bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estudo de caso: o processo de gestão da Associação Atlética Acadêmica de Engenharia de Produção da Universidade Federal de Goiás – improdutiva
Authors: Cardoso da Silva Neto José , Cesar Valandro soares Júlio
Published: February 2024

A Associação Atlética Acadêmica de Engenharia de Produção, da Universidade Federal de Goiás, campus Aparecida de Goiânia (A.A.A.E.P.), neste trabalho denominada de “Atlética” ou “Improdutiva”, é uma instituição sem fins lucrativos que objetiva promover práticas esportivas, festas e eventos festivos, ações sociais, engajamento de alunos novos e veteranos, dentre outras atividades. Por ser composta por duas diretorias interdependentes, a Executiva e a Tática, optou-se por discutir, neste trabalho, o que perfaz o objetivo principal desse, qual modelo de gestão é predominante na Atlética e quais ferramentas gerenciais utilizadas pela Improdutiva para que as ações sejam eficientes e eficazes: o planejamento estratégico, as alianças estratégicas e o benchmarking. Este trabalho caracteriza-se por adotar uma metodologia de pesquisa qualitativa, de caráter exploratório e descritivo, baseada no levantamento da bibliografia especializada para a sustentação teórica e no estudo de caso da Associação Atlética Acadêmica de Engenharia de Produção da UFG – Improdutiva, tais como documentos, dados, relatos e reflexões acerca das ações realizadas pela Associação.
Palavras-Chave: Associação Atlética. Modelos de Gestão. Ferramentas Gerenciais.
 
Abstract: The Academic Athletic Association of Production Engineering, of the Federal University of Goiás, campus Aparecida de Goiânia (A.A.A.E.P.), in this work called "Atlética" or "Improductiva", is a non-profit institution that aims to promote sports practices, parties and events festivals, social actions, engagement of new and veteran students, among other activities. As it is composed of two interdependent directorates, the Executive and the Tactics, it was decided to discuss, in this work, and which makes up its main objective, which management model is predominant in Atlética and which management tools are used by Unproductive so that the actions are efficient and effective: strategic planning, strategic alliances and benchmarking. This research is characterized by adopting a qualitative research methodology, of an exploratory and descriptive nature, based on the survey of the specialized bibliography for theoretical support and on the case study of the Associação Atlética Acadómica de Engenharia de Produção da UFG – Improductiva, such as documents, data, reports and reflections about the actions carried out by the Association.
Keywords: Athletic Association. Management Models. Management tools.
Pelatihan dan Pengembangan Media Pembelajaran Bagi Guru Bidang Studi Pada SMAN 5 Pekanbaru Berbasis AI
Authors: Ibnu surya  , Syaliman Khairul Umam , Hidayat Erzi
Published: February 2024

Proses belajar mengajar adalah interaksi antara guru dan murid, yang diakhiri dengan proses evaluasi hasil belajar dalam upaya mencapai tujuan pembelajaran yang berlangsung dalam suatu lokasi dan jangka waktu tertentu. Dalam proses pembelajaran dibutuhkan media pembelajaran dalam peyampaian materi agar siswa lebih memahami materi yang diberikan. Oleh sebab itu, usulan kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat (PkM) kali ini yakni memberikan pelatihan kepada guru untuk membuat media pembelajaran dengan pendekatan kecerdasan buatan (AI). Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan bertujuan memberikan pelatihan pembuatan media pembelajaran berbasis AI dengan harapan dapat membantu para guru dalam menyiapkan materi atau bahan ajar pada bidang studi. Setelah dilaksanakan dan evaluasi kepada 54 responden dimana peserta diantaranya sebagian besar adalah para guru diperoleh hasil 34 dari 54 responden (63%) dapat meringankan dan membantu pekerjaan dalam membuat perangkat pembelajaran cepat dan akurat, 19 dari 54 responden (35%) dapat menambah pengetahuan, wawasan dan ilmu baru serta sisanya sekitar 2% masih jauh lebih baik merancang materi ajar sendiri sekalipun tidak menafikan perangkat kecerdasan buatan ini sebagai sesuatu yang baru dan bagus bagi para guru.
Исследование ускорений, возникающих под действием инерционных нагрузок в конструкциях цистерн пожарных автомобилей при движении к месту ликвидации чрезвычайных ситуаций
Authors: Ковтун Вадим Анатольевич , Короткевич Сергей Геннадьевич
Published: February 2024

