bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kendala Pembelajaran Jarak Jauh Dalam Jaringan Bahasa Mandarin SMA/MA/SMK di Jabodetabek
Authors: Zelia Vanya , Andriani Susi , Ramadhanty Dwi Annisa
Published: August 2024

Pandemi telah mengubah pelaksanaan dan model pembelajaran di seluruh dunia. Pembelajaran yang awalnya dilakukan secara tatap muka, berubah menjadi Pembelajaran jarak jauh (PJJ). PJJ terdiri atas PJJ dalam jaringan (daring) dan luar jaringan (luring). PJJ daring adalah pembelajaran menggunakan media elektronik melalui beberapa portal dan aplikasi pembelajaran daring dengan bantuan jaringan internet. Artikel ini membahas kendala yang dihadapi pendidik bahasa Mandarin dalam hal penggunaan media elektronik, internet, dan LMS pada kegiatan PJJ daring bahasa Mandarin SMA/MA/SMK di Jabodetabek. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian survei. Data diperoleh dengan menggunakan kuesioner. Responden penelitian ini adalah 50 orang pendidik bahasa Mandarin SMA/MA/SMK di Jabodetabek yang melaksanakan PJJ daring bahasa Mandarin. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kendala yang dihadapi pendidik adalah tidak tersedianya media elektronik, keterbatasan SDM pendidik dalam mengoperasikan media elektronik, media elektronik tidak memiliki spesifikasi atau fitur tertentu, media elektronik mengalami kerusakan dan Operating System (OS) yang dimiliki media elekronik bukan merupakan OS terkini, pulsa internet mahal, jaringan internet lambat, LMS yang digunakan tidak memiliki fitur tertentu dan pendidik tidak mengerti cara mengoperasikan LMS yang digunakan .Hasil penelitian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan masukan bagi dunia pendidikan khususnya yang berhubungan langsung dengan PJJ daring bahasa Mandarin, serta menjadi bahan pertimbangan dalam mengatasi kendala yang terjadi  pada penerapan PJJ daring dalam Mata Pelajaran Bahasa Mandarin.
Kesesuaian Butir Soal Evaluasi Mata Kuliah Menulis Bahasa Mandarin Tahun Pertama dengan Kurikulum Internasional Pendidikan Bahasa Mandarin
Authors: Estherlyn Eunike , Zelia Vanya , Ruby Wikarti Aprilia
Published: August 2024

Ujian Tengah Semester (UTS) dan Ujian Akhir Semester (UAS) merupakan bagian dari evaluasi pembelajaran. Evaluasi tersebut berfungsi untuk mengukur pencapaian kompetensi peserta didik. Dengan demikian, soal-soal yang dibuat oleh pendidik harus sesuai dengan materi pembelajaran, isi dan tujuan kurikulum yang berlaku. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bentuk soal evaluasi menulis dasar dan mendeskripsikan kesesuaian butir soal evaluasi mata kuliah Menulis Tingkat I yang terdapat pada UTS dan UAS dengan Kurikulum Internasional Pendidikan Bahasa Mandarin (KIPBM). Data penelitian ini berupa butir soal mata kuliah Menulis bahasa Mandarin tingkat dasar, yang dibatasi pada Menulis I dan II. Data tersebut diklasifikasikan berdasarkan bentuk soal evaluasi menulis dasar yang sesuai dengan tingkatan keterampilan menulis bahasa Mandarin dan Indikator Pencapaian Keterampilan (IPK) Menulis KIPBM. Hasil penelitian ini adalah pada soal UTS dan UAS Menulis I dan II terdapat enam bentuk evaluasi yang sesuai dengan menulis bahasa Mandarin tingkat dasar. Berdasarkan proporsi kesesuaian butir soal dengan Indikator Pencapaian Keterampilan (IPK), pada butir soal UTS dan UAS Menulis I dengan IPK KIPBM Menulis Tingkat I, dari total 315 butir soal, terdapat 40 butir soal sesuai dengan IPK 1, 19 butir soal sesuai dengan IPK 2, 40 butir soal sesuai dengan IPK 3 dan 48 butir soal sesuai dengan IPK 4. Sedangkan pada butir soal UTS dan UAS Menulis II peneliti menemukan bahwa dari total 367 butir soal, terdapat 342 butir soal sudah sesuai dengan IPK 1, 257 butir soal sudah sesuai dengan IPK 2, 332 butir soal sudah sesuai dengan IPK 3, 70 butir soal sudah sesuai dengan IPK 4.
Characteristics of Provinces in Indonesia Based on JKN Indicator Outcomes by Gaussian Mixture Model with Expectation-Maximization Algorithm and Biplot
Authors: Siregar Dania , Rahayu Widyanti , Wardana Bintang Mahesa , Ketrin Natasya Stefany  , Bayu Wibisono
Published: August 2024

