bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Egg White and Yolk Protein Atlas: New Protein Insights of a Global Landmark Food
Authors: Sarantidi Eleana , Ainatzoglou Alexandra , Papadimitriou Christine , Stamoula Eleni , Maghiorou Katerina , Miflidi Argyro , Trichopoulou Antonia , Mountzouris Konstantinos C. , Anagnostopoulos Athanasios K.
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: The chicken egg is an animal product of great agronomic interest. The egg white and yolk constitute high-quality protein sources for humans with high digestibility and well-balanced amino acid profiles. Despite the egg white and yolk protein’s undisputed value, research to unravel their full proteome content and its properties is still ongoing. We aimed to exhaustively analyze the proteome of egg white and yolk by applying intrinsic proteomics and bioinformatics approaches in order to unravel the full protein potential of this landmark food. (2) Methods: A total of 45 freshly laid, unfertilized, chicken eggs were subjected to nanoLC-MS/MS Orbitrap analysis following a peptide pre-fractionation step. A comprehensive bioinformatics processing step was undertaken towards elucidating potential activities and roles of identified molecules. In parallel, the literature was mined concerning all reported egg white and yolk protein identifications. (3) Results: Our analysis revealed 371 and 428 new proteins, reported for the first time to be present in the egg white and yolk, respectively. From the bioactivity standpoint, egg white and yolk proteins showed high enrichment for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory processes, while exerting high relevance for the apoptosis and focal adhesion pathways. (4) Conclusions: Egg white and yolk proteins exert diverse and multifaceted properties. A total of 799 proteins were reported for the first time as being part of the egg and yolk. Our novel protein data enriched those already published in the literature and the first ever chicken egg white and yolk Protein Atlas, comprising 1392 protein entries, was generated. This dataset will provide a cornerstone reference for future studies involving egg proteins.
The Impact of an Intensive Care Diary on the Psychological Well-Being of Patients and Their Family Members: Longitudinal Study Protocol
Authors: Bosco Vincenzo , Froio Annamaria , Mercuri Caterina , Sansone Vincenza , Garofalo Eugenio , Bruni Andrea , Guillari Assunta , Bruno Daniela , Talarico Michaela , Mastrangelo Helenia , Longhini Federico , Doldo Patrizia , Simeone Silvio
Published: September 2023

Background: Thanks to medical and technological advancements, an increasing number of individuals survive admission to intensive care units. However, survivors often experience negative outcomes, including physical impairments and alterations in mental health. Anxiety, depression, cognitive impairments, post-traumatic stress disorders, and functional disorders are known collectively as post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). Among the key triggering factors of this syndrome, memory impairment appears to play a significant role. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the impact of an intensive care diary on the psychological well-being of patients and their relatives after discharge from the ICU. Design: Prospective observational study. Expected results: The results of this study evaluate the impact of an ICU diary on the quality of life of ICU survivors and their family members.
An Ontology-Based Knowledge Representation Method for Typhoon Events from Chinese News Reports
Authors: Chen Danjie , Zheng Yan , Ma Liqun , Qin Fen
Published: September 2023

Typhoons are destructive weather events. News media reports contain large amounts of typhoon information. Transforming this information into useful knowledge to provide a basis for mining typhoon knowledge and supporting disaster prevention and relief is urgently required to solve this problem. Knowledge representation can be used to address this problem, although it presents several challenges. These challenges lie in expressing the static and dynamic characteristics of typhoons and formalizing the knowledge representation method and making it suitable for machine processing. Moreover, the general Chinese time and space representation method is overly cumbersome for use in ontologies. The present study proposes an ontology-based typhoon event representation method that solves the representation problems of the typhoon static concept and dynamic features. Furthermore, it summarizes the fixed patterns of time and space in Chinese news and designs a time and space model suitable for typhoon event ontologies. From the ontology population, typhoon event ontology instances are created, and the typhoon event ontology model is applied to the analysis of typhoon processes, verifying the effectiveness of the typhoon event ontology model.
A Simple Strategy to Reduce Contrast Media Use and Risk of Contrast-Induced Renal Injury during PCI: Introduction of an “Optimal Contrast Volume Protocol” to Daily Clinical Practice
Authors: Zebrauskaite Aiste , Ziubryte Greta , Mackus Lukas , Lieponyte Austeja , Kairyte Evelina , Unikas Ramunas , Jarusevicius Gediminas
Published: September 2023

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury is the leading cause of iatrogenic acute nephropathy. Development of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) increases the risk of adverse long- and short-term patients outcomes, the hospital costs, and length of hospitalization. There are a couple of methods described for CIN prevention (statin prescription, prehydration, contrast media (CM) clearance from the blood system, and decrease amounts of contrast volume). The CM volume to patient’s creatinine clearance ratio is the main factor to predict the risk of CIN development. The safe CM to creatinine clearance ratio limits have been established. The usage of CM amount depends on personal operators habits and inside center regulations. There is no standardized contrast usage protocol worldwide. The aim of this study was to establish an easy to use, cheap, and efficient protocol to estimate a personalized safe CM dose limit for every patient based on their kidney function. These limits are announced during the “Time Out” before the procedure. Our study included 519 patients undergoing interventional coronary procedures: 207 patients into the “Optimal Contrast Volume” arm and 312 into the control group. Applying the protocol into a daily clinical practice leads to a significant reduction in CM volume used for all type of procedures and the development of CIN in comparison with a control group.
Antenatal, Intrapartum and Postpartum Interventions for Preventing Postpartum Urinary and Faecal Incontinence: An Umbrella Overview of Cochrane Systematic Reviews
Authors: Sananès Juliette , Pire Sophie , Feki Anis , Boulvain Michel , Faltin Daniel L.
Published: September 2023

