bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pemanfaatan Limbah Ternak untuk Rumah Pangan Lestari dalam Upaya Penanganan Stunting di Desa Gelangsar Kabupaten Lombok Barat
Authors: Wanadiatri Halia , Juniawan Alvin , Fathurrahman Fathurrahman , Wedowati Endang Retno , Rejeki Fungki Sri , Haryanta Dwi
Published: May 2024

This community service activity aims to increase the understanding and skills of community members in utilizing livestock waste for sustainable food sources to handle stunting in Gelangsar Village, West Lombok Regency. The method of implementing this activity was through KOSABANGSA program outreach, training, and mentoring. The evaluation instrument for this activity used an environmental observation sheet and assesses the participation and activeness of participants during the activity. The results of this service activity showed that the community has the ability to process cowshed waste (solid) into 40 bags of compost, create a sustainable food house area using polybags in 8 groups spread throughout the village, and one KRPL point on land with an area of around 250 m2, and the types of plants were spinach, tomatoes, eggplant, chilies, mustard greens, lettuce, basil, long beans, family medicinal plants, and others. Guidance and assistance need to be continued considering that the community was very enthusiastic about being able to overcome stunting in Gelangsar village and at the same time wants to become an organic vegetable producer.
Pelatihan Pengelolaan Lingkungan Hidup Sehat bagi Siswa Terdampak Gempa Cianjur
Authors: Rahayu Ucu , Nurdin Gusti , Setyawan Danang Budi
Published: May 2024

This community service activity aims to increase the knowledge and awareness of students affected by the Cianjur earthquake regarding healthy environmental management, including how to wash hands properly, sorting waste, and managing organic waste into compost. The targets of this activity were students and teachers at SD Negeri Sukamaju 1 Cugenang. The method of implementing this community service used socialization and practice. The results of this service showed that teachers and students increased knowledge about how to wash hands properly, could manage waste so that less waste was disposed of, and could produce their fertilizer from household waste. It also led to increased awareness of a healthy living environment in the environment of SD Negeri Sukamaju 1 Cugenang and its surroundings.
Investigation Into The Stress-Coping Levels of Parents of Children with Autism Who Receive Physical Education
Authors: Aydın Menşure , Ulutürk Kemal , Pehlivan Aysel , Kaya Ayça , Karabacak Sercan
Published: May 2024

The aim of the study is to evaluate the demographic characteristics, stress and coping with stress levels of families with children with autism who receive services from autism sports club associations depending on various factors. A total of 134 people, 97 women (49,65±6,15) and 37 men (49,40±6,28) participated in the study. Personal Information Form (PIS), Stress Coping Styles Scale (SCSS) and Parent Stress Scale (PSS) were used as data collection tools. SPSS 22 package program was used to analyze the data obtained. Percentage and frequency values were used to analyze demographic characteristics. The t-test was used for the gender variable of the SPSAS, One-Way Anova test was used for all other variables and Post Hoc Tukey test was used to determine the source of the difference. As a result of the study, there was no statistically significant difference between the sub-dimensions of the SBSAS according to the variables of gender, educational status and gender of the child with autism (p>0.05); when analyzed according to the age variable, a significant difference was found between the groups aged 25-35 years (2.66±0.58) and 45 years and over (2.30±0.71) in the helpless approach sub-dimension (p<0.05). A statistically significant difference was found in families with male children (50.29±5.66) in the comparison of the PBSS according to gender variable (p<0.05). According to the results of the study, it was found that parents felt more helpless as they got older and parents with male children with autism experienced more stress than parents with female children with autism.
Kemampuan Komunikasi Matematis: Sebuah Systematic Literature Review dengan Analisis Bibliometrik Menggunakan Vos Viewers
Authors: Syamsyiah Zahra Maya , Amelia Sri , Maarif Samsul
Published: May 2024

Kemampuan komunikasi matematis merupakan salah satu kemampuan yang penting dimiliki oleh setiap siswa pada proses pembelajaran khususnya matematika. Karena dengan adanya kemampuan tersebut, siswa akan berani dalam menyampaikan pendapatnya atau mengungkapkan idenya mengenai matematika secara lisan maupun tulisan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis perkembangan penelitian mengenai komunikasi matematis yang berhubungan dengan pemecahan masalah . Metode dalam penelitian ini adalah Systematic Literature Review (SLR) dengan bantuan aplikasi Publish or Perish (PoP) untuk mencari data dan VosViewers untuk menganalisisnya.Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah mengenai tren, gap, serta kebaruan dari topik kemampuan komunikasi matematis dan kemampuan pemecahan masalah. Distribusi Systematic Literature Review (SLR) ini menunjukkan bahwa masih jarangnya artikel yang membahas topik komunikasi matematika yang membahas pemecahan masalah .Â
Improvıng Students' Mathematıcs Learnıng Outcomes through The Missouri Mathematics Project (MMP) Learning Model With Realistic Mathematics Approaches For Class VII students of SMP YP PGRI 4 Makassar
Authors: Tasni Nurfaida Tasni , Andika Saputra  , Bua Berna Rena
Published: May 2024

