bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A whole food, plant-based diet reduces amino acid levels in patients with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Scales TashJaé Q. , Smith Bradley , Blanchard Lisa M. , Wixom Nellie , Tuttle Emily T. , Altman Brian J. , Peppone Luke J. , Munger Joshua , Campbell Thomas M. , Campbell Erin K. , Harris Isaac S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Amino acids are critical to tumor survival. Tumors can acquire amino acids from the surrounding microenvironment, including the serum. Limiting dietary amino acids is suggested to influence their serum levels. Further, a plant-based diet is reported to contain fewer amino acids than an animal-based diet. The extent to which a plant-based diet lowers the serum levels of amino acids in patients with cancer is unclear.

Methods

Patients with metastatic breast cancer (n = 17) were enrolled in a clinical trial with an ad libitum whole food, plant-based diet for 8 weeks without calorie or portion restriction. Dietary changes by participants were monitored using a three-day food record. Serum was collected from participants at baseline and 8 weeks. Food records and serum were analyzed for metabolic changes.

Results

We found that a whole food, plant-based diet resulted in a lower intake of calories, fat, and amino acids and higher levels of fiber. Additionally, body weight, serum insulin, and IGF were reduced in participants. The diet contained lower levels of essential and non-essential amino acids, except for arginine (glutamine and asparagine were not measured). Importantly, the lowered dietary intake of amino acids translated to reduced serum levels of amino acids in participants (5/9 essential amino acids; 4/11 non-essential amino acids).

Conclusions

These findings provide a tractable approach to limiting amino acid levels in persons with cancer. This data lays a foundation for studying the relationship between amino acids in patients and tumor progression. Further, a whole-food, plant-based diet has the potential to synergize with cancer therapies that exploit metabolic vulnerabilities.

Trial registration

The clinical trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03045289 on 2017–02-07.
A protocol and analysis of year-long simulations of global storm-resolving models and beyond
Authors: Takasuka Daisuke , Satoh Masaki , Miyakawa Tomoki , Kodama Chihiro , Klocke Daniel , Stevens Bjorn , Vidale Pier Luigi , Terai Christopher R.
Published: December 2024

We propose a protocol to evaluate and analyze year-long simulations of global storm-resolving models (GSRMs). The proposed protocol complements an earlier 40-day simulation protocol under the DYAMOND (DYnamics of the Atmospheric general circulation Modeled On Non-hydrostatic Domains) project to allow the analysis of the seasonal cycle and associated climatic relevant phenomena. This intercomparison aims to reveal how GSRMs, which can simulate mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) in the global domain, reproduce atmospheric large-scale structures related to convection beyond month-long simulations. The intercomparison for one-year simulations is conducted by either atmosphere-only models or atmosphere–ocean coupled models with atmospheric horizontal mesh sizes less than 5 km. We recommend the continuous four seasons from March 2020 to February 2021 as a target period for the intercomparison but with options for many groups to join more flexibly. The output variables are collected at 0.25° resolution, and archives of a small set of native grid variables are encouraged to analyze tropical cyclones and MCSs. Through the proposed global storm-resolving simulation, we will evaluate the climatological distributions of the atmospheric large-scale circulations, such as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), monsoon, midlatitude jets, their time evolution, and the upscale impacts on them. We present sample analyses from a one-year simulation using the 3.5 km mesh Nonhydrostatic Icosahedral Atmospheric Model (NICAM), revealing the realistic zonal contrast of tropical precipitation, no double ITCZ structure, the reasonable midlatitude jet position and intensity but a weak bias of storm track activities, and a warm bias over the Eurasia during boreal winter. We also clarify the cross-scale interaction, such as the effects of cold pools on mean precipitation over the Maritime Continent through the precipitation diurnal cycle and the effects of resolved gravity waves on midlatitude mean flows. The proposed one-year simulation protocol is referred to as the “Sendai Protocol.” This protocol is not unique or definite for evaluating GSRMs; we prospect a hierarchical set of experiments from short-term to multi-year simulations as GSRM intercomparisons.
Lack of canonical activities of connexins in highly aggressive human prostate cancer cells
Authors: Asencio Catalina , Véliz Loreto , Flores-Faúndez Emilia , Azócar Lorena , Echeverría Carolina E. , Torres-Estay Verónica , Orellana Viviana , Ramírez-Santelices Catalina , Sotomayor Paula , Cancino Jorge , Kerr Bredford , Fernandez-Olivares Ainoa , Retamal Mauricio A. , Sáez Juan C. , Godoy Alejandro S.
Published: December 2024