Post-partum, women can suffer from urinary and faecal incontinence. It is important to assess interventions to prevent this problem. Cochrane systematic reviews summarize the data available from systematic reviews of randomized trials assessing interventions. We conducted an umbrella overview of Cochrane systematic reviews encompassing antenatal, intrapartum and postpartum interventions for preventing postpartum urinary and faecal incontinence. We searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews on the 9 May 2023. Results: Our search identified nine Cochrane reviews providing results. Data for urinary and faecal incontinence were available from 77 (72%) trials and included 51,113 women. The reviews assessed antenatal digital perineal massage, pelvic floor muscle training, techniques for repairing anal sphincter tears, routine use of episiotomy, use of endoanal ultrasound prior to repairing perineal tears, caesarean versus vaginal delivery (overall, for breech and for twins), and vaginal delivery with forceps or vacuum. Only the use of a vacuum instead of forceps if an assisted vaginal delivery is needed, the use of an endo-anal ultrasound prior to repairing perineal tears and postpartum pelvic floor muscle training suggest a reduction in postpartum incontinence. Due to the small number of relevant reviews, a consequence of the relatively small number of primary studies, the effect of almost all the tested interventions was found to be imprecise.
Equivalent Survival between Gastric Large-Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma and Gastric Small-Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma
Authors: Li Zefeng , Ren Hu , Zhang Xiaojie , Sun Chongyuan , Fei He , Li Zheng , Guo Chunguang , Shi Susheng , Chen Yingtai , Zhao Dongbing
Published: September 2023

Background: According to the 2019 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms, gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma (GNEC) can be further divided into gastric large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (GLNEC) and gastric small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (GSNEC). Whether the prognoses of the two types have a discrepancy has long been disputed. Method: We collected patients diagnosed with GLNEC or GSNEC in the National Cancer Center of China between January 2000 and December 2020. The characteristics and survival outcomes were compared between the two groups. We further verified our conclusion using the SEER dataset. Results: A total of 114 GNEC patients, including 82 patients with GLNEC and 32 patients with GSNEC, have completed treatment in our hospital. Clinicopathologic differences were not observed between patients with GSNEC and GLNEC concerning the sex, age, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, tumor location, tumor size, stage, treatment received, the expression of neuroendocrine markers (CD56, Chromogranin A, synaptophysin), and score on the Ki-67 index. The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year overall survival rates of GLNEC and GSNEC were 89.0%, 60.5%, and 52.4%, and 93.8%, 56.3%, and 52.7%, which showed no statistically significant differences. This result was confirmed further by using the SEER dataset after the inverse probability of treatment weighting. Conclusions: Although with different cell morphology, the comparison of prognosis between the GLNEC and GSNEC has no significant statistical difference.
Ataxia Telangiectasia Arising as Immunodeficiency: The Intriguing Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Cavone Federica , Cappelli Susanna , Bonuccelli Alice , D’Elios Sofia , Costagliola Giorgio , Peroni Diego , Orsini Alessandro , Consolini Rita
Published: September 2023

Ataxia telangiectasia (AT) is a rare disease characterized by the early onset and slow progression of neurodegenerative defects, mainly affecting the cerebellum, associated with immunodeficiency and teleangiectasias. Ataxia is the hallmark of the disease and usually its first manifestation. Overt cerebellar ataxia usually becomes evident between 16 and 18 months of age, after the onset of walking, and is characterized by frequent falls and an ataxic gait with an enlarged base. We report the case of a child who first presented with serious recurrent infectious, without exhibiting neurological symptoms. The patient was initially diagnosed with combined immunodeficiency (CID) of unknown etiology for nearly 3 years, before he was definitively diagnosed with ataxia telangiectasia.
Redefining Unilateral Pulmonary Edema after Mitral Valve Surgery on Chest X-ray Imaging Using the RALE Scoring System
Authors: Mostafa Karim , Wolf Carmen , Seehafer Svea , Horr Agreen , Pommert Nina , Haneya Assad , Lutter Georg , Pühler Thomas , Both Marcus , Jansen Olav , Langguth Patrick
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Unilateral pulmonary edema (UPE) is a potential complication after mitral valve surgery (MVS), and its cause is not yet fully understood. Definitions are inconsistent, and previous studies have reported wide variance in the incidence of UPE. This research aims at the evaluation of the Radiographic Assessment of Lung Edema (RALE) score concerning assessment of UPE after MVS in order to provide an accurate and consistent definition of this pathology. Methods and Results: Postoperative chest X-ray images of 676 patients after MVS (minimally invasive MVS, n = 434; conventional MVS, n = 242) were retrospectively analyzed concerning presence of UPE. UPE was diagnosed only after exclusion of other pathologies up until the eighth postoperative day. RALE values were calculated for each patient. ROC analysis was performed to assess diagnostic performance. UPE was diagnosed in 18 patients (2.8%). UPE occurred significantly more often in the MI-MVS group (p = 0.045; MI-MVS n = 15; C-MVS n = 3). Postoperative RALE values for the right hemithorax (Q1 + Q2) > 12 and the right-to-left RALE difference ((Q1 + Q2) − (Q3 + Q4)) > 13 provide a sensitivity of up to 100% and 94.4% and a specificity of up to 88.4% and 94.2% for UPE detection. Conclusion: The RALE score is a practical tool for assessment of chest X-ray images after MVS with regard to UPE and provides a clear definition of UPE. In addition, it enables objective comparability when assessing of the postoperative course. The given score thresholds provide a sensitivity and specificity of up to 94%. Further, UPE after MVS seems to be a rather rare pathology with an incidence of 2.6%.
A Multi-Agent Intrusion Detection System Optimized by a Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach with a Dataset Enlarged Using a Generative Model to Reduce the Bias Effect
Authors: Mouyart Matthieu , Medeiros Machado Guilherme , Jun Jae-Yun
Published: September 2023

