bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Studies : Digital-Based Family Health Education on Prevention of Anemia in Junior High School Students
Authors: Ningrum Dedah , Hufad Achmad , Wahyudin Uyu , Suryadi Ace
Published: July 2024

This study aims to describe a digital-based family health education model for the prevention of anemia in Junior High School Students. This study used a descriptive method with a quantitative approach involving 100 families of female students, who filled out questionnaires regarding their knowledge of anemia, health education, use of digital media, and knowledge and compliance with consuming iron tablets. The data analysis technique in this research used frequency distribution. The results showed that most families lacked knowledge about the signs, consequences, and prevention of anemia, although almost all respondents recognized the importance of family education for anemia prevention. In addition, almost all Junior High School Students had good knowledge of anemia, and almost all families had access and use of WhatsApp as digital media. However, the compliance of Junior High School Students in consuming iron tablets needed improvement. These findings highlight the need for developing a digital-based family health education program utilizing WhatsApp to enhance knowledge and compliance in anemia prevention. It is hoped that this intervention will create sustainable behavioral changes and positively impact the health of adolescent girls.
Analysis of Indonesian Language Proficiency Test in High School Students' Reading Section
Authors: Humaira Hera Wahdah , Agustiani Tanti , Suparman Fauziah
Published: July 2024

This study aims to identify and evaluate high school students' scores in Sukabumi City on the reading section of the Indonesian Language Proficiency Test. The research method used a descriptive with a qualitative approach. The subjects of this research are students from SMA Muhammadiyah in Sukabumi City, consisting of 5 classes, namely classes X, XI A, XI B, XII IPS, and XII IPA. The instrument used was an Indonesian Language Proficiency Test sheet containing 40 questions. The data analysis technique used was a qualitative descriptive method to describe the results of the students' proficiency data. The results showed that the initial abilities of the five classes in high school in Sukabumi City, namely classes X, XI A, XI B, XII IPS, and XII IPA, obtained an average score of 170, while the abilities in the second test of the five classes in high school in Sukabumi City, namely classes X, XI A, XI B, XII IPS, and XII IPA, obtained an average score of 194. The results of the data from the two test sessions, the scores of the UKBI test in the reading category, showed that from the five classes, the results for test 1 show an average student ability score of 170 with a "Madya" predicate, while test 2 shows an average student ability score of 194 with a "Madya" predicate, indicating an improvement between test 1 and test 2. Although the reading proficiency predicate remains "Madya" between test 1 and test 2.
АНАЛІЗ ЧИННИКІВ, ЯКІ ВПЛИВАЮТЬ НА ВИБІР МОДЕЛІ ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ СИЛ І ЗАСОБІВ ПРИКОРДОННОГО ЗАГОНУ У СКЛАДІ СИЛ ОБОРОНИ ПІД ЧАС ВІДБИТТЯ ЗБРОЙНОГО ВТОРГНЕННЯ
Authors: Zalozh Viktor ,   Bohdan Khmelnytskyi National Academy of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, Karasov Dmytro ,   Bohdan Khmelnytskyi National Academy of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine
Published: July 2024

The set of factors influencing the choice of the model for the application of forces and means of a border guard detachment as part of the defense forces in repelling an armed invasion has been determined. Their analysis, systematization, and ranking have been carried out. From the entire variety of factors, 8 major groups have been identified through generalization and systematization: military-political, socio-economic, material-technical, organizational-management, moral-psychological, physical-geographical, ecological and sanitary-epidemiological, and normative-legal.
PROVIDING DEFENCE FORCES AT THE LOCAL LEVEL: BUDGETARY AND LEGAL ASPECT
Authors: Koval Vitalii ,   State Research Institute for testing and certification of weapons and military equipment, Sukach Olena , Drobot Olga ,   Rauf Ablyazov East European Universit,   Institute for Testing and Certification of Weapons and Military Equipment
Published: July 2024

The success of the end of military operations in Ukraine depends on a reliable internal front, namely, support for the defense forces at all levels of government. The article analyses the budgetary and legal instruments for supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the current legislation, the main source of support is the State Budget of Ukraine and financial support from partner countries. The current state of financing of the defense forces units of Cherkasy region is analyzed. It is found that the existing approach to providing these units does not meet the urgent needs: their maintenance is carried out at their own expense, with the help of volunteer organizations and domestic business. It is determined that an additional source of stable provision of such units may be free funds of local budgets and revenues from the personal income tax (military personnel), which have significantly increased the revenues of local self-government budgets. The author substantiates the ways of resolving the issues of inconsistency in the current legislation, in particular, the Laws of Ukraine "On Local Self-Government in Ukraine" and "On the Fundamentals of National Resistance".
INTERACTION BETWEEN THE NATIONAL GUARD OF UKRAINE AND CIVIL SOCIETY INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Pylyp Victoria ,   Uzhhorod National University
Published: July 2024