This study aims to describe the improvement of students' mathematics learning outcomes using the Missouri Mathematics Project (MMP) Learning Model with a Realistic Mathematics Approach. The instruments used in this study were the ability test of students' mathematics learning outcomes, student response questionnaires to the Missouri Mathematics Project (MMP) learning model with the Realistic Mathematics Approach, and teacher and student observation guidelines. Data analysis was carried out in two techniques, namely quantitative and qualitative. The data from the observations and questionnaire responses of students were analyzed qualitatively, while the test of students' mathematics learning outcomes was analyzed quantitatively and strengthened by documentation. This study reveals that the Missouri Mathematics Project (MMP) learning model with the Realistic Mathematics approach (PMR) can improve students' mathematics learning outcomes. This condition can be seen in increased learning results, student activities, teacher activities, and student response questionnaires from cycle I to cycle II. The average value obtained in the first cycle is 61.62 from an ideal score of 100 with a completeness of 19.048%, and at the end of the second cycle, it increases to 79.14 from an ideal score of 100 with a completeness of learning outcomes of 85.714%. The standard deviation in the first cycle is 10,462 and the standard deviation in the final cycle or the second cycle is 9,361. Therefore, the Missouri Mathematics Project (MMP) learning model with the Realistic Mathematics Approach is one of the learning models that can improve students' mathematics learning outcomes because it is one of the models that attracts and motivates students to be more active in learning.
Analisis Kemampuan Pemahaman Konsep Matematis Peserta Didik Pada Materi Bentuk Aljabar Ditinjau Dari Self Regulated learning
Authors: Adelina Rida , Sepriyanti Nana , Khaidir Christina
Published: May 2024

Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi oleh rendahnya kemampuan pemahaman konsep matematis peserta didik kelas VII MTsN 1 Pesisir Selatan. Pentingnya pemahaman konsep harus didukung pula dengan kemampuan peserta didik dalam menerima pembelajaran. Kemampuan ini diperlukan ketekunan belajar mandiri   atau kemandirian belajar peserta didik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan kemampuan pemahaman konsep peserta didik yang ditinjau dari self regulated learning. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian dengan metode deskriptif yang menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik purposive sampling (sampel bertujuan). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa self regulated learningpeserta didik pada tingkat kemandirian belajar tinggi sudah mampu memahami indikator kemampuan pemahaman konsep dengan baik. Pada tingkat kemandirian sedang, dapat dikatakan bahwa kemampuan pemahaman konsep peserta didik ini sudah cukup baik. Sedangkan pada tingkat kemandirian belajar yang rendah, dalam kemampuan pemahaman konsep matematis peserta didik masih kurang. Dari penelitian ini diketahui bahwa peserta didik pada kemandirian belajar yang tinggi maka kemampuan pemahaman konsep matematisnya akan baik. sedangkan peserta didik yang berkemandirian belajar rendah, kemampuan pemahaman konsepnya pada kategori kurang baik.
Development of Scıentıfıc-Based LKPD to Improve Students' Problem-Solvıng Abılıty
Authors: Lisnawati  , Sutiarso Sugeng , Hanurawati Nur , Choirudin  , Damayanti Rani
Published: May 2024

This study aims to determine the process and results of developing scientific-based mathematics learning worksheets that meet valid and practical criteria and test the developed worksheets' validity, practicality, and effectiveness. This research and development refer to the steps of Borg and Gall. The research subjects were grade VIII students of the Qur'an Science Middle School Minhajuth Thullab Pekalongan for the 2022/2023 academic year: data collection techniques using interviews, problem-solving ability tests, and questionnaires. The results showed that the LKPD teaching materials developed were categorized as valid (fit for use) based on the assessment of media and material expert validators. In addition, the developed scientific-based LKPD is also categorized as practical based on student assessments and responses from the mathematics teacher. Based on hypothesis testing and proportions, the scientific-based LKPD can improve problem-solving skills, but it is not yet effective because the proportion of students with good category problem-solving abilities is not more than 60% of the total number of students.
Newly Diagnosed HIV Infection in Patients with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (Literature Review and Clinical Cases)
Authors: Satybaldyev M.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, in the Kyrgyz Republic, HIV infection is more often detected at an advanced stage based on of advanced opportunistic infections. Late detection of people living with HIV causes disability and death due to untimely initiation of antiretroviral therapy and late prevention of opportunistic infections. The most difficult secondary disease to diagnose in the advanced stage of HIV infection is progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, often with an unfavorable outcome. This article presents two newly identified clinical cases of HIV infection in patients with difficult-to-diagnose progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, which may increase doctors' alertness to these diseases.
Impacto de las políticas de control fronterizo en las dinámicas transfronterizas en México-Centroamérica y Colombia-Venezuela, 2010-2020
Authors: Gómez Johnson Cristina , González Gil Adriana
Published: May 2024