Цель. Экспериментальное исследование влияния режимов движения пожарных автомобилей на уровень значений ускорения, возникающего в конструкциях цистерн под действием инерционных нагрузок. Для достижения поставленной цели проводимая работа включала выбор необходимого измерительного оборудования, определение мест установки датчиков и условий проведения эксперимента, обработку полученных экспериментальных данных.
Методы. При проведении исследований использовано современное измерительное оборудование, включающее анализатор шума и вибрации Larson-Davis 2900, пьезоэлектрические акселерометры типа 352С18. Полученные экспериментальные результаты измерений подлежали обработке с использованием математических методов анализа для учета погрешностей измерений.
Результаты. Представлены результаты экспериментальных исследований общего уровня ускорения, возникающего на стенках и дне резервуара конструкций цистерн при различных режимах движения пожарных автомобилей. В результате обработки данных получены зависимости, связывающие параметры (скорость, ускорение, торможение, поворот) и условия (вид дорожного покрытия), характеризующие особенности режимов движения пожарных автомобилей на шасси МАЗ-5337 и МАЗ-6317, со значениями ускорения, возникающего под действием инерционных нагрузок в конструкциях цистерн объемом 5, 8 и 10 м3. Полученные максимальные значения ускорения, которые составляют от 7,4 до 25,2 м/с2, свидетельствуют о значительных инерционных нагрузках, возникающих в конструкциях цистерн, и в значительной мере зависят от режимов движения пожарных автомобилей и дорожного покрытия. Полученные данные подтверждают, что пожарные автоцистерны эксплуатируются в более тяжелых условиях, по сравнению с автомобилями иного типа.
Область применения исследований. Пожарные аварийно-спасательные подразделения, производственно-технические центры, промышленные предприятия и высшие учебные заведения.
ANALISIS MEDIAN FILTER TERHADAP REDUKSI NOISE PADA CITRA DIGITAL
Authors: Muhammad Fathoni Andi , Cahyono Edi , Ransi Natalis , Arman
Published: February 2024

Citra merupakan suatu representasi, kemiripan atau imitasi dari suatu obyek atau benda. Citra ada dua macam yaitu citra kontinu dan citra diskrit. Citra kontinu dihasilkan dari sistem optik yang menerima sinyal analog, misalnya mata manusia dan kamera analog. Citra diskrit dihasilkan melalui proses digitalisasi sehingga mampu menghasilkan citra diskrit, misalnya kamera digital dan scanner. Citra kontinu disebut juga citra analog  dan citra diskrit disebut juga citra digital.Citra yang dikenal dalam komputer adalah citra dalam format digital. Citra yang kita miliki terkadang mempunyai kualitas mutu yang kurang bagus atau tidak memuaskan, misalnya mengandung noise atau derau. Steganografi adalah cabang ilmu yang dikembangkan untuk pengamanan informasi. Steganografi mempelajari bagaimana suatu informasi rahasia tidak dapat diketahui orang yang tidak berhak dengan cara menyisipkan atau menyembunyikan pesan rahasia tersebut ke dalam pesan yang lain.Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk deskripsi penerapan Median Filter pada olah citra digital dan hasil analisis Median Filter dalam mereduksi noise pada citra digital. Metode yang akan digunakan pada tugas akhir ini untuk memperbaiki citra yang mengandung noise teks adalah median filter. Metode tersebut akan diterapkan pada citra yang mengandung noise teks. Penelitian ini dilakukan dimulai dengan mengambil data berupa citra atau foto. Selanjutnya, data tersebut akan difilter dengan median filter. Setelah itu kualitas citra di ukur dengan besaran yaitu PSNR (Peak Signal to Noise Ratio). Pada penelitian ini dengan menggunakan 5 citra berbeda, dengan kernel filter ,  dan , hasil filter median kebanyakan masuk kategori medium quality, walaupun ada beberapa citra masuk kategori low quality
Physical exercises as an effective adjuvant therapy of IBD in remission (review)
Authors: Kostyukevich S. V. , Bakulin I. G.
Published: February 2024

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. IBDs are chronic diseases with a trajectory of remission and relapse. Drug therapy for IBD is not effective enough. There is a need for adjuvant therapy for IBD. The purpose of this review was to present the role of exercise and its impact on IBD. In this regard, a search is underway for additional tools to increase the frequency of achieving and maintaining remission. There is recent evidence that exercise induces a cascade of anti-inflammatory cytokines, specifically triggered by an exponential increase in muscle interleukin 6, and with regular exercise during remission may reduce basal levels of circulating inflammatory markers and potentially reduce chronic inflammation in IBD. Doctor’s recommendations for physical activity during remission can be effective as an additional component of anti-relapse treatment.
Five years of experience in using the laser coagulation method in the treatment of trans- and extrasphincter fistulas of the rectum
Authors: Kostarev I. V. , Zakharyan A. V. , Kiselev D. O. , Blagodarny L. A. , Mudrov A. A. , Titov A. Yu.
Published: February 2024

