bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of Ethnopedagogy Based Problem Based Learning Model on Students' Digital Literacy
Authors: Salakory David Marthen
Published: March 2024

The aim of this research is to determine the effectiveness of the ethnopedagogy-based problem based learning model on students' digital literacy. The type of research is meta-analysis research. The data sources in the research come from 13 national and international journals published from 2021-2024. Search for data sources through the online databases Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Wiley and Researchgate. Data collection techniques are direct observation and documentation. Inclusion criteria are research originating from journals and proceedings indexed by Sinta, Scopus, EBSCO, Copernicus International and IEEE, research related to ethnopedagogy-based project based learning models for students' digital literacy, research having complete data to calculate the effect size, research must be open access, and has a sample size of 25 students. Data analysis through quantitative analysis by calculating the effect size value of each study with the help of the JSAP application. The research results concluded that the problem based learning model based on ethnopedagogy had a significant influence on digital literacy with an average effect size value of 0.819 with high effect size criteria. These findings provide important information for teachers in implementing problem based learning based on student ethnopedagogy to develop digital literacy.
Religious Moderation in Paguyuban Mejing Tabon's Local Wisdom as Support for Accomplishing SDGs
Authors: Robikhah Aridlah Sendy , Bettaliyah Azza Abidatin , Oktavianti Arindah
Published: March 2024

The Paguyuban Mejing Tabon citizens are people who have diverse religious backgrounds. Local wisdom which contains the values of religious moderation is an important factor in harmony between residents, so that social conflict can be avoided. This is in line with the SDGs concept of the United Nations where there are pillars that focus on Social Development, namely promoting peace and justice. Therefore, this research aims to explain the local wisdom that exists in the Mejing Tabon Community, reveal the correlation between local wisdom and the values of religious moderation and explain the contribution of local wisdom to achieving the UN SDGs. This research is important to emphasize the importance of preserving local wisdom and implementing the values of religious moderation to avoid conflicts based on religious differences. So that it becomes a form of contribution to achieving the SDGs. This research uses qualitative methods with a sociological approach. The results of this research are 4 indicators of religious moderation, including National Commitment, Tolerance, Anti-Radicalism, and Local Cultural Accommodation. The application of religious moderation in the local wisdom of the Tabon Mejing Community Association includes: the Tabon Mejing Association Logo Contains National Commitment; Tolerance in Interfaith Prayer Activities at Religious Celebrations; Mejing Tabon's philosophy of Rawuh, Lungguh, and Aruh as an effort to ward off radicalism; and Gagrak Ngayogyakarta Clothing as a form of accommodation to local culture.
Effectiveness of IoT Integrated Problem Based Learning Model on Students Creative Thinking Skills Abilities
Authors: Sani Asrul , Dewanto Dewanto , Sapulete Heppy , Yustitia Via , Oktavio Adrie , Santosa Tomi Apra , Rienovita Ellina
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the Internet of Things (IoT) integrated problem-based learning model on students' creative thinking abilities. This type of research is a meta-analysis research by evaluating the effect of the size of IoT-based problem-based learning models on students' creative thinking skills. Data search keywords are problem-based learning models; IoT-based problem-based learning model; and Students' creative thinking skills. Data collection techniques are through direct observation of journal databases and documentation. The eligibility criterion is that research comes from journals indexed by SINTA, Scopus and Web of Science; Research must be published in 2020-2024; Research obtained through mendeley database, google scholar, Researchgate; ERIC, and ScienceDirect, research related to the effectiveness of IoT-based problem-based learning models on students' creative thinking skills and research has complete data to calculate the value of effect size. Data analysis is a quantitative analysis by calculating the effect size value with the Microsoft Excel 2020 application. The results of the study concluded from 12 journals analyzed the application of the Internet of Things (IoT)-based problem-based learning model had a significant influence on students' creative thinking ability with an average value of effect size of 0.942 This finding provides important information for teachers, the application of the problem-based learning model exerts a high category of influence to improve creative thinking skills in the learning process.
Meta-analysis of The Ethopedagogical Based Blended Learning Model on Students' Problem Solving Ability
Authors: Judijanto Loso , Oktavio Andrie , Saudale Jeheskial , Mitasari Rian , Sutarto Sutarto , Amri Miftachul , Santosa Tomi Apra
Published: March 2024