This article aims to highlight the conditions directly impacting the migrant population in specific sociohistorical contexts on the Colombia-Venezuela and Mexico-Central America borders. Here, a precarious situation worsens, aggravated by violence. These are conditions associated with problems of a political order, which highlight the role of persistent violence in the deterioration of a dignified life, precipitating the decision to migrate and turning mobility into the only strategy to preserve life. An examination of the particular circumstances shows that the changes in cross-border dynamics are related to state actions that favor border control, a persistent precariousness of the population in transit deepened by criminal activities and some social responses that oscillate between assistance and protection of the migrant population, alongside the hostility that accompanies stigmatization.
Spectroscopic insights into multi-phase protein crystallization in complex lysate using Raman spectroscopy and a particle-free bypass
Authors: Wegner Christina Henriette , Eming Sebastian Mathis , Walla Brigitte , Bischoff Daniel , Weuster-Botz Dirk , Hubbuch Jürgen
Published: May 2024

Protein crystallization as opposed to well-established chromatography processes has the benefits to reduce production costs while reaching a comparable high purity. However, monitoring crystallization processes remains a challenge as the produced crystals may interfere with analytical measurements. Especially for capturing proteins from complex feedstock containing various impurities, establishing reliable process analytical technology (PAT) to monitor protein crystallization processes can be complicated. In heterogeneous mixtures, important product characteristics can be found by multivariate analysis and chemometrics, thus contributing to the development of a thorough process understanding. In this project, an analytical set-up is established combining offline analytics, on-line ultraviolet visible light (UV/Vis) spectroscopy, and in-line Raman spectroscopy to monitor a stirred-batch crystallization process with multiple phases and species being present. As an example process, the enzyme Lactobacillus kefir alcohol dehydrogenase (LkADH) was crystallized from clarified Escherichia coli (E. coli) lysate on a 300 mL scale in five distinct experiments, with the experimental conditions changing in terms of the initial lysate solution preparation method and precipitant concentration. Since UV/Vis spectroscopy is sensitive to particles, a cross-flow filtration (cross-flow filtration)-based bypass enabled the on-line analysis of the liquid phase providing information on the lysate composition regarding the nucleic acid to protein ratio. A principal component analysis (PCA) of in situ Raman spectra supported the identification of spectra and wavenumber ranges associated with productspecific information and revealed that the experiments followed a comparable, spectral trend when crystals were present. Based on preprocessed Raman spectra, a partial least squares (PLS) regression model was optimized to monitor the target molecule concentration in real-time. The off-line sample analysis provided information on the crystal number and crystal geometry by automated image analysis as well as the concentration of LkADH and host cell proteins (HCPs) In spite of a complex lysate suspension containing scattering crystals and various impurities, it was possible to monitor the target molecule concentration in a heterogeneous, multi-phase process using spectroscopic methods. With the presented analytical set-up of off-line, particle-sensitive on-line, and in-line analyzers, a crystallization capture process can be characterized better in terms of the geometry, yield, and purity of the crystals.
Chemo-and regioselective aqueous phase, co-acid free nitration of aromatics using traditional and nontraditional activation methods
Authors: Plasse Kelsey M. , Mooney Tara R. , Mastyugin Maxim , Costa Maximilian , Török Béla
Published: May 2024

Electrophilic aromatic nitrations are used for the preparation of a variety of synthetic products including dyes, agrochemicals, high energy materials, fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Traditional nitration methods use highly acidic and corrosive mixed acid systems which present a number of drawbacks. Aside from being hazardous and waste-producing, these methods also often result in poor yields, mostly due to low regioselectivity, and limited functional group tolerance. As a consequence, there is a need for effective and environmentally benign methods for electrophilic aromatic nitrations. In this work, the major aim was to develop reaction protocols that are more environmentally benign while also considering safety issues. The reactions were carried out in dilute aqueous nitric acid, and a broad range of experimental variables, such as acid concentration, temperature, time, and activation method, were investigated. Mesitylene and m-xylene were used as test substrates for the optimization. While the optimized reactions generally occurred at room temperature without any activation under additional solvent-free conditions, slight adjustments in acid concentration, stoichiometric equivalents, and volume were necessary for certain substrates, in addition to the activation. The substrate scope of the process was also investigated using both activated and deactivated aromatics. The concentration of the acid was lowered when possible to improve upon the safety of the process and avoid over-nitration. With some substrates we compared traditional and nontraditional activation methods such as ultrasonic irradiation, microwave and high pressure, respectively, to achieve satisfactory yields and improve upon the greenness of the reaction while maintaining short reaction times.
Structural and functional alteration of the gut microbiota in elderly patients with hyperlipidemia
Authors: Xia Meng , Xu Yafang , Li Huajun , Huang Juan , Zhou Haolin , Gao Chuanzhou , Han Jingyi
Published: May 2024

Objective

To investigate the structure, composition, and functions of the gut microbiota in elderly patients with hyperlipidemia.