THE AIM OF the STUDY was to study the results of surgical treatment of patients with trans- and extrasphincter fistulas of the rectum using laser coagulation, depending on the method of closure of the internal fistula opening.PATIENTS AND METHODS: within the framework of scientific research conducted at the NMIC of Coloproctology named after A.N. During a 5-year period, 121 patients underwent surgical interventions using laser coagulation of the fistula passage in combination with 3 different options for closing the internal fistula opening.43 patients were included in the group of laser coagulation of the fistula course in combination with its ligation in the intersphincter space (LT+PSMP), 47 – in the group of laser coagulation of the fistula with plasty of the internal fistula opening with a mucomuscular flap (LT+SML), 31 - in the group of laser thermocoagulation of the fistula course with suturing of the internal fistula opening with separate seams (LT+UVC). The average age of patients is 42 (20-70) years. Men - 82, women -39. The average follow-up period was 19 (3-52) months. In the perioperative period (before surgery, 1 and 2 months after the intervention), patients underwent ultrasound monitoring to assess the healing process of fistulas and early detection of relapses of the disease. To assess the effect of operations on the functional state of the rectal occlusion apparatus before the intervention and 3 months after the operation, patients underwent sphincterometry.RESULTS: in the LT+PSMP group, fistula healing was noted in 33/43 (76.7%) patients, in the LT+SML group - in 33/47 (70.2%) patients, in the LT+UVS group – in 17/31 (54.8%) patients (p=0.129). The only established factor that demonstrated a statistically significant effect on the frequency of positive results in the LT+PSMP group was the diameter of the internal fistula opening. Thus, with a fistula hole diameter of more than 3 mm, a positive result was achieved in 24 (54.5%) of 44 patients, and with a hole diameter of less than3.0 mm, the fistula course healed in 58 (75.3%) of 77 cases (p=0.025).The average length of a bed day (Iu) was 3.5. Complications during surgery and the immediate postoperative period were recorded in only 3 (2.5%) cases.CONCLUSION: Over the five-year period of application, the laser coagulation method has proven itself as a sphincter-sparing intervention that can compete with traditional methods of treating rectal fistulas in a selected group of patients. Regardless of the method of closing the internal fistula opening, the technique has demonstrated a high level of safety. The best rates of healing were recorded when laser coagulation was combined with ligation of the fistula in the intersphincter space (76.7%), however, the search for the most reliable way to isolate the fistula from the lumen of the rectum should be continued.
Harnessing the potential of sugarcane-based liquid byproducts—molasses and spentwash (vinasse) for enhanced soil health and environmental quality. A systematic review
Authors: Stephen Gerison Saddick , Shitindi Mawazo Jamson , Bura Magdalena Deemay , Kahangwa Caren Anatory , Nassary Eliakira Kisetu
Published: February 2024

Farming practices reliant solely on synthetic agrochemicals face unreliability in the current era marked by unpredictable climate changes and rapid soil health deterioration. Consequently, a shift towards sustainable approaches is imperative to ensure both food security and environmental quality. Molasses and vinasse, abundant organic liquid by-products from sugar processing and distillery industries respectively, have historically served as soil conditioners and biofertilizers. Despite their potential, their effectiveness as organic amendments remain relatively unknown globally. In response, we conducted a systematic literature review to unveil the benefits of molasses and vinasse as organic amendments. Our findings reveal that these by-products consist of both inorganic and organic compounds that enhance soil and aquatic ecosystem performance. These compounds include essential plant nutrients as mineral elements and organic matter, contributing to improved soil physico-chemical and biological properties. Notably, the application of molasses and vinasse in crop production has demonstrated superiority over chemical fertilizers, particularly when combined with other inorganic amendments. Molasses and vinasse have been reported to significantly increase yield in several crops including sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum), tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), soybean (Glycine max), maize (Zea mays) and rice (Oryza sativa). Strategic utilization of vinasse has the potential to enhance environmental quality by reducing soil heavy metal loads and mitigating negative impacts associated with synthetic fertilizers. However, it is crucial to note that irregular disposal or misuse of these by-products can result in detrimental effects on the environment and human health. To encourage sustainable utilization on a global scale, it is essential to establish appropriate dosages, raise awareness among farmers and stakeholders regarding judicious use, and develop effective methods for handling and application of molasses and vinasse. This approach ensures cost-effective and environmentally friendly organic amendments, fostering a harmonious balance between agricutural productivity and ecological well-being.
Long-term efficacy of left bundle branch pacing and biventricular pacing in patients with heart failure complicated with left bundle branch block
Authors: Li Jia , Yi Hongwei , Han Jun , Han Hongwei , Su Xi
Published: February 2024

Background

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) can physiologically correct complete left bundle branch block (CLBBB), and has become the best alternative to biventricular pacing (BiVP).

Objective

To compare the efficacy of LBBP and BiVP in patients with heart failure (HF) complicated with CLBBB.

Methods

This was a single-center retrospective study. Patients with HF complicated with CLBBB who underwent successful cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in Wuhan Asian Heart Hospital from June 2018 to June 2023 were enrolled and divided into LBBP group and BiVP group according to the pacing method. The primary endpoints were the absolute increase of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), and echocardiographic response rate. Secondary endpoints were all-cause mortality, heart failure hospitalization (HFH), NT-proBNP, paced QRS duration, pacing threshold, and procedural duration.

Results

A total of 120 patients were enrolled in this study, including 60 patients in LBBP group and 60 patients in BiVP group. The median follow-up time was 37 ± 19 months. Compared with BiVP group, LBBP group had a more significant increase in absolute LVEF (ΔLVEF) (14.8 ± 9.9% vs. 10.7 ± 9.0%, P = 0.02), a more significant reduction in LVEDD (56.9 ± 10.9 mm vs. 61.1 ± 10.8 mm, P = 0.03), and a higher echocardiographic super response rate (65% vs. 45%, P = 0.02). There were no significant differences in all-cause mortality (1.7% vs. 10.0%, P = 0.11) and HFH (6.7% vs. 13.3%, P = 0.22). In terms of paced QRS duration (128.7 ± 14.1 ms vs. 137.5 ± 16.5 ms, P = 0.002), pacing threshold (0.72 ± 0.21 V/0.4 ms vs. 1.39 ± 0.51 V/0.4 ms, P < 0.001), procedural duration (134.1 ± 32.2 min vs. 147.7 ± 39.4 min, P = 0.04), the LBBP group was superior to the BiVP group.