Intrusion detection systems can defectively perform when they are adjusted with datasets that are unbalanced in terms of attack data and non-attack data. Most datasets contain more non-attack data than attack data, and this circumstance can introduce biases in intrusion detection systems, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. As an approach to remedy this issue, we considered the Conditional Tabular Generative Adversarial Network (CTGAN), with its hyperparameters optimized using the tree-structured Parzen estimator (TPE), to balance an insider threat tabular dataset called the CMU-CERT, which is formed by discrete-value and continuous-value columns. We showed through this method that the mean absolute errors between the probability mass functions (PMFs) of the actual data and the PMFs of the data generated using the CTGAN can be relatively small. Then, from the optimized CTGAN, we generated synthetic insider threat data and combined them with the actual ones to balance the original dataset. We used the resulting dataset for an intrusion detection system implemented with the Adversarial Environment Reinforcement Learning (AE-RL) algorithm in a multi-agent framework formed by an attacker and a defender. We showed that the performance of detecting intrusions using the framework of the CTGAN and the AE-RL is significantly improved with respect to the case where the dataset is not balanced, giving an F1-score of 0.7617.
Multiple-Reservoir Hierarchical Echo State Network
Authors: Lun Shuxian , Sun Zhenduo , Li Ming , Wang Lei
Published: September 2023

Leaky Integrator Echo State Network (Leaky-ESN) is a useful training method for handling time series prediction problems. However, the singular coupling of all neurons in the reservoir makes Leaky-ESN less effective for sophisticated learning tasks. In this paper, we propose a new improvement to the Leaky-ESN model called the Multiple-Reservoir Hierarchical Echo State Network (MH-ESN). By introducing a new mechanism for constructing the reservoir, the efficiency of the network in handling training tasks is improved. The hierarchical structure is used in the process of constructing the reservoir mechanism of MH-ESN. The MH-ESN consists of multiple layers, each comprising a multi-reservoir echo state network model. The sub-reservoirs within each layer are linked via principal neurons, which mimics the functioning of a biological neural network. As a result, the coupling among neurons in the reservoir is decreased, and the internal dynamics of the reservoir are improved. Based on the analysis results, the MH-ESN exhibits significantly better prediction accuracy than Leaky-ESN for complex time series prediction.
A Method for Rapid Polyethyleneimine-Based Purification of Bacteriophage-Expressed Proteins from Diluted Crude Lysates, Exemplified by Thermostable TP-84 Depolymerase
Authors: Łubkowska Beata , Czajkowska Edyta , Sobolewski Ireneusz , Krawczun Natalia , Żylicz-Stachula Agnieszka , Skowron Piotr M.
Published: September 2023

Purification of bacteriophage-expressed proteins poses methodological difficulties associated with the need to process entire culture medium volume upon bacteriophage-induced bacterial cell lysis. We have used novel capsule glycosylase-depolymerase (TP84_26 GD) from bacteriophage TP-84, infecting thermophilic Geobacillus stearothermophilus bacteria, as a representative enzyme to develop a method for rapid concentration and purification of the enzyme present in diluted crude host cell lysate. A novel variant of the polyethyleneimine (PEI)-based purification method was devised that offers a fast and effective approach for handling PEI-facilitated purification of bacteriophage-expressed native proteins. Due to the very basic nature of PEI, the method is suitable for proteins interacting with nucleic acids or acidic proteins, where either mixed PEI-DNA or RNA–protein complexes or PEI–acidic protein complexes are reversibly precipitated. (i) The method is of general use, applicable with minor modifications to a variety of bacteriophage cell lysates and proteins. (ii) In the example application, TP84_26 GD was highly purified (over 50%) in a single PEI step; subsequent chromatography yielded a homogeneous enzyme. (iii) The enzyme’s properties were examined, revealing the presence of three distinct forms of the TP84_26 GD. These forms included soluble, unbound proteins found in host cell lysate, as well as an integrated form within the TP-84 virion.
An Augmented Sample Selection Framework for Prediction of Anticancer Peptides
Authors: Tao Huawei , Shan Shuai , Fu Hongliang , Zhu Chunhua , Liu Boye
Published: September 2023

