bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral Law and Antitrust Legislation in the Agro-Industrial Complex: Interconnection, Challenges, and Solutions
Authors: Sharopov Ravshan
Published: September 2023

This article examines the interplay between behavioral law and antitrust legislation in the agro-industrial complex. It analyzes the practical and legal implications of these frameworks and their significance in promoting fair competition and addressing behavioral issues within the industry. The research findings highlight the need for effective enforcement mechanisms, adaptable legal frameworks, collaboration among stakeholders, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. The study emphasizes the integration of behavioral insights into competition analysis and enforcement to mitigate the negative effects of cognitive biases on market dynamics. The implications of this study extend to policy development, regulatory initiatives, and future research in the field of behavioral law and antitrust legislation.
Inovasi Pembelajaran Matematika Dalam Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Di SMKN 1 Surakarta Sebagai Sekolah Pusat Keunggulan
Authors: Wisnu Hapsari Naomi Tri Mada
Published: September 2023

Sebagai pendidik, guru memiliki tanggung jawab besar terkait dengan kegiatan pembelajaran dan hasil belajar siswa terhadap materi yang disampaikan mengingat kemampuan dasar siswa terhadap materi belajar. Siswa Indonesia membutuhkan penguatan literasi dan numerasi. Hal ini berangkat dari fakta bahwa beragam survei di tingkat nasional dan internasional secara konsisten, dari tahun ke tahun, menunjukkan kedua bidang tersebut tidak mengalami peningkatan signifikan bahkan cenderung menurun. Kondisi ini terjadi karena proses pembelajaran di satuan pendidikan mengabaikan literasi dan numerasi sebagai dasar berpikir. Kondisi ini diperparah dengan pandemi Covid-19 yang memaksa siswa belajar dari rumah. Ketidaksiapan guru dalam mengajar dan minimnya sarana-prasarana pendukung mengakibatkan kegiatan pembelajaran terganggu. Survei Kementerian Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan mengungkap bahwa 67,11% guru mengalami kendala dalam mengoperasikan perangkat digital. Di lain sisi, 88,7% siswa kekurangan fasilitas pendukung seperti laptop, listrik, jaringan internet, dan gawai. Dampaknya, siswa tidak konsentrasi dalam belajar (51,1%). Menurut survei Komisi Perlindungan Anak Indonesia, 76,7% siswa tidak suka belajar dari rumah. Sebab, menurut pengakuan 37,1% siswa, mereka merasa kurang istirahat dan kelelahan karena mengerjakan tugas semua mata pelajaran. Dampak fatal akhirnya terjadi: siswa mengalami penurunan kemampuan belajar (learning loss).
Dynamic response of high-power ultrasonic system based on finite element modeling of piezoelectric
Authors: Luong Viet , Duong Pham , Ngoc Nguyen , Ngo Nhu , Hoa Nguyen , Nguyen Van
Published: September 2023

In this study, a new finite element model for ultrasonic welding equipment is proposed. This help to solve remaining issues such as element type selection for the numerical model, mesh size, and how to determine the parameters of piezoelectric materials. The obtained results clearly show the influence of element type and mesh size on resonance frequency and amplitude. Specifically, with a mesh size of 2 mm, it was concluded to be suitable for the model. For the C3D8 element (C3D8E), the computation time is reduced by 0.25 times compared to the C3D20R element (C3D20RE). After that, an experimental processing procedure is performed to evaluate the numerical simulation results. Specifically, the handling of signal noise when measuring a very small displacement at high frequencies of an ultrasonic vibrating device. Based on the confirmed finite element model, this model is extended to evaluate the influence of the load on the amplitude and resonant frequency of the ultrasonic welding system. The results show that when the load increases, the amplitude decreases while the resonant frequency increases. The results of this study can be applied to the design of ultrasonic vibration systems.
Political party as an essential actor of the public sector: Financial business of parties
Authors: Abdalah Hajet
Published: September 2023