The article analyses the peculiarities of interaction between civil society institutions of Ukraine and the National Guard of Ukraine. The author substantiates the view that the current legislation does not directly define the principles of interaction between the units of the National Guard of Ukraine and civil society institutions; at the same time, the interaction is indirect, since it takes place in a three-element model, in the implementation of which the units of the National Police of Ukraine are involved. It is noted that in order to ensure that the interacting entities comply with the principles of legality, the rule of law, respect for human and civil rights and freedoms, partnership, etc., it is advisable to amend certain legislative acts with a view to ensuring interaction between the bodies of the National Guard of Ukraine, the National Police of Ukraine and public order protection groups.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN INFORMATION-ANALYTICAL SUBSYSTEM FOR AN AUTOMATED TACTICAL LEVEL CONTROL SYSTEM
Authors: Semchak Oleksandr ,   Military Academy (Odessa), Didyk Valentyn , Pavlenko Serhii ,   Military Academy (Odessa),   National Academy of the National Guard of Ukraine
Published: July 2024

An analysis of methods used by management bodies has been conducted, indicating the necessity of finding the most acceptable methodological apparatus for substantiating decisions regarding the application of units and subunits to counter armed and other provocations by the enemy in the area of combat missions performance. The issue of the inconsistency between the necessity of countering threats posed by the enemy's troops in the defense area of a battalion (combat order during the offensive) and the absence of a methodological apparatus that would allow to form a rational distribution of units and subunits under these conditions for conducting combat operations has been raised. Methods and algorithm have been proposed that enable the determination of the degree of correspondence between external informational indicators of data received at the battalion command post and typical informational indicators of necessary information for use during the decision-making process for the application of units and subunits, allowing timely measures to be taken to prevent negative consequences for the national security of the state during the combat operations conducted by units and subunits of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
LEGAL ASPECTS OF THE REGULATION OF THE STATE OF WAR IN UKRAINE
Authors: Shevtsov Anatolii ,   Military Law Institute of Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University
Published: July 2024

The article highlights some problematic issues of legal regulation of the state of war in Ukraine, existing conflicts and contradictions in Ukrainian legislation in view of the events of the Russian-Ukrainian war. The author proposes relevant amendments to the legal acts regulating the algorithm of actions of public authorities in the context of a real threat to national security.
Correction of Internal Astigmatism Using Toric Scleral Contact Lens after Implantable Collamer Lens Surgery
Authors: Yang Seung Ahn , Lee Ji Eun
Published: July 2024

Purpose: We present a case of internal astigmatism correction using a toric scleral contact lens in a patient with high myopia after implantable collamer lens (ICL) surgery.Case summary: A 45-year-old man presented with a significant decrease in visual acuity despite previous ICL surgery. Initial attempts to fit a corneal rigid gas permeable contact lens to the left eye were unsuccessful due to fitting challenges. Subsequently, the use of a spherical scleral contact lens effectively corrected corneal astigmatism but failed to address internal astigmatism, thereby limiting improvement in visual acuity. Postoperative corneal ectasia and ICL rotation were suspected to be the underlying causes of this astigmatism. The introduction of a front toric scleral lens resulted in a significant improvement in visual acuity and sustained comfort throughout the 3-month follow-up period.Conclusions: The use of toric scleral lenses can significantly improve visual acuity and provide exceptional comfort in cases where corneal morphology and lens position change after ICL surgery. This modality presents a promising alternative for future consideration.
Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome following COVID-19 Vaccination: Two Case Reports
Authors: Lee Han Eul , Jung Soyeon , Chin Hee Seung
Published: July 2024

Purpose: We present two cases of multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS) following COVID-19 vaccination.Case summary: We present two cases of visual field defects following BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech, Kronach, Germany) COVID-19 vaccination. A 14-year-old male experienced reduced visual acuity in the temporal field of his left eye after his second dose. Similarly, a 38-year-old woman experienced decreased visual acuity in her right eye after her first dose. Notably, neither patient had pre-existing medical conditions or exhibited COVID-19 symptoms following vaccination. Funduscopic examination revealed multifocal peripapillary hyperreflective lesions in both cases. Visual field defects and hyperreflective lesions spontaneously resolved within 6 weeks, with normal visual acuity and fundus findings at the 7-month follow-up.Conclusions: The recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in vaccination rates. Notably, MEWDS demonstrated a significant association with previous vaccines, including influenza and hepatitis, and the cases describe herein also suggest a potential association between BNT162b2 vaccination and MEWDS.
Three Familial Cases of Stickler Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Jung Jin Wook , Ahn Sung Hyun , You In Cheon , Ahn Min , Cho Nam Chun
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Stickler syndrome, a hereditary connective tissue disorder characterized by mutations in collagen genes, presents with progressive ophthalmopathy and diverse systemic manifestations. Here, we present three familial cases of Stickler syndrome, emphasizing the importance of early detection through clinical investigations and genetic testing.Case summary: Two generations of a family, a mother and her two daughters, were evaluated for Stickler syndrome. All three exhibited bilateral retinal lattice degeneration, perivascular retinal degeneration, and vitreous liquefaction. The daughters shared characteristic facial features, including a flattened face, broad nasal bridge, and micrognathia. Clinical symptoms and examination findings led to diagnoses of Stickler syndrome. Subsequent genetic testing in five family members confirmed a COL2A1 mutation in the three affected individuals.Conclusions: Stickler syndrome carries a high risk of vision loss from ocular complications, necessitating early detection and intervention. In addition, the presence of systemic manifestations, such as musculoskeletal joint disorders, mitral valve prolapse, hearing loss, and cleft palate, emphasizes the importance of prompt detection through appropriate clinical investigations and genetic testing.
Problemas y desafíos de las Políticas Públicas Educativas en América Latina: Una revisión sistemática
Authors: Torres Bernal Rossana Graciela , Mejía Campó Nely , Huayta Franco Yolanda Josefina
Published: July 2024

