bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leisure-time physical activity and perceived occupational stress: a cross-sectional study of workers in Japan
Authors: Koriyama Sakura , Sawada Susumu S. , Zhai Xiangyu , Dimitroff Serena A. , Nishida Masaki , Tanisawa Kumpei , Kawakami Ryoko , Hamaya Keizo , Shimomitsu Teruichi
Published: June 2024

Purpose: We conducted a large cross-sectional study to investigate the relationship between leisure-time physical activity and perceived stress among workers in Japan.
Methods: 7192 workers in Japan were surveyed about their lifestyle habits, frequency of leisure-time physical activity (never, only specific seasons, once or twice a month, once a week, more than twice a week), and perceived occupational stress. According to the frequency of leisure-time physical activity, participants were classified into five groups. Logistic regression models were used to explore the relationship between leisure-time physical activity and perceived stress after adjustment for several confounding factors. Multivariable-adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the prevalence of perceived occupational stress were calculated.
Results: A total of 848 participants reported perceived occupational stress. Using the low leisure-time physical activity group (never) as reference, multivariable-adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were 0.79 (0.59−1.07) for “only specific seasons,” 0.84 (0.66−1.08) for “once or twice a month,” 0.80 (0.63−1.03) for “once a week,” and 0.60 (0.46−0.79) for “more than twice a week” (p for trend 0 < 0.001).
Conclusion: In this large cross-sectional study, there was a negative association between leisure-time physical activity frequency and perceived occupational stress was observed among workers in Japan.
Acid Anolytes in Food Sanitation
Authors: Manevich Boris , Titov Evgeniy
Published: June 2024

The present research featured the electrochemical phenomena and patterns that occur during electrolysis of water and its sodium chloride solutions in the anode chamber. The authors applied the obtained electrochemically activated solutions of anolytes as antimicrobial drugs. The research objective was to study the physical and chemical properties of active chlorine-containing oxidizing agents obtained from salt aqueous solutions of sodium chloride under different electrochemical conditions. The physicochemical tests of acidic anolyte solutions involved the AQUATRON-ML- 05 laboratory unit for electrochemical treatment of water and aqueous solutions. The experiments revealed the effect the time needed for electrochemical activation of sodium chloride solutions had on the active chlorine in anolytes. The data obtained on the electrical conductivity of these solutions showed that they could be used in automated washing systems. Research prospects include the options to combine cleaning and antimicrobial properties of acid anolytes.
Mojanes y santos: la tradición oral y el sistema religioso de los campesinos de Fúquene, Cundinamarca
Authors: Santacruz González Andrea
Published: June 2024

A partir de los relatos y de la tradición oral, se caracterizan las figuras del moján y de los santos en la representación de los campesinos de Fúquene (Cundinamarca), quienes los consideran seres próximos con los que se interactúa. A lo largo del artículo se analizan la tradición oral y la religión popular como un solo y único sistema en donde se expresan las normas y los valores que rigen a los habitantes de esta región de Colombia. Las narraciones evidencian la coexistencia de seres humanos con otros no humanos que resultan indispensables en el control social de los primeros.
Efectos ambientales del cultivo de aguacate en dos veredas del municipio de Apia, Risaralda
Authors: Hincapié-Granada Herman Leandro , Li-Ramírez Jade , Zuluaga-Rojas Martha Viviana
Published: June 2024

El cultivo de aguacate en Apía ha crecido de 71 hectáreas en 2012 a 1019 hectáreas en 2021, provocando cambios ambientales significativos, como la pérdida de bosques húmedos, el uso excesivo de agroquímicos y la labranza extrema. Se realizaron análisis del índice de deforestación en relación con el aumento del cultivo de aguacate y la calidad del agua. Para ello, se recopiló datos de uso del suelo entre 2011 y 2016, procesándolos con QGIS y analizándolos con R. También se evaluaron ocho parámetros fisicoquímicos del agua en las veredas de estudio. Los resultados mostraron una disminución en el uso de suelo "Forestal" y un aumento en "Cultivos Forestales o Arbóreos" relacionado con el cultivo de aguacate. Además, se observaron alteraciones en parámetros específicos del agua en afluentes cercanos a los cultivos. Estos hallazgos subrayan la necesidad de más estudios para guiar el uso del suelo rural sin dañar los recursos naturales.
CIDADES SUSTENTÁVEIS E ISO 37120
Authors: Spiri-Ferreira Thiago , Stefani Silvio Roberto , Procidonio Ana Lívia Bobato , Vieira Saulo Fabiano Amâncio , Maganhoto Ronaldo Ferreira
Published: June 2024

