représentation et l’affect. Ces nouveaux modèles ont modifié notre conception de la cure de parole. Dans ce nouveau cadre métapsychologique est apparue la nécessité d’un infléchissement des principaux paramètres de la méthode analytique.
Racines sensorielles et travail de l’image
Authors: Boucher Lorraine
Published: December 2024

Dans un prolongement des interrogations dont témoigne le présent ouvrage, l’auteure s’attarde plus particulièrement aux textes de Lasvergnas et Leclerc et les fait dialoguer. Elle évoque son expérience de médiation improvisée au coeur de son propre parcours analytique ainsi que l’enseignement de son travail avec les enfants. Un travail crucial aux racines du sens par le recours au sensoriel, notamment visuel chez l’analyste, vient relancer un travail stagnant de figurabilité et de symbolisation chez le sujet et lui permettre la découverte d’une vitalité nouvelle de la pensée dans son alliance avec l’hallucinatoire et la sensorialité.
Avant de savoir dire
Authors: Cliche Anne Élaine
Published: December 2024

Ce texte est une méditation sur l’écriture poétique à partir de l’expérience de l’écrivain, expérience qui consiste à capter ce qui, du cri à l’origine, est devenu chant, phrasé, rythme, phrase insécable, matière première du monde qui couvre la masse du vécu. En convoquant pour les décrire deux poétiques remarquables, celles de Pierre Guyotat et de Marie-Claire Blais, l’auteure montre qu’elles gardent les traces d’un combat pour faire entrer dans la parole ce qui n’a pas de mot pour se dire.
La frontière étatique, terme de l’aide humanitaire ? Une analyse du droit en action
Authors: Charaudeau Santomauro Bastien
Published: December 2024

Depuis la décision du Conseil constitutionnel français du 6 juillet 2018 sur la « fraternité », un acte humanitaire désintéressé est licite s’il est cantonné au territoire national et illicite s’il constitue une aide à l’entrée irrégulière sur ce territoire. C’est ainsi la frontière-ligne qui permet de déterminer la licéité d’un acte humanitaire. Cette survivance d’une catégorie de ligne frontalière interpelle en ce qu’elle contraste avec les analyses ayant démontré l’épaisseur et la mobilité de la frontière. Le présent article propose de prendre cette catégorie au sérieux en examinant à la fois la fonction qui lui est donnée dans le droit et les effets qu’elle produit une fois mise en oeuvre sur le terrain, à la frontière franco-italienne, vis-à-vis de la criminalisation des actes humanitaires. La méthode adoptée est celle de l’ethnographie juridique, qui consiste à considérer la technicité du droit tout en observant son opérationnalisation empirique. Cette approche permet d’exposer un double mécanisme lié à l’usage de la ligne frontalière. D’un côté, pour les aidants, la ligne se voit imposée comme une limite à ne pas franchir tandis que les dangers de la montagne sont indifférents à cette démarcation, ce qui remet en question le positionnement des bénévoles. De l’autre, par un certain usage de la procédure pénale, les acteurs de la criminalisation parviennent à reproduire l’épaisseur de la frontière pour sanctionner des actes réalisés dans l’espace frontalier même sans franchissement de frontière. Cela s’explique par l’ambiguïté pratique de la frontière qui neutralise la tentative des juges constitutionnels de protéger une liberté sur la base d’une distinction tenant sur une conception linéaire de la frontière.
Development and evaluation of remdesivir dry powder inhalation formulation by spray drying technique
Authors: Ratnaparkhi Mukesh Pandurang , Kulkarni Gajanan Madhukar , Salvankar Shailendra S. , Tekade Avinash Ramrao
Published: December 2024