Anticancer peptides (ACPs) have promising prospects for cancer treatment. Traditional ACP identification experiments have the limitations of low efficiency and high cost. In recent years, data-driven deep learning techniques have shown significant potential for ACP prediction. However, data-driven prediction models rely heavily on extensive training data. Furthermore, the current publicly accessible ACP dataset is limited in size, leading to inadequate model generalization. While data augmentation effectively expands dataset size, existing techniques for augmenting ACP data often generate noisy samples, adversely affecting prediction performance. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel augmented sample selection framework for the prediction of anticancer peptides (ACPs-ASSF). First, the prediction model is trained using raw data. Then, the augmented samples generated using the data augmentation technique are fed into the trained model to compute pseudo-labels and estimate the uncertainty of the model prediction. Finally, samples with low uncertainty, high confidence, and pseudo-labels consistent with the original labels are selected and incorporated into the training set to retrain the model. The evaluation results for the ACP240 and ACP740 datasets show that ACPs-ASSF achieved accuracy improvements of up to 5.41% and 5.68%, respectively, compared to the traditional data augmentation method.
Effect of the Association of Fixed Oils from Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, Euterpe oleracea Martius, Bixa orellana Linné and Chronic SM® on Atherogenic Dyslipidemia in Wistar Rats
Authors: Sales Priscila Faimann , Nascimento Aline Lopes do , Pinheiro Fernanda Cavalcante , Alberto Andressa Ketelem Meireles , Teixeira dos Santos Abrahão Victor Tavares de Lima , Carvalho Helison de Oliveira , de Souza Gisele Custódio , Carvalho José Carlos Tavares
Published: September 2023

Dyslipidemia presents high levels of serum cholesterol and is characterized as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, especially for the development of atherosclerosis. E. oleracea oil (OFEO), A. esculentus oil (OFAE), B. orellana oil (OFBO), and Chronic SM® granules (CHR) are rich in bioactive compounds with the potential to treat changes in lipid metabolism. This study investigated the effects of treatments with oils from A. esculentus, E. oleracea, B. orellana, and Chronic SM® on Cocos nucifera L. saturated-fat-induced dyslipidemia. The chromatographic profile showed the majority presence of unsaturated fatty acids in the tested oils. The quantification of tocotrienols and geranylgeraniol in OFBO and CHR was obtained. Treatments with OFEO, OFAE, OFBO, and CHR were able to significantly reduce glycemia, as well as hypertriglyceridemia, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol, besides increasing HDL-cholesterol. The treatments inhibited the formation of atheromatous plaques in the vascular endothelium of the treated rats. The obtained results suggest that the OFEO, OFAE, OFBO, and CHR exhibit antidyslipidemic effects and antiatherogenic activity.
A Case of Gastroallergic and Intestinal Anisakiasis in Italy: Diagnosis Based on Double Endoscopy and Molecular Identification
Authors: D’Amelio Stefano , Bellini Ilaria , Chiovoloni Claudia , Magliocco Cristina , Pronio Annamaria , Di Rocco Arianna , Pentassuglio Ilaria , Rosati Marco , Russo Gianluca , Cavallero Serena
Published: September 2023

Nematodes of the genus Anisakis (Rhabditida, Anisakidae) are zoonotic fish-borne parasites and cause anisakiasis, a disease with mild to severe acute or chronic gastrointestinal and allergic symptoms and signs. Anisakiasis can potentially lead to misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis, and it has been suggested as a risk factor for gastrointestinal tumors. Here, we describe a case report of a 25-year-old woman who presented with gastrointestinal (abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea) and allergic (diffuse skin rash) symptoms and reported ingestion of raw fish contaminated by worms. Gastro and colon endoscopy allowed the visualization and removal of nematodes and collection of bioptic tissue from ulcers and polyps. The removed nematodes were molecularly identified as Anisakis pegreffii. The patient was treated with chlorphenamine maleate, betamethasone, omeprazole, paracetamol, albendazole. We conclude that an upper endoscopy matched with a colonoscopy and molecular characterization of the pathogen yields the most reliable diagnosis and treatment for human anisakiasis, enabling the complete removal of the larvae and preventing chronic inflammation and damage.
Cryopreservation of Duckweed Genetic Diversity as Model for Long-Term Preservation of Aquatic Flowering Plants
Authors: Peterson Anton , Kishchenko Olena , Kuhlmann Markus , Tschiersch Henning , Fuchs Joerg , Tikhenko Natalia , Schubert Ingo , Nagel Manuela
Published: September 2023