Conclusion

In nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) patients with HF combined with CLBBB and LVEF ≤ 35%, LBBP is better than BiVP.
Preparation and mechanical properties of LC cladding layer for friction parts
Authors: Jiang Lingbo
Published: February 2024

Introduction: In the actual engineering operation, there are some components facing high frequency friction, which have high damage rate and poor direct replacement benefit. In order to achieve sustainable resource utilization and more effective component remanufacturing, research was conducted on the cladding layer of friction components.

Methods: Based on the idea of remanufacturing, taking 42CrMo as the raw material of engine piston pin hole, laser cladding technology and ultrasonic rolling technology are used to prepare the cladding layers of Fe, Ni and Co three different substrates.

Results and Discussion: The experimental results showed that the Co based cladding layer with ultrasonic rolling technology performed best. The surface roughness reduced by 1.02 μm, only 0.14 μm. The microhardness increased by 101.39%, with 795.38 HV. The friction coefficient was 0.051. The friction rate at high temperature decreased by 85.71%, and it was 1.2%. The friction at high temperature was reduced by 79.24%, with 0.9%.

Conclusion: Co based cladding layer combined with ultrasonic rolling technology shows the best performance, which can effectively realize the remanufacturing of engine piston pin hole, providing technical reference and data support for the remanufacturing process of high-frequency friction components.
Obstacles and facilitators to preventing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: a qualitative study with general practitioners
Authors: Leruste Sébastien , Baelen François , Doray Bérénice , Maillard Thierry , Marimoutou Catherine , Spodenkiewicz Michel
Published: February 2024

Background

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders are the leading cause of non-genetic intellectual disability. The damage caused, although completely preventable, is irreversible and requires lifelong support. General Practitioners have an important role in the prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. However, evidence suggests that General Practitioners do not monitor systematically alcohol consumption among pregnant women.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to understand the barriers and motivations of General Practitioners in the prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders on Reunion Island.

Methods

A qualitative research study was conducted by conducting semi-structured individual interviews with general practitioners. Participants were selected by random or snowball sampling. General practitioners who worked only in unscheduled care services were excluded from this study. After the interviews were transcribed, a verbatim analysis was performed according to the principles of grounded theory.

Results

Twenty interviews were conducted by two researchers between November and December 2020. General practitioners expressed discomfort in addressing alcohol consumption and excessive drinking in women. They had inaccurate theoretical knowledge and a lack of practical experience with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. They also showed little knowledge of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders care pathway available on Reunion Island. Both patients and general practitioners expressed discomfort when discussing women’s alcohol consumption. Conflicting government policies were highlighted as alcohol promotion campaigns overshadowed Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders prevention initiatives.

Conclusion

General practitioners should be open and non-judgmental in their interactions with women and couples, with a focus on early detection and short-term intervention. General practitioners should be better educated about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and have a clearer understanding of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders care pathway.
Trichoderma application methods differentially affect the tomato growth, rhizomicrobiome, and rhizosphere soil suppressiveness against Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Bandara Ananda Y. , Kang Seogchan
Published: February 2024

Trichoderma spp. are widely used to enhance crop growth and suppress diverse diseases. However, inconsistent field efficacy remains a major barrier to their use as a reliable alternative to synthetic pesticides. Various strategies have been investigated to enhance the robustness of their application. Here, we evaluated how T. virens application methods (pre-, at-, and post-transplant) affect the growth of two tomato varieties and their rhizosphere fungal and bacterial communities. Although the greatest rhizosphere abundance of T. virens was observed in the post-transplant application, the at-transplant application promoted tomato growth the most, indicating that greater rhizosphere abundance does not necessarily result in better tomato growth. None of the application methods significantly altered the global rhizosphere fungal and bacterial communities of the tested varieties. Changes in specific microbial genera and guilds may underpin the enhanced tomato growth. We also investigated whether the resulting microbiome changes affect the mycelial growth and conidial germination of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and F. oxysporum f. sp. radicis-lycopersici, soilborne fungal pathogens of tomato, upon exposure to volatile compounds emitted by culturable rhizosphere microbes and metabolites extracted from the rhizosphere soils after Trichoderma treatments. Volatile compounds produced by cultured rhizosphere microbes after the at-transplant application suppressed the mycelial growth of both pathogens better than those after the other treatments. Similarly, water-soluble metabolites extracted from the rhizosphere soil samples after the at-transplant application most effectively suppressed the germination rate of F. oxysporum spores. Overall, our results suggest that the at-transplant application is most advantageous for promoting the growth of the tested tomato varieties and building soil suppressiveness against the tested fusaria. However, further studies are needed before applying this method to support tomato production. We discuss critical future questions.
Speech decoding using cortical and subcortical electrophysiological signals
Authors: Wu Hemmings , Cai Chengwei , Ming Wenjie , Chen Wangyu , Zhu Zhoule , Feng Chen , Jiang Hongjie , Zheng Zhe , Sawan Mohamad , Wang Ting , Zhu Junming
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Language impairments often result from severe neurological disorders, driving the development of neural prosthetics utilizing electrophysiological signals to restore comprehensible language. Previous decoding efforts primarily focused on signals from the cerebral cortex, neglecting subcortical brain structures’ potential contributions to speech decoding in brain-computer interfaces.