The 21st century has had such a big influence on the development of the world of education. Education today has been based on technology which is very helpful for teachers in carrying out learning activities. Blended learning is a learning model that utilizes technology. However, the many applications of the blended learning model have not reached in-depth conclusions related to ethnopedagogy-based blended learning models on students' problem-solving abilities. This study aims to determine the effect of ethnopedagogy-based blended learning models on students' problem-solving skills. This study is a type of meta-analysis research. The research data comes from an analysis of 17 national and international journals that have been published in 2019-2024. The criteria for data eligibility are that research must be experimental methods or quasi-experiments; Research comes from national and international journals indexed by SINTA and Scopus, Research related to ethnopedagogy-based blended learning models on students' problem-solving abilities, research data obtained through trusted databases namely mendeley, ERIC, ScienceDirect, Wiley and Google Scholar. The technique of displaying data samples is purposive sampling. Data analysis in research is quantitative data analysis by calculating the value of effect size with the help of the OpenMEE application. The results showed that the application of ethnopedagogy-based blended learning models had a significant effect on students' problem-solving abilities with an average effect size value of 0.927 with a high effect size category.
EDUKASI TEKNIK BREATHING EXERCISE UNTUK MENGATASI HIPERTENSI PADA LANSIA
Authors:   Universitas Muhamadiyah Surakarta, Pristianto Arif , Atingsih Longgar ,   Universitas Muhamadiyah Surakarta, Faradilla Arvindha ,   Universitas Muhamadiyah Surakarta, Khoirunnisa Asty ,   Universitas Muhamadiyah Surakarta, Kartika Griska Mutiara ,   Universitas Muhamadiyah Surakarta
Published: March 2024

With a very high prevalence rate in the elderly, hypertension is a sort of non-communicable disease that is chronic, lifelong, and a silent killer. Age, gender, race, obesity, behaviors, and smoking habits are all genetic factors that have an impact on hypertension. The cornerstones of conventional treatment and lifestyle adjustments, including as modifying one's diet, controlling stress, regulating one's exercise levels, abstaining from alcohol, and smoking, support the management of hypertension.. This activity was carried out as a community service at the Ngudi Sehat Posyandu 4 Sanggir Selatan, Colomadu as a process of community service activities that will be carried out in the form of education through outreach activities regarding materials about hypertension and the program of giving Breathing Exercises first and then doing the practice of the counseling. It is hoped that this community service will provide education through counseling about hypertension and provide programs in the form of Breathing Exercises to the community.
PENINGKATAN KONDISI FISIK ATLET PENCAK SILAT DI MTs NEGERI 1 SUMENEP
Authors:   STKIP PGRI Sumenep, Nuraisyah Winda , Hamdani Hamdani ,   Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Supriyanto Nugroho Agung ,   STKIP PGRI Sumenep
Published: March 2024

Kondisi fisik adalah faktor utama yang perlu diperhatikan sebelum mempelajari teknik, taktik dan mental. Karena menjadi seorang atlet yang profesional dan berprestasi hal yang paling utama dimiliki adalah kondisi fisik yang prima. Terutama pada cabang olahraga pencak silat dimana kondisi fisik merupakan suatu tolak ukur awal untuk menunjang latihan teknik, taktik dan strategi. Aspek keseluruhan tersebut sangat perlu dikuasai oleh masing-masing dari setiap individu supaya pada saat pertandingan atlet bisa menampilkan performa yang terbaik. Adapun penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kondisi fisik fisik atlet di MTs Negeri 1 Sumenep. Metode yang digunakan adalah metode ceramah dengan power point. Hasil kegiatan ini menjukkan pemahaman baru mengenai porsi latihan yang baik dan sesuai porsinya dengan umur atlet, karena supaya tidak ada kesalah dalam memberikan latihan kepada atlet.
PELATIHAN PEMBUATAN KUE BROWNIES UNTUK PEMBERDAYAAN EKONOMI RUMAH TANGGA DI DESA BETRO SIDOARJO
Authors:   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Sianto Martinus Edy , Dewi Dian Retno Sari ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Gunawan Ivan ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Mulyana Ig. Jaka ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Mulyono Julius ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Trihastuti Dian ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Santoso Hadi ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Yuliati Yuliati ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Lestariningsih Diana ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Gunadhi Albert ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Herman Herman ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya Indonesia
Published: March 2024

Ketahanan pangan adalah salah satu issue yang besar di Indonesia, terutama di masa setelah pandemi COVID-19, perang dan perubahan iklim dimana bahan baku makanan menjadi langka. Indonesia termasuk negara yang bergantung kepada bahan baku tepung gandum yang diimpor dari luar negeri untuk membuat mie dan berbagai macam variasi kue. Sementara, Indonesia mempunyai banyak sumber pangan seperti umbi-umbian. Indonesia mempunyai berbagai macam umbi-umbian seperti suweg, porang, talas, uwi, gembili, gembolo, ganyung, dan garut yang ketersediaanya sangat berlimpah. Oleh karena itu, tim Pengabdian Masyarakat dari Jurusan Teknik Industri Elektro dan Kimia Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya (UKWMS) tergerak untuk memberikan penyuluhan kepada komunitas di Desa Betro yang tidak beruntung namun memiliki banyak sumber umbi-umbian. Dalam pelaksanaannya, pertama, tim menyediakan pelatihan pembuatan tepung dari umbi. Kedua, tim juga mengajarkan bagaimana cara membuat kue brownies menggunakan tepung umbi. Tim juga mengajarkan bagaimana menghitung harga pokok produksi dan profit. Akhirnya, tim buka order dan melalui media sosial. Hasil yang didapatkan setelah kegiatan ini adalah, Komunitas Desa Betro, Sedati, Sidoarjo mengetahui cara penepungan, pembuatan brownies, perhitungan harga pokok produksi dan menjualnya. Dengan kegiatan ini diharapkan, tim dapat berkontribusi dengan menaikkan taraf ekonomi komunitas Desa Betro, Sedati, Sidoarjo
PENGEMBANGAN BERWIRAUSAHA BERBASIS DIGITAL DAN SELF LEADERSHIP
Authors:   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Runtu Julius , Rahmawati Veronika ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Erwita Monica Adjeng ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Wulani Fenika ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya
Published: March 2024