Connexins (Cxs) have the ability to form channels that allow the exchange of ions/metabolites between adjacent cells (gap junction channels, GJC) or between the intra- and extra-cellular compartments (hemichannels, HC). Cxs were initially classified as tumor suppressors. However, more recently, it has been shown that Cxs exert anti- and pro-tumorigenic effects depending on the cell and tissue context. In prostate cancer (PCa), the expression and functionality of Cxs remain highly controversial. Here, we analyzed the expression pattern of Cx26, Cx32, Cx37, Cx40, Cx43 and Cx45 in PCa cell lines with increasing levels of tumor aggressiveness (LNCaP < LNCaP-C4-2 < Du-145 < PC-3). In addition, GJ and HC activities were evaluated in the PCa cell lines using dye coupling and dye uptake assays, respectively. Lastly, the cellular localization of Cx26, Cx32, and Cx43 was analyzed in LNCaP and PC-3 cell lines using immunofluorescence analyses. Our results showed a positive association between the mRNA levels of Cx26, Cx37 and Cx45 and the degree of aggressiveness of PCa cells, a negative association in the case of Cx32 and Cx43, and no clear pattern for Cx40. At the protein level, a negative relationship between the expression of Cx26, Cx32 and Cx43 and the degree of aggressiveness of PCa cell lines was observed. No significant differences were observed for the expression of Cx37, Cx40, and Cx45 in PCa cell lines. At the functional level, only LNCaP cells showed moderate GJ activity and LNCaP and LNCaP-C4-2 cells showed HC activity. Immunofluorescence analyses confirmed that the majority of Cx26, Cx32, and Cx43 expression was localized in the cytoplasm of both LNCaP and PC3 cell lines. This data indicated that GJ and HC activities were moderately detected only in the less aggressive PCa cells, which suggest that Cxs expression in highly aggressive PCa cells could be associated to channel-independent roles.
Comparison of continuous subcutaneous hydromorphone hydrochloride and morphine hydrochloride injection on skin disorders incidence: a retrospective study
Authors: Tanaka Rei , Hashizume Takahiro , Hisanaga Tadashi , Masuda Shinya , Sato Junya , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Tanaka Hironori , Saitoh Akiyoshi , Sato Tetsumi , Kamoshida Takeshi , Sato Tetsu , Shino Michihiro
Published: December 2024

Background

Continuous subcutaneous administration of injectable opioids is simple and effective; however, skin disorders may occur when high opioid dosages are used. Therefore, we investigated opioid injection drugs with a low risk of skin disorders.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted using the electronic medical records of patients prescribed 1% hydromorphone hydrochloride or 4% morphine hydrochloride with instructions for continuous subcutaneous administration at Shizuoka Cancer Center from January 2017 to December 2021. The primary endpoint was skin disorders incidence, and the two groups were compared using Cox proportional hazards model analyses and Fisher’s exact test at 5% significance level. Patient background factors expected to influence skin disorders were also investigated, and multivariate logistic analysis of skin disorders incidence was performed.

Results

The incidence of skin disorders in the hydromorphone hydrochloride and morphine hydrochloride groups were 3.7% (1/27 patients) and 28.1% (9/32 patients), respectively, showing a significant difference in two statistical analyses between the two groups (Cox proportional hazards model analyses HR: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01–0.70, P = 0.022. Fisher’s exact test OR: 0.10, 95% CI: 0.01–0.84, P = 0.016). In the multivariate analysis, the administration of hydromorphone hydrochloride (OR: 0.04, 95% CI: 0.003–0.48, P = 0.012) was also found to have a significant negative correlation with the occurrence of skin disorders. On the contrary, administration period ≥ 28 days (OR: 18.16, 95% CI: 2.22–148.60, P = 0.007) was a factor with a significant positive correlation.

Conclusions

Subcutaneous 1% hydromorphone hydrochloride administration had a lower risk of skin disorders than 4% morphine hydrochloride injection. Moreover, prolonging the administration period increased the risk of developing skin disorders. This suggests that a 1% hydromorphone hydrochloride Injection is a good clinical decision for patients who are likely to have a longer administration period and require a higher dosage of injectable opioids.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered.
Science teachers’ perspectives and prior practices for science centre visit: strategies development
Authors: Gumede Lungile Philisiwe , Photo Patricia
Published: December 2024

In ongoing science education, utilising informal learning environments such as science centres has emerged as a crucial strategy to enhance learners’ engagement and understanding of complex scientific concepts. However, despite their evident benefits, out-of-school learning environments often fail to produce lasting improvements in learners’ understanding of scientific concepts, largely due to inadequate integration with classroom teaching and a lack of strategic planning. This qualitative study, grounded in a moderate constructivist framework, investigates the perspectives of high school science teachers regarding the significant influence and strategic optimization of science centre visits. Through interviews and document analysis, informed by thematic analysis methodology, the study examines teachers’ perceptions and their prior practices when visiting the science centre. Teachers articulate a compelling narrative of how science centre visits serve as catalysts for active, experiential learning, and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Furthermore, the study identifies and describes five strategic imperatives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of science centre visits in science education. These imperatives encompass pre-visit curriculum integration, differentiated learning activities, teacher-led guided exploration, parental involvement, and continuous evaluation and improvement. Grounded in constructivist principles and contemporary educational theories, these strategies offer an inclusive framework to enrich learners’ learning experiences, cultivate their scientific curiosity, and foster a profound and enduring appreciation for the details of science. These findings highlight how crucial it is for teachers to have access to continual professional development opportunities and institutional support to enable them to fully utilise the pedagogical potential of science centre visits in science curricula.
The performance of different prognostic scores in cirrhotic patients admitted to intensive care unit
Authors: Ahmed Nancy A. , Gouda Tarek E. , Hasan Ahmad S. , Elsaeed Aya E. , Atalla Hassan
Published: December 2024