The business of political parties in all countries of the world in the modern era should be legally regulated. However, the financial side of the business of all parties is something that has always attracted attention. Accordingly, cash flows are constantly being checked, as well as the resulting deficit. However, it must be confirmed that there are also a number of parties that clearly state how and where all the money spent goes. Taxes and membership fees are some of the items that represent money that comes into the hands of political parties. All this, from the legal point of view, represents one of the bases for regulating their business from the economic point of view.
Diet habits of employees in higher education
Authors: Požar Hajnalka , Šumonja Sanja , Sekulić Nataša , Čamprag-Sabo Nataša , Puškaš Valentin
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Inadequate nutrition, excessive use of alcohol and tobacco can significantly increase the risk of chronic mass non-communicable diseases, which are responsible for more than two-thirds of deaths in the adult population globally. The aim of this paper is to analyze the risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases among employees in higher education. Material and methods: The research was conducted in the form of a cross-sectional study during May 2022. The surveyed population consists of 31 employees of the College of Vocational Studies in Subotica. The research instrument consists of a survey questionnaire created for research purposes. The data analysis was performed using the statistical package SPSS 20. The methods of descriptive statistical analysis, cross-tabulation analysis were applied, and the parametric ch2 test was used to confirm the correlation. Results: A third of the employees have been diagnosed with a chronic disease, most often hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. More than half (58%) of employees eat breakfast, 87% eat lunch and 52% eat dinner regularly. About 60% of employees consume fruits and vegetables at least 5-6 days a week, significantly more often employees over 45. Almost half (42%) of employees consume sweets at least 5-7 days a week, or more often. A quarter (24%) of employees consume alcoholic beverages on a weekly basis. Conclusion: The results of the study show that among employees in higher education there are inadequate eating habits that can increase the risk of chronic mass non-communicable diseases.
The impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on the occurrence of anxiety and depression in nursing students
Authors: Dujlović Gordana , Mikić Milena , Aranđelović Branimirka , Gajić Marijana , Tomić Sanja , Tomić Slobodan , Peričević-Medić Sonja
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the symptoms of significant psychological burdens for the entire population. However, little is known about the psychological effect of COVID-19 on healthcare students. Objective: The research aimed to determine whether and to what degree healthcare students exhibit signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression during the second year of the pandemic. Material and methods: The study was conducted as an online cross-sectional study, by surveying 133 healthcare students of the Faculty of Medicine. The questionnaire for the assessment of anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder - GAD-7) and the questionnaire for the assessment of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire - PHQ-9) were used as research instruments. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used for statistical data processing, and statistical significance was determined at the p≤ 0.05 level. Results: The highest percentage of students showed minimal symptoms of depression (40.6%), i.e. symptoms of minimal anxiety (45.1%), while the total average score of the GAD-7 questionnaire was 6.35±5.27(SD), and the average value of the total PHQ-9 score was 7.42±5.59(SD). Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on healthcare students, who during the second year of the pandemic showed mild depression and mild anxiety.
The acceptance of tablet for note-taking in consecutive interpreting in a classroom context: The students' perspectives
Authors: Wang Yuying , Tian Yuan , Jiang Yunxiao , Yu Zhonggen
Published: September 2023

This study aims to examine interpreting students' perceptions of using tablets for interpreting note-taking (INT). A mixed-method approach was adopted, including quantitative methods based on Gile's two-phase effort model of consecutive interpreting (CI) to investigate respondents' experiences and perceptions, as well as qualitative methods to explore differences between professionals and beginners regarding their preferences and user experiences with note-taking tools. Additionally, factors within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework that significantly impacted the acceptance of tablet-based interpreting were analyzed. Our research findings reveal valuable insights into students' attitudes towards integrating technology into interpreter training programs while highlighting key factors influencing tablet-based note-taking adoption or rejection among participants. Moreover, this study emphasizes the importance of developing an application specifically designed for INT to meet the unique needs of interpreters and stresses that training plays an essential role in facilitating the adoption of tablet-based INT. Teachers are suggested to take the initiative to try tablet-based INT themselves before they make their decisions on whether to introduce the technology to their students.
RELACIÓN ENTRE LA COMPOSICIÓN CORPORAL Y LA TIPOLOGÍA PLANTAR EN NIÑOS Y NIÑAS DE 12 AÑOS DE LAS INSTITUCIONES EDUCATIVAS OFICIALES DEL MUNICIPIO DE IBAGUE – TOLIMA
Authors: Galindo Galeano Manuel Alfonzo , Ramos P Carlos Alberto , Reyes O. Felipe A
Published: September 2023

La estimulación de los componentes físicos desde el primer año de vida representa un correcto desempeño en el entorno físico y deportivo. Sin embargo, es importante analizar la afectación de un inadecuado estímulo motriz en el desarrollo de la tipología plantar y su relación con la composición corporal en niños y jóvenes.

Participaron del estudio 262 jóvenes de 4 Instituciones Educativas con una edad de 12 años. El grupo en general mostró en sus resultados una media de su talla corporal de 159 cm. un peso corporal de 51,5 kg, un índice de masa corporal con una media general de 20 (Normal) y una prevalencia de los rangos normal de 50,2% en varones y 62,6% en mujeres, en sobrepeso de  8,3% en varones frente a un 27,7% en mujeres y un rango de obesidad de 37,9% en varones frente a un 6% en mujeres, los rangos de menor prevalencia en ambos géneros fueron los de riesgo de delgadez y delgadez los cuales no superaron el 2,5% en ambos casos. El índice de la relación cintura cadera nos brindó una media general de 0,85 y los porcentajes de grasa corporal y muscular nos arrojaron un promedio de 29,54% y 39,7% respectivamente. Frente a los resultados arrojados de la tipología plantar, se muestra una prevalencia de Pie Cavo en general con un 33,6% del pie izquierdo y 31,3% en el pie derecho.