Vegetatively propagating aquatic angiosperms, the Lemnaceae family (duckweeds) represents valuable genetic resources for circular bioeconomics and other sustainable applications. Due to extremely fast growth and laborious cultivation of in vitro collections, duckweeds are an urgent subject for cryopreservation. We developed a robust and fast DMSO-free protocol for duckweed cryopreservation by vitrification. A single-use device was designed for sampling of duckweed fronds from donor culture, further spin-drying, and subsequent transferring to cryo-tubes with plant vitrification solution 3 (PVS3). Following cultivation in darkness and applying elevated temperatures during early regrowth stage, a specific pulsed illumination instead of a diurnal regime enabled successful regrowth after the cryopreservation of 21 accessions of Spirodela, Landoltia, Lemna, and Wolffia genera, including interspecific hybrids, auto- and allopolyploids. Genome size measurements revealed no quantitative genomic changes potentially caused by cryopreservation. The expression of CBF/DREB1 genes, considered as key factors in the development of freezing tolerance, was studied prior to cooling but was not linked with duckweed regrowth after rewarming. Despite preserving chlorophyll fluorescence after rewarming, the rewarmed fronds demonstrated nearly zero photosynthetic activity, which did not recover. The novel protocol provides the basis for future routine application of cryostorage to duckweed germplasm collections, saving labor for in vitro cultivation and maintaining characterized reference and mutant samples.
Generalist Predators Shape Biotic Resistance along a Tropical Island Chain
Authors: Wyckhuys Kris A. G. , Leatemia Johanna Audrey , Fanani Muhammad Zainal , Furlong Michael J. , Gu Baogen , Hadi Buyung Asmara Ratna , Hasinu Jeffij Virgowat , Melo Maria C. , Noya Saartje Helena , Rauf Aunu , Taribuka Johanna , Gc Yubak Dhoj
Published: September 2023

Islands offer exclusive prisms for an experimental investigation of biodiversity x ecosystem function interplay. Given that species in upper trophic layers, e.g., arthropod predators, experience a comparative disadvantage on small, isolated islands, such settings can help to clarify how predation features within biotic resistance equations. Here, we use observational and manipulative studies on a chain of nine Indonesian islands to quantify predator-mediated biotic resistance against the cassava mealybug Phenacoccus manihoti (Homoptera: Pseudococcidae) and the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Across island settings, a diverse set of generalist lacewing, spider and ladybeetle predators aggregates on P. manihoti infested plants, attaining max. (field-level) abundance levels of 1.0, 8.0 and 3.2 individuals per plant, respectively. Though biotic resistance—as imperfectly defined by a predator/prey ratio index—exhibits no inter-island differences, P. manihoti population regulation is primarily provided through an introduced monophagous parasitoid. Meanwhile, resident predators, such as soil-dwelling ants, inflict apparent mortality rates up to 100% for various S. frugiperda life stages, which translates into a 13- to 800-fold lower S. frugiperda survivorship on small versus large islands. While biotic resistance against S. frugiperda is ubiquitous along the island chain, its magnitude differs between island contexts, seasons and ecological realms, i.e., plant canopy vs. soil surface. Hence, under our experimental context, generalist predators determine biotic resistance and exert important levels of mortality even in biodiversity-poor settings. Given the rapid pace of biodiversity loss and alien species accumulation globally, their active conservation in farmland settings (e.g., through pesticide phasedown) is pivotal to ensuring the overall resilience of production ecosystems.
Local School Boards and LGBTQ Policy Decisions: A Qualitative Case Study
Authors: Henderson A. Scott
Published: September 2023

On 7 September 2022, the Miami-Dade School Board (MDSB), the governing body of one of the largest school districts in the U.S., rejected a resolution requiring the MDSB to observe October 2022 as LGBTQ History Month and directing the district’s superintendent to investigate the feasibility of providing “information and resources” about landmark LGBTQ Supreme Court cases for optional use in high school government classes. The current study coded the transcript of the September 7 meeting utilizing qualitative research protocols based on grounded theory. The resulting analysis identified three themes (curriculum, coercion, and illegality) associated with comments made by members of the public who opposed the resolution and three themes (curriculum, well-being, and anti-LGBTQ bigotry) associated with comments made by members of the public who supported the resolution. Analysis of the September 7 transcript also identified one primary theme (illegality) associated with MDSB members who opposed the resolution and two themes (disinformation and choice) associated with the MDSB member who supported the resolution. In addition to illustrating certain aspects of a contemporary moral panic in the U.S. and other countries, these results provide insights into how the public and U.S. school board members perceive the appropriateness and limitations of addressing the needs of contemporary LGBTQ students.
Educational Accountability Policy for Sustainable Development: A Comparative Analysis across 30 Countries
Authors: Kim Youngsik
Published: September 2023