Methods

Sixteen older patients diagnosed with hyperlipidemia (M group) and 10 healthy, age-matched normal volunteers (N group) were included. These groups were further subdivided by sex into the male normal (NM, n = 5), female normal (NF, n = 5), male hyperlipidemia (MM, n = 8), and female hyperlipidemia (MF, n = 8) subgroups. Stool samples were collected for high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. Blood samples were collected for clinical biochemical index testing.

Results

Alpha- and beta-diversity analyses revealed that the structure and composition of the gut microbiota were significantly different between the M and N groups. The relative abundances of Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, Blautia, Peptococcus, and Bifidobacterium were significantly decreased, while those of Lactobacillus, Helicobacter, and Desulfovibrio were significantly higher in the M group. There were also significant sex-related differences in microbial structure between the NM and NF groups, and between the MM and MF groups. Through functional prediction with PICRUSt 2, we observed distinct between-group variations in metabolic pathways associated with the gut microbiota and their impact on the functionality of the nervous system. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used as a distance metric to build co-abundance networks. A hypergeometric test was used to detect taxonomies with significant enrichment in specific clusters. We speculated that modules with Muribaculaceae and Lachnospiraceae as the core microbes play an important ecological role in the intestinal microbiota of the M group. The relative intestinal abundances of Agathobacter and Faecalibacterium in the M group were positively correlated with serum triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein levels, while the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium was negatively correlated with the serum lipoprotein a level.
Generating mathematical strategies shows evidence of a serial order effect
Authors: Shaw Stacy T. , Yeghyayan Anahit A. , Ballenger Eric , Ramirez Gerardo
Published: May 2024

This study investigated whether performance on a mathematical strategy-generating task showed evidence for a serial order effect (decreasing fluency but increasing originality and creativity of strategies over time). One-hundred and fifty-five undergraduate students generated as many strategies as they could to solve a three-digit subtraction problem for 8 min, and the resulting strategies were evaluated using fluency and originality indexes that were heavily informed by research on creativity. Results showed evidence for a serial order effect, such that strategy fluency decreased across the working period, but later strategies were rated as more original/creative. These results demonstrates that classroom practices that encourage strategy generation can be a useful tool to help students think more creatively in mathematics.
Explaining primary school teachers’ intention to use digital learning platforms for students’ individualized practice: comparison of the standard UTAUT and an extended model
Authors: Kahnbach Leonie , Hase Alina , Kuhl Poldi , Lehr Dirk
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Though technologies for individualization appear to benefit primary school students’ learning, studies suggest that their integration remains sparse. Technology acceptance research has largely focused on exploring teachers’ general acceptance of educational technologies, although factors might predict usage intentions differently depending on the specific usage purpose of an educational technology. Digital learning platforms for individualized practice are comparably challenging and complex to use and so far, predictors of primary school teachers’ intention to integrate such technologies into lessons are largely unknown. Meanwhile, research on teachers’ technology acceptance generally lacks comparability due to the absence of a shared theoretical model and usage purpose specification.

Methods

In a sample of 272 German primary school teachers, this study aims to identify predictors of teachers’ acceptance of digital learning platforms for students’ individualized practice in consideration of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). To ensure a shared understanding, teachers were provided with a video which specified the addressed usage purpose. Regarding teachers’ usage intention, the explanatory power of the standard UTAUT predictors was investigated and compared with an extended UTAUT model accounting for seven additional context-specific predictors.

Results

The standard UTAUT significantly explained teachers’ usage intention, with performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and the availability of the necessary technical infrastructure showing significant associations with intention. However, neither a significant nor meaningful increase in explained variance was observed for the extended UTAUT model.

Discussion

Results suggest that the standard UTAUT model is sufficient in explaining teachers’ usage intention and that its extension by context-specific predictors provides no added value. Acceptance facilitating interventions should therefore target performance and effort expectancy as well as the availability of technical infrastructure. Thus, underlining that successful implementation of complex educational technologies should consider both, individual and structural factors.
Examining the interplay of teacher well-being, executive function, and adaptability in virtual instruction during COVID-19 disruptions
Authors: Garcia Aileen S. , Jeon Shinyoung , Kwon Kyong-Ah , Horm Diane M.
Published: May 2024