De esta manera, se mostró una tipología plantar Normal predominando en los diferentes rangos de análisis sin afectaciones significativas.
Fundamentals Of Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning
Authors:   Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering,  Nigdi, Pune, India, T. Deokate Sarika , Ratansing Patil Vishal ,   Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering, Pune, India, Jadhav Yogesh ,   School of Engineering, Technology and Management, Nmims University, Navi Mumbai Campus, India, Rajput Satpalsing Devising ,   Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering,  Nigdi, Pune, Maharashtra. India, Dharrao Deepak ,   Symbiosis Institute of Technology, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Published: September 2023

This book fills in the knowledge gaps in the apparently insurmountable fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and is aimed primarily at undergraduate and graduate students in computer science and engineering. It is claimed that more case studies and fully-solved examples are included in this book than in any other of its kind. An engaging reading experience is ensured by the text's lively style. After a brief introduction to AI, the material delves into more advanced topics like heuristic search and game playing. The machine learning section starts out with some general information on how learning works and the different association rule learning methods. Numerous case studies and application exercises are given, along with several forms of learning including reinforced, supervised, unsupervised, and statistical. The book is helpful for students since each subject has its own well-explained algorithms and pseudo codes.
Views on Esperanto in the Bahá’í faith: A revised subchapter in Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era
Authors: Nordenstorm Leif
Published: September 2023

The question about a universal language and particularly about Esperanto is treated in a subchapter in the book Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, which is an officially sanctioned presentation about Bahá’í religion. In the original edition of 1923 the support for Esperanto was clearly expressed, because the leader of the religion, ’Abdu’l-Bahá, supported the idea about Esperanto as a Universal Language, and several times urged Bahá’ís to learn it. The author of the book, J. E. Esslemont, learned it and even practiced Esperanto on his deathbed. Quotations, however, show that there was a discussion also about other planned languages among Bahá’ís. In the editions of 1937, 1950 and 1970, the final part of the presentation about Esperanto was modified. The author shows that the reason of the change is that Esperanto in Bahá’í is associated with millenarian expectations of the “Most High Peace” and the “Coming of the Kingdom of God” in 1957. After this year Bahá’í religion rapidly grew in Latin America, Subsaharan Africa, and Nonislamic Asia, where Esperanto was not well-known, and stagnated in Europe and North America, where Esperanto was better known. The millenniarism in the religion weakened and the work for the “Lesser Peace” was strengthened. This is supposed to be the result, not of a divine intervention, but of cooperation between states.
Temporality in spoken Esperanto
Authors: Dankova Natalia
Published: August 2023

In this article, we present some of the results of an empirical study of temporality in Esperanto spoken by informants of three mother tongues: French, Italian and Russian. By comparing the production of the subjects, this article treats transfer in Esperanto at the conceptual level, not through the forms produced, but rather by considering the preference of the speaker for such and such form used to express a given function. When reading Zamenhof’s writings, we can notice that there is an underlying attribution of aspectual values to participles. Many examples of oral production confirm the evolutionary character of the temporal system of Esperanto.
Roles of Immune and Oxidative Stress-Related Factors in the Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Shu Yue , Zheng Yin , Guo Yilong , Zhu Dan , Huang Shian
Published: September 2023

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the main causes of sudden death, but its exact pathogenesis requires further study. Thus, this study aimed to explore the immune and oxidative stress-related factors in CAD progression and their roles in CAD diagnosis. Methods: Bioinformatics analysis was used in this study, and the GSE23561 dataset (training set) we used contained the transcriptome sequencing results of six CAD peripheral blood samples and nine control samples. The data were obtained and analysed by querying the Gene Expression Omnibus database. First, the differentially expressed immune and oxidative stress-related genes (DEIOGs) between the groups were identified. DEIOGs were then analysed based on Gene Ontology annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment. A protein—protein interaction (PPI) network for DEIOGs was constructed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database, and hub genes were identified through the PPI network. Moreover, transcription factors and microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting hub genes were identified to explore the potential regulatory mechanisms of hub genes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was constructed to examine the role of hub genes in CAD diagnosis. Finally, the data of GSE23561 (validated set) were used to validate the diagnostic potential of these hub genes. Results: Primarily, 66 DEIOGs were identified, which are involved in many important pathways related to CAD, such as the “mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway” and “lipid and atherosclerosis”. A PPI network of DEIOGs was then constructed, and 10 hub genes were identified sequentially. A total of 37 transcription factors and 481 miRNAs that played important roles in hub genes regulation were identified. The ROC curves indicated that five special hub genes (Fos, Il6, Jun, Mapk3, and Mmp9) could serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers for CAD. Conclusions: Bioinformatics analysis technology was used to identify 10 hub DEIOGs that might play a crucial role in CAD progression, and five special hub genes (Fos, Il6, Jun, Mapk3, and Mmp9) could be regarded as potential biomarkers for CAD diagnosis. However, further studies are required to verify the functions of these hub genes.
I Need You to be Me: Talking with Our Patients, Their Families, and Their Doctors
Authors: Tribble Curt
Published: September 2023

No abstract present.
Presentación de la sección sobre Inteligencia artificial, datos y objetividad. ¿El regreso del naturalismo dataísta?
Authors: Guersenzvaig Ariel , Casacuberta David
Published: September 2023

Presentation of the section on Artificial Intelligence, Data and Objectivity: The Return of Data Naturalism? in the Monograph on Artificial Intelligence of Daimon - International Journal of Philosophy. Nº 90 (September - December 2023).