En América Latina, la educación ha tenido brechas muy notorias debido a la pandemia, no se han implementado de forma adecuada las políticas públicas educativas; por eso, el propósito es mapear y analizar sistemáticamente las contribuciones académicas de los artículos científicos sobre las políticas públicas educativas en América Latina de los siete países que comprende entre los años 2019 al 2024. Es imprescindible conocer los problemas y los desafíos de la educación en América Latina. Referente a la metodología se desarrolló en base a las directrices PRISMA. En cuanto a los resultados obtenidos se trabajó con la base de datos de Scopus y Scielo, la búsqueda se llevó a cabo desde el 01 de octubre del 2023 al 20 de febrero del 2024. Cuyos resultados obtenidos indican que se debe mejorar las políticas educativas. La investigación se desarrolló en base a las cuatro categorías: el sistema educativo, la inclusión, igualdad, la evaluación y las estrategias de aprendizaje. Llegando a la conclusión que las políticas públicas educativas en América Latina son muy complejas, hay mucha desigualdad, no se prima los derechos humanos, además no hay respeto a la interculturalidad, pluralismo, falta implementar la evaluación con criterios y mejorar las estrategias educativas.
Desinformación sobre las vacunas contra la Covid-19 a través de la red social Facebook
Authors: Chara Santa Cruz María E , Monteza Facho Betty , Bartolo-Marchena Marco , Medina Ibáñez Armando
Published: July 2024

The research aimed to identify the behavior of organizations promoting vaccine rejection through Facebook in the context of the Covid-19 vaccination campaign. To achieve the study’s purpose, the posts with the highest number of reactions on Facebook were observed and analyzed, as well as the content of these posts and the ways in which anti-vaccine organizations presented their messages on their fan pages. A digital social listening tool was used to analyze the data, providing information on the ranking of published messages, interactions reached, and sentiment assessments. The research found that anti-vaccine organizations used Facebook as one of the communication channels to disseminate messages that contradicted health measures, questioned the legality of vaccination, and opposed the use of masks. In other words, this social network served as a platform to spread messages that distorted the truth of the facts and encouraged various actions against vaccination campaigns. Therefore, during the Covid-19 pandemic, this social network became a crucial information medium for the population, but it was also the most used medium by anti-vaccine organizations to spread misinformation and generate negative emotions among users, ultimately eroding their trust.
Complex Methods of Therapy for Patients with Chronic Urethrogenic Prostatitis
Authors: Suvorov S. , Tolstokorov S.
Published: July 2024

To optimize the rehabilitation of patients with chronic prostatitis urethrogenic method endourethral the introduction of a proteolytic enzyme kollalysin using the apparatus AMUS-01 Intramag. This reduced the time resolution of clinical signs in patients with HUPA. Analysis of clinical data showed a high therapeutic efficacy endourethral vibratory and magneto-electrophoresis kollalysin on the Intramag unit urethrogenic in chronic prostatitis with symptoms of sclerosis of the prostate.
Translating ‘Le Pagnol des Comores’: Ali Zamir's Anguille Sous Roche in English Translation
Authors: Défachel Clara
Published: July 2024

In 2017, Ali Zamir's acclaimed debut novel Anguille sous roche became the first Comorian novel to circulate in translation in Europe. This article discusses its English translation, A Girl Called Eel, by Aneesa Abbas Higgins (2019) in relation to the reception, circulation, and canon formation of literature from the Comoros islands. By discussing translation's ties to heritage conservation and literary consecration in the Comorian context alongside a comparative textual and paratextual analysis of Anguille and Eel, I investigate the extent to which the novel's ‘Comorianness’ was erased, reclaimed, or playfully constructed along this translation journey by a wide variety of actors. These include the independent publishers Le Tripode and Jacaranda Books, who respectively published the French and English texts, various French literary institutions and French and UK-based funding bodies, as well as the author and translator themselves.
Conceptualizing Linguistic and Cultural Identity among Breton and Arabic Users in Brittany
Authors: Eichhorn Sarah
Published: July 2024

The linguistic diversity of France is a highly discussed topic, particularly in relation to the French state's (lack of) support for regional and minority languages (RMLs). There are approximately 200,000 speakers of the regional language Breton, while Arabic is the second-most widely spoken language in France with an estimated 3–4 million speakers. Recent studies have called for comparative analyses and this research seeks to fill this gap, focusing on individual speakers and their social experiences as they relate to language(s), diversity, and identity. This paper discusses findings of fieldwork conducted in Brittany with Breton and Arabic language users, examining how Breton and Arabic language users describe their language experiences, and how identity can be shaped by language practices. This research also explores how such language practices relate to diversity and multilingualism across France more broadly, and how individuals understand the multifaceted nature of identity using terms such as ‘double culture’ and ‘mélange’.
Montagem de tempos heterogêneos em O Fio da Memória: no centenário da abolição (1991), de Eduardo Coutinho
Authors: Osorio Flores Virginia , Dias Fonseca Eduardo
Published: July 2024