Entrepreneurship development needs to be pursued as early as possible since secondary education. Students who are a digital generation certainly need a positive distribution of digital skills that they generally have today. Digital-based entrepreneurship and self-leadership training is an alternative to helping students train their leadership through concrete activities which can at the same time help them channel their interests and prepare the mentality and skills needed at later stages of education. Student development programs in the form of entrepreneurship and character development programs have been successfully fulfilled in the service in the form of this training. This was proven based on the evaluation after the training which showed that the community service participants considered that the material provided was interesting and new. The resource persons were interactive and clear in providing material, as well as allocating training time that was appropriate to the situation and conditions of the trainees.
PENDAMPINGAN LOMBA DRUMBAND DALAM KEGIATAN MBKM BELA NEGARA DI KOTA SALATIGA
Authors:   Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana, Elisabeth Esra , Siwi Kristanjung Raka ,   Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana, Wulandari Fitri ,   Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana, Setyawan Rafli ,   Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana
Published: March 2024

This Community Service Activity (PkM) aims to contribute by providing assistance and support for the city-level drum band competition in Salatiga at State Elementary School 03 Mangunsari. The PkM activity is carried out in two stages: the drum band training preparation phase and the drum band competition support phase. The drum band training preparation took place from September 4 to September 18, 2023, at the school, while the drum band competition support phase was conducted on September 23, 2023, at Kridanggo Stadium Salatiga. In the first phase, the author, together with the coach and teachers, assisted the training sessions for the competition participants in musical performance and dance movement formations. The authors also contributed to creating attributes and drum band equipment such as fans, flags, and others. In the second phase, the authors, along with the committee, organized the makeup and costumes for the competition participants, found a suitable area for the drum band participants around the stadium, provided refreshments, and actively accompanied the participants during the street parade. The activity was concluded with documentation to capture the success of the event. The authors suggest that the development of this activity can involve a broader scope, not limited to mere assistance but also incorporating drum band training. This step is taken considering that the authors have acquired previous knowledge and skills that can be applied to provide more structured and sustainable training.
PENDAMPINGAN PENYUSUNAN MODEL BISNIS CANVAS SEBAGAI STRATEGI KEMANDIRIAN PENDANAAN DI YAYASAN SOS DESA TARUNA
Authors:   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Dwijayanti S, Patricia Febrina , Rahardjo Hartono ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Widyaningdyah Agnes Utari ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Nugraheni Bernadetta Diana ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Sofian Sofian ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya
Published: March 2024

Yayasan SOS atau lebih dikenal dengan SOS Children’s Villages merupakan organisasi nir laba yang mempunyai komitmen untuk memberikan kepada anak-anak hak pengasuhan orang tua dan kebutuhan utama mereka yaitu keluarga dan rumah yang dipenuhi dengan kasih sayang. Pengurus villages mendapatkan mandat dari yayasan SOS untuk dapat secara mandiri dalam membiayai operasional village-nya. Hal ini dikarenakan adanya instruksi dari yayasan SOS pusat bahwa mulai tahun 2020 terjadi pengurangan donasi, selain itu juga agar village dapat menjadi mandiri. Village Semarang mempunyai beberapa potensi untuk mendapatkan dana secara mandiri melalui pemberdayaan aset-asetnya. Pengurus village di Semarang masih mempunyai keraguan untuk menggunakan aset-nya secara komersial. Keraguan pada individu pengurus village ini dapat menghambat kemandirian dalam memperoleh dana. Namun demikian, di satu sisi pengurus village di Semarang menyadari pentingnya pengelolaan aset untuk menuju kemandirian dana. Kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat (PkM) pada village Semarang berfokus pada lokakarya penyusunan business plan dengan model bisnis canvas atas pemanfaatan aset. Business plan dibutuhkan untuk membantu pengurus dalam mengidentifikasikan studi kelayakan atas pemanfaatan aset secara komersial. Hal ini bertujuan untuk mengurangi keraguan pengurus akan adanya risiko atas pemanfaatan aset tersebut. Hasil PkM ini memberikan luaran berupa business plan dengan model bisnis canvas yang dapat dilaksanakan pada tahun 2020.
Secondary production at the Barents Sea polar front in summer: contribution of different size classes of mesozooplankton
Authors: Gawinski C , Basedow SL , Sundfjord A , Svensen C
Published: March 2024