Presentación de la sección sobre Inteligencia artificial, datos y objetividad. ¿El regreso del naturalismo dataista? en el Monográfico sobre Inteligencia Artificial de Daimon - Revista Internacional de Filosofía. Nº 90 (septiembre - Diciembre 2023).
Fetomaternal Outcomes in Epidural Analgesia during Labour: A Double-Arm Randomised Control Study
Authors:   Associate Professor, Department of O and G, Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) Burla Sambalpur Odisha, India, Patel Dr. Ojaswini , Pradhan Dr. Sharmila ,   Associate Professor, Department of O and G, Medical College, VIMSAR Burla Sambalpur Odisha, India, Dora Dr. Santosh Kumar ,   Assistant Professor, Department of O and G, Medical College, VIMSAR Burla Sambalpur Odisha, India, Sahu Dr. Sasmita Kumari ,   Medical Officer, Department of O and G, SDH Athagarh, Cuttack, India, Dandapat Dr. Atal Bihari ,   Associate Professor, Department of O and G, VIMSAR Burla Sambalpur Odisha, India
Published: September 2023

Background: Childbirth is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences a woman will ever go through. The use of analgesia during labor that is effective and safe has always been a topic of debate, alongside misconceptions and discussions about labor pain management. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of Epidural Analgesia (EA) on both the woman and the fetus during labor, as well as to compare the fetomaternal outcomes between the control and epidural groups. Materials and Methods: This study was a two-year, double-arm, randomized controlled trial conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, VIMSAR, Burla, between November 2018 and October 2020. Prior to participating in the study, all participants provided written informed consent, and strict confidentiality was maintained for all patient-related data throughout the investigation. Results: The results indicated that epidural pain management had no effect on the duration of the second stage of labor, which was similar in both groups (p=0.1). Cesarean section was performed for 7.3% of the analgesia group. Prolonged labor was observed in 50% of the women, fetal distress in 25%, and deep transverse arrest in 25%. Due to fetal jeopardy, three out of 55 expectant women in the control group underwent emergency caesarean sections. Conclusion: In conclusion, lumbar epidural analgesia, when administered by a skilled practitioner, offers a safe analgesic technique. This study supports its use as a recommendation for all women undergoing normal labor.
Etanercept Ameliorated cerebral Damage During Global Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Male Rats
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Al-Zahrawi University College, Karbala, Iraq, Hassan Saif M. , Obeid Hajer Alaa ,   Al-Zahraa University for Women, Karbala, Iraq, Hasan Iman Sabeeh ,   Department of Pharmacy, Al-Zahrawi University College, Karbala, Iraq, Abbas Ashwaq Najemaldeen ,   College of Dentistry, Department of Pharmacy, University of Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
Published: September 2023

Background: Ischemic cerebrovascular conditions lead to brain tissue oxygen depletion, triggering activation and infiltration of inflammatory cells and immunological reactions. Reperfusion induces the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), triggered by therapeutic recanalization or natural thrombus disintegration. Method: Rats were divided into four groups after a week of acclimatization: Sham group: No occlusion of common carotid arteries after general anesthesia. Ischemic-reperfused control group: General anesthesia, followed by 30 minutes of common carotid artery occlusion and one hour of reperfusion without drugs. Vehicle group: Similar to control group but with intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of DMSO 30 minutes prior to ischemia. Etanercept group: Identical procedure as control, with additional intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of etanercept (50 mg/kg) 30 minutes before ischemia. Results: Etanercept groups showed significant reduction in NF-kB and TLRs (2 and 4) compared to control (P<0.05). Histologically, brain tissue lesions were reduced in etanercept groups compared to control and vehicle groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: Etanercept exhibits neuroprotective effect against cerebral I/R injury by down-regulating TNF-α protein and inflammation TLRs.
Desarrollo de una aplicación móvil para el monitoreo de pacientes con hipertensión arterial mediante la tecnología ESP32
Authors: Caina Guamán Andrés Eduardo , Sanaguano Santos Julio Vinicio , Delgado Altamirano Jorge Edwin
Published: September 2023

La hipertensión aumenta significativamente el riesgo de sufrir enfermedades cardíacas, cerebrovasculares y renales. En su mayoría, las personas no están al tanto de que la padecen y solo un pequeño grupo la tiene bajo control, por lo que se convierte en una de las principales causas de muerte prematura a escala mundial. La presente investigación evalúa la usabilidad de un aplicativo móvil para el monitoreo de este tipo de pacientes. Bajo un enfoque cuantitativo no experimental se ejecutó una revisión teórica, el diseño y análisis del aplicativo y se aplicaron métodos empíricos para establecer los atributos y métricas de evaluación, en este caso, de la usabilidad. Se detalló el proceso de análisis para obtener requisitos, así como el diseño del prototipado para la elaboración del aplicativo. Se concluyó que el aplicativo diseñado cumplió las expectativas de un gran porcentaje de usuarios.
Begivenhedsstyret eller emnestyret klimajournalistik?
Authors: Weldingh Line
Published: August 2023