This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis regarding Educational Accountability Policies (EAPs) across countries and empirically investigate the factors contributing to the variations in EAP implementation. To achieve these goals, firstly, this study investigated the status of EAP implementation by countries and endeavored to identify the trends regarding the diffusion and variation of EAP. Secondly, this study empirically analyzed the factors associated with variations in EAP implementation across countries. By employing country-level panel data from 30 countries, this study ascertained the status of EAP implementation as a global phenomenon. It examined the factors related to the adoption and intensity of EAP implementation based on the theoretical framework of the principal-agent model. This study has yielded two principal revelations. Firstly, there has been a rapid increase in the number of countries implementing EAP since the 2000s, accompanied by a bolstering of EAP implementation intensity. Nonetheless, there are discernible disparities in the adoption and implementation of EAP by countries. Secondly, this study has revealed that countries characterized by a more advanced economic status or an augmented governmental power tend to exhibit a proclivity for the adoption of EAP. Moreover, countries with a more advanced economic status, an augmented governmental power, or a higher degree of global openness are predisposed to implement EAP with greater intensity. These findings provide significant policy implications for sustainable development in education.
Key Considerations during the Transition from the Acute Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rzymski Piotr , Pokorska-Śpiewak Maria , Jackowska Teresa , Kuchar Ernest , Nitsch-Osuch Aneta , Pawłowska Małgorzata , Babicki Mateusz , Jaroszewicz Jerzy , Szenborn Leszek , Wysocki Jacek , Flisiak Robert
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has been met with an unprecedented response from the scientific community, leading to the development, investigation, and authorization of vaccines and antivirals, ultimately reducing the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on global public health. However, SARS-CoV-2 is far from being eradicated, continues to evolve, and causes substantial health and economic burdens. In this narrative review, we posit essential points on SARS-CoV-2 and its responsible management during the transition from the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. As discussed, despite Omicron (sub)variant(s) causing clinically milder infections, SARS-CoV-2 is far from being a negligible pathogen. It requires continued genomic surveillance, particularly if one considers that its future (sub)lineages do not necessarily have to be milder. Antivirals and vaccines remain the essential elements in COVID-19 management. However, the former could benefit from further development and improvements in dosing, while the seasonal administration of the latter requires simplification to increase interest and tackle vaccine hesitancy. It is also essential to ensure the accessibility of COVID-19 pharmaceuticals and vaccines in low-income countries and improve the understanding of their use in the context of the long-term goals of SARS-CoV-2 management. Regardless of location, the primary role of COVID-19 awareness and education must be played by healthcare workers, who directly communicate with patients and serve as role models for healthy behaviors.
PHYTOMORPHOLOGY OF WHEAT AND ITS GRAIN QUALITY RESPONSE TO DIVERSE APPROACHES OF IRON APPLICATION
Authors: Shaikh Muhammad Yousif , Soomro Aijaz Ahmed , Kandhro Muhammad Nawaz , Rajpar Inayatullah
Published: September 2023

Agriculture soils of Pakistan are already deficient of macronutrients, and now inadequacy for micronutrients has also been reported causing adverse effects on crop productivity. The study was carried out to investigate the effect of soil and foliar applied iron (Fe) on wheat. The treatments included: T1=Control (without Fe), T2=Soil applied Fe 3 kg ha‑1, T3=Soil applied Fe 6 kg ha‑1, T4=Foliar applied Fe 0.2%, T5=Foliar applied Fe 0.4%, T6=Soil applied Fe 1.5 kg ha-1+foliar applied Fe 0.1%, T7=Soil applied Fe 1.5 kg ha-1+foliar applied Fe 0.2%, T8=Soil applied Fe 3 kg ha-1+foliar applied Fe 0.1% and T9=Soil applied Fe 3 kg ha-1+foliar applied Fe 0.2%. All the treatments as alone or in combination, affected growth, yield and quality of wheat significantly (P<0.05). The results showed that T9 and T3 were most promising for almost all studied traits. Under T9 and T3, variety “TD-1” produced plants of 59.44 and 59.09 cm, while “Sindhu” showed  92.9 and 75.98 cm height, respectively. Higher grain yield (4799.7 and 4760.5 kg ha-1), grain protein (17.22 and 17.13%) were also recorded in T9 and T3, respectively; while T1 remained the least. In varieties, “TD-1” produced higher grain yield (4788.9 kg) than “Sindhu” (4341.8 kg ha-1). Inversely, grain protein was higher in variety “Sindhu” (17.10%) than “ TD-1” (16.72%). It was concluded that soil applied Fe 3 kg ha-1+foliar Fe 0.2% concentration or in absence of foliar application, soil applied Fe at 6 kg ha-1 remained most appropriate dose for wheat growers in addition to recommended NPK
Letramento crítico e decolonialidade: construindo espaços de ressignificação
Authors: Luczkiewicz da Silva Natália
Published: September 2023

A atual conjuntura da sociedade brasileira é fruto dos processos de colonização, capitalismo e patriarcado que determinaram, a partir das relações de poder, quais são os conhecimentos que devem ser considerados válidos. Esses movimentos ocorreram de forma violenta, silenciando as vozes dos grupos que não se encaixavam/encaixam no conceito de homem branco, heterossexual, classe alta. A escola, enquanto instituição política, ao tempo em que pode colaborar para a visibilidade de grupos marginalizados, também pode representar um movimento contrário, a partir da imposição de narrativas hegemônicas, disseminadas nos currículos escolares. Nesse sentido, urge a necessidade de trazer temáticas decoloniais para o âmbito educacional, colaborando para o desenvolvimento do letramento crítico dos alunos, para que possam reconhecer discursos segregatórios e estabelecer diálogos e ações de ressignificação e resistência. Neste trabalho, pretendo discutir sobre o conceito de letramento crítico, colonialidade do poder, do saber e do ser (QUIJANO, 1999), ao tempo em que apresento uma proposta de ser/fazer decolonial. Os aportes teóricos estão calcados nas seguintes temáticas: A linguagem como prática social (RAMALHO; RESENDE, 2011; SILVA, 2000; SPIVAK, 1942), Letramento crítico (MONTE MÓR, 2015; MOREIRA JUNIOR, 2020; SANTOS; MENICONI, 2018); Estudos Decoloniais (QUIJANO, 1999; WALSH, 2013; SANTOS, 2019).
The relevance of interaction in English language teaching in Brazilian public schools
Authors: Cordeiro da Silveira Allan
Published: September 2023