This paper aims to analyze the perceptions of residents of two cities in Paraná regarding indicators of sustainable cities. To this end, the study presented the relationship between sustainable cities and ISO 37120. Research was carried out with a quantitative approach, a survey in the municipalities of Londrina and Guarapuava, which contained indicators related to sustainable cities. The survey was carried out using an online platform with a form of 66 questions categorized into 13 themes plus 9 profile questions to present the data in a descriptive way. Descriptive statistics were used as well as correlation analysis between the questions and 13 strong and positive correlations were identified between the questions. Among the cities of Guarapuava and Londrina, the responses were convergent when questions about residents' perceptions of health, housing, security, mobility, connectivity, public finances, among other topics were questioned. The analysis made it possible to present disagreements with the areas of housing for the homeless and housing in favelas as well as the area of public security in cities.
The Effects of Sumac Consumption on Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Factors: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Bahari Hossein , Zeraattalab-Motlagh Sheida , Sajadi Hezaveh Zohreh , Namkhah Zahra , Golafrouz Haniyeh , Taheri Shaghayegh , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2024

Background:

Rhus coriaria L., commonly known as Sumac, is a plant from the Anacardiaceae family
that is known for its high phytochemical content. These phytochemicals have the potential to effectively
manage inflammation and oxidative stress. To explore the existing evidence on the impact of Sumac consumption
on inflammation and oxidative stress, we conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Methods:

We conducted a comprehensive search of Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception
to August 2023 to identify relevant studies examining the effects of Sumac on biomarkers of inflammation
and oxidative stress. The selected studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane tool.

Results:

A total of seven trials were included in this review. Among these trials, three focused on diabetes patients,
while the remaining four involved individuals with fatty liver, overweight individuals with depression,
and those with polycystic ovary or metabolic syndrome. Five studies reported the effects of Sumac on oxidative
stress, with four of them demonstrating a significant reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and an
increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and paraoxonase 1 (PON1). Regarding inflammation, one study reported
no significant difference in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels between the
intervention and control groups. The results for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, reported in five
trials, were inconsistent.

Conclusion:

Sumac consumption over time may positively affect oxidative stress, although short-term use
shows minimal impact. While one study found no significant effect on IL-6 and TNF-α, hs-CRP levels could
decrease or remain unchanged. Further meta-analyses are needed to fully understand Sumac's potential benefits
in managing metabolic diseases.
CoF-DResNet: Cancer Metastasis Recognition Network based on Dynamic
Coordinated Metabolic Attention and Structural Attention
Authors: Zhu Sun , Jiang Huiyan , Diao Zhaoshuo , Luan Qiu , Li Yaming , Li Xuena , Pei Yan
Published: June 2024

Background::

Cancer metastasis usually means that cancer cells spread to other tissues
or organs, and the condition worsens. Identifying whether cancer has metastasized can help
doctors infer the progression of a patient's condition and is an essential prerequisite for devising
treatment plans. Fluorine 18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography
(18F -FDG PET/CT) is an advanced cancer diagnostic imaging technique that provides
both metabolic and structural information.

Method::

In cancer metastasis recognition tasks, effectively integrating metabolic and structural
information stands as a key technology to enhance feature representation and recognition performance.
This paper proposes a cancer metastasis identification network based on dynamic
coordinated metabolic attention and structural attention to address these challenges. Specifically,
metabolic and structural features are extracted by incorporating a dynamic coordinated attention
module (DCAM) into two branches of ResNet networks, thereby amalgamating high metabolic
spatial information from PET images with texture structure information from CT images, and
dynamically adjusting this process through iterations.

Discussion::

Next, to improve the efficacy of feature expression, a multi-receptive field feature
fusion module (MRFM) is included in order to execute multi-receptive field fusion of semantic
features.