The Barents Sea polar front is characterized by high primary production following the retreat of the ice edge during spring. However, secondary production estimates of mesozooplankton across the front are scarce, despite being essential for understanding energy flow through the food web. We investigated mesozooplankton community composition and production across the Barents Sea polar front (75°-78°N) in June, covering both Atlantic and Arctic water masses with high spatial and taxonomic resolution. We highlight the contribution of small and large groups of mesozooplankton and estimate secondary production by comparing and evaluating 4 commonly used growth rate models. The zooplankton community composition and size distribution changed across the polar front. In the Atlantic region, Rotifera, Chaetognatha and Appendicularia were common, while copepods and their nauplii contributed most across the polar front and in Arctic water masses. Mesozooplankton secondary production took place mainly in the surface and was highest south of the front, declining towards Arctic waters. Considering production by copepods alone, highest values were found in the northern sector of the polar front and in the Arctic region. Young developmental stages (CI-CIV) of Calanus spp. and small-sized taxa contributed most to copepod production in Atlantic waters, while calanoid copepod nauplii contributed considerably to copepod production in Arctic waters. We emphasize that the production estimates were strongly influenced by the growth rate model and conclude that copepod secondary production in a summer situation with non-limiting food concentration was best described using a model that solely considers water temperature and copepod body weight.
Stephen MacKenna on Translation
Authors: Gillespie Stuart
Published: March 2024

This is a compilation of the occasional statements on translation made by a remarkable, and too little known, translator, Stephen MacKenna (1872–1935). MacKenna made it his life's work to translate into English the copious Annales of the Greek Neoplatonist philosopher Plotinus. In its time his translation, published 1917–1930 and still in print today, received the highest praise.
Reproductive performance of local goats in Municipality of Liquica
Authors: Freitas Joana Da Costa , Freitas Joana Da Costa , Amaral Acacio Cardoso , Barbosa Maria Joana Baptista , Francisco Jeritalia Corosa Corosa , Costa Madalena Da
Published: March 2024

One of the small ruminants with a lot of promise and popularity in the Municipality of Liquica are kacang goats. The purpose of this study is to determine how well the local goats in Liquica Municipality reproduce. In this study, a quantitative approach was taken. The research location was chosen using the purposive sampling method. The criterion of having at least three goats and five years of experience with them were used to choose the responders for this study. Solvin's formula was employed to ascertain the sample size. The variables that were observed were the kidding interval, size of the litter, length of pregnancy, and age at puberty. The findings demonstrated that the local goats in Tibar Village had good reproductive performance. Of the 71 respondents, they reported that the average age at puberty was 6.51 ± 0.65, the average gestation period was 5.08 ± 0.28, the average litter size was 1.08 ± 0.36, and the average calving interval was 8.86±0.59. Ulmera Village respondents, numbering seventy, stated that the local goats' puberty age was 7.84 ± 0.93, their gestation period was 5.09 ± 0.28, their litter size was 1.6 ± 0.48, and their calving interval was 8.56 ± 0.53. In Liquisa Municipality, the reproductive performance of Javanese goats is deemed satisfactory despite farmers' continued adherence to customary rearing practices.
A Universe of Sound: processing NASA data into sonifications to explore participant response
Authors: Arcand Kimberly Kowal , Schonhut-Stasik Jessica Sarah , Kane Sarah G. , Sturdevant Gwynn , Russo Matt , Watzke Megan , Hsu Brian , Smith Lisa F.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Historically, astronomy has prioritized visuals to present information, with scientists and communicators overlooking the critical need to communicate astrophysics with blind or low-vision audiences and provide novel channels for sighted audiences to process scientific information.

Methods

This study sonified NASA data of three astronomical objects presented as aural visualizations, then surveyed blind or low-vision and sighted individuals to elicit feedback on the experience of these pieces as it relates to enjoyment, education, and trust of the scientific data.

Results

Data analyses from 3,184 sighted or blind or low-vision survey participants yielded significant self-reported learning gains and positive experiential responses.

Discussion

Results showed that astrophysical data engaging multiple senses could establish additional avenues of trust, increase access, and promote awareness of accessibility in sighted and blind or low-vision communities.
Propagation and impacts on roadway of mining-induced far-field strong tremors: insights from numerical simulations
Authors: Han Zepeng , Dou Linming , Gong Siyuan , Cao Jinrong , Chen Shuai , Hu Bing , Li Yongyuan , Zeng Kezhi
Published: March 2024

Mining-induced far-field mine tremors, which often cause strong ground tremors, are receiving more attention due to their increasing occurrence. Investigating the rock burst risk of roadway caused by those tremors is crucial to ensure production safety. In this study, Variational Mode Decomposition was used to investigate the wave characteristics of strong mine tremors. The propagation and attenuation of these tremors were explored using the dynamic analysis of Flac3d. The amplification factor was introduced to assess the impact of these tremors on roadways. Plastic zone volume increment and Brittle Shear Ratio (BSR) are used to assess the roadway failure and the rock burst potential caused by these tremors, respectively. The main findings are as follows: 1) Compared with the main frequency of near-field mine tremor waveform, the far-field mine tremors waveform are mainly low frequency below 5 Hz; 2) In the simulation, peak vibration velocities of P-wave and S-wave follow a power-law decay as the propagation distance increases, with P-wave attenuating faster than S-wave; 3) Under similar conditions, P-wave induce higher vibration velocities than S-wave, but S-wave generally exhibit a greater amplification factor than P-wave; 4) When the direction of dynamic load is consistent with the direction of maximum principal stress, the rock burst potential of roadway is higher, which explains the phenomenon that the rock burst potential of roadway under S-wave loading is higher than that under P-wave.
Gamification for teaching the Arabic language to non-native speakers: a systematic literature review
Authors: Almelhes Sultan A.
Published: March 2024