Medierne spiller en afgørende rolle i forhold til at informere befolkningen om klimaforandringer. Forskningen peger imidlertid på, at dækningen af klimaet udgør en udfordring for nyhedsjournalistikken. Blandt andet medfører journalistikkens fokus på begivenheder, at dækningen i høj grad er bundet op på nøglebegivenheder, så som klimatopmøder. Denne artikel undersøger, om den daglige klimadækning også er begivenhedsstyret og bidrager derudover med ny viden om, hvad der kendetegner henholdsvis begivenhedsstyret og emnestyret klimajournalistik. Baseret på en kvantitativ indholdsanalyse af klimajournalistik i landsdækkende dagblade mellem 2018 og 2021 (n=367) viser analysen, at emnestyret klimajournalistik fylder en smule mere begivenhedsstyret, og at der er en forskel på de to typer journalistik. Hvor den begivenhedsstyrede klimajournalistik har mere fokus på politik, erhverv og politiske kilder, fylder artikler med mennesker i centrum og borgere som kilder mere i emnestyret klimajournalistik. Borgere er dog generelt underrepræsenterede i forhold til elitekilder. Artiklen konkluderes med en diskussion af definitionen af begivenhedsstyret journalistik og anbefalinger til en bredere klimadækning.
Driver’s Shy Away Effect in Urban Extra-Long Underwater Tunnel
Authors: Chen Ying , Du Zhigang , Jiang Zehao , Liu Congjian , Chen Xuefeng
Published: August 2023

For urban extra-long underwater tunnels, the obstacle space formed by the tunnel walls on both sides has an impact on the driver's driving. The aim of this study is to investigate the shy away characteristics of drivers in urban extra-long underwater tunnels. Using trajectory offset and speed data obtained from real vehicle tests, the driving behaviour at different lanes of an urban extra-long underwater tunnel was investigated, and a theory of shy away effects and indicators of sidewall shy away deviation for quantitative analysis were proposed. The results show that the left-hand lane has the largest offset and driving speed from the sidewall compared to the other two lanes. In the centre lane there is a large fluctuation in the amount of deflection per 50 seconds of driving, increasing the risk of two-lane collisions. When the lateral clearances are increased from 0.5 m to 2.19 m on the left and 1.29 m on the right, the safety needs of drivers can be better met. The results of this study have implications for improving traffic safety in urban extra-long underwater tunnels and for the improvement of tunnel traffic safety facilities.
Experiences of Students’ Challenging Behaviour in Primary Schools in South Africa: Teacher, Governor, and Caretaker Perspectives
Authors: Rubbi Nunan Julie Shantone
Published: September 2023

Students’ challenging behaviour is a persisting problem in some primary schools. In South African primary schools, however, students’ challenging behaviour is mainly understood as disruptive classroom behaviour. To establish how primary schools experience this phenomenon,
interviews were held with twenty-one participants, purposively selected from three primary schools, to provide qualitative data. Opposing prior understandings, thematic analysis showed that students’ challenging behaviour in primary schools is experienced through acts of violence, vandalism,
and bullying. Social cognitive theory revealed how students growing up in hostile environments emulate and reproduce hostility. Education departments should consider these experiences to appraise and revise disciplinary policies to promote school safety, and more effective learning in the
classroom.
DUX4 is a common driver of immune evasion and immunotherapy failure in metastatic cancers
Authors: Pineda Jose Mario Bello , Bradley Robert K
Published: September 2023

Cancer immune evasion contributes to checkpoint immunotherapy failure in many patients with metastatic cancers. The embryonic transcription factor DUX4 was recently characterized as a suppressor of interferon-γ signaling and antigen presentation that is aberrantly expressed in a small subset of primary tumors. Here, we report that DUX4 expression is a common feature of metastatic tumors, with ~10–50% of advanced bladder, breast, kidney, prostate, and skin cancers expressing DUX4. DUX4 expression is significantly associated with immune cell exclusion and decreased objective response to PD-L1 blockade in a large cohort of urothelial carcinoma patients. DUX4 expression is a significant predictor of survival even after accounting for tumor mutational burden and other molecular and clinical features in this cohort, with DUX4 expression associated with a median reduction in survival of over 1 year. Our data motivate future attempts to develop DUX4 as a biomarker and therapeutic target for checkpoint immunotherapy resistance.
New genetic tools for mushroom body output neurons in Drosophila
Authors: Rubin Gerald M , Aso Yoshinori
Published: September 2023