A interação tem atraído pesquisadores no âmbito da influência das relações pessoais na aquisição de segunda língua (SLA). A Hipótese de Interação afirma que a interação comunicativa relaciona o insumo de linguagem às habilidades e aos resultados de aprendizagem do aluno (output), de modo que os estudantes possam alterar seus resultados, desde que receba um insumo compreensível. Este artigo examina as implicações e a relevância da interação no âmbito da Teoria das Hipóteses de Interação no Ensino e Aquisição de Língua Inglesa em escolas públicas brasileiras. O trabalho visa apresentar os fundamentos teóricos e relacioná-los com a prática em sala de aula. A realidade brasileira do ensino de segunda língua é o ponto de partida para possíveis aplicações dos fundamentos teóricos relacionados a essa teoria. Uma perspectiva cronológica em relação ao Modelo Monitor de Krashen e a hipótese dicotômica de Aquisição e Aprendizagem é delineada. As cinco hipóteses de Krashen são apresentadas com ênfase na Hipótese de Insumo e na Hipótese de Interação. A segunda parte refere-se a uma breve análise da realidade das aulas de inglês como língua estrangeira no Brasil. Sugerem-se como processos interacionais pessoais podem ocorrer no referido contexto com alunos e professores. Em seguida, as tarefas e características dos alunos são discutidas e analisadas, com ênfase nas atitudes dos professores e nas aptidões, motivação e habilidades especiais dos alunos no contexto do ensino de línguas no país.
High-Performance Piezophototronic Solar Cells Based on Polarization Modulation Perovskite
Authors: Nie Jiaheng , Zhang Yaming , Li Lijie , Zhang Yan
Published: September 2023

Polarization induced by electric field poling or strain can be used for achieving high-performance piezophototronic solar cell by tuning spatial surface potential distribution. Recent experiments presented that performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) can be enhanced with poling process due to surface state modification. Here, we characterize the effect of polarization on surface potential distribution of perovskite film, highlighting that piezophototronic effect provides a promising approach for enhancing the performance of PSCs. This method not only paves a new way to develop highly efficient perovskite photovoltaic devices but also designs highly stable PSCs.
Spatiotemporal Variations and Influencing Factors of Urban Carbon Sink: A Case Study of Wuhan, China
Authors: Luo Mei , Liu Helin , Gao Junyang , Tang Yongwei , Guo Long , Pi Jiale , Yu Yuhan
Published: September 2023

Increasing carbon sinks based on a comprehensive understanding of urban carbon sinks is an effective means for building low-carbon cities and mitigating global climate change. Using the intensity analysis and regression analysis methods, the multiple types of urban carbon sinks in Wuhan from 2000 to 2020 was estimated in this study, and the spatiotemporal changes in land use and the carbon sinks were explored. The influencing factors of the urban carbon sink were also analyzed. The results showed the following: (a) the area of carbon sink land in Wuhan decreased from 2000 to 2020. The transfer area of forest land and water bodies was large. However, their annual loss intensity was lower than the uniform intensity. (b) The urban carbon sink showed a linear downward trend. Specifically, the forest carbon sink was always the main type and accounted for about 60% of the total carbon sinks. (c) The characteristics of the interannual variation in different types of carbon sinks in different districts were various, including the range and direction of variation. Only the total carbon sinks in Xinzhou District increased from 2000 to 2010, and other districts decreased from 2000 to 2020. (d) The gross domestic product per square kilometer was the common influencing factor of carbon sink change in 2000, 2010, and 2020. The land use degree, population change, and industrial structure affected the changes in the carbon sink at different times. These findings hope to help in achieving low-carbon cities and carbon neutrality.
Two New Species of Persea (Lauraceae) from Ecuador
Authors: Rohwer Jens G. , Van der Werff Henk
Published: September 2023

Two new species of Persea Mill. (Lauraceae) are described from Ecuador. Persea basiobtusa Rohwer is a typical member of subgenus Eriodaphne Nees sect. Eriodaphne (Nees) Meisn., but stands out by its small flowers and obtuse to truncate leaf bases. Persea dryadum Rohwer belongs to subgenus Eriodaphne sect. Hexanthera (Mez) L. E. Kopp and is distinct by its lanate lower leaf surface.
Possibilities of Using Online Tools and Artificial Intelligence in City Marketing
Authors: Labudová Lenka
Published: September 2023