Indonesia, an archipelago with a population of 257.77 million in 2022, faces significant challenges in enhancing the quality of life to improve human resource productivity. This study aims to identify provincial characteristics in Indonesia based on the outcomes of the Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN) program from 2019 to 2021. Using a Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) with the Expectation Maximization (EM) algorithm, we cluster 34 provinces based on 14 health indicators. The data were obtained from the BPJS website and included variables such as access to health services, program effectiveness, and service quality. Our methodology allows for clustering provinces with similar health outcomes and analyzing the unique indicators for each cluster using biplot analysis.The results indicate significant variation in cluster membership across the years. In 2019, three clusters were identified, with cluster sizes of 16, 12, and 6 provinces. In 2020, the optimum model also had three clusters, but with different member distributions: 24, 7, and 3 provinces. By 2021, four clusters emerged with sizes of 9, 16, 3, and 6 provinces. These findings highlight the dynamic nature of health outcomes across Indonesia's provinces and suggest the need for tailored policy interventions to improve the JKN program's effectiveness.The study's limitations include the reliance on available BPJS data and the assumption that the selected health indicators comprehensively represent the JKN program's impact. This research's novelty lies in its use of advanced clustering techniques to provide a nuanced understanding of regional health disparities in Indonesia, which can inform more targeted and effective health policies.
Determinants of Prehypertension and Hypertension Among Indonesian Productive-Age Population Using Ordinal Logistic Regression With Non-Proportional Odds Model
Authors: Yafi’ Muhammad Almas , Siskarossa Ika Oktora
Published: August 2024

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for the majority of deaths in Indonesia, especially cardiovascular diseases. The main risk factor for cardiovascular disease is hypertension, which is also a disease with the highest increase in prevalence compared to other NCDs. The risk of cardiovascular disease doubles for every increase in blood pressure of 20/10 mmHg and starts from a pressure of 115/75 mmHg. Therefore, a prehypertension category was introduced which also aims to prevent the development of hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension in the majority of the productive age population (15─64 years) has exceeded the RPJMN 2015─2019 target, even though Indonesia is currently in the demographic bonus period. This research aims to obtain a general picture and factors that influence blood pressure status in the productive age population in Indonesia in 2018. The data used comes from Riskesdas which is integrated with Susenas in 2018. The results of the ordinal logistic regression analysis (non-proportional odds model) show that consumption of fruit and vegetables, consumption of fatty foods, consumption of salty foods, consumption of seasonings, alcohol consumption, smoking status, physical activity, education level, employment status, poverty status, residence, age, gender, and body mass index have a significant effect on blood pressure status in the productive age population.
Artificial Intelligence in the English Classroom: Middle School Teachers' and Students' Perceptions
Authors: Dinn Islam Ikhsan , Syafrizal Syafrizal , Juniardi Yudi
Published: August 2024

The utilization of artificial intelligence in learning is evolving, with a focus on language learning. This study addresses the research issue of how SMP 1 Nurul Basmalah students and teachers feel about the usage of artificial intelligence in the English classroom. In this qualitative study, focus groups and interviews are used to determine that AI saves students time and is more personalized because it engages in conversations with interviewers. It also dismisses worries about the use of electronic devices, stating that such teaching approaches require a teacher to be prepared. It is necessary to incorporate findings such as the strengths. It also dismisses expectations about the use of electronic devices, stating that such teaching approaches require a teacher to be prepared. There is a need to use discoveries such as the strengths and drawbacks of using AI in educational institutions, how to apply ethics in the use of AI, and how to incorporate practical ways of using AI to improve learning outcomes and stimulate student creativity.
Анализ динамики эпидемического процесса COVID-19 в мире за неделю с 10.08.2024 г. по 16.08.2024 г.
Authors: Зимирова Анастасия , Поспелов Михаил , Иванова Александра , Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Карнаухов Игорь , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: August 2024

В обзоре представлен анализ эпидемиологической ситуации в странах мира по COVID-19 за неделю с 10.08.2024 г. по 16.08.2024 г.
Alain Thomas et le Salon du Livre de Toronto : Entretien avec Valéry Vlad
Authors: Irvine Margot
Published: August 2024

Dans cet entretien, Valéry Vlad, le président du Conseil d'Administration du Salon du Livre de Toronto, évoque les prix décernés par le Salon du Livre et le rôle qu'Alain Thomas occupait dans la gestion de ces prix.
Are Electric Vehicles Discharging Tax Revenues? The Türkiye Case
Authors: Bakırtaş Doğan , Nazlıoğlu Metin , Yazar Hasan
Published: August 2024

Türkiye, in tandem with global trends, is witnessing a significant uptick in electric vehicle (EV) sales, prompting concerns about substantial impacts on traditional tax revenues derived from fuel-related products and the automotive sector. Data from the Automotive Distributors Association in Türkiye highlights a noteworthy increase in the EV market share from 0.03 percent (155 units) in 2020 to 4.8 percent (28,931 units) between January and August 2023. This study, utilizing forecasting methodologies such as the Exponential Smoothing Model and Holt-Winters Smoothing, projects total vehicle numbers for 2025 and 2030. Employing the Total Cost of Ownership model, encompassing registration, motor vehicle tax, fuel/charging costs, and maintenance, the research compares tax revenues from electric and internal combustion engine vehicles. The findings underscore an imminent government challenge, anticipating tax revenue losses of approximately $567.5 million for 2025 and $1.9 billion for 2030.
Investigation of the Composite Motor Load in the Presence of Higher Harmonics in the Electrical Network
Authors: Shklyarskiy Ya. E. , Lobko K. K. , Kuznetsova Yu. N. , Vorobyov M. S.
Published: August 2024