Background and aim

Critically ill cirrhotic patients exhibit high in-hospital mortality and require substantial healthcare resources, including multiorgan support. Egypt has the highest age-standardized death rate from cirrhosis worldwide. This study aimed to compare the performance and accuracy of different prognostic scores for mortality prediction, including Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD), MELD with serum sodium incorporation (MELD-Na), Royal Free Hospital (RFH), as well as general intensive care unit (ICU) prognostic models, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II), and Chronic liver failure -sequential organ failure assessment (CLIF-SOFA), in cirrhotic patients admitted to an ICU in an Egyptian tertiary facility.

Patients and methods

This prospective observational study included ninety patients admitted to the ICU between July 2021 and June 2022. All patients underwent clinical assessment with the estimation of all included scores within the first 24 h of admission, alongside basic laboratory and radiological investigations.

Results

Mortality occurred in 56.7% (n = 51) of the patients. Non-survivors exhibited statistically significantly higher APACHE II, CLIF-SOFA, RFH, and CTP scores but lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) than survivors. However, no statistically significant difference was found regarding the performance of the scoring systems. At cut-off levels > 20 for APACHE II and > 46 for CLIF-SOFA, these scores were the most independent predictors of in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions

While CTP, MELD, and MELD-Na scores demonstrated satisfactory performance in critically ill cirrhotic patients, APACHE II and CLIF-SOFA scores were superior in predicting short-term mortality in this patient population.
Genetic diversity of hepatitis delta virus in Afghanistan: insights from complete genome analysis
Authors: Husseini Abbas Ali
Published: December 2024

Background

A significant gap exists in the comprehensive genomic characterization of hepatitis delta virus in Afghanistan. Therefore, the primary aim of this investigation is to elucidate the molecular profile of the complete genome of HDV circulated among general population of Afghanistan.

Methods

Four serologically positive samples for anti-delta antibody were confirmed via real-time polymerase chain reaction and subjected to entire genome amplification using two sets of primers to generate partially overlapping segments, which were subsequently sequenced. Phylogenetic and evolutionary divergence analysis were conducted using the MEGA7 software package.

Results

Ultimately, the whole genomes of four HDV isolates from Afghanistan were assigned to genotype I. The amino acid composition of the hepatitis delta antigen and its functional motifs were consistent with genotype I. However, the subtype-specific amino acid signature revealed potential differences in subtypes.

Conclusion

Genotype I is the most common HDV genotype in analyzed samples, with potential subtype heterogeneity and no significant functional impact from HDAg variations.
Test–retest reliability and validity in lower limb proprioception tests using image capture technique in healthy adults
Authors: Takahashi Aisuke , Kawana Hikaru , Furukawa Katsuhiro
Published: December 2024

Background

Proprioceptive assessments in clinical practice remain confined to ordinal scales, with a lack of ratio scales. Quantitative proprioception assessments such as threshold to detect passive motion (TDPM) and joint position sense (JPS) help determine the severity of functional impairments and evaluate treatment efficacy. However, their clinical introduction remains challenging due to the extensive and costly equipment required for their measurement.

Purpose

To investigate the test–retest reliability and validity in the simplified TDPM and JPS using 14 image capture techniques in targeting hip, knee, and ankle joints.

Methods

This study included 16 volunteers. The measurements were conducted in individual rehabilitation rooms located within the wards of our hospital. Examiners measured a total of 12 TDPM and JPS, including hip, knee, and ankle joints, each performed three times. Moreover, the multi-joint TDPM, distinguished into lower limb flexion and extension patterns, was additionally performed. These measurements were repeated 1 week later. In statistical analysis, the test–retest reliability and construct validity were evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients.

Results

The TDPM, multi-joint TDPM, and JPS (variable data; VE) demonstrated moderate reliability across all tested movement directions (TDPM: ICC 0.52–0.70, limits of agreement [LOA] < 10°; multi-joint TDPM: ICC 0.64–0.73, LOA < 10°; JPS: ICC 0.55–0.78, LOA < 10°). No significant correlation was observed between these tests.