Remdesivir is an antiviral drug that has broad activity against members of the filovirus, Coronaviruses, and paramyxovirus. After oral administration, it is highly metabolized in the liver resulting in low bioavailability. On the other hand, parenteral administration has systemic side effects. Therefore, in this study, an effort has been undertaken to develop the remdesivir mucoadhesive dry powder inhalation (DPI) formulation by spray drying technique targeting the lung for immediate onset of action and to reduce the side effects of remdesivir associated with parenteral administration. The feed solution was prepared by dissolving a sufficient amount of the drug with Lactose, Leucine, B-cyclodextrin, and a novel mucoadhesive agent (Samanea saman seed gum) at different concentrations in a solvent system of ethanol: water (50:50 v/v) with the help of sonication. After that spray drying process was performed employing a spray dryer. All DPI formulations showed a geometrical size ranging from 3 to 4.8 μm and a polydispersity index less than 0.5. The raw remdesivir showed rectangular-shaped particles, whereas the optimized DPI formulation showed irregular morphology with a rough exterior. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction study illustrated that the spray drying process changed the crystallinity of the drug as well as other excipients by converting them into the amorphous form. Thereby, increasing the solubility of remdesivir in DPI formulations by about 15–18 times higher than that of plain remdesivir. The amorphous form likely dissolves more quickly than the crystalline form due to stronger intermolecular forces in the crystal and its higher free energy. The drug content and drug release (at the end of 5 hours in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) with a constant temperature of 37°C ± 1°C) were found to be 89.73% ± 2.17% and 79.4% ± 2.2%, respectively. The optimal DPI formulation exhibited excellent aerodynamic performance with 43.583% fine particle fraction and 2.13 μm mass median aerodynamic diameter. Formulated DPI represented a promising strategy for administering remdesivir via the pulmonary route for localized action against pulmonary viral infections.
A Review of the Effect of Resistance Exercise on Development of Anaerobic and Balance Performance in Adolescent Footballers
Authors: Sinulingga Andrew Rinaldi , Pontaga Inese
Published: December 2024

Background: The resistance exercises underpin the strength and power development of muscle activation in adolescent footballers. Objective: The study purposed to review the effectiveness of different resistance exercise models on improving anaerobic and balance characteristics among young football players. Methods: A systematic search of Scopus, SPORT Discus, and the Web of Science was undertaken to identify the study content using a combination of searches related to resistance exercise, balance, and anaerobic performance. Titles and abstracts were used to search for keywords, and data were extracted using the subject characteristics, training intervention, measurement, and outcomes. Results: Fourteen studies were identified that investigated the effects of resistance programs on the anaerobic and balance characteristics. A combination of plyometric and regular football training significantly improved the anaerobic characteristics, and balance performance in young footballers. Based on high-quality evidence, anaerobic and balance performance enhancement appears after conducting resistance exercises for approximately eight weeks, with two to three sessions on alternate days a week. The volume consists of 2-3 sets per exercise, 6-12 repetitions per set, and intensity was classified as moderate to high, with one repetition maximum. Conclusion, Integrating resistance exercise into the regular training sessions improves the anaerobic performance of young footballers, such as jumping, sprinting, and changing direction, while improving balance ability, indicated by reducing the center of pressure area side-asymmetry and sway speed during unipedal and bipedal leg stance.
Comparative genomics analysis of the MYB gene family in barley: preliminary insights into evolution and biological function in Blue Qingke
Authors: Li Hongyan , Yao Youhua , Li Xin , Cui Yongmei , An Likun , Ding Baojun , Yao Xiaohua , Wu Kunlun
Published: December 2024

Background

The Myeloblastosis related (MYB) family is one of the most widely distributed transcription factor families in plants and plays a significant role in plant growth and development, hormone signal transduction, and stress response. There are many reports on MYB family species, but the research on Qingke is still limited.

Methods

This study used comparative genomics methods to analyze gene and protein structure, protein physicochemical properties, chromosome localization, and evolution. A bioinformatics approach was used to systematically analyze the HvMYB gene family. At the milk stage, soft dough stage, and mature stage, White and Blue Qingke grains were selected for RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), among which two proteins interacted (HvMYB and HvMYC). The expression of this gene family was analyzed through RNA-seq, and the expression levels of HvMYB and HvMYC in the grains of two different color varieties were analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Finally, the interaction between HvMYB and HvMYC was verified by bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) experiments.