The article discusses the methods of substitution of a compound motor load as a consumer of higher harmonics. Two substitution schemes were used. The calculation of the complex resistance against them was compared with the results of simulation modeling. The simulation was carried out in the MATLAB Simulink environment, with the use of the Specialized Power Systems library, in which a simulation model with motors and a source of harmonic distortion was developed. Five asynchronous motors with a squirrel-cage rotor of the AIR brand with powers varying from 0.75 to 5.50 kW were selected for the study. The simulation was carried out at different motor loads. The shaft torque varied with values of 50; 70; 90 and 100 % of the nominal values of each motor. A six-pulse diode rectifier was used as a source of harmonic currents in the network, generating harmonics with numbers 5, 7, ..., 25, corresponding to a pulse rate equal to six. Oscillograms of currents and voltages were recorded at the point of common connection of asynchronous motors and the rectifier, which were subsequently used to calculate the complex resistance. Based on the results of the work, amplitude-frequency and phase-frequency characteristics of the impedance of a composite motor load were obtained, the analysis of which revealed the incongruence of calculation methods with simulation modeling. Conclusions have been drawn on the need to continue research in this direction, since there are qualitative discrepancies in the functional dependence of the complex resistance on the harmonic number with the experimental data obtained for a single asynchronous motor. The results of the work can be used in calculating the voltage distortion factor and modeling modes associated with higher harmonics both at existing enterprises and during their design, which will increase the reliability and efficiency of electrical networks.
Formin-like 1 β phosphorylation at S1086 is necessary for secretory polarized traffic of exosomes at the immune synapse in Jurkat T lymphocytes
Authors: Ruiz-Navarro Javier , Fernández-Hermira Sara , Sanz-Fernández Irene , Barbeito Pablo , Navarro-Zapata Alfonso , Pérez-Martínez Antonio , Garcia-Gonzalo Francesc R. , Calvo Víctor , Izquierdo Manuel
Published: August 2024

T-cell receptor stimulation (TCR) by antigen bound to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) on an antigen-presenting cell (APC) induces protein kinase C (PKC) activation and the formation of the immune synapse (IS), followed by depletion of filamentous actin (F-actin) at the central region of the IS (cIS) and the polarization of multivesicular bodies (MVB) and the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) to the IS. These events lead to polarized exosome secretion at the IS. These exosomes are involved in several crucial immune responses such as autocrine activation-induced cell death (AICD) of T lymphocytes and cytotoxicity. We analysed here how formin-like 1 beta (FMNL1beta), an actin cytoskeleton-regulatory protein, regulates MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion at an IS model in a phosphorylation-dependent manner. IS formation was associated with transient recruitment of FMNL1beta to the IS, which was independent of protein kinase C delta (PKCdelta). Simultaneous RNA interference of all FMNL1 isoforms prevented MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion, which were restored by FMNL1betaWT expression. However, expression of the non-phosphorylatable mutant FMNL1βS1086A did not restore neither MTOC/MVB polarization nor exosome secretion to control levels, supporting the crucial role of S1086 phosphorylation in MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion. In contrast, the phosphomimetic mutant, FMNL1βS1086D, restored MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion. Conversely, FMNL1βS1086D mutant did not recover the deficient MTOC/MVB polarization occurring in PKCdelta-interfered clones, indicating that S1086 FMNL1beta phosphorylation alone is not sufficient for MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion. FMNL1 interference inhibited the depletion of F-actin at the cIS, which is necessary for MTOC/MVB polarization. FMNL1betaWT and FMNL1βS1086D, but not FMNL1βS1086A expression, restored F-actin depletion at the cIS. Thus, actin cytoskeleton reorganization at the IS underlies the effects of all these FMNL1beta variants on polarized secretory traffic. FMNL1 was found in the IS made by primary T lymphocytes, both in TCR and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-evoked synapses. Taken together, these results point out a crucial role of S1086 phosphorylation in FMNL1beta activation, leading to cortical actin reorganization and subsequent control of MTOC/MVB polarization and exosome secretion.
Empowering College Students in Selecting Ideal Advisors: A Text-Based Recommendation Model
Authors: Jian Ling , Zhou Jiaxin , Zhao Haiping , Yin Yue , Li Li
Published: August 2024

College students may encounter various challenges in their academic journey, necessitating assistance from their educators. Current research on technology to improve education quality mainly focuses on academic early warning, course recommendation, and employment prediction, overlooking the difficulties students encounter in finding suitable advisors. In view of that, this paper proposes an AdVisor RecommenDation (AVRD) model based on text information. AVRD first employs Chinese BERT and unsupervised SimCSE to train the corpus of teachers’ records. The time decay factor is then introduced as the weight of the text record vector, and the representation vector of teachers is obtained after the weighted average. Finally, the similarity between the vectors of teachers’ and students’ demands is calculated, and the list of teachers is recommended to students according to the designed pooling and matching criteria. The questionnaire data from 170 college students are collected to evaluate the proposed model. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of AVRD, which can help 70% of students find the ideal advisor that matches their needs. In addition, ablation studies show that each part of the proposed AVRD model plays an important role in the model.
Seasonal effects of Searsia lancea, Celtis africana and concentrate supplementation on weight changes, serum and urine metabolites in South African Nguni goats
Authors: Phiri France , Kanengoni Arnold Tapera
Published: August 2024