How memories of past events influence behavior is a key question in neuroscience. The major associative learning center in Drosophila, the mushroom body (MB), communicates to the rest of the brain through mushroom body output neurons (MBONs). While 21 MBON cell types have their dendrites confined to small compartments of the MB lobes, analysis of EM connectomes revealed the presence of an additional 14 MBON cell types that are atypical in having dendritic input both within the MB lobes and in adjacent brain regions. Genetic reagents for manipulating atypical MBONs and experimental data on their functions have been lacking. In this report we describe new cell-type-specific GAL4 drivers for many MBONs, including the majority of atypical MBONs that extend the collection of MBON driver lines we have previously generated (Aso et al., 2014a; Aso et al., 2016; Aso et al., 2019). Using these genetic reagents, we conducted optogenetic activation screening to examine their ability to drive behaviors and learning. These reagents provide important new tools for the study of complex behaviors in Drosophila.
New genetic tools for mushroom body output neurons in Drosophila
Authors: Rubin Gerald M. , Aso Yoshinori
Published: September 2023

How memories of past events influence behavior is a key question in neuroscience. The major associative learning center in
Drosophila
, the Mushroom Body (MB), communicates to the rest of the brain through Mushroom Body Output Neurons (MBONs). While 21 MBON cell types have their dendrites confined to small compartments of the MB lobes, analysis of EM connectomes revealed the presence of an additional 14 MBON cell types that are atypical in having dendritic input both within the MB lobes and in adjacent brain regions. Genetic reagents for manipulating atypical MBONs and experimental data on their functions has been lacking. In this report we describe new cell-type-specific GAL4 drivers for many MBONs, including the majority of atypical MBONs. Using these genetic reagents, we conducted optogenetic activation screening to examine their ability to drive behaviors and learning. These reagents provide important new tools for the study of complex behaviors in
Drosophila
.
The BTB-ZF gene Bm-mamo regulates pigmentation in silkworm caterpillars
Authors: Wu Songyuan , Tong Xiaoling , Peng Chenxing , Luo Jiangwen , Zhang Chenghao , Lu Kunpeng , Li Chunlin , Ding Xin , Duan Xiaohui , Lu Yaru , Hu Hai , Tan Duan , Dai Fangyin
Published: September 2023

The color pattern of insects is one of the most diverse adaptive evolutionary phenotypes. However, the molecular regulation of this color pattern is not fully understood. In this study, we found that the transcription factor Bm-mamo is responsible for black dilute (bd) allele mutations in the silkworm. Bm-mamo belongs to the BTB zinc finger family and is orthologous to mamo in Drosophila melanogaster. This gene has a conserved function in gamete production in Drosophila and silkworms and has evolved a pleiotropic function in the regulation of color patterns in caterpillars. Using RNAi and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technology, we showed that Bm-mamo is a repressor of dark melanin patterns in the larval epidermis. Using in vitro binding assays and gene expression profiling in wild-type and mutant larvae, we also showed that Bm-mamo likely regulates the expression of related pigment synthesis and cuticular protein genes in a coordinated manner to mediate its role in color pattern formation. This mechanism is consistent with the dual role of this transcription factor in regulating both the structure and shape of the cuticle and the pigments that are embedded within it. This study provides new insight into the regulation of color patterns as well as into the construction of more complex epidermal features in some insects.
Microbial signature profiles of Penaeus vannamei larvae in low-survival hatchery tanks affected by vibriosis
Authors: Reyes Guillermo , Andrade Betsy , Betancourt Irma , Panchana Fanny , Solórzano Ramiro , Preciado Cristhian , Sorroza Lita , Trujillo Luis E. , Bayot Bonny
Published: September 2023

Vibriosis is caused by some pathogenic Vibrio and produces significant mortality in Pacific white shrimp Penaeus (Litopenaeus) vannamei larvae in commercial hatcheries. Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is an emerging vibriosis affecting shrimp-producing countries worldwide. Zoea 2 syndrome is another type of vibriosis that affects the early stages of P. vannamei larvae. Although the pathogenesis of AHPND and zoea 2 syndrome is well known, there is scarce information about microbial composition and biomarkers of P.vannamei larvae affected by AHPND, and there is no study of the microbiome of larvae affected by zoea 2 syndrome. In this work, we characterized the microbiome of P. vannamei larvae collected from 12 commercial hatchery tanks by high-throughput sequencing. Seven tanks were affected by AHPND, and five tanks were affected by zoea 2 syndrome. Subsequently, all samples were selected for sequencing of the V3–V4 region of the16S rRNA gene. Similarity analysis using the beta diversity index revealed significant differences in the larval bacterial communities between disease conditions, particularly when Vibrio was analyzed. Linear discriminant analysis with effect size determined specific microbial signatures for AHPND and zoea 2 syndrome. Sneathiella, Cyclobacterium, Haliea, Lewinella, among other genera, were abundant in AHPND-affected larvae. Meanwhile, Vibrio, Spongiimonas, Meridianimaribacter, Tenacibaculum, among other genera, were significantly abundant in larvae affected by zoea 2 syndrome. The bacterial network at the phylum level for larvae collected from tanks affected by AHPND showed greater complexity and connectivity than in samples collected from tanks affected by zoea 2 syndrome. The bacterial connections inter Vibrio genera were higher in larvae from tanks affected by zoea 2 syndrome, also presenting other connections between the genera Vibrio and Catenococcus. The identification of specific biomarkers found in this study could be useful for understanding the microbial dynamics during different types of vibriosis.
PM2.5 exposure aggravates kidney damage by facilitating the lipid metabolism disorder in diabetic mice
Authors: Jiang Yuecheng , Peng Yanzhe , Yang Xia , Yu Jiali , Yu Fuxun , Yuan Jing , Zha Yan
Published: September 2023