Learning the Arabic language through gamified methods is beneficial, particularly for beginners. Gamification provides an enjoyable and challenging experience for the learners, motivating them to become committed and participate in the classroom activity. The students develop a more competitive spirit and anticipate their chances of achieving high scores for each game level and ranking high against fellow learners. Game elements such as feedback and audio pronunciations assist in user engagement with the teacher and other learners. This systematic literature review critically synthesizes past literature to create an understanding of the application and effectiveness of gamified learning strategies for Arabic language learning. PRISMA technique was used to conduct a systematic review, and after final scrutiny, 15 articles were shortlisted for review. The findings suggested that gamification improves learner motivation, engagement, and achievement in mastery of Arabic vocabulary and grammar among non-native speakers. The degree of motivation is influenced by the teacher’s perception, attitude, enthusiasm, and commitment to gamified learning strategies. The findings of this systematic review can help language instructing institutions to emphasize gamification to enhance the motivation of learners and increase their learning abilities. Moreover, it can be helpful for instructors of the Arabic language, and they can realize the importance of gamification in teaching Arabic to non-native speakers.
Unveiling the diversity, composition, and dynamics of phyllosphere microbial communities in Alhagi sparsifolia across desert basins and seasons in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhang Yulin , Du Yi , Zhang Zhihao , Islam Waqar , Zeng Fanjiang
Published: March 2024

Phyllosphere microbes residing on plant leaf surfaces for maintaining plant health have gained increasing recognition. However, in desert ecosystems, knowledge about the variety, composition, and coexistence patterns of microbial communities in the phyllosphere remains limited. This study, conducted across three basins (Turpan-TLF, Tarim-CL, and Dzungaria-MSW) and three seasons (spring, summer, and autumn) in Xinjiang, China, aimed to explore the diversity and composition of microbial communities in the phyllosphere, encompassing both bacteria and fungi in Alhagi sparsifolia. We also investigated the co-occurrence patterns, influencing factors, and underlying mechanisms driving these dynamics. Results indicate that phyllosphere bacteria exhibited lower diversity indices (ACE, Shannon, Simpson, Fisher phylogenetic diversity, and Richness) in spring compared to summer and autumn, while the Goods Coverage Index (GCI) was higher in spring. Conversely, diversity indices and GCI of phyllosphere fungi showed an opposite trend. Interestingly, the lowest level of multi-functionality and niche width in phyllosphere bacteria occurred in spring, while the highest level was observed in phyllosphere fungi. Furthermore, the study revealed that no significant differences in multi-functionality were found among the regions (CL, MSW, and TLF). Network analysis highlighted that during spring, phyllosphere bacteria exhibited the lowest number of nodes, edges, and average degree, while phyllosphere fungi had the highest. Surprisingly, the multi-functionality of both phyllosphere bacteria and fungi showed no significant correlation with climatic and environmental factors but displayed a significant association with the morphological characteristics and physicochemical properties of leaves. Structural Equation Model indicated that the morphological characteristics of leaves significantly influenced the multi-functionality of phyllosphere bacteria and fungi. However, the indirect and total effects of climate on multi-functionality were greater than the effects of physicochemical properties and morphological characteristics of leaves. These findings offer new insights into leaf phyllosphere microbial community structure, laying a theoretical foundation for vegetation restoration and rational plant resource utilization in desert ecosystems.
β-lactam-induced OMV release promotes polymyxin tolerance in Salmonella enterica sv. Typhi
Authors: Marchant Pedro , Vivanco Erika , Silva Andrés , Nevermann Jan , Fuentes Ignacio , Barrera Boris , Otero Carolina , Calderón Iván L. , Gil Fernando , Fuentes Juan A.
Published: March 2024