The study evaluated the seasonal impact of Celtis africana, Searsia lancea, and concentrate supplementation on male Nguni goats’s health based on serum and urine metabolite concentrations. The goats received a basal diet of Eragrostis hay, supplemented with one of the following: i) S. lancea, ii) C. africana, iii) a 1:1 combination of S. lancea and C. africana (SL:CA), or iv) a control diet. The study involved twenty male goats weighing 15 ± 1.6 kg in a 2 x 4 (season x diet) factorial experimental design. There were season x diet interactions on urobilinogen (URO), urine bilirubin (UBIL), urine protein (UPRO), and urine calcium (UCAL). Urobilinogen and UBIL in goats fed the control diet were higher than those on C. africana, S. lancea, and SL:CA during the two seasons (P < 0.05). In the wet season, goats reared on S. lancea had higher (P < 0.05) UPRO than those on the SL:CA diet. Goats on C. africana had higher (P < 0.05) serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) than those on control or SL:CA diet during the dry and wet seasons. There were significant (P < 0.05) diet effects on goats’ serum GGT, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, glucose, and inorganic phosphate across seasons. Urinalysis showed diet-related kidney dysfunction and imbalanced serum metabolites. It was concluded that C. africana and S. lancea supplementation negatively affected the renal and hepatic health of the goats and should be investigated further.
Effect of land-cover changes on heavy metals concentration and ecological risk in sediments of Tahaddart estuary, Morocco
Authors: Barjy Meryem El , Maanan Mohamed , Boukaid Hassna , Hassou Najwa , Hocein Bazairi , Maanan Mehdi
Published: August 2024

Long-term trends of trace element contamination in coastal ecosystems are important for assessing the impact of land cover changes on the environment quality. In this study, the assessment of historical land cover changes and contamination status trends of Tahaddart estuary (N-W, Morocco) was investigated. Two sediment cores were selected, analyzed for trace elements (TEs), compared with sediment quality guidelines, and assessed by using environmental and ecological indices. Radiometric dating was performed on sediment core by using 210Pb and 137Cs isotope. Identification and description of the land cover patterns from 1984 to 2016 was analyzed using GIS methods. The geomatic results showed significant decline in agricultural land, forests, wetlands, and beaches/dunes between1984 and 2016, which are increasingly replaced by artificial land. The radio-dating of sediment core indicate that the mean sedimentation rates are 0.53 cm/years based on 210Pb activities. The ecotoxicological risk and contamination indexes revealed a gradual deterioration in the environment quality of Tahaddart with moderate contamination level and 21% risk of toxicity. This research provides a reference database for costal area development.
Correlations among South African indigenous ram-lambs’ physiological age and various mating behaviours at puberty
Authors: Shingange Rimbilana , Ramikhuthi Fhulufhelo , Maqhashu Ayanda
Published: August 2024

Livestock must maintain traits that are beneficial to their survival and propagation, so that those genotypes that express the optimal phenotype most reliably, will be selectively favoured. One of these traits is the animal’s physiological age, which is correlated with, but not causal to its chronological age, and affects the animal’s age at attainment of puberty - an important management parameter and indicator of environmental adaptation. This study aimed to characterise the mating behaviours of pubertal ram-lambs of three of South Africa’s oldest indigenous sheep breeds, Bapedi (BP), Namaqua-Afrikaner (NM) and Zulu (ZL), which are landraces to areas of South Africa with different microclimates. Sampling included visual assessment of various mating behaviours (e.g., nosing, mounting) and measurement of bodyweight, scrotal circumference, and blood serum testosterone concentrations. The study found that NM ram-lambs were physiologically younger than BP and ZL ram-lambs at a similar chronological age, as bodyweights and blood serum testosterone concentrations between-breeds were similar (P > 0.05) but significant between-breed differences of scrotal circumferences were found (P < 0.05) at most ages, wherein NM ram-lambs had lower mean scrotal circumferences, had the lowest cumulative observations of all appraised mating behaviours; and began displaying their first mating behaviour (nosing) one month later than BP and ZL ram-lambs did. Thus, NM ram-lambs displayed younger physiological age, likely as an adaptation to the hotter and drier microenvironment to which they are indigenous. It is recommended that such breeds be profiled and used in mixed-breeding programs, as their adaptation to harsher environments will be invaluable as climate change’s impacts become more apparent in sub-Saharan Africa.
Balancing Method for Landslide Monitoring Samples and Construction of an Early Warning System
Authors: Liu Dunlong , Xie Zhaoyang , Tang Dan , Sang Xuejia , Zhang Shaojie , Chen Qiao
Published: August 2024