Background

Ambient fine particulate matter ≤ 2.5 µm (PM2.5) air pollution exposure has been identified as a global health threat, the epidemiological evidence suggests that PM2.5 increased the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among the diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Despite the growing body of research on PM2.5 exposure, there has been limited investigation into its impact on the kidneys and the underlying mechanisms. Past studies have demonstrated that PM2.5 exposure can lead to lipid metabolism disorder, which has been linked to the development and progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Methods

In this study, db/db mice were exposed to different dosage PM2.5 for 8 weeks. The effect of PM2.5 exposure was analysis by assessment of renal function, pathological staining, immunohistochemical (IHC), quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) based metabolomic analyses.

Results

The increasing of Oil Red staining area and adipose differentiation related protein (ADRP) expression detected by IHC staining indicated more ectopic lipid accumulation in kidney after PM2.5 exposure, and the increasing of SREBP-1 and the declining of ATGL detected by IHC staining and qPCR indicated the disorder of lipid synthesisandlipolysis in DKD mice kidney after PM2.5 exposure. The expressions of high mobility group nucleosome binding protein 1 (HMGN1) and kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1) that are associated with kidney damage increased in kidney after PM2.5 exposure. Correlation analysis indicated that there was a relationship between HMGN1-KIM-1 and lipid metabolic markers. In addition, kidneys of mice were analyzed using LC–MS/MS based metabolomic analyses. PM2.5 exposure altered metabolic profiles in the mice kidney, including 50 metabolites. In conclusion the results of this study show that PM2.5 exposure lead to abnormal renal function and further promotes renal injury by disturbance of renal lipid metabolism and alter metabolic profiles.
A decade of study on the condition of western Cuban coral reefs, with low human impact
Authors: Caballero-Aragón Hansel , Perera-Valderrama Susana , Cobián-Rojas Dorka , Hernández Gonzalez Zaimiuri , González Méndez Juliett , De la Guardia Elena
Published: August 2023

Background

The long-time study of coral reefs with low human impacts can provide information on the effects of regional pressures like climate change, and is an opportunity to document how these pressures are reflected in coral communities. An example of minimal local anthropogenic impacts are the Guanahacabibes coral reefs, located in the westernmost region of Cuba. The objectives of this study were: to evaluate the temporal variability of six benthic biological indicators of coral reefs, and to explore the possible relationship between predictive abiotic variables and biological response variables.

Methods

Four coral reef sites were sampled between 2008 and 2017, to analyze biological indicators (living coral cover, fleshy algae index, coral species richness, coral species abundance, coral trait groups species abundance, Functional Reef Index). Seven abiotic variables (wave exposure, sea surface temperature, degree heating week, chlorophyll-a concentration, particulate organic carbon, photosynthetically available radiation, and the diffuse attenuation coefficient) were compiled between 2007 and 2016, from remote sensing datasets, to analyze their relationship with the biological indicators. Permanova statistical analysis was used to evaluate trends in biological variables between sites and years, and Routine Analysis Based on Linear Distances (DISTLM) was used to explore some dependencies between biotic and abiotic variables.

Results

We found significant variability in the temporal analysis, with a decrease in living coral cover, a decline in the predominance of the branching and massive framework reef-building species, a decline in Orbicella species abundance, and an increase in the fleshy algae index. Some abiotic variables (average of degree heating weeks, standard deviation of the diffuse attenuation coefficient, average of the sea surface temperature, among others) significantly explained the variability of biological indicators; however, determination coefficients were low.

Conclusions

Certain decrease in the functionality of the coral reef was appreciated, taking into account the predominance of secondary and nom-massive framework reef-building species in the last years. A weak association between abiotic and biological variables was found in the temporal analysis. The current scenario of the condition of the coral reefs seems to be regulated by the global effects of climate change, weakly associated effects, and in longer terms.
Effectiveness of virtual reality on activities of daily living in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Han YongGu , Park SunWook
Published: August 2023

Background

No meta-analysis has been conducted on the effect of specific virtual reality (VR) treatment modes on activities of daily living (ADL) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Therefore, this study aimed to confirm whether VR therapy is effective in improving ADL in children with CP according to subgroups.

Methodology

Literature published in the Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Embase, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and PubMed was reviewed, and Risk of Bias 2.0 (RoB 2) was used to evaluate the quality of the literature. A funnel plot was visually observed to confirm publication bias, supplemented with Egger’s regression test. Data analysis was performed using R version 4.2.1. Subgroup analysis was performed according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), the Manual Ability Classification System (MACS), treatment minutes per week, treatment period, age, and RoB.