Tendo como objeto o segundo longa-metragem documentário realizado por Eduardo Coutinho, O Fio da Memória: no centenário da abolição (1991), objetivamos neste ensaio observar as camadas narrativas, tempos heterogêneos e as estratégias empregadas para o discurso da memória e do esquecimento presentes no filme. Partimos do pressuposto que o filme traz em germe inicial exercícios de uma forma fílmica documental antes mesmo de apontar para um determinado estilo. A partir de debates gerados pela exclusão, racismo, entre outros, o trabalho traça de modo transversal a temática do documentário de modo a clarear algumas características que se pronunciam como embrionárias na obra do autor. Podem ser destacadas entre estas, escolhas como: a estratégia para a ideação do relato a partir de entrevistas, o uso de canções diegéticas escolhidas e performadas pelas personagens, a presença do sincretismo religioso e alguns indícios da fabricação do filme através da presença da equipe. Mesmo que esta obra tenha sido realizada por encomenda estes são elementos já presentes que identificam este autor de forma singular.
Reflexões acerca da "imaginação" nas obras de Salvador Dalí
Authors: D'Avila Junior Francisco de Paulo
Published: July 2024

Este artigo investiga a relação entre a imaginação e o Surrealismo, destacando como os artistas desse movimento, trabalharam para fundir sonhos e realidade, forjando uma realidade absoluta, uma espécie de surrealidade. Para tanto, inicialmente haverá uma breve contextualização sobre o sentido de imaginação, revisitando autores como Aristóteles, Santo Agostinho, David Hume, Immanuel Kant, Jean-Paul Sartre e Sigmund Freud. O Manifesto Surrealista, que em 2024 completa 100 anos, e obras do mestre surrealista Salvador Dalí, serão objetos de análise sobre como a imaginação transcendeu as convenções artísticas tradicionais através do movimento surrealista, dando origem a um universo de imagens perturbadoras, oníricas, além de associações inesperadas.
A Matemática, a sua História e o Ensino Aprendizagem junto aos Desafios das Tecnologias na Formação de Professores
Authors: Dos Santos Lobato Alcimara , Luciane Dominschek Desiré
Published: July 2024

A pesquisa aborda a temática da formação docente no ensino da matemática em relação à tecnologia, considerando os desafios apresentados pelo mundo tecnológico. Destaca-se a formação docente, especialmente em relação às Tecnologias Digitais de Informação e Comunicação (TDICs), que instigam uma abordagem inovadora no ensino da matemática. A metodologia adotada combina abordagens qualitativas e quantitativas, na configuração de um estudo bibliográfico O objetivo é capacitar os professores de matemática a se adaptarem aos avanços tecnológicos e incorporarem essas ferramentas em sua prática pedagógica. A pesquisa é entremeio de uma discussão maior que debate como os professores de Matemática de uma escola pública nos anos finais estão se apropriando das TDICs, não apenas em termos de habilidade técnica, mas principalmente em sua aplicação pedagógica.
Reflexões sobre a formação do pedagogo que atua em espaços da Educação Social
Authors: Basta Leandro , Teixeira de Souza Cléia Renata
Published: July 2024

No Brasil a Educação Social é uma área de atuação que ainda não tem um profissional com formação específica, ou seja, é uma profissão que está em processo de regulamentação e seu profissional, o educador social, ainda pode ter diferentes formações, desde o Ensino Médio completo até graduações que variam muito. Assim, o Pedagogo vem atuando nessa área em instituições, principalmente, não escolares. Este texto apresenta uma investigação realizada como trabalho de conclusão de curso de Pedagogia, da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campus de Naviraí. O objetivo foi investigar os espaços não escolares de atuação do Pedagogo na cidade de Naviraí-MS, com o intuito de entender o perfil e a atuação desse profissional nas instituições que visam o desenvolvimento social. Em relação à metodologia, adotou-se uma abordagem qualitativa, apoiada em análise documental e entrevista semiestruturada com um sujeito da área. Como resultado verificou-se que os espaços não escolares de Naviraí se concentram basicamente no contexto da Gerência de Assistência Social (GEAS) da cidade e, por vezes, Pedagogos são contratados para atuarem como educadores sociais.
MOOCS PARA ADULTOS MAYORES: UNA ESTRATEGIA EN PRO DEL ENVEJECIMIENTO EXITOSO
Authors: Vásquez Morales Andrea , Cruz Ramírez Mónica Julieth
Published: July 2024