Methods

In this study, stereotactic electroencephalography (sEEG) was employed to investigate subcortical structures’ role in speech decoding. Two native Mandarin Chinese speakers, undergoing sEEG implantation for epilepsy treatment, participated. Participants read Chinese text, with 1–30, 30–70, and 70–150 Hz frequency band powers of sEEG signals extracted as key features. A deep learning model based on long short-term memory assessed the contribution of different brain structures to speech decoding, predicting consonant articulatory place, manner, and tone within single syllable.

Results

Cortical signals excelled in articulatory place prediction (86.5% accuracy), while cortical and subcortical signals performed similarly for articulatory manner (51.5% vs. 51.7% accuracy). Subcortical signals provided superior tone prediction (58.3% accuracy). The superior temporal gyrus was consistently relevant in speech decoding for consonants and tone. Combining cortical and subcortical inputs yielded the highest prediction accuracy, especially for tone.

Discussion

This study underscores the essential roles of both cortical and subcortical structures in different aspects of speech decoding.
Analysis of clinical data of different endometrial pathological types in perimenopausal women with abnormal uterine bleeding
Authors: Wang Li , Quan Shimin , Bai E. , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: February 2024

Objective

Early detection and diagnosis are important for improving the therapeutic effect and quality of life in patients with endometrial cancer (EC). This study aimed to analyze the clinical data of different endometrial pathological types in perimenopausal women with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) in order to provide evidence for the prevention and early diagnosis of EC.

Methods

A total of 462 perimenopausal women with AUB were enrolled in this prospective observational study. Endometrial biopsy was performed in patients with suspected endometrial lesions. According to the pathological examination results, the patients were divided into endometrial polyp group (EP) (n = 71), endometrial hyperplasia without atypia group (EH) (n = 59), atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) (n = 36), and EC group (n = 27). The history risk factors and ultrasonic imaging characteristics of endometrium among the four groups were compared.

Results

Twenty-seven women were diagnosed with EC (5.84%). The prevalence rate of AEH and EC in the group of 51- to 55-year-old women was significantly higher than that in the groups of 40- to 45-year-old women and of 46- to 50-year-old women (P < 0.05). The age, body mass index, and history of diabetes gradually increased with the development of endometrial pathological types. In addition, the correlation index of endometrial blood flow increased gradually, and the proportion of uneven endometrial echo, unclear endometrial–myometrial junction (EMJ), and ovarian cyst also increased gradually. However, no statistically significant difference was found when comparing endometrial thickness (ET) and endometrial volume (EV) among endometrial pathological groups (P > 0.05). The ET, EV, endometrial vascularization index, endometrial flow index, and vascularization flow index in the ovarian cyst group were significantly higher (P < 0.05), and the proportion of uneven endometrium echo and unclear EMJ were significantly higher compared with that in the non-ovarian cyst group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The most common cause of perimenopausal women with AUB was benign endometrial lesions. However, women aged 51–55 years old with endometrial high risk factors and ovarian cyst should be alert to AEH and EC. Endometrial biopsy needs to be performed to determine endometrial malignancy in necessity.
Effect of chronic prenatal exposure to the food additive titanium dioxide E171 on respiratory activity in newborn mice
Authors: Colnot Eloïse , O’Reilly Julie , Morin Didier
Published: February 2024

Nanoparticles (NPs) possess unique properties that make their use valuable in all industries. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) NPs are extensively used as a white pigment in food (labeled under the European number E171) and personal care products, which creates a significant potential for chronic consumer exposure. Concerns about the potential toxic effects of TiO2 NPs have arisen, particularly in vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and infants. Recently, human materno-fetal transfer of E171 was demonstrated, and simultaneously, we reported that chronic prenatal exposure to reference P25 TiO2 NPs was found to alter the developing respiratory neural networks. In this study, using whole body plethysmography from postnatal day (P) 0 to P7, we assessed the respiratory function of newborn mice born to mothers fed with E171 during pregnancy. We also evaluated the potential alterations to respiratory centers by using brainstem-spinal cord electrophysiological recordings from P0 to P6. Our study reveals that E171-prenatally exposed animals displayed an abnormally elevated breathing rate from P3 onwards. From P5 to P6, the respiratory-related burst frequency generated by the isolated brainstem-spinal cord preparations was significantly higher in E171-exposed animals than in non-exposed animals. These findings demonstrate prenatal toxicity of E171 to the developing respiratory function and may contribute to policy-making regarding the use of TiO2 NPs.
In vivo measurement of pediatric extracorporeal oxygenator insensible losses; a single center pilot study
Authors: Suttles Tess L. , Poe John , Neumayr Tara M. , Said Ahmed S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Fluid overload on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is associated with worse outcomes. Previous in vitro studies have attempted to quantify oxygenator-related insensible losses, as failure to account for this fluid loss may lead to inaccurate fluid balance assessment and potentially harmful clinical management, such as unnecessary exposure to diuretics, slow continuous ultrafiltration (SCUF), or continuous kidney replacement therapy (CKRT). We performed a novel in vivo study to measure insensible fluid losses in pediatric ECMO patients.