Results

A total of 92 Qingke HvMYB genes were identified and analyzed, and 92 HvMYB proteins were classified into five categories. Cis-acting elements associated with abscisic acid response, light response, and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) response were found in the promoter regions of most MYB genes. Using qRT-PCR combined with RNA-seq analysis showed that MYB gene was highly expressed in the soft dough stage and was varietal specific. Subcellular localization indicated that HvMYB was located in the nucleus and cell membrane, HvMYC was located in the nucleus, cell membrane, and cytoplasm. Through BiFC analysis, it has been proven that HvMYB in the MYB family and HvMYC in the basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) family can interact. This study provides a preliminary theoretical basis for understanding the function and role of the Qingke MYB gene family and provides a reference for the molecular mechanism of Qingke gene evolution.
Loneliness and Health in Nurses: Scoping Review
Authors: Seo Hye Gyeong , Kim Suk-Sun
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study was a scoping review designed to identify research trends in loneliness and health targeting for domestic and foreign nurses. Methods: The methodological framework was based on a previous work by Arksey and O’Malley. The studies reviewed were found through electronic databases, such as RISS, PubMed, and CINAHL. The period of the data was from January 2000 to December 2021. Results: The 6 studies were reviewed. The loneliness of nurses was found to be experienced when the frequency of social interaction with leaders and colleagues was low, when missing camaraderie and sense of belonging, when work felt meaningless, and when social support level was low. Additionally, loneliness raised levels of depression, anxiety, and stress level while lowered well-being level, and that was shown to have harmful effects for health, such as burnout and fatigue. Also, it was found that loneliness lowered nurses’ job satisfaction and increased their turnover rate. Conclusion: Further development of nurses’ loneliness management program is needed. Also, it is suggested that the additional studies to verify causal relationship and mechanism between loneliness and health are required.
Effects of Career Anchors on Nursing Students’ Professional Self-concept and Work Values
Authors: Oh Jae Woo , Song Ji Ah
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study attempted to identify the extent of career anchors, professional self-concept, and work values among nursing students, as well as to provide a basis for developing educational programs to help nursing students make appropriate career decisions based on the results of the analysis of the relationship between professional self-concept and work values according to the type of career anchors. Methods: This descriptive survey study was conducted to determine the effect of career anchor type on nursing students' self-concept of the nursing profession and work values. The data collection period extended from December 1 to December 31, 2023, and the collected data were statistically analyzed using SPSS/WIN 25.0 program. Results: The results showed that technical/functional, service/commitment, and entrepreneur anchors had significant effects on nursing professional self-concept, with an explanatory power of 28.7%. The results showed that technical/functional, autonomy/independence, and service/ commitment anchors had significant effects on work values, with an explanatory power of 33.9%. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that career anchor types should be identified and customized educational programs should be developed for nursing students to develop positive professional self-concept and work values.
BIOTREND: integrando y poniendo en valor el monitoreo a largo plazo de la biodiversidad terrestre
Authors: García Maria Begoña , Miranda-Cebrián Héctor , Múgica Ane , Pizarro Manuel , González-Sastre Álvaro , Quintana-Buil Marta , Díaz-Gil Carlos , Martín-Rubio David , BIOTREND Consorcio , Martínez-Padilla Jesús
Published: December 2024

BIOTREND: integrando y poniendo en valor el monitoreo a largo plazo de la biodiversidad terrestre
Evaluation of Wavelet Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing Massive MIMO (W-OFDM mMIMO) for Enhancing Spectral and Energy Efficiencies in Digital Wireless Communication System
Authors: Yusuf Samson Dauda , Egbebi Lukman Femi , Loko Abdulmumini Zubairu
Published: December 2024