AI has had a significant impact on marketing, transforming the way companies approach advertising and customer engagement. But we are not talking only about the business sphere, marketing tools are transformed and applied also in regional conditions and in the marketing communication of cities. Artificial intelligence and its use therefore also concern this area. Its use can be found in various spheres of city services, one of these services is communication with target groups operating in the given territory. These target groups primarily include citizens, tourists, entrepreneurs, students and working people in the given area. One of the main tasks of the city is that the primary target groups are informed about current events and information is provided to them in the most modern, efficient and fast way possible, which reflects the current technological progress in marketing communication. The aim of this contribution is to point out the possibilities and ways of using artificial intelligence in the communication of cities in Slovakia. AI can help city marketers to create more targeted and effective marketing communication, improve the customer experience, and build stronger relationships with residents and visitors. By analyzing data and providing insights, AI can also help city marketers to make data-driven decisions and measure the impact of their marketing communication efforts. In general, Slovakia belongs to the countries in which the development and advancement of city marketing is difficult from the point of view of financing and lack of human resources. However, one does not always think about the fact that current online and digital tools can be beneficial only if we know about them and know how to use what they offer. In the paper, we will look at the current use of artificial intelligence in the communication of selected Slovak cities with tourists and at the possibilities that artificial intelligence brings in the field of city marketing development.
EPI2C Entrepreneurship & Design Thinking
Authors: Edgeman Rick , Schwaller Henry , Sevak Kunal
Published: September 2023

Entrepreneurship is a high-stakes, action-oriented game played on a field defined by competition and collaboration. However, across academic entrepreneurship programs, education formats range from almost exclusively classroom-based to highly experiential to hybrid. The entrepreneurship program at the authors’ institution has generally favored traditional classroom boundaries, augmented by non-mandatory experiential opportunities. Realizations derived from the covid-19 pandemic and ensuing movement to virtual instruction are driving rapid, ongoing change in the institution’s entrepreneurship program. Pandemic-driven isolation and additional isolation resulting from largely asynchronous virtual delivery of education have had negative impacts. Changes have been enacted to combat these factors that are generally antithetical to the hands-on nature of entrepreneurship, while contributing to decline in entrepreneurial performance across an array of measures. Seen in the face of the same factors, was a marked increase in business plan proposals featuring apps, creations, or other solutions emphasizing human-interaction. Relative to entrepreneurship education, these increases are taken to indicate hunger for (predominantly) face-to-face competition and collaboration. When linked with broad trends toward social and environmental responsibility, clarity emerged as to the sort of pivot needed in the trajectory of entrepreneurial and other education at the institution. The transformation in trajectory is captured by the motto “do good, make a difference, change the world”, symbolizing determination to focus on things that matter. Similarly, the pivot is captured by the acronym EPI2C, representing five targeted program aspects: “Experiential, Purposeful, Imaginative, Innovative & Creative”. Together, these drove rebranding of the program as “EPI2C Entrepreneurship & Design Thinking”, thus highlighting the enabling role of design thinking in many entrepreneurial endeavors. Delineated herein is program reinvention driven by the preceding motto; use of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) to support the motto; the role of design thinking; the relationship specific meanings and distinctions among the EPI2C descriptors; and specific program innovations. Also discussed is improved student performance associated with program reinvention.
Developing Green Entrepreneurship Skills in Indonesia; An Educational Perspective
Authors: Papageorgiou George , Tsappi Elena , Konis Elmos , Abreu Ricardo , Indarti Nurul
Published: September 2023

This paper explores the critical nexus between Green Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development,illuminating their combined potential as a powerful tool for mitigating environmental crises such as global warming andclimate change. With a particular focus on burgeoning economies, especially Indonesia, it underscores the immensepossibilities embedded within a proactive integration of sustainable practices into entrepreneurship. This not only pavesthe way towards climate neutrality but also cultivates competitive advantages in business enterprises. Despite thetremendous potential, the widespread adoption of Green Entrepreneurship has been persistently stifled by a profound lackof awareness, an alarming paucity of educational resources, and a dearth of specialised knowledge within the field. Thesefactors collectively contribute to the unimpressive rate of implementation and relatively low acceptance of GreenEntrepreneurship. To address this conundrum, this scholarly article undertakes a comprehensive gap analysis aimed atevaluating the future prospects of Green Entrepreneurship within Indonesia. It does so through a detailed examination ofthe development of Green Entrepreneurship skills from the perspective of educators. The study forms part of a broaderinitiative - the ASEAN Network for Green Entrepreneurship and Leadership (ANGEL) - a European-funded project devotedto equipping university graduates and disadvantaged societal groups with vital entrepreneurial skills geared towardssustainability. The analytical framework of the research draws upon a conducted survey among university faculty members,supplemented with a focus group discussion with participants involving a diverse mix of faculty, students, andadministrative staff. The findings underscore a strikingly limited focus on Green Entrepreneurship within the curriculum.However, they also reveal a robust commitment and a strong willingness to infuse existing syllabi with GreenEntrepreneurial facets. To accomplish this, the research identifies the need to surmount significant challenges, primarilythose related to resource availability. Furthermore, the gap analysis points towards the need for amplifying collaborationamong a broad spectrum of stakeholders. These include local businesses, government agencies, and the broadercommunity. Such partnerships can significantly assist universities in crafting effective business school curricula that instil asustainability mindset. Moving forward, the research proposes to extend its scope to embrace the viewpoints of communitymembers. This would encompass a particular focus on traditionally marginalized groups, including women, minorities, andeconomically disadvantaged segments in both urban and rural communities.