Given that machine learning is adept at uncovering implicit patterns from heterogeneous data sources, it is well suited for predicting landslide deformation with multi-factor monitoring. The sample dataset forms the foundation for training the models, and the quality and quantity of the dataset directly affect its accuracy and generalization ability. However, significant deformation in landslide bodies is relatively rare, leading to an imbalance in the collected sample dataset. To address this issue, this study proposed the genetic algorithm improved multi-classification-genetic-synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE)-algorithm (GAMCGSA). Building on the multi-classification-genetic-SMOTE-algorithm (MCGSA), it integrated genetic algorithms to determine the optimal sampling rate. Based on this rate, new samples were generated, avoiding the creation of a large number of synthetic samples and effectively addressing the issue of sample imbalance. Subsequently, a convolutional neural network (CNN) was employed to process non-image data from multiple sources, resulting in the development of an intelligent landslide warning model. According to the test results, the F1 score of this model reached 84.2% with an accuracy of 90.8%, it possesses strong classification capabilities for both majority and minority classes, especially outperforming many current models (such as TabNet and RF) in classifying minority classes. This indicates that the CNN model has a superior ability to identify large-scale landslides. Based on the developed warning model and utilizing popular development frameworks, geographic information systems, and database technologies, an intelligent landslide monitoring warning system was constructed. This system integrates intelligent landslide monitoring and warning services, and provides scientific and reliable technical support for landslide disaster prevention and reduction.
Energy-Conserving Deep Learning Model for Accurate Ocean Wave Forecasting
Authors: Yu Huaming , Zhang Ziliang , Ren Danqin , Zhang Chenyu , Qi Xin
Published: August 2024

Traditional wave forecasting models, despite being based on energy conservation equations, are computationally expensive. Existing deep learning models, while efficient, often suffer from energy dissipation in long-term forecasts. This paper proposes OceanCastNet (OCN), a novel energy-balanced deep learning wave forecasting model. OCN maintains energy balance by incorporating wind fields at current, previous, and future time steps, along with wave fields at current and previous time steps. Experiments demonstrate that OCN achieves short-term forecast accuracy comparable to traditional models, outperforming the widely used WaveWatch III model. The importance of energy constraints for improving long-term forecast performance is confirmed through a simple meteorological model, OCN-wind, highlighting the generalizability of the energy conservation principle in deep learning atmospheric models. This finding provides new ideas for future research on deep learning geophysical fluid models.
Assessment of Learning Style Preferences Among Medical Students of Universities in Southwest Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aderinto Nicholas , Ogieuhi Ikponmwosa Jude , Ojedokun Samson , Afolabi Samson , Adetula David , Adesola Adeniyi , Afolayan Oluwatosin , Opanike Joshua , Okelue Amaechi , Aboderin Gbolahan , Abdulbasit Muili , Fakunle Victoria , Ogunleke Praise , Kayode Ayomide , Ibrahim Gladys , Adebayo Yewande Abigail
Published: August 2024

Background
Identifying the learning style of medical students allows educational methods to be adapted to their learning style, leading to higher educational efficiency. This study aimed to assess the preferred learning styles of medical students at medical colleges in south-western Nigeria.
Methods
The study was a cross-sectional survey design carried out among six hundred and thirty-four 200–600 level medical and dental students in southwestern Nigeria. Data was collected using online and offline questionnaires. VARK was used as the study instrument, and data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Results
The majority of participants preferred unimodal style 193(30.4%) while some preferred more than one learning style, bimodal 132(20.8%), trimodal 136(21.4%), and quadmodal 173(27.2%). Unimodal learning styles between both Genders show a preference for Aural in Females (31.1%), while Visual (28.6%) and Aural (28.6%) are equally distributed in Males. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) respondents prefer the Kinesthetic learning style (50.0%), while University of Ibadan (UI) respondents prefer the Aural learning style (36.0%). Learning style shows no statistically significant relationship with age, gender, level and course of study.
Conclusion
Identifying students' learning style preferences is important to designing an effective educational curriculum. The individual characteristics, educational understanding, and methods/techniques that teachers consider during teaching also differ. Determining the methods and techniques to achieve the desired product level in education is essential in the learning/teaching process.
Effects of drug pressure and human migration on antimalarial resistance in circulating Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites in Ecuador
Authors: Ñacata Isaac , Early Angela M. , Boboy Janeth , Neafsey Daniel E. , Sáenz Fabián E.
Published: August 2024

Antimalarial resistance in Plasmodium falciparum is a public health problem in the fight against malaria in Ecuador. Characterizing the molecular epidemiology of drug resistance genes helps to understand the emergence and spread of resistant parasites. In this study, the effects of drug pressure and human migration on antimalarial resistance in P. falciparum were evaluated. Sixty-seven samples from northwestern Ecuador from the 2019–2021 period were analyzed. SNPs in Pfcrt, Pfdhps, Pfdhfr, Pfmdr-1, Pfk13 and Pfaat1 were identified by Sanger sequencing and whole-genome sequencing. A comparison of the frequencies of the haplotypes was made with data from the 2013–2015 period. Also, nucleotide and haplotype diversity were calculated. The frequencies of the mutant haplotypes, CVMET in Pfcrt and CICNI in Pfdhfr, increased. NEDFSDFY in Pfmdr-1 was detected for the first time. While the wild-type haplotypes, SAKAA in Pfdhps and MYRIC in Pfk13, remained dominant. Interestingly, the A16V mutation in Pfdhfr that gives resistance to proguanil is reported in Ecuador. In conclusion, parasites resistant to chloroquine (Pfcrt) and pyrimethamine (Pfdhfr) increased in recent years, while parasites sensitive to sulfadoxine (Pfdhps) and artemisinin (Pfk13) prevail in Ecuador. Therefore, the current treatment is still useful against P. falciparum. The frequent human migration between Ecuador and Colombia has likely contributed to the spread of resistant parasites. Keys words: Plasmodium falciparum, resistance, antimalarial, selective pressure, human migration.
Children’s and Adolescents Views of Health and Mental Health Concepts - A Qualitative Group Discussion Study
Authors: HASSLER Sven , STØRE Siri JAKOBSSON , PERSSON Louise , BECKMAN Linda
Published: August 2024