The rise of multidrug-resistant bacteria is a global concern, leading to a renewed reliance on older antibiotics like polymyxins as a last resort. Polymyxins, cationic cyclic peptides synthesized nonribosomally, feature a hydrophobic acyl tail and positively charged residues. Their antimicrobial mechanism involves initial interaction with Gram-negative bacterial outer-membrane components through polar and hydrophobic interactions. Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), nano-sized proteoliposomes secreted from the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, play a crucial role in tolerating harmful molecules, including cationic peptides such as polymyxins. Existing literature has documented environmental changes’ impact on modulating OMV properties in Salmonella Typhimurium. However, less information exists regarding OMV production and characteristics in Salmonella Typhi. A previous study in our laboratory showed that S. Typhi ΔmrcB, a mutant associated with penicillin-binding protein (PBP, a β-lactam antibiotic target), exhibited hypervesiculation. Consequently, this study investigated the potential impact of β-lactam antibiotics on promoting polymyxin tolerance via OMVs in S. Typhi. Our results demonstrated that sub-lethal doses of β-lactams increased bacterial survival against polymyxin B in S. Typhi. This phenomenon stems from β-lactam antibiotics inducing hypervesiculation of OMVs with higher affinity for polymyxin B, capturing and diminishing its biologically effective concentration. These findings suggest that β-lactam antibiotic use may inadvertently contribute to decreased polymyxin effectivity against S. Typhi or other Gram-negative bacteria, complicating the effective treatment of infections caused by these pathogens. This study emphasizes the importance of evaluating the influence of β-lactam antibiotics on the interaction between OMVs and other antimicrobial agents.
Elevated troponin levels as a predictor of mortality in patients with acute stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gulia Annu , Srivastava Manyata , Kumar Pradeep
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim

The prognostic potential of cardiac troponin (cTn) in acute stroke patients has been a subject of ongoing debate. Our objective was to provide a comprehensive evidence for predicting mortality in acute stroke patients by using the elevated troponin levels.

Methods

We conducted an extensive literature search, including PubMed, EMbase, and Trip Databases, covering studies published up to September 30, 2023. We computed risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), performed sensitivity analysis, and conducted trial sequential analysis (TSA).

Results

In total, 53 studies were analyzed, with 37 focusing on acute ischemic stroke (AIS), 11 on subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and 7 on Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Elevated cTn levels were significantly showed a higher predictive risk for In-hospital mortality in both AIS (RR=3.80, 95% CI; 2.82 to 5.12) as well as SAH (RR=2.23, 95% CI; 1.64 to 3.02). However, no significant predictive risk between elevated cTn levels and in-hospital mortality for ICH patients (RR=1.13, 95% CI: 0.46 to 2.79). A similar pattern was observed for elevated cTn levels, indicating an increased risk of last follow-up mortality for AIS (RR=2.41, 95% CI: 1.98 to 2.93) and SAH (RR=3.08, 95% CI: 2.25 to 4.21).

Conclusion

Elevated troponin levels can serve as a promising predictive marker for both in-hospital and last follow-up mortality in AIS and SAH patients but not in ICH patients. Further prospective studies are needed to validate our findings along with exploring the preventive management of mortality in acute stroke settings.
The causal relationship between cathepsins and digestive system tumors: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Huang Xupeng , Deng Houbo , Zhang Bo , Wang Kuisong , Qu Yi , Li Ting , Liu Tiejun
Published: March 2024

Background

Multiple studies have confirmed the significant role of cathepsins in the development and progression of digestive system tumors. However, further investigation is needed to determine the causal relationships.

Methods

We conducted a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study using pooled data from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to assess the causal associations between nine cathepsins (cathepsin B, E, F, G, H, L2, O, S, and Z) and six types of digestive system tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), pancreatic cancer (PCa), biliary tract cancer (BTC), colorectal cancer (CRC), gastric carcinoma (GC), and esophageal cancer (EC). We employed the following methods including inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median (WM), Cochran’s Q, MR-PRESSO, MR-Egger intercept test and leave-one-out sensitivity analysis. The STROBE-MR checklist for the reporting of MR studies was used in this study.

Results

The risk of HCC increased with high levels of cathepsin G (IVW: p = 0.029, odds ratio (OR) = 1.369, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.033-1.814). Similarly, BTC was associated with elevated cathepsin B levels (IVW: p = 0.025, OR = 1.693, 95% CI = 1.070-2.681). Conversely, a reduction in PCa risk was associated with increased cathepsin H levels (IVW: p = 0.027, OR = 0.896, 95% CI = 0.812-0.988). Lastly, high levels of cathepsin L2 were found to lower the risk of CRC (IVW: p = 0.034, OR = 0.814, 95% CI = 0.674-0.985).

Conclusion

Our findings confirm the causal relationship between cathepsins and digestive system tumors, which can offer valuable insights for the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system tumors.
A preliminary exploration of the regression equation for performance in amateur half-marathon runners: a perspective based on respiratory muscle function
Authors: Zhu Houyuan , Han Xiaowei , Miao Guoqing , Yan Qi
Published: March 2024

This document presents a study on the relationship between physical characteristics, respiratory muscle capacity, and performance in amateur half-marathon runners. The aim of this study was to establish a preliminary predictive model to provide insights into training and health management for runners. Participants were recruited from the 2023 Beijing Olympic Forest Park Half-Marathon, comprising 233 individuals. Personal information including age, gender, height, weight, and other relevant factors were collected, and standardized testing methods were used to measure various parameters. Correlation analysis revealed significant associations between gender, height, weight, maximum expiratory pressure, maximal inspiratory pressure, and half-marathon performance. Several regression equations were developed to estimate the performance of amateur marathon runners, with a focus on gender, weight, maximum expiratory pressure, and height as predictive factors. The study found that respiratory muscle training can delay muscle fatigue and improve athletic performance. Evaluating the level of respiratory muscle capacity in marathon athletes is crucial for defining the potential speed limitations and achieving optimal performance. The information from this study can assist amateur runners in optimizing their training methods and maintaining their physical wellbeing.
Climate change and health: rethinking public health messaging for wildfire smoke and extreme heat co-exposures
Authors: Coker Eric S. , Stone Susan Lyon , McTigue Erin , Yao Jiayun Angela , Brigham Emily P. , Schwandt Michael , Henderson Sarah B.
Published: March 2024