The documented challenges of the early care and education (ECE) workforce include poor well-being, inadequate compensation, and high turnover rates. The COVID-19 pandemic not only exacerbated these issues, but also imposed additional demands such as virtual instruction, highlighting the need to understand how teachers’ well-being relates to their adaptability in teaching. The present study examined whether early childhood teachers’ well-being is directly and indirectly related to adaptability to virtual instruction via teachers’ executive function during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a research-practice partnership project in a Head Start program in a metropolitan area in the central United States, data were collected from the Early Head Start/Head Start annual teacher survey (n = 148). Mediation analysis showed that teachers who demonstrated higher well-being displayed higher levels of executive function, which in turn was associated with greater adaptability in virtual instruction. Beyond the pandemic, findings highlight the importance of supporting teachers’ well-being and executive functions to promote adaptability, which is critical not only in virtual instruction, but also in successfully navigating other challenges of the teaching profession.
The late-follicular-phase progesterone to retrieved oocytes ratio in normal ovarian responders treated with an antagonist protocol can be used as an index for selecting an embryo transfer strategy and predicting the success rate: a retrospective large-scale study
Authors: Zhang Hongxia , Yang Shuo , Chen Lixue , Ma Caihong , Liu Ping , Qiao Jie , Li Rong
Published: May 2024

Objective

To determine whether the late-follicular-phase progesterone to retrieved oocytes (P/O) ratio during in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) impacts pregnancy outcomes.

Design

12,874 cycles were retrospectively categorized into four groups according to the P/O ratio percentile, with divisions at the 25th, 50th and 75th percentiles.

Results

The clinical pregnancy and live birth rates of fresh cycle embryos in Group D were significantly lower than those in the other three groups (45.1% and 39.0%, 43.2% and 37.2%, 39.6% and 33.5%, 33.4% and 28.2% in Group A, B, C, D, respectively; both P < 0.008). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the P/O ratio and live birth, particularly when the P/O ratio was ≥0.22 (OR = 0.862, 95% CI [0.774–0.959], P = 0.006).

Conclusions

The P/O ratio has certain predictive value for IVF/ICSI pregnancy outcomes and can be used for decision-making decision regarding fresh embryo transfer.
Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of ICSI using pentoxifylline to identify viable spermatozoa in patients with frozen-thawed testicular spermatozoa
Authors: Dong Jing , Yin Mingru , Wu Ling , Wang Tiantian , Li Menghui , Zhang Wei , Ma Meng , Li Bin
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Although the effectiveness of pentoxifylline (PF) as a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase to enhance sperm motility through increasing cyclic nucleotide in cases of absolute asthenozoospermia has been demonstrated for ICSI, data related to babies born from the PF-ICSI are still severely lacking. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential embryotoxicity of PF due to the controversial results obtained from the analysis of this compound on animal embryo development. This study aimed to determine whether the application of PF to trigger frozen-thawed TESA (testicular sperm aspiration) spermatozoa increases the risk of adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes compared with non-PF frozen-thawed TESA ICSI and conventional ICSI using fresh ejaculation.

Materials and methods

A total of 5438 patients were analyzed in this study, including 240 patients underwent PF-TESA ICSI (ICSI using PF triggered frozen-thawed testicular spermatozoa), 101 patients underwent non-PF TESA ICSI (ICSI using frozen-thawed testicular spermatozoa) and 5097 patients underwent conventional ICSI using fresh ejaculation. Propensity score matching was executed to control the various characteristics of patients.

Results

No significant differences in pregnancy outcomes were observed among the three groups (PF-TESA ICSI, non-PF TESA ICSI and conventional ICSI), including biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, implantation, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, and live birth, following propensity score matching. Additionally, neonatal outcomes were found to be similar among the three groups, with no statistical differences observed in the birth defect, birth weight, gestational age, preterm birth, and early-neonatal death.

Discussion and conclusion

PF-ICSI may be an alternative treatment in patients using frozen-thawed testicular spermatozoa, resulting in comparable pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.
Collaborative scheduling method of active-reactive power for rural distribution systems with a high proportion of renewable energy
Authors: Liu Anjiang , Li Xinhao , Li Yue , Hao Shuqing , Miao Yu , Zheng Youzhuo , Xie Junyu , Yao Qianqian
Published: May 2024

Large-scale distributed renewable energy connected to the rural distribution network has given birth to a new rural distribution system with a high proportion of new energy typical characteristics, and the optimal scheduling of the new rural distribution system has become an important issue to ensure the safe and stable operation of the power grid. This paper proposes a method of active-reactive power collaborative optimization scheduling for rural power distribution system with a high proportion of renewable energy. Firstly, the active support capability evaluation model is established, and the active power support capability and reactive power support capability of rural power distribution system are quantitatively evaluated, which provides data basis and boundary conditions for the scheduling part. Then, considering power-loss cost, distribution network operation cost, and penalty cost, a method of active-reactive power collaborative optimization scheduling for rural power distribution systems with a high proportion of renewable energy is proposed. Finally, the active support capability evaluation and regulation platform of the rural power distribution system is built to provide technical support services for the safe and stable operation of the rural power distribution system. Given the problems of overload and overvoltage faced by rural power distribution systems with a high proportion of renewable energy, this paper aims to solve the key technical challenges of optimization and regulation of new rural power distribution systems. The results show that the optimized control method proposed in this paper has better security and economy, and is conducive to promoting the construction and operation of the new rural power distribution system.
Silicon extraction from x-ray amorphous soil constituents: a method comparison of alkaline extracting agents
Authors: Stein Mathias , Puppe Daniel , Kaczorek Danuta , Buhtz Christian , Schaller Jörg
Published: May 2024