Background To explore children’s conceptualizations and perceptions of health and more specifically mental health.
Methods: Open semi-structured group discussions with 44 Swedish children and adolescents (10–14 years old) recruited from four schools were conducted. The interviews were conducted between April 2022 and January 2023. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.
Results: Children’s and adolescents' conceptualizing of health included aspects of both the body and the mind, with a focus on the latter. Mental health was expressed as a state of being, illustrated by various lived experiences of emotions, moods, and thoughts. The social world was ever present in their understanding of health, e.g., through the lenses of social and gender norms.
Conclusions: This study reveals young children’s recognition of health terms, showing their ability to observe nuances between mental health problems and everyday struggles. The children discussed mental health problems to a greater extent than mental health promotion. An implication of the study is the highlighted need to focus more on mental health promotion in future preventive programs. These findings might also potentially influence how school staff and student health team communicate with secondary children and adolescents about these concepts.
The Value of a Deep Learning Image Reconstruction Algorithm on Low Dose Triphasic-enhanced Renal CT
Authors: Ding Xiaobo , Li Jing , Qiu Xiang , Hu Xiaohan , Sun Pengfei , Zhang Shuai , Li Wenhuan , Remer Erick M , Wang Yanbo , Zhang Huimao
Published: August 2024

Background: While deep learning image reconstruction(DLIR) has been applied successfully in thoracic, abdominal, and vascular examinations, its application in low-dose renal CT protocols has not been previously explored.
Purpose: To explore the value of DLIR in reducing radiation dose and improving image quality in contrast-enhanced renal CT compared with the adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction Veo(ASIR-V).
Material and Methods: Methods: 129 renal disease patients underwent unenhanced and triphasic-enhanced CT scans, utilizing a standard 120 kVp dose for parenchymal-phase scans and a lower 100 kVp dose for corticomedullary-phase scans. Images in both phases were reconstructed with high-strength DLIR(DLIR-H), medium-strength DLIR(DLIR-M) and ASIR-V level 50%(ASIR-V-50%) for comparison. CT values and standard deviations were measured and compared for various tissues in both phases, and two radiologists assessed image quality using a 5-point Likert scale in seven aspects.
Results: A total of 118 patients were included, with corticomedullary-phase radiation dose reduced by over 15% compared to parenchymal-phase (CTDIvol: 6.57±2.13mGy vs. 7.75±2.63mGy). DLIR-M and DLIR-H exhibited significantly lower image noise in both phases compared to ASIR-V-50% (p<0.001). Corticomedullary-phase DLIR-M and DLIR-H images reduced subcutaneous-adipose tissue noise by 15% and 40% compared to parenchymal-phase ASIR-V-50%. Subjectively, DLIR-H (4.16±0.62) and DLIR-M (3.76±0.68) using 100 kVp outperformed ASIR-V-50% (3.42±0.52) at 120 kVp (p<0.001).
Conclusion: DLIR-H and DLIR-M significantly reduce image noise and generate images with better image quality and diagnostic confidence with a 15% dose reduction than ASIR-V-50%.
Clinical Trial Number
2023-278, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
Functional Outcomes Following External Beam Radiation Therapy for Patients with Prior Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate
Authors: Wajswol Ethan , Crompton David J , Igel Todd , Attia Albert , Dora Chandler
Published: August 2024

Introduction/ Background
Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is an increasingly popular size-independent technique of treating male voiding dysfunction due to benign prostatic hypertrophy. Some patients after HoLEP may develop clinically significant prostate cancer and opt for definitive treatment with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Little is known about the safety of EBRT after HoLEP and how it may functionally impact voiding after HoLEP has altered the anatomy of the prostate. Our study aimed to assess patient-reported voiding outcomes following EBRT after HoLEP with a focus on incontinence related patient outcomes.
Methods/ Materials
This study was conducted with approval from our hospital’s institutional review board. Patients that underwent HoLEP followed by EBRT were identified and data was collected in a retrospective nature from a single surgeon HoLEP cohort over the past 4 years (2019–2023). Patient demographics, disease and radiation therapy characteristics, radiation therapy, and baseline voiding symptoms were recorded. Current functional voiding outcomes were also collected via phone-call or portal communication in a cross-sectional manner with questions pertaining to type of incontinence, IPSS quality of life score, and administration of the Michigan Incontinence Symptom Index (M-ISI). Adverse events encountered during follow-up were recorded.
Results
24 patients were identified who received RT for prostate cancer after HoLEP with an average age of 73.6 (+/- 5.3). One third of patients reported no incontinence whatsoever after radiation and of those who experienced incontinence, the majority felt that it was not worsened after radiation. Median IPSS QoL score following radiation was 1 (range 0–6), median M-ISI Severity Score was 4 out of a maximum of 32, and median M-ISI Bother Score was 0 out of a maximum of 8. One patient developed a bladder neck contracture (BNC) approximately 1 year following his radiation therapy (approximately 18 months after HoLEP) causing bothersome incontinence and LUTS.
Conclusions
In our cohort most patients who received RT after HoLEP reported a high urinary-symptom related quality of life and a low rate of urinary incontinence. One patient who received SBRT suffered a BNC which is a known adverse event with RT but given our small sample size it remains unclear if the risk is higher in patients receiving RT after HoLEP. Larger studies should focus on examining the rate of bladder neck contracture in patients receiving RT after HoLEP, particularly focusing on whether the degree of dose fractionation may impact their development.
Microbiota-dependent T-cell response to α-synuclein-derived antigens triggers the development of hypersensitivity and neuroinflammation associated with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Manjarres Zulmary , Ugalde Valentina , Prado Carolina , Castro-Córdova Pablo , Chovar-Vera Ornella , Valdés Ivania , Espinoza Alexandra , Valenzuela Sebastián , Ricca Micaela , Martínez-Hernández J. Eduardo , Petrosino Joseph , Riquelme Erick , Martin Alberto J.M. , Calvo Margarita , Pacheco Rodrigo
Published: August 2024