Ante el panorama del envejecimiento mundial de la población es evidente que se ha suscitado un interés generalizado por diversos aspectos relacionados con el adulto mayor. Según la ONU, éste fenómeno requiere modificaciones en todos los ámbitos tanto en la salud como en sectores económicos, políticos, educativos, sociales, y medio ambientales (ONU, 2003)
Benefits of Canavalia ensiformis, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, and mineral fertilizer management in tobacco production
Authors: Ponce de Leon Daniel , Garcia Rubido Milagros , Rivera Ramón , Mancero-Castillo Daniel , Garcia Yoansy
Published: July 2024

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) has long been vital to Cuban agriculture, with its products renowned for their quality. Cuban tobacco is grown in soils with a long history of continuous farming using traditional fertilization methods characterized by recommended doses of mineral fertilizers. This study aims to improve the nutrition resource strategy in tobacco cultivation to ensure high yields of superior-grade tobacco leaves with adequate quality and increase fertilization efficiency. With this goal, a field experiment evaluated the traditional method of fallow with alternatives of nutrient supply systems for the production of black tobacco in Ultic Paleustalf soils. The experiment utilized Canavalia ensiformis (Can) treated with a mycorrhizal inoculum (AMF) based on the Glomus cubense strain (INCAM-4) as a preceding green manure, combined with successive mineral fertilizations for tobacco during four growing seasons in a randomized block design with factorial arrangement. Canavalia presented a positive response to mycorrhizal inoculation, significantly increasing dry biomass production (87.34%, 129.96%), mycorrhizal colonization (26.90%, 103.66%), and spore production (26.79%, 52.52%) for Can and Can+AMF treatments respectively. A biplot analysis established a strong relationship between the biomass and mycorrhizal performance of Canavalia and the growth, yield, and mycorrhizal colonization of tobacco. The results indicate that inoculated Canavalia enhances mycorrhizal performance in successional tobacco, with Can+AMF significantly increasing mycorrhization of tobacco roots by (110.06%). Moreover, the combination of Can inoculate with AMF and 75% of the recommended mineral fertilization dose consistently produced the highest tobacco yields (42.06%), growth, and mycorrhizal activity across the four years while maintaining satisfactory combustibility. In this nutrition supply system, variations of the recommended fertilizer dose significantly decreased the percentage of mycorrhizal colonization. After four growing seasons using Can + AMF and Canavalia without inoculations, soil organic matter, and availability of exchangeable calcium, magnesium, and pH increased slightly without decreasing available phosphorus and potassium contents. Consequently, we conclude that Canavalia ensiformis, with an inoculum based on the Glomus cubense strain and 75% of the recommended dose of mineral fertilizers, provides an enhanced nutrition alternative system for black tobacco production.
A human monoclonal antibody based immunoenzymetric assay to measure Fel d 1 concentrations in cat hair and pelt allergenic extracts
Authors: Rabin Ronald L. , Croote Derek , Chen Aaron , Dobrovolskaia Ekaterina , Wong Joyce Jia Wen , Grossman Jessica , Hamilton Robert G.
Published: July 2024

In the United States, 19 allergen extracts of different specificities are standardized, which means that their potencies are determined in comparison to a US reference standard. For cat allergen extracts, potency is determined by measuring Fel d 1 content expressed in in Fel d 1 units, and with a unitage that correlates with skin test reactions (bioequivalent allergy units or BAU). Currently, Fel d 1 content is measured with a radial immunodiffusion (RID) assay that uses polyclonal sheep antisera to detect the allergenic protein by producing a white precipitin line in agar gel. However, the RID is considered cumbersome, and the polyclonal sera may qualitatively vary among animals and may recognize epitopes irrelevant to human allergic disease. In this report, we describe a quantitative two-site immunoenzymetric assay (IEMA) for Fel d 1 that uses immobilized capture and soluble biotin-labeled detection Fel d 1-specific human IgE monoclonal antibodies (mAb) that have been class-switched to IgG4. Together, they sandwich Fel d 1 molecules from extracts. Using purified natural Fel d 1 as a calibrator, the historically reported ∼4 micrograms Fel d 1/Fel d 1 unit assignment was directly measured in this mAb-based IEMA at 3.12 ± 0.24 micrograms of Fel d 1 per Fel d 1 unit. This IEMA appears to be equivalent to RID in the measurement of biological potencies of commercial cat hair and cat pelt extracts marketed in the United States.
Numerical integration method for two-parameter singularly perturbed time delay parabolic problem
Authors: Cheru Shegaye Lema , Duressa Gemechis File , Mekonnen Tariku Birabasa
Published: July 2024

This study presents an (ε, μ)−uniform numerical method for a two-parameter singularly perturbed time-delayed parabolic problems. The proposed approach is based on a fitted operator finite difference method. The Crank–Nicolson method is used on a uniform mesh to discretize the time variables initially. Subsequently, the resulting semi-discrete scheme is further discretized in space using Simpson's 1/3rd rule. Finally, the finite difference approximation of the first derivatives is applied. The method is unique in that it is not dependent on delay terms, asymptotic expansions, or fitted meshes. The fitting factor's value, which is used to account for abrupt changes in the solution, is calculated using the theory of singular perturbations. The developed scheme is demonstrated to be second-order accurate and uniformly convergent. The proposed method's applicability is validated by three model examples, which yielded more accurate results than some other methods found in the literature.
Post-translational activation of the C-terminus of polypeptides for the synthesis of peptide thioesters and peptide thioester surrogates
Authors: Liu Yanbo , Kajihara Yasuhiro , Okamoto Ryo
Published: July 2024