The growing interest in amorphous silica (ASi) within the fields of soil science and ecology underscores the necessity for a reliable protocol to estimate ASi contents in soil. Alkaline wet chemical extraction methods are commonly employed for silicon (Si) extraction from operationally defined (x-ray) amorphous Si phases or short-range ordered mineral phases in soils and marine sediments. In our study we conducted a comparative analysis of four alkaline extraction methods (1% sodium carbonate, 0.5 M sodium carbonate, 0.2 M sodium hydroxide, and 0.1 M Tiron), assessing their extraction selectivity as well as effectiveness using soils artificially enriched with varying, defined amounts of ASi. While extraction effectiveness was evaluated by determining the recovery rate of initially added ASi, extraction selectivity was determined by measuring aluminum (Al) and iron (Fe) concentrations as indicators of the dissolution of non-target mineral phases. Microwave plasma atom emission spectrometry was used to analyze Al, Fe, and Si concentrations in the extracts. Our results indicate that extraction with 0.2 M sodium hydroxide yields the best outcomes in terms of both extraction effectiveness and selectivity. This more recent extraction technique is conducted at the most alkaline pH (13.3) of all four methods tested, but at ambient temperature (21°C) decreasing the dissolution of non-target mineral phases. Though, no wet-chemical extraction used on heterogeneous samples like soil is precisely selective, and thus able to quantify the target analyte only. Hence, data obtained by such procedures still need to be interpreted with caution considering all their limitations.
Vegetation trends and dynamics in Shada Mountain, Saudi Arabia, (1984–2023): insights from Google Earth Engine and R analysis
Authors: Al-Harbi Hanan F. , Alhuqail Asma A. , Islam Zubairul , Ghrefat Habes
Published: May 2024

This research analyses the long-term vegetation trends in Shada Mountain across six elevation zones, utilizing Landsat 5, 7, 8, and 9 imageries processed via Google Earth Engine and R. The study managed differences in images resolution through meticulous calibration and image processing techniques. The study is structured around two objectives: examining the relationship between vegetation and its proximity to streams and land surface temperature and analyzing trends in the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Regression analysis revealed a negative correlation between vegetation and proximity to streams in lower zones (1–3), with no significant effect in higher zones (4–6). NDVI trend analysis indicated an overall increase in vegetation across most zones, with the exception of zone 5, which displayed a negative trend (slope −0.0025). The findings reveal that the decline is particularly pronounced among key tree species such as Ficus cordata subsp. salicifolia and Acacia asak, suggesting potential impacts from climate change and land use alterations. These zone-specific insights deepen our understanding of the dynamic ecological processes in semi-arid environments and guide targeted environmental management and conservation efforts.
Translation, validation, and comparison of genetic knowledge scales in Greek and German
Authors: Melchior Florian , Beyreuther Konrad , Teichmann Birgit
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Advances in biosciences have significantly expanded our knowledge and capabilities in medicine and technology. Genetic tests can now predict hereditary predisposition or susceptibility to diseases, while gene-editing tools like CRISPR/Cas enable easy repair of disease genes in both somatic and germline cells, ensuring permanent genome correction. Despite these advancements, there is a shortage of valid instruments for studying the knowledge about these technologies. To fill this gap, our study aims to translate and validate various scales to effectively measure the public’s knowledge of genetics.

Methods: A convenience sample of N = 567 (Germany n = 317, Greece n = 250) participants completed a Google Forms questionnaire between December 2022 and June 2023, which included the General Knowledge of Genes and Heredity (GKGH), Knowledge about Gene-Environment Interaction (KGEI), and Knowledge of Modern Genetics and Genomics (KMGG) questionnaires. Analyses included internal consistency, structural validity, construct validity, and retest reliability with a subset of n = 72 (DE) and n = 50 (GR). Correlation analyses and group differences were evaluated for gender, education, religiosity, age, prior experience with genetic testing, and preferences toward potential providers of genetic testing. This study used the STROBE checklist for reporting.

Results: The GKGH exhibited low values in internal consistency and item analysis, along with a ceiling effect within the German group. However, it demonstrated good values in retest and construct validity. In the Greek group, all properties were highly satisfactory. The KMGG consistently displayed excellent properties across all analyses, whereas the KGEI only showed convincing results in construct validity and item analysis.