Background. Previous evidence has shown that both the T-cell response and the microbiota play fundamental roles on the development of Parkinson's Disease (PD), which involves motor impairment and chronic pain. PD physiopathology involves the generation of pathogenic forms of α-synuclein (aSyn), which are associated with abnormal post-translational modifications and aggregation, and represent a source of neoantigens able to trigger an autoreactive T-cell response. Nevertheless, the relationship between the microbiota and the development of this autoreactive T-cell response in PD remains unexplored. Here we studied whether the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and the T-cell response toaSyn-derived antigens associated to PD are functionally connected.Methods. We used a transgenic mouse model that involves the overexpression of human a-Syn (SNCAmice). To deplete the microbiota, we used a wide-spectrum antibiotic cocktail. To deplete lymphocytes we generatedSNCAmice deficient on recombination-activating gen 1 or deficient on membrane-bound IgM. Microbiome was analysed by sequencing the variable V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Co-culture experiments of lymphocytes isolated from cervical or mesenteric lymph nodes and dendritic cells loaded with synthetic peptides were conducted to determine adaptive responses to phosphorylates and nitrated forms of aSyn.Results. We observed that the depletion of either gut microbiota or T-cells, but not B-cells, abrogated the development of motor deficits, sensory disturbances, neuroinflammation, and gut inflammation. Furthermore,SNCAmice developed an autoreactive T-cell response to a-synuclein-derived neo-antigens accumulated in the gut mucosa, a process that was triggered by the microbiota dysbiosis.Conclusions. Our findings indicate that the development of both motor and non-motor manifestations as well as neuroinflammation in PD involves a T-cell mediated autoimmune response, which is triggered by changes in the gut microbiota that induce increased intestinal barrier permeability.
Chalcogen and halogen surface termination coverage in MXenes – structure, stability, and properties
Authors: Dahlqvist Martin , Rosen Johanna
Published: August 2024

MXenes are a diverse family of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides. They can be synthesized through both top-down approaches, such as selective etching of A-layers from MAX phases using acids or molten salts, and bottom-up approaches, such as direct synthesis using chemical vapor deposition. However, the degree of the surface termination coverage depends on the synthesis route and is one key parameter for controlling its properties. This study focuses on halogen and chalcogen terminated MXenes, particularly M2CTx where M = Ti, Zr, V, Nb, Ta, and T = S, Se, Te, Cl, Br, I, and with surface termination coverage ranging from 100% (ideal, x = 2) to 50% (x = 1). The incorporation of oxygen on vacant termination sites was also evaluated. Using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we investigated the structural, electronic, and mechanical properties of these MXenes. Our findings reveal that non-ideal termination coverage (x < 2) is more favorable for MXenes terminated with a larger size of T, such as Ti2CBrx, Nb2CClx, and Ta2CClx, and leads to mixed termination sites and lower binding energies. A reduced binding energy may facilitate delamination into single sheets, however, too low termination coverage may also cause structural collapse. Electronic properties showed increased number of states at the Fermi level under non-ideal coverage, potentially enhancing the conductivity. Mechanically, we find the moduli of MXenes to be comparable to other 2D materials, such as transition metal chalcogenides and hexagonal boron nitride, indicating their suitability for applications requiring flexibility and durability. This study underscores the potential of tailoring MXene properties through precise control of termination coverage and composition, paving the way for enhanced application-specific performance.
Is transperineal prostate biopsy through a single access point safe and reproducible?
Authors: Rios-Melgarejo Carlos , Velasco-Rubio José Ramón , Pulido-Contreras Enrique , Gastelum-Rivera Esteban , Bonilla-Lara David , Avendaño-Bastidas Santiago Arturo , Gonzalez-Villegas Hedler Olaf , Gomez-Mendoza Miguel
Published: August 2024