Results

Eleven of 2,978 studies were included, and the overall effect size was 0.37 (95% confidence interval = 0.17–0.57). Regarding GMFCS, effect sizes of 0.41 and 0.33 was observed for the low- and high-function groups, respectively. For MACS, 0.27 and 0.43 were observed for the low and high-function groups. Regarding treatment minutes per week, the values were 0.22, 0.44, and 0.27 in the 1–100, 101–200, and 201–300 min groups, respectively. In the classification according to age, 0.29 was observed for school-age children and 0.98 for preschool children. Lastly, in the classification according to the RoB, 0.52, −0.01, and 0.23 indicated studies with low risk, some concern, and high risk, respectively.

Conclusions

The highest effect was observed when VR was applied within 6 weeks of 101-200 per week. Therefore, it is suggested that if the results of this review are applied to children with cerebral palsy in the community, it will be an effective intervention method.

Systematic review registration

PROPEROS (registration number CRD42023409801).
Effects of Obesity and Depression on the Incidence of Asthma in Korean Older Adults: A Secondary Analysis of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2020
Authors: Lee Heashoon
Published: September 2023

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and depression on asthma in older adults Koreans.Methods: Data for 1,388 individuals (≥65 years) were extracted from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES Ⅷ-2, 2020). Complex sampling design data were analyzed using stratification, clustering, and weights. Data were analyzed using unweighted frequencies, weighted percentages, estimated means and standard errors, the Rao-Scott x2 test, and multiple logistic regression analysis, which was performed to identify variables that influenced asthma after adjusting for confounding factors.Results: The factors influencing asthma in the older adults were a depression diagnosis, age at the onset of depression, current depression status, and gender. In contrast, BMI and WC did not affect asthma. A diagnosis of depression had an odds ratio of 3.07 for asthma in the older adults. Furthermore, the odds ratios for asthma in the older adults were 5.08 for depression onset at <49 years and 3.37 for current depression compared to no depression diagnosis. The odds ratio for asthma in female older adults was 1.35.Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that asthma in the older adults could be detected early through depression symptoms. This study also provides evidence that depression-related interventions should be included in asthma prevention and management programs for the older adults in Korea.
Validation of the Electronic Compassion Competence Scale: Paper-and-Pencil versus Web-Based Questionnaires
Authors: Chang Hyoung Eun , Lee Youngjin , Jung Sunyoung
Published: September 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the validity and reliability of the electronic Compassion Competence Scale (e-CCS).Methods: A cross-sectional, randomized, two-period crossover design was used. Nursing students from four South Korean universities were surveyed between June 2017 and April 2018. The participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups-paper/paper, electronic/electronic, and paper/electronic or electronic/paper-and a test-retest procedure was implemented. The reliability and validity of the e-CCS were evaluated using linear weighted kappa coefficients and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Internal consistency reliability was verified using linear weighted kappa coefficients and ICCs. Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the initial test and retest scores were all statistically significant.Results: The newly developed e-CCS was found to have good reliability and validity. We suggest that future research should increase sample heterogeneity by recruiting diverse age groups, nurses working in different nursing fields, and students from multiple colleges.Conclusion: This electronic instrument will help determine the differences in the level of compassion competence and devise interventions to improve compassion competence in nurses and nursing students. Further studies on enhancing compassion competence among nurses and nursing students may rely on the use of this electronic format.
Development of Pressure Ulcer Management and Fall Prevention Protocol
Authors: Song Youngshin , Ban Keumok , Kim Hye Young , Kim Sun Ae , Park Seyeon , Kwon Myoungjin
Published: September 2023

Purpose: This study developed a protocol to assess the core nursing skills of pressure ulcer management and fall prevention for nursing students.Methods: Protocol development consisted of a preliminary investigation of the protocol for pressure ulcer management and fall prevention nursing (step 1), confirmation of the protocol criteria (step 2), development and confirmation of the final protocol (step 3), and development of nursing situations to apply the developed protocol (step 4). The validity of the protocol was measured using the content validity index.Results: The pressure ulcer management and fall prevention nursing protocol we developed consisted of 23 procedures. The guidelines of KABONE (2021) were used to set the achievement goals and difficulty, corresponding to “low” for the achievement goal of evaluating and recording the risk factors. The protocol’s content validity was good, and the developed scenarios were relevant.Conclusion: Nursing practice is critical for nursing students to provide high-quality care in clinical settings. Therefore, it is essential to assess the core nursing skills that nursing students learn and acquire during their student years. The protocol developed in this study can be used to improve nursing education, particularly in the development of core nursing skills.
Somatic and Germline Mutations in Atypical Parathyroid Tumors
Authors: Ullmann Timothy M. , Mulder Michelle , Davis Stephanie , Rajwani Taufiq , Khanafshar Elham , Duh Quan-Yang
Published: August 2023

This case series examines somatic and germline mutations in atypical parathyroid adenomas using broad next-generation sequencing of tumor samples obtained from patients who underwent surgical resection from 2020 to 2022.