Methods

Pediatric ECMO patients were approached over eleven months in the pediatric and cardiac intensive care units. The water content of the oxygenator inflow sweep gas and exhaust gas were calculated by measuring the ambient temperature and relative humidity at frequent intervals and various sweep flow.

Results and discussion

Nine subjects were enrolled, generating 431 data points. The cohort had a median age of 11 years IQR [0.83, 13], weight of 23.2 kg IQR [6.48, 44.28], and body surface area of 0.815 m2 IQR [0.315, 1.3725]. Overall, the cohort had a median sweep of 2.5 L/min [0.9, 4], ECMO flow of 3.975 L/m2/min [0.75, 4.51], and a set ECMO temperature of 37 degrees Celsius [36.6, 37.2]. The calculated net water loss per L/min of sweep was 75.93 ml/day, regardless of oxygenator size or patient weight. There was a significant difference in median documented vs. calculated fluid balance incorporating the insensible fluid loss, irrespective of oxygenator size (pediatric oxygenator: 7.001 ml/kg/day [−12.37, 28.59] vs. −6.11 ml/kg/day [−17.44, 13.01], respectively, p = 0.005 and adult oxygenator: 14.36 ml/kg/day [1.54, 25.77] and 9.204 ml/kg/day [−1.28, 22.05], respectively, p = <0.001). We present this pilot study of measured oxygenator-associated insensible fluid losses on ECMO. Our results are consistent with prior in vitro methods and provide the basis for future studies evaluating the impact of incorporating these fluid losses into patients' daily fluid balance on patient management and outcomes.
Off-label use of Baricitinib improves moderate and severe atopic dermatitis in China through inhibiting MAPK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway via targeting JAK-STAT signaling of CD4+ cells
Authors: Chen Shuang , Li Caihua , Tu Zeng , Cai Tao , Zhang Xinying , Wang Lei , Tian Ruoyuan , Huang Jinglan , Gong Yuxuan , Yang Xiaotong , Wu Zetong , He Sirong , He Wenyan , Wang Dan
Published: February 2024

As an inflammatory disease with a disrupted immune system, cytokine disorders in atopic dermatitis (AD) are closely related to the abnormal activation of JAK-STAT signal pathway. The critical relevance of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway to the pathogenesis of AD provides a strong rationale for JAK inhibitor research. Baricitinib, a small-molecule oral JAK inhibitor, has been proven to inhibit JAK-STAT signaling in a variety of diseases, including AD. It is currently available in China for off-label use. However, its efficacy in China and its mechanism are rarely reported. In our study, we found that the immune status of patients with moderate and severe AD was hyperactive. Among the 49 known immunotherapy targets, JAK1 and JAK2 genes on lymphocytes of AD patients were significantly upregulated, which was closely related to the symptom severity in moderate and severe AD patients. Baricitinib can improve immune hyperresponsiveness and clinical symptoms in moderate and severe AD by inhibiting the activation of Th2 cell subsets and the secretion of Th2-type cytokines through MAPK, mTOR and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, providing an important theoretical basis for clinical off-label use of Baricitinib to treat moderate and severe AD.
Comparison of performance of automatic recognizers for stutters in speech trained with event or interval markers
Authors: Barrett Liam , Tang Kevin , Howell Peter
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Automatic recognition of stutters (ARS) from speech recordings can facilitate objective assessment and intervention for people who stutter. However, the performance of ARS systems may depend on how the speech data are segmented and labelled for training and testing. This study compared two segmentation methods: event-based, which delimits speech segments by their fluency status, and interval-based, which uses fixed-length segments regardless of fluency.

Methods

Machine learning models were trained and evaluated on interval-based and event-based stuttered speech corpora. The models used acoustic and linguistic features extracted from the speech signal and the transcriptions generated by a state-of-the-art automatic speech recognition system.

Results

The results showed that event-based segmentation led to better ARS performance than interval-based segmentation, as measured by the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic. The results suggest differences in the quality and quantity of the data because of segmentation method. The inclusion of linguistic features improved the detection of whole-word repetitions, but not other types of stutters.

Discussion

The findings suggest that event-based segmentation is more suitable for ARS than interval-based segmentation, as it preserves the exact boundaries and types of stutters. The linguistic features provide useful information for separating supra-lexical disfluencies from fluent speech but may not capture the acoustic characteristics of stutters. Future work should explore more robust and diverse features, as well as larger and more representative datasets, for developing effective ARS systems.
Gender and cross-country differences in the determinants of sustainable diet intentions: a multigroup analysis of the UK, China, Sweden, and Brazil
Authors: Chard Emelie , Bergstad Cecilia Jakobsson , Steentjes Katharine , Poortinga Wouter , Demski Christina
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Gender differences have been identified in both the engagement in and the determinants of sustainable diet behaviours. However, as engagement in pro-environmental behaviours varies across countries, the consistency of gender differences could follow similar patterns. Understanding the factors underlying gender and country differences in diet intentions is important for determining how to promote sustainable diets in different populations.