Purpose
To compare the complication rates and diagnostic efficacy between transperineal single-access ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy (TPPB) and transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy (TRPB) among patients with suspected prostate cancer.
Methods
We collected and analyzed data from 241 patients with prostate cancer suspicion and divided them into two groups: 171 TPPB and 70 TRPB. For the detection of complications associated with the technique, patients were followed–up for 3 months; furthermore, histopathological results to confirm prostate cancer were compiled.
Results
Histopathological reports showed 132 patients with malignancy (54.77%) and 109 with negative results (45.22%). TPPB detected malignancy in 60.2% of patients, compared with 41.4% detected by TRPB (p = 0.008). The most frequent complications in TPPB were hematuria (53.8%), post-procedural pain (6.4%), hematospermia (6.4%), and acute urinary retention (2.3%). All patients undergoing TRPB experienced pain during and after the procedure (p < 0.001). The TPPB technique was shown to be a protective factor against the development of complications (OR 0.028, 95% CI 0.009–0.09; p < 0.001). In contrast, complications associated with the TRPB technique were significantly higher (OR 35.5, 95% CI 10.7–117.6; p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Transperineal single-access prostate biopsy offers greater capability for prostate cancer detection and should be adopted as the first-choice method for prostate cancer diagnosis given its lower rates of infectious complications and can be performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia and sedation, without the need for prior intestinal preparation or antibiotic prophylaxis.
Child Labor Laws and Educational Rights for Children in Pakistan a Contextual Analysis
Authors: Hanane Merzougui , Xianghe Gong , Ali Danish
Published: August 2024

Child labor is defined as the exploitation of children in any form of labor that destructively affects the child's mental, social, and physical health and creates hurdles to obtaining a regular education. This study was conducted to investigate the main socio-economic factors contributing to child labor and barriers to education and analyze the practical implications of child labor laws in Pakistan. The study area in this study is KPK province, Pakistan. The data collection, including the primary and secondary data. The primary data was collected through an online questionnaire survey from teachers, school administrators, government officials responsible for enforcing child labor laws and educational policies, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs), while personal observations and interviews were used for the collection of data from child laborers, parents or guardians of child laborers. A total of 80 teachers or education experts, 70 children and their guardians, 30 policymakers, and 20 social workers were participants in the data collection process. The outcomes of this study concluded that about 78% of participants lacked awareness of these laws, while 71% perceived them as ineffective. The socioeconomic factors contributing to child labor are quantitatively assessed, with poverty identified as the primary factor (65%). The statistical analysis indicates that the socioeconomic factors have a significant contribution to the implementation of child education laws in Pakistan (a p-value lower than the level of significance (0.05). Discrimination based on gender or social status, high cost of education, and insufficient qualified teachers are significant barriers to providing quality education for children in Pakistan. This study recommends promoting inclusive education and strengthening social welfare programs to support their efficacy in combating child labor and ensuring access to quality education for all children in Pakistan.
Development of Novel Rectal/Uterine Clamping Device
Authors: Urabe Shoichiro , Hata Taishi , Kobayashi Eiji , Ishii Yuji , Takeda Mitsunobu , Sekido Yuki , Hata Tsuyoshi , Hamabe Atsushi , Ogino Takayuki , Miyoshi Norikatsu , Uemura Mamoru , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Ushimaru Yuki
Published: August 2024

We developed a novel clamping device for laparoscopic surgery, free from conventional pinch structure, capable of uniformly occluding any ductal organ. This study aimed to evaluate performance of the new clamper compared to the pinch-type clamper. The new clamper consists of two metal bars with ties at each end, which enables parallel clamping. A resected porcine stomach was used, with an infusion tube at the anal end to increase intra-luminal pressure. The oral side of the stomach was clamped with either the new clamper or the pinch-type clamper, and their performances were evaluated in qualitative and semi-quantitative manner. Qualitative evaluation involved imaging the clamping site at intra-gastric pressures from 0 to 15 mmHg using microfocus computed tomography. The new clamper showed no gap even under increased intra-luminal pressure, while the pinch-type clamper showed a gap on the distal side. Quantitative evaluation measured bursting pressure under continuous air insufflation. Air leakages were observed in the new clamper at higher intra-luminal pressures than in the pinch-type clamper (46.1 mmHg vs. 13.6 mmHg, P < 0.01). Our new clamping device showed superior performance in preclinical setting compared to the conventional pinch-type clamper. We are currently working on its design freezing and aiming for early commercialization.
The Influence Mechanism of Grit on Innovation Ability among College Students: the Chain Mediating Effect of Social support perception and Learning Interest
Authors: Du Xuemin , Liu Xiaojiao , Yan Rui
Published: August 2024

Objective
To explore the impact of grit quality on innovation ability and analyze the mechanism of social support perception and learning interest among college students.
Methods
The Grit Scale, the Innovative Behavior Scale, the Social support perception Scale, and the Learning Interest Scale were used to investigate 472 Chinese undergraduate students in school, and chain mediation test and Bootstrap analysis were applied.
Results
(1) Grit and Social support perception (r = 0.428, P < 0.01), learning interest (r = 0.601, P < 0.01), and innovation ability (r = 0.491, P < 0.01) are significantly positively correlated; Social support perception is significantly positively correlated with learning interest (r = 0.503, P < 0.01) and innovation ability (r = 0.416, P < 0.01); learning interest is significantly positively correlated with innovation ability (r = 0.536, P < 0.01); (2) Social support perception and learning interest play a partial mediating role between grit and innovation ability, and the mediating effect is composed of three paths: "grit → Social support perception→ innovation ability", "grit → learning interest → innovation ability", and "grit → Social support perception→ learning interest → innovation ability". The effect size of these three paths accounts for 13.50%, 30.66%, and 8.39%, respectively.
Conclusion
This study shows that grit quality helps to improve college students' innovation ability, and this effect can be achieved by improving the ability to perceive social support and enhancing interest in learning.