Discussion: The GKGH and KMGG demonstrated strong psychometric properties with varying difficulty levels dependent on the sample, with the German sample demonstrating a notably higher understanding of genetic technologies. Despite displaying acceptable properties, the KGEI fell short of measuring what its title suggests. Participants’ level of education showed a significant correlation with knowledge of genetic technologies, and only in the Greek sample did experiences with genetic tests influence knowledge. Preferences regarding availability of genetic testing are comparable between the two countries, with variations influenced by factors such as age, gender and religiosity.
Diagnostic efficacy of long non-coding RNAs in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yongdong , Wang Jing , Zhang Xinyin , Xia Chengyan , Wang Zhiping
Published: May 2024

Background

Currently, an increasing body of research suggests that blood-based long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) could serve as biomarkers for diagnosing multiple sclerosis (MS). This meta-analysis evaluates the diagnostic capabilities of selected lncRNAs in distinguishing individuals with MS from healthy controls and in differentiating between the relapsing and remitting phases of the disease.

Methods

We conducted comprehensive searches across seven databases in both Chinese and English to identify relevant studies, applying stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the selected references was rigorously assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. The analysis involved calculating summarized sensitivity (SSEN), specificity (SSPE), positive likelihood ratio (SPLR), negative likelihood ratio (SNLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Accuracy was assessed using summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves.

Results

Thirteen high-quality studies were selected for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis assessed the combined diagnostic performance of lncRNAs in distinguishing MS patients from healthy controls. We found a SSEN of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.74–0.87), SSPE of 0.84 (95% CI: 0.78–0.89), SPLR of 5.14 (95% CI: 3.63–7.28), SNLR of 0.22 (95% CI: 0.16–0.31), and DOR of 23.17 (95% CI: 14.07–38.17), with an AUC of 0.90 (95% CI: 0.87–0.92). For differentiating between relapsing and remitting MS, the results showed a SSEN of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.71–0.85), SSPE of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.64–0.85), SPLR of 3.34 (95% CI: 2.09–5.33), SNLR of 0.28 (95% CI: 0.19–0.40), and DOR of 12.09 (95% CI: 5.70–25.68), with an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI: 0.81–0.87).

Conclusion

This analysis underscores the significant role of lncRNAs as biomarkers in MS diagnosis and differentiation between its relapsing and remitting forms.
Threshold-impeded stochastic production: how noise interacts with disruptive thresholds to affect the production output in fluctuating environments
Authors: Merten Daniel Christopher , Lesne Annick , Uygun Yilmaz , Hütt Marc-Thorsten
Published: May 2024

Introduction:Production systems are bound to operate in stochastic conditions. Prominent sources of performance-reducing uncertainty are constituted by machine failures, decision errors, and fluctuating supplies. This article offers a novel approach to uncertainty through modelling and simulation of nonlinear production systems. In particular, the authors consider production systems where the output is drastically reduced when a resource of fluctuating input values reaches an upper threshold.

Methods:The article introduces minimal models of such hreshold-impeded stochastic production (TISP) systems and the system performance (i.e., the output) is analyzed as a function of system parameters (e.g., the type of nonlinearity) and noise input features (e.g., the distribution width or time correlations). Applications to steel manufacturing via continuous casting and power generation through wind turbines are discussed in detail.

Results and Discussion:The simulation experiments illustrate that especially the extent of the input fluctuations affects the output performance which is why the authors recommend that TISP system operators counterbalance such fluctuations if possible.
Unveiling the role of disulfidptosis-related genes in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Luo Xiaohua , Guo Junjie , Deng Hongbo , He Zhiyong , Wen Yifan , Si Zhongzhou , Li Jiequn
Published: May 2024

Backgrounds

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) presents as a common liver disease characterized by an indistinct pathogenesis. Disulfidptosis is a recently identified mode of cell death. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) in the pathogenesis of NAFLD.

Methods

Gene expression profiles were obtained from the bulk RNA dataset GSE126848 and the single-cell RNA dataset GSE136103, both associated with NAFLD. Our study assessed the expression of DRGs in NAFLD and normal tissues. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differential expression analysis were employed to identify the key NAFLD-specific differentially expressed DRGs (DE-DRGs). To explore the biological functions and immune regulatory roles of these key DE-DRGs, we conducted immune infiltration analysis, functional enrichment analysis, consensus clustering analysis, and single-cell differential state analysis. Finally, we validated the expression and biological functions of DRGs in NAFLD patients using histology and RNA-sequencing transcriptomic assays with human liver tissue samples.

Results

Through the intersection of WGCNA, differentially expressed genes, and DRGs, two key DE-DRGs (DSTN and MYL6) were identified. Immune infiltration analysis indicated a higher proportion of macrophages, T cells, and resting dendritic cells in NAFLD compared to control liver samples. Based on the key DE-DRGs, Two disulfidptosis clusters were defined in GSE126848. Cluster 1, with higher expression of the key DE-DRGs, exhibited increased immune infiltration abundance and was closely associated with oxidative stress and immune regulation compared to cluster 2. High-resolution analysis of mononuclear phagocytes highlighted the potential role of MYL6 in intrahepatic M1 phenotype Kupffer cells in NAFLD patients. Our transcriptome data revealed that the expression levels of the majority of DRGs were significantly increased in NAFLD patients. NAFLD patients exhibit elevated MYL6 correlating with inflammation, oxidative stress, and disease severity, offering promising diagnostic specificity.