Research into cutting-edge systems that can satisfy the rising needs for greater data rate and increased reliability is becoming more and more necessary as wireless communication technologies continue to evolve. To enhance the spectral and energy efficiencies, this study examine the performance of massive multiple input multiple output (mMIMO) communication systems using wavelet-order orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (W-OFDM). Also, a communication system was created based on W-OFDM Massive MIMO using MATLAB to model its operation. The simulated system's various stages of operation was examined through detailed analysis and its performance was compare with prior studies and practical networks on OFDM. Key performance metrics, specifically the data throughput, was evaluated to assess the effectiveness and viability of the system. The simulation results indicates that W-OFDM can achieve up to 35% reduction in peak-to-average-power-ratio (PAPR) compared to the traditional OFDM, with a 20% improvement in BER performance under Rayleigh fading conditions. Also, the spectral efficiency of W-OFDM mMIMO outperforms convectional OFDM by 15%, making it a viable technology for future communication networks requiring high data rates and reliability. This implies that, the analytical evaluation confirms that W-OFDM mMIMO provides substantial benefits for improving energy and spectral efficiencies in wireless communication systems, addressing the challenges of increased user demands for high spectrum. This study contributes to the understanding of MIMO systems' performance optimization, highlighting the importance of antenna configuration and cell distance. Comprehensive analysis of spectral efficiency and energy efficiency trade-offs in MIMO systems and identification of optimal antenna configuration for maximum energy efficiency, addressing some of the challenges of future wireless communication systems.
The Impact of Cognitive Styles on Academic Program Satisfaction: A Correlational Study at Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
Authors: K. Mweti Jocelyn , Alice Anika A. , Sellah Lusweti
Published: December 2024

Choosing a university academic programme is an important task and a key defining moment in a learner’s career life. Besides, placement in a programme that matches one’s cognitive style is just as critical. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the cognitive styles of undergraduate students at Pwani University, Kenya. A correlational study design was applied in the study. The tool for data collection was a cognitive style and programme satisfaction (CS&PS) students’ questionnaire. The study’s target population comprised of 1,926 first and 1,671 third year undergraduate students. The study made use Krejcie and Morgan Sampling table to obtain a sample size of 351. Proportionate sampling was used to sample the respondents to represent schools, departments and gender. Test-retest procedure was run to enhance reliability and validity of the tool. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was calculated to determine the reliability of the piloted questionnaires. The content validity of the study instruments was ensured through expert review and pilot study. Data was analyzed using chi-square, Pearson correlation and regression analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study found that 54.9% of respondents were Field Independent (FI) learners, while 44.8% were Field Dependent (FD). Further, more female students (69.5%) had FD cognitive style while more male students (74.8%) had FI cognitive style. The study concluded that that there was a various (22.7%) cognitive style of undergraduate students’ at Pwani University. The study recommended that Pwani university management through academic mentorship programmes should encourage undergraduate students to identify their cognitive styles and the learning strategies to enhance their optimal performance. The study also recommends that lecturers should apply variety of teaching methodologies and resources in a bid to accommodate each individual learner’s cognitive style preferences during learning.
Intentions, Barriers and Attitudes towards Improving Postpartum Long-acting Reversible Contraceptive Usage among Pregnant Women in Urban Ghana
Authors: Salifu Torjim , Nuer-Allornuvor Gloria Francisca , Lasong Joseph
Published: December 2024

Aims: Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are the most effective reversible methods of contraception with a failure rate of less than 1%. Despite their safety and effectiveness, LARCs are underutilized. This study investigated postpartum LARC use intentions and suggestions to improve postpartum LARC usage among pregnant women seeking antenatal care services in a Ghanaian Urban municipality.
Study Design: A facility-based cross-sectional design.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the antenatal care unit of the Ashanti Regional Hospital in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana among 298 pregnant women from August to September, 2018.
Methodology: A systematic sampling technique was conducted. A 55-item questionnaire containing socio-demographic, reproductive, intention and attitude, barriers and contraceptive knowledge characteristics was used to gather responses. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was done using (IBM-SPSS version 22.0) to determine predictors of the women’s intention and attitude towards postpartum LARC use.
Results: Out of 298 pregnant women included for analysis, 33.9% had postpartum intentions to use LARCs. “I like implant for myself” (AOR=9.00, 95% CI: 4.75-17.05), “I like IUD for myself” (AOR=7.38, 95% CI: 2.93-18.58) and previous use of LARC (AOR=7.03, 95% CI: 2.41-20.52) were predictors of postpartum intentions to use LARC. Intensive education and “worried about the side effects” were the main recommendations and barriers to postpartum LARC usage respectively.
Conclusion: Postpartum intention to use LARC was minimal. I like implant for myself”, “I like IUD for myself” and previous use of LARC were associated with intentions to use LARC postpartum. Intensive education and “worried about the side effects” were the main recommendations and barriers to postpartum LARC usage respectively. Attitudinal change towards LARC use through intensive education, easy accessibility of LARC and religious body involvement is key to increase postpartum LARC usage in Ghana and clearing its myths and misconceptions could advance modern contraceptive usage.
Irrigation Management in Garlic Cultivars for Improved Yield and Water Efficiency under Zero Tillage Condition
Authors: Islam Md. Aktarul , Ali Md. Hossain , Rahman Mohammad Ashiqur , Hasanuzzaman Md. , Biswas Partha , Abir Syed Tanvin
Published: December 2024