Conclusions

TDPM and JPS using image capture techniques can reliably measure proprioception and serve as independent tests to evaluate different aspects of proprioception. These findings contribute to future studies aimed at introducing quantitative proprioception tests into clinical practice and facilitating clinical decision-making for rehabilitation targeting proprioceptive impairment.
Implementation of Universal Germline Genetic Testing Into Standard of Care for Patients With Prostate Cancer: The Time Is Now
Authors: Shore Neal , Nielsen Sarah M. , Esplin Edward D. , Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Barata Pedro C. , Beer Tomasz M. , Beltran Himisha , Bryce Alan , Cookson Michael S. , Crawford E. David , Dorff Tanya B. , George Daniel J. , Heath Elisabeth I. , Helfand Brian T. , Hussain Maha , Mckay Rana R. , Morgans Alicia K. , Morris Michael J. , Paller Channing J. , Ross Ashley E. , Sartor Oliver , Shen John , Sieber Paul , Smith Matthew R. , Wise David R. , Armstrong Andrew J.
Published: December 2024

Indications for and implications of germline genetic testing (GGT) in patients with prostate cancer have expanded over the past decade, particularly related to precision therapies and management. GGT has become the standard of care for many cancers such as breast, ovarian, colorectal, pancreatic, and metastatic prostate cancer, and it is imperative that patients be offered timely and equitable access to testing as it can inform patient-physician shared decision making for management of the current cancer as well as anticipatory guidance for disease progression. Additionally, GGT guides screening for and prevention of secondary malignancies for the patient and cascade testing for at-risk family members. Here, we present data supporting the notion that clinicians should offer all patients with prostate cancer the opportunity to undergo comprehensive GGT for pathogenic germline variants known to be associated with familial cancer and/or known to have implications for treatment and management.
Anti-correlation network among China A-shares
Authors: Liu Peng
Published: December 2024

The correlation-based financial networks are studied intensively. However, previous studies ignored the importance of the anti-correlation. This paper is the first to consider the anti-correlation and positive correlation separately, and accordingly to construct the weighted temporal anti-correlation and positive correlation networks among stocks listed in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges. For both types of networks during the first 24 years of this century, fundamental topological measurements are analyzed systematically. This paper unveils some essential differences in these topological measurements between the anti-correlation and positive correlation networks. It also observes an asymmetry effect between the stock market decline and rise. The methodology proposed in this paper has the potential to reveal significant differences in the topological structure and dynamics of a complex financial system, stock behavior, investment portfolios, and risk management, offering insights that are not visible when all correlations are considered together. More importantly, this paper proposes a new direction for studying complex systems: the anti-correlation network. It is well worth reexamining previous relevant studies using this new methodology.
Okinawa Agriculture and the Sterile Insect Technique
Authors: Mizuno Hiromi
Published: December 2024

Bitter melon is a popular gourd vegetable native to Okinawa in Japan. However, because of the melon fly, a very damaging pest on the quarantine list, bitter melon could not be sold in mainland Japan until the fly was eradicated from Okinawa Prefecture in 1993 by using the nuclear-derived sterile insect technique (SIT). This essay examines the SIT project in Okinawa that began in 1972 when the United States returned Okinawa to Japan. The twenty-year-long project required the irradiation and release of fifty-three billion melon flies. Its success helped Okinawa's troubled agricultural sector and made theoretical contributions to the SIT with sophisticated models to gauge the sexual competitiveness of sterile flies. Commemorative publications and scientific reports, however, are silent about Okinawa's status as a US military-base island. Rather than seeing the SIT as the solution to the pest problem, this article situates Okinawan agriculture and the SIT project in the deeper context of colonialism, overdependence on pesticides, and the nuclearization of Japan, by taking seriously the fact that the entomologist who led the project felt profound ambivalence toward “peaceful” atomic technology.
In Pursuit of “Man-Made Evolution”
Authors: Patil Kapil
Published: December 2024

The use of radiation techniques in agriculture held great promise in postcolonial India's quest to put agriculture on a “scientific basis.” Unpacking its epistemic debates, and the dynamics of international technical assistance, this article contends that the pursuit of atomic agriculture constituted a dominant sociotechnical imaginary among Indian elites to modernize the country's traditional agrarian system. Inducing desirable changes in crops via irradiation occurred against the backdrop of Cold War competition among great powers to woo developing countries through technical aid and assistance, coupled with New Delhi's imperative to become self-sufficient in food-grain production. For Indian scientific elites, the possibility of “man-made evolution” through radiation-induced mutations was institutionally promising. Indian scientists became the standard-bearers of atomic agriculture in the developing world through the effective use of “mutation breeding” as a “complementary” crop improvement technique. However, global epistemic and organizational divides often cast a shadow on the utility of nuclear techniques for India's food sufficiency needs. The use of radiation techniques also became contentious for eclipsing alternate policy pathways in India's agriculture and food systems. India's tryst with atomic agriculture nonetheless embodied its combined desire to attain scientific modernity, strategic autonomy, and self-reliance in food production.
Atomic Spaghetti”
Authors: Cassata Francesco
Published: December 2024

Established in 1960 near Rome and supported by the US Atomic Energy Commission and the International Atomic Energy Agency, the Casaccia Center for Nuclear Studies played a fundamental role in transforming what became known as “mutation breeding” from an uncertain set of technologies into a robust area of research and development at both the national and international levels. At the time, there was a struggle for authority over plant breeding between the advocates of using nuclear energy and those advocating more cost-effective methods such as pedigree selection or hybridization. The Casaccia Center strategically implemented a research program based on two crucial elements: first, the use of the “gamma field,” a circular area with a retractable gamma-ray source in the middle, where growing plants could be exposed to chronic irradiation; and second, the launch of a broad mutation breeding program of durum wheat, typically used for pasta making. Drawing from a variety of archival sources, this article shows how both programs were instrumental in legitimizing and bolstering the use of the “peaceful atom” in agriculture on a national and global scale.
Diet-induced plasticity modifies relationships between larval growth rate and post-metamorphic behavior and physiology in spadefoot toads
Authors: Shephard Alexander M. , Jacobsen Sydney , Ledón-Rettig Cristina C.
Published: December 2024