Semisynthesis using recombinant polypeptides is a powerful approach for the synthesis of proteins having a variety of modifications. Peptide thioesters, of which the peptide C-terminus is activated by a thioester, are utilized for coupling peptide building blocks. Biological methods employing intein have been a center for the C-terminal thioesterification of recombinant polypeptides. Chemical activation has emerged as an alternative methodology for synthesizing peptide thioesters from recombinant polypeptides. Chemical reactions are compatible with various solutions containing organic solvents, chaotropic reagents, or detergents that are generally incompatible with biomolecules such as intein. Despite the potential utility of chemical activation, available methods remain limited. This article introduces the methods for the chemical activation of a peptide C-terminus applied to the chemical synthesis of proteins. By showcasing these methodologies, we aim to accelerate the advancement of new chemical reactions and methodologies and broaden the frontiers for the chemical synthesis of proteins.
Fulminant fatal pneumonia and bacteremia due to Aeromonas dhakensis in an immunocompetent man: a case report and literature review
Authors: Jiang Lei , Zhao Qiquan , Li Dairong , Gao Jia , Zhang Xiaobing , Shu Qian , Han Xiaoli
Published: July 2024

Background

Aeromonas dhakensis is associated with soft tissue infection, bacteremia and gastroenteritis. Involvement of respiratory system in adults is extremely rare. We report a case of fulminant pneumonia and bacteremia due to A. dhakensis in a patient without underlying diseases.

Case presentation

A 26-year-old man became ill suddenly with pneumonia after swimming in a river. Despite intensive support measures in the intensive care unit, he died 13 hours after admission and 4 days after his first symptoms. Autopsy showed abundant Gram-negative bacteria, massive inflammatory cell infiltration, edema, necrosis and hemorrhage in lung tissue. A. dhakensis was isolated from blood culture taken at admission and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) after intubation. Moreover, A. dhakensis was also detected in lung tissue by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) assay. The infection may have come from river water.

Conclusion

In patients who develop a fulminant pneumonia after contacting an aquatic environment, A. dhakensis should be alerted and mNGS may aid in the detection of aquatic pathogens by being more sensitive and specific versus traditional bacterial culture.
Coumarin derivatives ameliorate the intestinal inflammation and pathogenic gut microbiome changes in the model of infectious colitis through antibacterial activity
Authors: Jung Hui-su , Park Yei Ju , Gu Bon-Hee , Han Goeun , Ji Woonhak , Hwang Su mi , Kim Myunghoo
Published: July 2024

Coumarin, a phenolic compound, is a secondary metabolite produced by plants such as Tanga and Lime. Coumarin derivatives were prepared via Pechmann condensation. In this study, we performed in vitro and in vivo experiments to determine the antimicrobial and gut immune-regulatory functions of coumarin derivatives. For the in vitro antimicrobial activity assay, coumarin derivatives C1 and C2 were selected based on their pathogen-killing activity against various pathogenic microbes. We further demonstrated that the selected coumarin derivatives disrupted bacterial cell membranes. Next, we examined the regulatory function of the coumarin derivatives in gut inflammation using an infectious colitis model. In an in vivo infectious colitis model, administration of selected C1 coumarin derivatives reduced pathogen loads, the number of inflammatory immune cells (Th1 cells and Th17 cells), and inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-6 and IL-1b) in the intestinal tissue after pathogen infection. In addition, we found that the administration of C1 coumarin derivatives minimized abnormal gut microbiome shift-driven pathogen infection. Potential pathogenic gut microbes, such as Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcaceae, were increased by pathogen infection. However, this pathogenic microbial expansion was minimized and beneficial bacteria, such as Ligilactobacillus and Limosilactobacillus, increased with C1 coumarin derivative treatment. Functional gene enrichment assessment revealed that the relative abundance of genes associated with lipid and nucleotide metabolism was reduced by pathogen infection; however, this phenomenon was not observed in C1 coumarin derivative-treated animals. Collectively, our data suggest that C1 coumarin derivative is effective antibacterial agents that minimize pathogen-induced gut inflammation and abnormal gut microbiome modulation through their antibacterial activity.
Pediatric endocarditis - a stone left after the pandemic cascade
Authors: Lupu Ancuta , Nedelcu Alin Horatiu , Budescu Paula Diana , Jechel Elena , Starcea Iuliana Magdalena , Frasinariu Otilia Elena , Ioniuc Ileana , Badescu Minerva Codruta , Salaru Delia Lidia , Munteanu Dragos , Russu Ruxandra , Sascau Radu Andy , Statescu Cristian , Lupu Vasile Valeriu
Published: July 2024