The significant increase in the scarcity of water for farming and price rise of energy required to make water available for irrigation have made it essential to improve water efficiency of crops. Therefore, an experiment was conducted at the farmer’s field of Haybatpur and Chalan Beel (Gurudaspur) of Natore for two consecutive years to develop appropriate irrigation management practice for higher yield of garlic. The experiment consisted of four treatments: farmer’s irrigation practice (T1); Four irrigation frequency (1st: Irrigation @ 20-25 days after sowing (DAS) + 2nd to 4th Irrigation @23-26 days interval) (T2); Three irrigation frequency (1st: at 20-25 DAS + 2nd: at 45-46 DAS + 3rd: at 60 DAS) plus organic matter at basal dose @ 2kg decimal-1 (T3); Three irrigation frequency (1st: at 20-25 DAS + 2nd: at 45-46 DAS + 3rd: at 60 DAS) (T4). The cultivars used were Binarosun-1 (V1) and Italy hybrid (V2). The highest yield (12.1 t ha-1 and 12.5 t ha-1 at 2021 and 2022 respectively) as well as BCR was obtained in treatment T3. Treatments were set to increase the efficiency of water use by 25-40% than conventional practices. Based on the results, three times irrigation and organic matter addition as basal dose with zero tillage practice is suggested for sustained garlic production in Natore area.
Effect of Integrated Sources of Nutrients on Growth, Yield and Economics of Cowpea (Vigna unguculata L.) var Ankur Gomati
Authors: Sarkar Anirban , David Arun Alfred , Thomas Tarence
Published: December 2024

A field experiment was conducted in randomized block design with 7 treatments and 3 replications to study the effect of fertilizers, organic manures, biochar and crop residues on growth. yield and economics of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) in Inceptisols of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India in 2022. A research variety Ankur Gomati was taken for this research trial. Recommended doses of fertilizers (N, P2O5 and K2O @ 25, 75 and 60 kg ha-1) was applied with inorganic fertilizers (Zn and B), organic manures (FYM, vermicompost, neem cake and poultry manure), biochar and crop residues (rice straw and wheat straw). Growth parameters such as the maximum plant height 46.96 cm, 70.21 cm and 92.22 cm, maximum number of branch plant-1 5.82, 7.56 and 9.79, highest number of leaf plant-1 28.32, 30.56 and 32.22, highest length of leaf as 5.37 cm, 7.31 cm and 9.18 cm were recorded in T7 [RDF + Poultry Manure @2 t ha-1 + Biochar @2.5 t ha-1 + Vermicompost @2 t ha-1 + Neem Cake @500 kg ha-1] at 30 DAS, 55 DAS and 70 DAS respectively. And yield parameters such as high pod length as 21.72 cm and 20.01 cm, highest number of pods plant-1 35.52 and 35.75, highest number of seed pod-1 10.01 and 10.21 and highest test weight 27.12 g and 26.23 g were recorded in T7 [RDF + Poultry Manure @2 t ha-1 + Biochar @2.5 t ha-1 + Vermicompost @2 t ha-1+ Neem Cake @500 kg ha-1] at 55 DAS and 70 DAS respectively. Highest yield 160.12 q ha-1 were obtained in treatment T7 [RDF + Poultry Manure @2 t ha-1 + Biochar @2.5 t ha-1 + Vermicompost @2 t ha-1+ Neem Cake @500 kg ha-1]. Maximum gross return ₹ 2,41,680 was recorded in treatment T7 [RDF + Poultry Manure @2 t ha-1 + Biochar @2.5 t ha-1 + Vermicompost @2 t ha-1+ Neem Cake @500 kg ha-1]. Maximum B:C ratio (2.80) was recorded in T4 [RDF + Vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 + Rice Straw @ 6 t ha-1]. But maximum net return (₹ 1,47,624.1) was recorded in treatment T4 [RDF + Vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 + Rice Straw @ 6 t ha-1]. The yield and growth parameters also significantly increased with the application of the combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers.
Performance of Tecomella undulata (Desert Teak) Stump Planting Over Seedling for Growth and Straightness under Arid Condition
Authors: N V Saresh , Godara A S , Kumar Dileep , Meena D , Bijarniya A. L. , Kumar Yogesh , Yadav M K
Published: December 2024