It has frequently been hypothesized that among-individual variation in behavior and physiology will correlate with life history traits, yet the nature of these correlations can vary. Such variability may arise from plasticity in trait development, which can amplify or attenuate trait correlations across different environments. Using the Mexican spadefoot toad (Spea multiplicata), we tested whether relationships between larval growth rate and post-metamorphic behavior or physiology are influenced by a key mediator of developmental plasticity: larval diet type. Spea multiplicata larvae develop on two alternative diets, with slower growing omnivores feeding on detritus and faster growing carnivores consuming live fairy shrimp. We found that correlations between larval growth rate and post-metamorphic behavior and physiology differed by diet type. Among detritus feeders, faster growing larvae developed into juvenile frogs that were not only bolder but also had higher hypothalamic–pituitary–interrenal axis reactivity (an indicator of stress responsiveness) and longer telomeres, suggesting greater somatic maintenance. In contrast, among shrimp feeders – which exhibited faster growth overall – larval growth rate was less strongly correlated with juvenile behavior and physiology, indicating that a shift from omnivory to carnivory can attenuate trait correlations among individuals. Overall, our study suggests that developmental plasticity induced by different diet types can modify relationships between life history traits and individual behavior or physiology.
Inter-observer reliability of Kinovea® software in dynamic foot posture analysis in healthy population
Authors: Anestherita Fitri , Averrouza Hasbiandra Rifqi , Kusumaningsih Widjajalaksmi , Lakmudin Alvin , Handoko Harrison
Published: December 2024

Background Dynamic foot posture assessment is essential to determine the pathomechanics of the foot during walking. Currently, there is no affordable method for assessing dynamic foot posture that can be used in a clinical setting. Kinovea, an open-access video analysis-free application, has enabled clinicians to conduct gait analysis at a relatively low cost, but its reliability in assessing dynamic foot posture has not been studied. Methods 32 observations were recorded from various angles throughout the gait cycle, each at varying speeds, and analyzed using Kinovea. Two independent examiners conducted observations to measure the medial longitudinal arch (MLA), first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP 1), ankle inclination (AI), and calcaneal angle (CA). A third examiner was tasked with comparing the results of intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) between the two examiners. Result The inter-rater reliability showed promising results despite the observations made at 2, 3, and 4 km/h. MLA and MTP 1 observations remained “excellent” at all speeds, while AI and CA had “good” reliability among observers at 2, 3 and 4 kmph, apart from 4 kmph where AI showed “excellent” reliability. Conclusion In this study, Kinovea showed good and excellent reliability among observers in measuring the MLA, MTP 1, AI, and CA at various speeds, therefore, being a suitable alternative to a 3D motion analyzer which may not be readily available in certain facilities.
Features of the selection of members of the expert group for the analysis of the functioning of a complex organizational system of law enforcement agencies
Authors: Sumin Viktor , Dubrovin Anatoly , Kushcheva I.
Published: December 2024