With the growing climate change crisis, public health agencies and practitioners must increasingly develop guidance documents addressing the public health risks and protective measures associated with multi-hazard events. Our Policy and Practice Review aims to assess current public health guidance and related messaging about co-exposure to wildfire smoke and extreme heat and recommend strengthened messaging to better protect people from these climate-sensitive hazards. We reviewed public health messaging published by governmental agencies between January 2013 and May 2023 in Canada and the United States. Publicly available resources were eligible if they discussed the co-occurrence of wildfire smoke and extreme heat and mentioned personal interventions (protective measures) to prevent exposure to either hazard. We reviewed local, regional, and national governmental agency messaging resources, such as online fact sheets and guidance documents. We assessed these resources according to four public health messaging themes, including (1) discussions around vulnerable groups and risk factors, (2) symptoms associated with these exposures, (3) health risks of each exposure individually, and (4) health risks from combined exposure. Additionally, we conducted a detailed assessment of current messaging about measures to mitigate exposure. We found 15 online public-facing resources that provided health messaging about co-exposure; however, only one discussed all four themes. We identified 21 distinct protective measures mentioned across the 15 resources. There is considerable variability and inconsistency regarding the types and level of detail across described protective measures. Of the identified 21 protective measures, nine may protect against both hazards simultaneously, suggesting opportunities to emphasize these particular messages to address both hazards together. More precise, complete, and coordinated public health messaging would protect against climate-sensitive health outcomes attributable to wildfire smoke and extreme heat co-exposures.
Association between poverty, low educational level and smoking with adolescent’s working memory: cross lagged analysis from longitudinal data
Authors: Nugroho Hari Wahyu , Salimo Harsono , Hartono Hartono , Hakim Moh Abdul , Probandari Ari
Published: March 2024

Background

Working memory is a crucial element of cognitive function. Previous cross-sectional studies have identified various determinants of working memory in children and adolescents. Nonetheless, no study has yet demonstrated the causal relationship of social determinants with working memory in adolescents.

Objective

This study explores the causal link between the level of education, smoking, and other factors with adolescent’s working memory.

Methods

This study analyzed secondary data from waves 4 and 5 of the Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS), utilizing cross-lagged analysis in Jamovi version 2.4.8. The variables included working memory score, maternal education, household income, stress, educational level, smoking, urbanicity, and physical activity. These variables were extracted from IFLS waves 4 and 5, and each dependent variable in IFLS wave four was controlled by the same dependent variables in IFLS 5. Then, we used cross-lagged analysis to assess the causality between each dependent variable and a working memory score in IFLS wave 5.

Result

The findings indicate that level of education had a positive impact on working memory in adolescents aged 15–18 years, with a Beta value of 0.18 (95% CI 0.81–0.2; p < 0.001). Smoking and age were negatively associated with working memory, with Beta values of −0.07 (95% CI -0.65 -0.04; p < 0.029) and − 0.10 (95% CI -0.25 -0.05; p < 0.003), respectively. No evidence was found for a significant correlation between poverty and adolescents’s working memory.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that increased education levels are associated with improved working memory in adolescents aged 15–18. At the same time, smoking has a negative impact on working memory in this age group.
A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Relationship between Digital Technology Use and Agricultural Productivity in EU Countries
Authors: Bocean Claudiu George
Published: March 2024

Amidst the rapid evolution of digital technologies and their prospective implications for agricultural productivity, farmers are increasingly turning to Agriculture 4.0. As digitization permeates every facet of agriculture, the potential for boosting productivity while ensuring sustainability and resilience becomes increasingly tangible. The objective of this study is to understand how the adoption of digital technologies influences agricultural productivity within the diverse socioeconomic and agricultural landscapes of EU nations. The research of this study aims to address questions concerning the impact of digital technology use on agricultural productivity across EU countries. This study employs a robust analytical framework combining equation modeling (SEM), artificial neural networks, and cluster analysis. SEM analysis reveals significant associations and influences between digital technology use and productivity related to the total labor force across EU countries. Moreover, cluster analysis outlines distinct clusters of EU member states distinguished by varying degrees of digital technology incorporation and corresponding agricultural productivity, emphasizing the diverse socioeconomic contexts that influence these associations. These findings underscore the significance of embracing digital technology as a catalyst for enhancing agricultural productivity across EU nations. Future research could focus on devising strategies to promote the widespread adoption of digital technologies in agriculture across EU member states, and longitudinal analyses could offer insights into the dynamic relationship between digital technology use and agricultural output, informing policy interventions.
Weed Recognition at Soybean Seedling Stage Based on YOLOV8nGP + NExG Algorithm
Authors: Sun Tao , Cui Longfei , Zong Lixuan , Zhang Songchao , Jiao Yuxuan , Xue Xinyu , Jin Yongkui
Published: March 2024