Infective endocarditis is a rare disease in children. The etiology is mainly bacterial. However, viral infective endocarditis, possibly related to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has also been reported. The pathophysiological principle of the connection between the two entities seems to be attributed to the transient immune deficiency of the body during the infection. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 is reported in the literature as a direct cardiopathic virus. Therefore, the new coronavirus seems to have the ability to affect both the intact cardiac tissue and the previously damaged one both during the acute episode and at a distance from it. Consequently, we propose to review the main pathophysiological aspects of pediatric cardiac damage caused by SARS-CoV-2. The ultimate goal is to deepen existing knowledge, broaden the horizon of understanding and analysis regarding the systemic damage induced by viral infections, and strengthen an information base from which to start a meta-analysis. Next, we performed a non-systematized screening of the specialized literature with reference to cases of endocarditis in the pediatric population, reported in the period 2020–2023. From the total of articles found, we chose to include in the review a number of 6 case reports, including a number of 7 patients (5 children and 2 adolescents). Analysis of reports suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection could play a role in the development of endocarditis, either directly through active infection or indirectly through a post-infectious immune response. Also, pre-existing conditions and complex medical history predispose to an increased risk of developing a severe, complicated form of endocarditis. Also, the lack of data on the vaccination history and the failure to categorize the infection depending on the type of antibodies (IgM or IgG) in some studies represent a major bias in the reports. The latter make it difficult to evaluate the influence of vaccination and the impact of acute versus chronic infection on the course of cases.
Disparities in prevalence of screening/monitoring in children with intellectual and developmental disabilities: culturally sensitive provider can mitigate effects
Authors: Mudnal Purnima S. , Chuang Emmeline , Needleman Jack , Rosenau Kashia , Kuo Alice A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

About one in six children in the US, about 17% of the population, have one or more intellectual or developmental disabilities. Increases in disability due to neurodevelopmental or mental health conditions have increased by 21% in the last decade. Early intervention based on developmental screening and provider-initiated monitoring can significantly improve long-term health and cognitive outcomes. This paper assesses whether differences in receipt of developmental screening or monitoring are associated with access to a high-quality primary care medical home and having a provider who shows sensitivity to a family’s customs and values among neurotypical children and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Methods

We used cross-sectional data from the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) from 2017 to 2019. The NSCH is a nationally representative, parent-completed annual survey of children under 18. Children between 9 months and 5 years with IDD (n = 2,385) and neurotypical children (n = 20,200) were included in the analysis.

Results

Uptake of developmental screening/monitoring in neurotypical children and children with IDD conditions was associated with belonging to minority race/ethnic backgrounds, specifically Black, Asian, and AIAN/NHPI, and single-parent households with lower incomes, being publicly insured or uninsured and not having access to a high-quality medical home. Weighted regression models showed that the odds of neurotypical children receiving developmental monitoring/screening were 53% higher when their healthcare provider always or usually demonstrated cultural sensitivity to the family’s values and customs (OR 1.53, 95% CI, 1.08–2.18, p < 0.05). For children with IDD, the odds of receipt of monitoring/screening increased by 2.1 times when the provider always/usually demonstrated an understanding of the family’s cultural norms (95% CI, 0.99–4.43, p = 0.053). Being female was significantly associated with a lack of screening/surveillance (OR 0.73, 95% CI, 0.58–0.91, p < 0.05).

Discussion

With the rising prevalence of children with IDD conditions, early identification of developmental delays and subsequent access to interventions are crucial steps in supporting children and children with IDD to receive preventive care, services, and reduce disparities in accessing quality care. Implementing culturally sensitive approaches can be a low-cost and effective intervention in improving rates of provider-initiated monitoring and parent-completed screening.
Efficacy of MSC-derived small extracellular vesicles in treating type II diabetic cutaneous wounds: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal models
Authors: Yue Guangren , Li Yu , Liu Zheng , Yu Shuying , Cao Yilin , Wang Ximei
Published: July 2024

Background

Small extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-sEVs) have emerged as a promising therapy for treating type II diabetic cutaneous wounds. Currently, the evidence supporting the use of MSC-sEVs for treating diabetic skin wounds remains inconclusive and is limited to preclinical studies. To facilitate the clinical translation of cell-free therapy, conducting a comprehensive systematic review of preclinical studies assessing the efficacy of MSC-sEVs is imperative.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases until June 14, 2023, to identify studies that met our pre-established inclusion criteria. The outcome indicators comprised wound closure rate (primary outcome), neovascular density, re-epithelialization rate, collagen deposition, and inflammatory factors (secondary Outcomes). A fixed-effects model was employed in instances of low heterogeneity (I2<50%), while a random-effects model was utilized for high heterogeneity (I2≥50%). The risk of bias in animal studies was assessed using the SYRCLE tool.

Results

Twenty-one studies were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, MSC-sEVs were found to significantly facilitate the healing of cutaneous wounds in type II diabetic patients (standardized mean difference [SMD]=3.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.65 to 3.66, P<0.00001, I2 = 39%).