Methods

Using survey data from the UK, China, Sweden and Brazil (N=4,569), this paper examines the influence of subjective norms, diet-related identity, perceived status of meat consumption, environmental identity and environmental concern on sustainable diet intentions. Multigroup analysis was used to explore gender and country differences in the influence of these variables, and whether gender differences were consistent across the four countries.

Results

The findings show that there are gender differences in the influence of diet-related identity and perceived status of meat consumption, as well as cross-country differences in all factors except subjective norms. Holding a strong diet-related meat identity negatively affected sustainable diet intentions in all groups. Crucially, however, gender differences are not consistent across countries.

Discussion

These results suggest that individuals’ intentions to engage in sustainable diet behaviours are influenced by nationally unique gender associations.
Utility of the 3Di short version in the identification and diagnosis of autism in children at the Kenyan coast
Authors: Kipkemoi Patricia , Kariuki Symon M. , Gona Joseph , Mwangi Felicita Wangeci , Kombe Martha , Kipkoech Collins , Murimi Paul , Mandy William , Warrington Richard , Skuse David , Newton Charles R.J.C. , Abubakar Amina
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The precise epidemiological burden of autism is unknown because of the limited capacity to identify and diagnose the disorder in resource-constrained settings, related in part to a lack of appropriate standardised assessment tools and health care experts. We assessed the reliability, validity, and diagnostic accuracy of the Developmental Diagnostic Dimensional Interview (3Di) in a rural setting on the Kenyan coast.

Methods

Using a large community survey of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), we administered the 3Di to 2,110 children aged between 6 years and 9 years who screened positive or negative for any NDD and selected 242 who had specific symptoms suggestive of autism based on parental report and the screening tools for review by a child and adolescent psychiatrist. On the basis of recorded video, a multi-disciplinary team applied the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule to establish an autism diagnosis. Internal consistency was used to examine the reliability of the Swahili version of the 3Di, tetrachoric correlations to determine criterion validity, structural equation modelling to evaluate factorial structure and receiver operating characteristic analysis to calculate diagnostic accuracy against Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) diagnosis.

Results

The reliability coefficients for 3Di were excellent for the entire scale {McDonald’s omega (ω) = 0.83 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79–0.91]}. A higher-order three-factor DSM-IV-TR model showed an adequate fit with the model, improving greatly after retaining high-loading items and correlated items. A higher-order two-factor DSM-5 model also showed an adequate fit. There were weak to satisfactory criterion validity scores [tetrachoric rho = 0.38 (p = 0.049) and 0.59 (p = 0.014)] and good diagnostic accuracy metrics [area under the curve = 0.75 (95% CI: 0.54–0.96) and 0.61 (95% CI: 0.49–0.73] for 3Di against the DSM criteria. The 3Di had a moderate sensitivity [66.7% (95% CI: 0.22–0.96)] and a good specificity [82.5% (95% CI: 0.74–0.89)], when compared with the DSM-5. However, we observed poor sensitivity [38.9% (95% CI: 0.17–0.64)] and good specificity [83.5% (95% CI: 0.74–0.91)] against DSM-IV-TR.

Conclusion

The Swahili version of the 3Di provides information on autism traits, which may be helpful for descriptive research of endophenotypes, for instance. However, for accuracy in newly diagnosed autism, it should be complemented by other tools, e.g., observational clinical judgment using the DSM criteria or assessments such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. The construct validity of the Swahili 3Di for some domains, e.g., communication, should be explored in future studies.
Knowledge, attitudes, practices, and self-efficacy of the Chinese public regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation: an online cross-sectional survey
Authors: Gao Huiming , Liu Xiaohui , Jiang Zhixia , Huang Shiming , Pan Xiaoying , Long Jianmei , Tong Qingqing , Li Li , Zhou Manhong , Hu Rujun
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate the current status of Chinese public’s knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP) and self-efficacy regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and to analyze the factors that influence KAP and self-efficacy.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted from February to June 2022 in Mainland China via a self-designed self-filled questionnaire. Potential participants were recruited through WeChat by convenience sampling and snowball sampling methods. Descriptive and quantitative analyses were used for statistical analysis.

Results

The survey included 4,450 participants from 31 provinces, autonomous regions, or municipalities across Mainland China, aged 18 or above. The public’s average understanding (clear and very clear) of the knowledge regarding CPR was 67.4% (3,000/4,450), with an average proportion of positive attitudes at 96.8% (4,308/4,450). In practice, the average proportion of good practices was 92.8% (4,130/4,450), while the percentage of good self-efficacy averaged at 58.9% (2,621/4,450), only 42.4% (1,885/4,450) of the participants had confidence in the correct use of automated external defibrillator (AED). Pearson correlation analysis showed a significantly positive correlation among knowledge, attitude, practice, and self-efficacy (p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that several factors have a significant influence on the public’s CPR KAP and self-efficacy, including ever having received CPR training (p < 0.001), hearing about AED (p < 0.001), performing CPR on others (p < 0.001), hearing about CPR (p < 0.001), occupation (p < 0.001), personal health status (p < 0.001), education level (p < 0.001), gender (p < 0.001), and encountering someone in need of CPR (p = 0.021).