Conclusion

This comprehensive study provides evidence for the association between NAFLD and disulfidptosis, identifying potential target genes and pathways in NAFLD. The identification of MYL6 as a possible treatment target for NAFLD provided a novel understanding of the disease’s development.
Maternal immunization and vitamin A sufficiency impact sow primary adaptive immunity and passive protection to nursing piglets against porcine epidemic diarrhea virus infection
Authors: Amimo Joshua O. , Michael Husheem , Chepngeno Juliet , Jung Kwonil , Raev Sergei A. , Paim Francine C. , Lee Marcia V. , Damtie Debasu , Vlasova Anastasia N. , Saif Linda J.
Published: May 2024

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) causes a highly contagious enteric disease with major economic losses to swine production worldwide. Due to the immaturity of the neonatal piglet immune system and given the high virulence of PEDV, improving passive lactogenic immunity is the best approach to protect suckling piglets against the lethal infection. We tested whether oral vitamin A (VA) supplementation and PEDV exposure of gestating and lactating VA-deficient (VAD) sows would enhance their primary immune responses and boost passive lactogenic protection against the PEDV challenge of their piglets. We demonstrated that PEDV inoculation of pregnant VAD sows in the third trimester provided higher levels of lactogenic protection of piglets as demonstrated by >87% survival rates of their litters compared with <10% in mock litters and that VA supplementation to VAD sows further improved the piglets’ survival rates to >98%. We observed significantly elevated PEDV IgA and IgG antibody (Ab) titers and Ab-secreting cells (ASCs) in VA-sufficient (VAS)+PEDV and VAD+VA+PEDV sows, with the latter maintaining higher Ab titers in blood prior to parturition and in blood and milk throughout lactation. The litters of VAD+VA+PEDV sows also had the highest serum PEDV-neutralizing Ab titers at piglet post-challenge days (PCD) 0 and 7, coinciding with higher PEDV IgA ASCs and Ab titers in the blood and milk of their sows, suggesting an immunomodulatory role of VA in sows. Thus, sows that delivered sufficient lactogenic immunity to their piglets provided the highest passive protection against the PEDV challenge. Maternal immunization during pregnancy (± VA) and VA sufficiency enhanced the sow primary immune responses, expression of gut–mammary gland trafficking molecules, and passive protection of their offspring. Our findings are relevant to understanding the role of VA in the Ab responses to oral attenuated vaccines that are critical for successful maternal vaccination programs against enteric infections in infants and young animals.
Eosinophilic granulomatous polyangiitis with central nervous system involvement in children: a case report and literature review
Authors: Nie Nana , Liu Lin , Bai Cui , Wang Dahai , Gao Shan , Liu Jia , Zhang Ranran , Lin Yi , Zhang Qiuye , Chang Hong
Published: May 2024

Objective

To explore the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of children with central nervous system (CNS) involvement in eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA).

Methods

A child who presented with EGPA complicated by CNS involvement was admitted to our hospital in June 2023. The clinical features were analyzed retrospectively, and relevant literatures were reviewed to provide a comprehensive overview of this condition.

Results

A ten-year-old girl, who had a history of recurrent cough and asthma accompanied by peripheral blood eosinophilia for eight months, was admitted to our hospital. On admission, spotted papules were visible on her hands and feet, bilateral pulmonary rales were audible. The laboratory examination revealed that the proportion of eosinophils (EOS) exceeded 10% of white blood cells, the anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPO-ANCA) was positive, the immunoglobulin G level was 15.80g/L, and the immunoglobulin E level was greater than 2500.00IU/mL. The imaging examination showed multiple patchy and nodular high-density shadows in both lungs as well as sinusitis. Pulmonary function tests indicated moderate ventilation and diffusion dysfunction. Bone marrow cytology demonstrated a significant increase in the proportion of eosinophils. Skin pathology confirmed leukocytoclastic vasculitis. During the hospitalization, the child had a convulsion. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain showed multiple abnormal signal shadows in the bilateral cerebral cortex and the electroencephalogram (EEG) showed epileptic waves. Following the administration of methylprednisolone pulse therapy in combination with cyclophosphamide treatment, her cough and asthma resolved, the skin rash disappeared without any further convulsions. We found that only a young EGPA patient with CNS involvement had been previously reported. The previously reported case began with long-term fever, weight loss, and purpuric rash. Both patients responded well to treatment with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide, experiencing significant improvement in their clinical symptoms and normalization of their peripheral blood eosinophils.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of EGPA in children can be challenging. When a child is affected by EGPA, it is essential to remain vigilant for signs of CNS involvement. The treatment with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide is effective in managing EGPA in children.