Conclusions

According to the meta-analysis of preclinical studies, MSC-sEVs show promising applications in promoting type II diabetic wound healing. As a result, translating these findings into clinical applications appears warranted.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023375467.
Factors affecting ecological footprint in Saudi Arabia: a panel data analysis
Authors: Aldegheishem Abdulaziz
Published: July 2024

The global environment has witnessed an increase in environmental risks over the last few decades due to the rising demand for energy to support economic development and urbanization. These environmental risks are exacerbated by the escalating human activity that depletes natural resources. Therefore, analyzing factors affecting Ecological Footprint (EFP), which include many variables such as urbanization, energy consumption, natural resources, economic growth, and technological innovation, is essential to achieve sustainable development. Urbanization is a key driver of economic growth. Achieving economic development requires the utilization of natural resources and energy which increase the EFP. Therefore, the focus on technological innovation is essential to reduce the EFP. Despite the critical environmental and economic implications of factors affecting EFP, studies on this area are lacking, especially across Middle Eastern countries, and present contradictory findings. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to investigate the effect of urbanization, energy consumption, natural resources, economic growth, and technological innovation on the EFP in Saudi Arabia. To this end, the study utilizes an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, which is considered the most suitable econometric approach when variables are stationary at I (0) or integrated of order I (1), based on data collected from various international sources for the period spanning from 1990 to 2022. In both the long run and the short run, empirical findings show that urbanization, natural resources, and technological innovation decrease the EFP, while energy consumption and economic growth increase the EFP. These results reveal that energy policies need to be addressed, and economic growth is unable to lower the EFP due to a lack of connection between economic policies and environmental goals. On the other hand, the study shows that urban policies and the management of natural resources are effectively linked to environmental goals. These findings have several significant policy implications for reducing the EFP. Suggestions include effectively linking economic policies to environmental goals by electrifying the economy. Additionally, several procedures should be considered, including replacing current carbon-based energy with renewable sources, reevaluating the pricing of the energy system, increasing taxes on carbon-based energy, and reassessing current energy laws and regulations.
Carbon storage-driven multi-objective spatial planning: simulation and practice at the management unit level in Northeast China
Authors: Lu Jun , Zhang Hao
Published: July 2024

In recent years, global attention to forest ecological environment, carbon, wood yield, and biodiversity has been increasing, which requires forest managers to make reasonable forest planning in time and space to meet the needs of multi-objectives and multi-resources. In this study, the resources of business units in Northeast China were analyzed, and the FPS-ATLAS model was established. A multi-objective decision supporting spatial forest planning scheme for 16629.53 ha of forest in Jingouling forest farm of Wangqing Forestry Bureau in Jilin Province was proposed. In this paper, the volume growth model of six forest types was established, and the carbon storage model was introduced to show the total carbon, biomass carbon, dissolved organic carbon, and total soil carbon of the ecosystem. The dynamic change in carbon during the whole planning period has achieved good results. After 20 time periods, the total soil carbon increased to 7,627,208 Mg (+6.63%), the total ecosystem carbon increased to 14,889,876 Mg (+27.51%), the biomass carbon increased to 5,362,779 Mg (+59.70%), and the dissolved organic carbon increased to 9,531,906 Mg (+14.59%). The purpose of this article is to achieve dynamic management of forest resources, meet multiple constraint settings, achieve multiple management objectives, harvest wood products, and ensure the ecological and social functions of forests so that forests ultimately achieve the ideal state of sustainability.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of Chinese parents with infants (aged 0–3 years) toward immunity, gut microbiota and biotics: a comprehensive study
Authors: Wang Jiongnan , Liu Nan , Chen Yufan , You Jialu , Yang Yunqing , Jin Yi , Sun Guiju , Zhou Jin
Published: July 2024

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increasing focus towards infant immunity. The development and maintenance of the immune system are significantly influenced from birth, and is shaped by early-life infant feeding behavior. Hence, the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of parents play a crucial role in shaping the immune system of infants. A total of 2369 parents across 19 cities in China were surveyed using a self-designed online questionnaire. The KAP questionnaire assessed three domains: immunity, gut microbiota, and biotics (prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics). The questionnaire also included questions on infant health. An overwhelming majority of parents (97.90%) placed high value on their children’s immunity, and 40.40% of them reported an increased level of concern following the COVID-19 pandemic. Diarrhea (78.80%), colds (75.70%), nighttime crying (73.80%), regurgitation (71.70%) and food retention (66.50%) were the major health issues reported. Knowledge scores toward immunity and gut microbiota were positively correlated to attitude and practice scores, respectively. Attitude scores toward immunity, gut microbiota and biotics were positively correlated to their respective practice scores. Parental knowledge score on immunity was negatively correlated with diarrhea, colds, regurgitation and food retention. On the other hand, parental practice scores toward immunity were negatively correlated with food retention. In regards to gut microbiota, parental knowledge score was negatively correlated with diarrhea, regurgitation and food retention; parental attitude score was negatively correlated with nighttime crying whereas practice score was negatively correlated with diarrhea, regurgitation, food retention and nighttime crying. Attitude score toward biotics was negatively correlated with nighttime crying and practice scores toward biotics was negatively correlated with colds, food retention and nighttime crying. This study demonstrated that significant gaps and misunderstandings exist among parents regarding immunity, gut microbiota health, and biotics. Both public education and interventions are crucial to enhance parental knowledge and practices, thereby improving infant immunity.