Tecomella undulata (Rohida) stump planting and seedlings had shown 100 percent survival during the study period. Stump plants exhibited enhance growth parameters over seedling originated plants. Treatment T4 showed best growth performance in terms of plants’ height, collar diameter, number of leaves and sprout density, with 44% and 54% higher growth in height and collar diameter than seedlings after two years of planting. As per the modified visual method of assessing straightness, higher stem straightness was obtained in T4 (0.56m) and T3 (0.40m) which had 77% and 66 % stem straightness, and score of 6 & 5 which plunge under A grade category. Whereas, T2 and T1 (0.33m & 0.23m) had 48 and 32% stem straightness percent with a score of 4, 3 and 2, which comes under B & C grades. From the study it was a clearly found that stump plantings treatment T4-(>8-9mm thickness (pen/pencil-sized), with 20-25cm stump plants (2-5cm stem and 15-20cm tap root) was found to have achieved enhanced growth compared to seedling plants.
Impact of the Acupuncture on Performance, and Physiological Markers of Athletes: A Crossover Control Trial
Authors: Pernambuco Carlos Soares , Valentim-Silva João Rafael , Bittencourt Edsel , Filho Carlos Alberto Souza , Jesus Vinicius do Espírito Santo de , Cardoso Leandra Silva , Regazzi Isabel Cristina , Silva Fábio Nascimento da , Ribeiro Domingos Edno Castro , Bezerra Jani Cleria Pereira , Campos Conceição Aparecida Machado de Souza , Vale Rodrigo Gomes de Souza
Published: December 2024

Background: In recent years, interest has grown in complementary therapies to support athletic performance and recovery, with acupuncture showing potential to influence physiological responses during high-intensity exercise. Traditionally applied for pain management and stress reduction, acupuncture’s effects on exercise-related factors, such as perceived exertion, lactate levels, and heart rate, remain less examined. This study explores the immediate impact of acupuncture on physical performance and perceived exertion in amateur athletes, aiming to provide initial insights into its possible role as a supportive tool in sports training contexts.
Aims: To determine the acute effects of acupuncture on physical performance and perceived exertion in amateur athletes.
Methodology: A crossover and quantitative study was proposed. The sample was acquired at Estácio de Sá University, Cabo Frio, Rio de Janeiro, between April and May 2020. Fifteen competitive males engaged in HIIT (31.61 ± 7.02 years old; heart rate reserve: 59.71 ± 4.10; lactate: 3.31 ± 0.63 mM/DL) were subjected to two exercise sessions. Both sessions were performed at an intensity of 85-95% of maximum heart rate. Acupuncture points used: ST36, LI4, LI11, LR3. Lactate, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and perceived exertion were assessed immediately after the exercise challenge, with or without acupuncture pre-conditioning. The Student’s t-test and Shapiro-Wilk test were applied for statistical analysis, with Pearson correlation tests conducted. A significance level of 5% was used.
Results: A significant reduction in perceived exertion was observed after acupuncture (PES1: 19.4 ± 1.14; PES2: 16.8 ± 0.84; p = 0.001). Acupuncture also led to higher lactate accumulation and heart rate during the session.
Conclusion: Acupuncture improved lactate clearance and reduced perceived exertion, suggesting it may be a useful intervention to enhance athletic performance. Limitations include the small sample size and the absence of direct VO2 max measurement.