This article discusses the optimization of the educational process of training specialists of law enforcement agencies by analyzing the functioning of specialized universities, which are complex organizational systems of law enforcement agencies. Objective and subjective parameters that affect the final result are highlighted. It is proposed to improve the quality of the final training of cadets by managing the study group based on comprehensive monitoring with subsequent expert research for effective management decision-making. The features of the approach used in the selection of mem-bers of the expert group are considered. It is proposed to use the "snowball" method when forming the members of the expert group, which is based on an iterative process of as-sembling experts by selecting them from a number of appli-cants, based on the methodology presented in the work. The group is considered to be formed either when the number of members reaches the maximum value determined by regula-tions in a particular case, or when the set of applicants has been exhausted, which is manifested by the absence of new possible options in the sample. The quantitative assessment of the level of professionalism of the members of the expert group was determined on the basis of relative competence coefficients, and the ranking of experts by the level of agreement between them was based on the determination of the variance and entropy coefficients of concordance
Transforming Employee Training Requirements in the Era of Digitalization: the Priority of Flexible Skills
Authors: Zhivaeva K. , Polozhentseva I.
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the analysis of skills that employers pay close attention to when hiring employees at the present time. The article presents the results of a study of the requirements for vacancies of business coaches and managers who are engaged in training and developing employee competencies, using the example of large and medium-sized Russian and international companies operating in the Russian market. The analysis revealed the special attention of employers to the functional responsibilities of such specialists, who now, in addition to developing basic professional competencies of personnel such as sales, negotiations, project management, product knowledge, managerial efficiency, etc., also need to develop soft skills among employees of different levels and fields of activity. The results of the conducted research can be used in the development and implementation of additional professional educational programs aimed at professional training of employees for the modern labor market.
Psychological Preparation for School Education of Senior Preschoolers with Speech Disorders Using Mindfulness Methods
Authors: Potylicina V.
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the problem of preparing older preschool children with speech disorders for school. It presents the results of an empirical study of children's memory, primarily the amount of information that a child can remember; the ability of a preschooler to synthesize, compare and analyze the information received; and of course the ability to build cause-and-effect relationships. The results of the level of memory and thinking of children before the application of a special training program are presented. The principles of the program for preparing children for school with the help of mindfulness techniques are outlined. There are also changes in skills after the completed program of psychological correction of the readiness of older preschoolers with speech disorders to study at school.
The Impact of Probiotic Supplementation on Sports Achievement - Literature Review
Authors: Basiak Aneta , Suława Adrian , Fedorowicz Sebastian , Targoński Oskar , Targońska Marta , Furgalska Julia , Ptasiński Aleksander , Niekurzak Rafał , Buczek Agnieszka
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION: According to the official definition provided by the Expert Consultation of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization (FAO/WHO), probiotics are "Live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”. Currently, science focuses on understanding the physiological and metabolic mechanisms occurring during intense physical activity. Research has begun on supporting the intestinal microbiome to achieve better results in sports. 
PURPOSE  OF  THE  WORK: This work aims to present interesting research on the potential role of probiotics in athletes. It illustrates how probiotics act on the body through many different mechanisms, which result in what is most important: homeostasis. The main intention is to demonstrate the potential power of probiotics, which will allow us to compose personal probiotics to achieve better results in sports in the future thanks to the design of personalized probiotics.  
DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF KNOWLEDGE:  Recent research has shown the positive effect of probiotics on the processes occurring in the body. They reduce inflammatory parameters and oxidative stress, improve the tightness of the intestinal barrier, have immunomodulatory properties, and regulate the functioning of skeletal muscles, bones and other groups of organs. Thanks to the use of appropriately composed probiotics containing specific bacterial strains, the body's regeneration is shorter and the effectiveness of exercises is greater.
CONCLUSIONS: The presenting research results may be a turning point in researching probiotics’ mechanism of action. Further probiotic research should optimize supplementation composition, dose, and duration to obtain maximum safety and health benefits.
Identificación de perfiles de videojugadores para narrativas gamificadas: una revisión de alcance.
Authors: Martín-Rodríguez Iván , Lomba Pérez Ayose , Ramos Montesdeoca Mónica
Published: December 2024

Este artículo presenta una revisión de alcance
sobre la clasificación de perfiles de jugadores
de videojuegos y su aplicación en la creación
de experiencias gamificadas en el ámbito
educativo. A través de una metodología
basada en el protocolo PRISMA-Scr, se
analizaron más de 2,200 artículos de bases
de datos como Scopus, Web of Science y
ERIC. El objetivo es identificar qué perfiles de
jugadores pueden ser utilizados como base
para diseñar narrativas gamificadas
personalizadas que mejoren el aprendizaje y
el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes.
La revisión permitió clasificar a los jugadores
en cuatro grandes categorías: vinculación al juego, comportamiento social,
instrumentalización del juego y estilo de
juego. Además, se destacó el uso de
herramientas cuantitativas, como análisis de
conglomerados y modelos de ecuaciones
estructurales, para la identificación de estos
perfiles de videojugador. Se concluye que
adaptar las narrativas gamificadas a los
diferentes tipos de jugadores puede
favorecer, además de un mayor éxito en su
aplicación, una mayor inclusión y eficacia en
el aula, potenciando el uso de tecnologías
educativas avanzadas y promoviendo
competencias digitales clave.
El artículo sugiere la creación de una escala
ad hoc que permita identificar los perfiles de
los estudiantes como jugadores, optimizando
el diseño de experiencias gamificadas
personalizadas, duraderas y alineadas con
los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS).
Diagnosticando mediante la teoría de Van Hiele para garantizar educación de calidad.
Authors: Rodríguez Rincón Yeray , Magreñán Ruiz Á. Alberto , Orcos Palma Lara
Published: December 2024

La agenda 2030 ha abierto un nuevo
horizonte en el que se han marcado unos
objetivos de desarrollo sostenible a alcanzar.
Dentro de dichos objetivos se encuentra el
ODS4 “Educación de Calidad” donde destaca
la educación equitativa y de calidad y la
creación de oportunidades de aprendizaje a lo
largo de la vida para todas las personas. Para
poder garantizar dichos aspectos, lo primero
que se debe hacer es conocer el nivel de
partida de cada estudiantes y esto en el área
de geometría se puede hacer usando la teoría
de Van Hiele. Además, es sumamente
importante conocer la percepción del
estudiantado con respecto a la materia que se
está trabajando. Por todo ello, se han
diseñado 3 test, adaptándolos, a partir de las
recomendaciones y sugerencias de la
literatura, de otros ya contrastados. Los resultados de las respuestas muestran como
en el grupo considerado es necesaria una
intervención. También es necesario conocer
cuál es el nivel inicial de conocimientos de
cada una de las personas, además de su nivel
visoespacial y la percepción sobre la
motivación, la utilidad y la confianza que
tienen en sí mismos con respecto a la
geometría. A partir de esta información se
puede plantear la intervención de una manera
personalizada garantizando la igualdad de
oportunidades y ayudando en la creación de
oportunidades de aprendizaje en el futuro.
Multimodality in EMI educational materials: The use of semiotic modes in a business administration course
Authors: Valeiras-Jurado Julia , Fortanet-Gómez Inmaculada
Published: December 2024