Conclusion

The Chinese public demonstrates good knowledge of CPR, positive attitude, and high willingness to perform CPR. However, there is still room for improvement in the mastery of some professional knowledge points related to CPR and AED. It should be noted that knowledge, attitude, practice, and self-efficacy are interrelated and influence each other. Factors such as prior CPR training, hearing about AED, having performed CPR before, hearing about CPR, occupation, personal health status, education level, gender, and having encountered someone in need of CPR have a significant impact on the public’s KAP and self-efficacy.
The feminist perspective as a counterpoint in the architecture of Anna Bofill (1977–1996)
Authors: Gutiérrez-Mozo María-Elia , Gilsanz-Díaz Ana , Díaz-García Asunción , Parra-Martínez José
Published: February 2024

The vast and plural production of the woman architect, musician, activist, occasional educator and tireless researcher Anna Bofill Levi (Barcelona, 1944) is characterized by certain features that make its author a unique personality, although one hardly known and recognized in the Spanish and international circles that are the custodians of prestige in architecture. She has achieved most public recognition as a composer, the field in which she has been most productive over time and developed the furthest. Her music is characterized by the number of references, especially contemporary, she includes, the wide diversity of countries where it has been performed, and the range of people to whom she has dedicated her works, all these aspects testifying to her cosmopolitan and libertarian spirit and her commitment to equality. Her incessant writing, with all the reading it entails, has also left us with a large body of written work, extending over a number of fields, including most notably her reflections on the influence of the gender-based perspective on urban planning. A factor also reflected in her architecture, for example, in the implementation of participatory processes in her project designs. She joined the Taller de Arquitectura from the time she began her studies at the School of Architecture in Barcelona in 1964—she graduated in 1972—, and then commenced her independent career in 1981, although her first solo works date from 1977. Her work at the head of her office for almost 20 years is evidence of a tireless capacity for work and an unwavering commitment to people's welfare. This paper analyses Anna Bofill's contributions to feminist thinking through her work as an architect. Also, it addresses the study of a cultured person, a woman with great sensitivity and a strong political and personal commitment who has suffered discrimination and who has made rigor and determination the means to achieve her non-negotiable freedom.
Wayfinding in immersive virtual environments as social activity supported by virtual agents
Authors: Bönsch Andrea , Ehret Jonathan , Rupp Daniel , Kuhlen Torsten W.
Published: February 2024

Effective navigation and interaction within immersive virtual environments (IVEs) rely on thorough scene exploration. Therefore, wayfinding is essential, assisting users in comprehending their surroundings, planning routes, and making informed decisions. Based on real-life observations, wayfinding is, thereby, not only a cognitive process but also a social activity profoundly influenced by the presence and behaviors of others. In virtual environments, these “others” are virtual agents (VAs), defined as anthropomorphic computer-controlled characters, who enliven the environment and can serve as background characters or direct interaction partners. However, less research has been conducted to explore how to efficiently use VAs as social wayfinding support. In this paper, we aim to assess and contrast user experience, user comfort, and acquisition of scene knowledge through a between-subjects study involving n = 60 participants across three distinct wayfinding conditions in one slightly populated urban environment: (i) unsupported wayfinding, (ii) strong social wayfinding using a virtual supporter who incorporates guiding and accompanying elements while directly impacting the participants’ wayfinding decisions, and (iii) weak social wayfinding using flows of VAs that subtly influence the participants’ wayfinding decisions by their locomotion behavior. Our work is the first to compare the impact of VAs’ behavior in virtual reality on users’ scene exploration, including spatial awareness, scene comprehension, and comfort. The results show the general utility of social wayfinding support, while underscoring the superiority of the strong type. Nevertheless, further exploration of weak social wayfinding as a promising technique is needed. Thus, our work contributes to the enhancement of VAs as advanced user interfaces, increasing user acceptance and usability.
BioModels’ Model of the Year 2023
Authors: Malik Sheriff Rahuman S. , Asari Hiroki , Hermjakob Henning , Huber Wolfgang , Quail Thomas , Santos Silvia D. M. , Smith Amber M. , Uhlmann Virginie
Published: February 2024

Mathematical modeling is a pivotal tool for deciphering the complexities of biological systems and their control mechanisms, providing substantial benefits for industrial applications and answering relevant biological questions. BioModels’ Model of the Year 2023 competition was established to recognize and highlight exciting modeling-based research in the life sciences, particularly by non-independent early-career researchers. It further aims to endorse reproducibility and FAIR principles of model sharing among these researchers. We here delineate the competition’s criteria for participation and selection, introduce the award recipients, and provide an overview of their contributions. Their models provide crucial insights into cell division regulation, protein stability, and cell fate determination, illustrating the role of mathematical modeling in advancing biological research.