The high cost of manual weed control and the overuse of herbicides restrict the yield and quality of soybean. Intelligent mechanical weeding and precise application of pesticides can be used as effective alternatives for weed control in the field, and these require accurate distinction between crops and weeds. In this paper, images of soybean seedlings and weeds in different growth areas are used as datasets. In the aspect of soybean recognition, this paper designs a YOLOv8nGP algorithm with a backbone network optimisation based on GhostNet and an unconstrained pruning method with a 60% pruning rate. Compared with the original YOLOv8n, the YOLOv8nGP improves the Precision (P), Recall (R), and F1 metrics by 1.1% each, reduces the model size by 3.6 mb, and the inference time was 2.2 ms, which could meet the real-time requirements of field operations. In terms of weed recognition, this study utilises an image segmentation method based on the Normalized Excess Green Index (NExG). After filtering the soybean seedlings, the green parts of the image are extracted for weed recognition, which reduces the dependence on the diversity of the weed datasets. This study combines deep learning with traditional algorithms, which provides a new solution for weed recognition of soybean seedlings.
Natural Enemies of the Pear Psylla, Cacopsylla pyri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), and the Possibilities for Its Biological Control: A Case Study Review in the Western Balkan Countries
Authors: Krndija Jovan , Ivezić Aleksandar , Sarajlić Ankica , Barošević Tijana , Kuzmanović Boris , Petrović Kristina , Stojačić Isidora , Trudić Branislav
Published: March 2024

The accessible literature covered in this paper commonly highlights psyllids as a significant group of insects affecting pear trees, posing a continual challenge for commercial orchards. With the development of modern pear cultivation systems, Cacopsylla pyri Linnaeus 1758 (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) has emerged as a major pest in pear orchards across many European countries, including those in the Western Balkans. For years, the agricultural sector has primarily relied on chemical insecticides to control pear psyllas, but these methods often fail to produce satisfactory results. This is largely due to C. pyri’s rapid development of resistance to chemical treatments. Consequently, modern agriculture is increasingly shifting towards biological methods to manage C. pyri, involving the identification and conservation of its natural enemies. Although there is an abundance of research on the natural predators of C. pyri and their biocontrol applications across the globe, the Western Balkan region has conducted relatively few studies on the subject. Globally, various parasitoids, predators, and entomopathogenic fungi are often cited as effective against C. pyri. Specific species registered in the agroecological conditions of the Western Balkans include parasitic wasps such as Trechnites insidiosus Crawford, 1910 (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Prionomitus mitratus Dalman, 1820 (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), as well as the predatory bug Anthocoris nemoralis Fabricius, 1794 (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae). However, most Balkan countries have yet to fully utilise the potential of beneficial entomofauna or develop strategies for their commercial application at a national level. Considering that C. pyri is a major pest in pear cultivation and its natural enemies have not been thoroughly explored in most of the Western Balkans, this paper aims to review the literature data on available natural enemies of pear psyllas and to highlight and promote their undeniable potential in biological control.
Dysfunction of the Brown Adipose Organ in HFD-Obese Rats and Effect of Tart Cherry Supplementation
Authors: Bellitto Vincenzo , Gabrielli Maria Gabriella , Martinelli Ilenia , Roy Proshanta , Nittari Giulio , Cocci Paolo , Palermo Francesco Alessandro , Amenta Francesco , Micioni Di Bonaventura Maria Vittoria , Cifani Carlo , Tomassoni Daniele , Tayebati Seyed Khosrow
Published: March 2024

Obesity has a great impact on adipose tissue biology, based on its function as a master regulator of energy balance. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) undergoes remodeling, and its activity declines in obese subjects due to a whitening process. The anti-obesity properties of fruit extracts have been reported. The effects of tart cherry against oxidative stress, inflammation, and the whitening process in the BAT of obese rats were investigated. Intrascapular BAT (iBAT) alterations and effects of Prunus cerasus L. were debated in rats fed for 17 weeks with a high-fat diet (DIO), in DIO supplemented with seed powder (DS), and with seed powder plus the juice (DJS) of tart cherry compared to CHOW rats fed with a normo-caloric diet. iBAT histologic observations revealed a whitening process in DIO rats that was reduced in the DS and DJS groups. A modulation of uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1) protein and gene expression specifically were detected in the obese phenotype. An upregulation of UCP-1 and related thermogenic genes after tart cherry intake was detected compared to the DIO group. Metabolic adjustment, endoplasmic reticulum stress, protein carbonylation, and the inflammatory microenvironment in the iBAT were reported in DIO rats. The analysis demonstrated an iBAT modulation that tart cherry promoted. In addition to our previous results, these data confirm the protective impact of tart cherry consumption on obesity.