This study approaches English-medium higher education in its
multimodal complexity. As pointed out by Lin (2019), in educational
contexts language is necessarily entangled with other semiotic
modes. In addition, the range of semiotic modes is multiplied by the
increasing use of online-based educational materials, since new
modes become available in digital settings (e.g. animations, visual
and sound effects, hyperlinks, etc.). Novel combinations of these
semiotic resources give rise to emerging cybergenres with
interesting pedagogical applications. This widening of the semiotic
repertoire opens new possibilities in higher education settings. It enables teachers to make classes more engaging and varied.
However, in order to fully exploit the pedagogical potential of
online-based educational materials, it is of crucial importance to be
aware of the complex interplay of semiotic modes in cybergenres.
Likewise, it is necessary to reflect on what turns them into useful
tools to facilitate communication and learning. In this study, we
carry out a multimodal discourse analysis of the cybergenres used in
an EMI Business Administration course, which include, among
others, google tools, videos and websites. Our objectives are: 1) to
scrutinize their multimodal nature; 2) to identify patterns of modal
configurations; 3) to reflect on their affordances and meaningmaking potential. Our findings suggest that these materials show a
complex interplay of modes, with recurring modal configurations.
We believe the results of this study can lead to a more conscious and
effective pedagogical application of these genres
Optimal Match Recommendations in Two-sided Marketplaces with Endogenous Prices
Authors: Shi Peng
Published: December 2024

Many two-sided marketplaces rely on match recommendations to help customers find suitable service providers at suitable prices. This paper develops a tractable methodology that a platform can use to optimize its match recommendation policy to maximize the total value generated by the platform while accounting for the endogeneity of transaction prices, which are set by the providers based on supply and demand and can depend on the platform’s match recommendation policy. Despite the complications of price endogeneity, an optimal match recommendation policy has a simple structure and can be computed efficiently. In particular, an optimal policy always recommends the providers who deliver the highest conversion rates. Moreover, an optimal policy can be encoded simply in terms of the frequency of recommending each provider to each customer segment, without the need to encode which subsets of providers are to be recommended together. On the other hand, if the platform were to optimize its match recommendations without accounting for price endogeneity, then the resultant policy would be more complex, and the market is likely to get stuck at a strictly suboptimal outcome, even if the platform were to continually reoptimize its match recommendations after prices re-equilibrate.

This paper was accepted by Omar Besbes, revenue management and market analytics.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02691 .
Weevils of the genus Pholicodes Schoenherr, 1826 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Entiminae) from Turkey, with description of three new species from eastern part of the country and a key to the species
Authors: DAVIDIAN GENRIK E. , GÜLTEKİN LEVENT
Published: December 2024

A review of the Turkish Pholicodes fauna with photographs of the adults’ habitus and male genitalia, and a key to 14 species known from Turkey and adjacent territory of Transcaucasus are provided. Three new species, Ph. pseudalbidus sp. nov., Ph. stanislavi sp. nov., and Ph. aslani sp. nov., are described from eastern Turkey. Pholicodes albidus Boheman, 1840 is recorded herein for the first time from Turkey, and Ph. pancaucasicus Davidian, 1992 is a new record for Iran.
[Retracted] Inventory of wild animals along the Bengkunat-Sanggi Road in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, Lampung Province, Indonesia
Authors: WINARNO GUNARDI DJOKO , CHARLES YOB , ANTONIO CHARLES
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Winarno GD, Charles Y, Antonio C. 2024. Inventory of wild animals along the Bengkunat-Sanggi Road in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, Lampung Province, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2917-2924. The quality of the West Sumatra route Bengkunat-Sanggi in Indonesia has significantly improved since 2005, what was originally a dirt road became an asphalt road, leading to an increase in its utilization by various types of vehicles such as motorbikes, sedans, jeeps, buses, and trucks. This condition has an impact on wildlife activities along the road. The sound of vehicles and lights turning on at night can attract animals to move towards the road, which can endanger these animals. On the other hand, lots of vehicles crossing the road can cause animals to run far away because they are disturbed, so it is thought that the animal's movement area will also change. This study aims to explore the effects of road construction on wildlife presence, with a specific emphasis on endangered species like tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses near the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP), Indonesia. Camera traps are currently being employed to record animals living in the vicinity of roads, including those that have fallen victim to vehicle collisions. The division of wildlife habitats by roads poses a substantial threat to their survival and functionality. The presence of traffic roads has been linked to an increase in accidents involving animals attempting to cross the road. Some animals appear to be disturbed by the noise generated by vehicles, leading to a reduction in their home range. Initial monitoring results at the onset of road construction indicated a higher presence of threats wild animals, specifically tiger (Panthera tigris subsp. sumatrae Pocock, 1929), Sumatran elephant (Elephas maximus subsp. sumatranus Temminck, 1847) and Sumatran rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis G.Fischer, 1814). To safeguard the wildlife along the Sanggi Bengkunat Road, a comprehensive approach involving all stakeholders and ensuring orderly behavior of drivers while navigating the road is imperative.
Short Communication: Carbon stock of mangrove forest in Pantai Sederhana, Bekasi District, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: ERNIASARI IKKA , HERNAWAN ENDANG , MULYANINGRUM MULYANINGRUM
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Erniasari I, Hernawan E, Mulyaningrum. 2024. Short Communication: Carbon stock of mangrove forest in Pantai Sederhana, Bekasi District, West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2974-2980. Mangrove forests play an important role in the carbon cycle because this forest can store greater amounts of carbon than other ecosystems including tropical rainforests. Mangrove forests in Bekasi District, West Java, Indonesia have enormous potential to absorb carbon in this industrial area. In this research, we estimate the aboveground carbon (AGC), belowground carbon (BGC), and soil organic carbon (SOC) of mangrove forest in Pantai Sederhana, Muaragembong Subdistrict, Bekasi District. Carbon estimation of AGC and BGC was carried out using the allometric method, while SOC at four depth intervals (0-15, 15-30, 30-50, and 50-100 cm) was estimated using the LOI (Loss of Ignition) method. There were four mangrove species in Pantai Sederhana, namely Avicennia marina, Avicennia alba, Rhizophora apiculata, and Rhizophora mucronata. The total carbon stock was 329.54 Mg.C.ha-1, which was composed by aboveground carbon (114.51 Mg.C.ha-1), belowground carbon (61.46 Mg.C.ha-1) and soil carbon (153.56 Mg.C.ha-1). The largest carbon pool was contributed from soils with 47% of the total carbon stock. The result of this study can be used as the initial information of the importance of the mangrove ecosystem in Bekasi District.
Nowe frazemy w dyskursie politycznym. Odtwarzalne sposoby kończenia wpisu w serwisie społecznościowym X (dawny Twitter)
Authors: Gasek Bogumił
Published: December 2024

Celem niniejszego artykułu jest charakterystyka semantyczno-pragmatyczna nowych frazemów (odtwarzalnych jednostek języka) używanych do kończenia wpisu (tweetu) w komunikacji społeczno-politycznej w serwisie społecznościowym X (dawniej Twitter). Do analizy wykorzystano wpisy w X publikowane w latach 2021-24 przez polskich polityków, komentatorów politycznych, dziennikarzy, liderów opinii wraz z tysiącami interakcji w postaci odpowiedzi publikowanych przez obserwatorów.
Acquisition of articles by Estonian learners of Spanish as L3: a corpus study
Authors: Rapún Mombiela Virginia , Castañar Rubio Guillem , Tudela Isanta Anna
Published: December 2024

This study delves into the use of Spanish articles by Estonian students learning Spanish as their third language (L3). This topic has received little attention to date, despite evidence that it represents one of the greatest challenges Estonian learners of Spanish face, and it appears that these difficulties persist even at higher levels of Spanish proficiency (Kruse 2018: 126). This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how Estonian students use Spanish articles. 345 written texts from a learner corpus have been analysed. Results show that the most common error among learners is omission of the article, in line with previous research, but also an unexpectedly high incidence of morphological and syntactic errors. Moreover, it has been detected that there is not a significant improvement in article acquisition between levels A1 and B1. By addressing these objectives, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the specific difficulties faced by Estonian learners and the broader landscape of article acquisition in a third language context.
Testowanie jako narzędzie dydaktyczne w nauczaniu języka polskiego jako obcego w grupach słowiańskich
Authors: Drużyłowska Dorota , Gołębiowska Marta
Published: December 2024

W artykule omówiono dydaktyczną rolę testowania w nauczaniu języka polskiego, szczególnie w odniesieniu do osób ze słowiańskich kręgów językowych. Zapomina się niekiedy o potencjale testowania jako narzędzia wspomagającego proces nauczania, skupiając się jedynie na jego funkcjach diagnostycznych i oceniających. Celem tekstu było przedstawienie korzyści płynących z testowania w dydaktyce oraz zaprezentowanie przykładowych materiałów dydaktycznych (testowych) dla różnych sprawności i różnych poziomów zaawansowania. W części teoretycznej tekstu omówiono tradycyjne funkcje testów, rodzaje kontroli oraz specyfikę nauczania Słowian. Część praktyczna zawiera przykłady zastosowania testowania oraz rekomendacje dotyczące efektywnego jego wykorzystania. Przedstawiono również projekt badania empirycznego zaplanowanego na rok akademicki 2024/2025, który ma na celu zweryfikowanie efektywności testowania w dydaktyce języka polskiego.