Result::

To validate the effectiveness of our proposed model, experiments were conducted on
both a private lung lymph nodes dataset and a public soft tissue sarcomas dataset

Conclusion::

The accuracy of our method reached 76.0% and 75.1% for the two datasets, respectively,
demonstrating an improvement of 6.8% and 5.6% compared to ResNet, thus affirming the
efficacy of our method.
Risk Factors Associated with Osteopenia/Osteoporosis in Antiretroviral Therapy Naive HIV Patients
Authors: Onguru Pinar , Kaya Bulent
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Objectives:

Different ART (antiretroviral therapy) options may affect the risk of osteopenia/osteoporosis in people living with HIV (PLWH) having increased life expectancy.
Current guidelines recommend bone mineral density (BMD) measurement only in patients at risk. In our study, we investigated the prevalence of osteopenia/osteoporosis and associated risk factors in naive patients not receiving ART.

Methods:

This study included 116 newly diagnosed, ART naive HIV-positive patients who were
studied retrospectively. Vitamin D level, BMD measurement, CD4 and CD8 count, CD4/CD8 ratio, HIV RNA level, body mass index and other risk parameters of ART naive patients were included in our study.

Results:

Results: Of 116 patients, 103 were male and 13 female. 47.4% (osteoporosis in 4.3%, osteopenia
in 43.1%) of patients had osteopenia/osteoporosis. The patients with osteopenia/osteoporosis had
older age (39.2±11.0 vs 32.0±8.6, p=0.0001), lower vitamin D levels (16.0±5.0 vs 24.4±6.3, p=0.0001), lower BMI (body mass index) (23.0±4.0 vs 24.6±4.6 p<0.05), lower CD4 and CD8 counts (405.1±885.0 vs 467.3± 695.1; 849.9570.4 vs 1012.0±629.4 respectively, p<0.05). 41.8% had CD4 count ≤200/μL (vs 18.0%, p=0.005). No statistically significant differences were observed in terms of gender distribution, smoking, alcohol and drug use, comorbidities and, additional drug use and HIV RNA >100 000 copies/ml. In multivariate analysis, age and vitamin D level were significant and independent (p<0.05) risk factors with osteoporosis/osteopenia.

Conclusion:

Being over 40 years of age, CD4 count ≤200/μL, vitamin D level <20 ng/mL and
low BMI are the most important risk factors for osteopenia/osteoporosis in ART naive patients.
Among these parameters, age and vitamin D level were significant and independent risk factors.
These factors may guide the determination of the need for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
testing in ART naive patients and drug choices in the treatment plan.
Optimization of Ultrasound-assisted Extraction of Total Carotenoids from Orange Coral "Astroides calycularis" by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Adouane Meriem , Kadri Nabil , Benzitoune Nourelimane , Abbou Amina , Kerdouche Kamelia , Berkani Farida , Adel-Abderrahim Khadidja , Mameri Amal , Remini Hocine , Dahmoune Farid , Madani Khodir
Published: June 2024

Introduction/ Background:

Non-optimized extraction conditions can lead to loss, degradation,
and modification of biomolecules. In this study, we investigated the influence of various
factors on the extraction yield and antioxidant activity of total carotenoids from orange coral Astroides
calycularis.

Materials and Methods:

Total carotenoid yields were compared using eleven different solvent
systems, with acetone demonstrating the highest extraction efficiency. Subsequently, we explored
the impact of extraction time, temperature, acetone concentration, liquid-matter ratio, the addition
of a synthetic antioxidant (butylated hydroxytoluene), and ultrasonic power on total carotenoids'
yield and antioxidant capacities, employing experimental designs based on Plackett-Burman and
Box-Behnken methodologies.

Results and Discussion:

Under the different extraction conditions, total carotenoid yields exhibited
a remarkable range from 2.43 mg/g to 28.12 mg/g. Additionally, the antioxidant activity saw
significant enhancements from 30.68% to 57.76% for the ABTS assay and from 14.34% to
44.34% for the DPPH assay, respectively. Ultrasound extraction yielded higher carotenoid levels
(25.90 mg/g vs. 10.65 mg/g in microwaves) and better antioxidant activity (IC50 values: 0.19 ±
0.002 mg/mL for ABTS, 0.35 ± 0.009 mg/mL for DPPH) compared to microwave extraction. The
interplay between extraction time and temperature emerged as pivotal, with increased time initially
boosting yields and optimal temperatures expediting extractions within shorter durations.
Higher solvent concentrations and appropriate solvent-to-sample ratios also played a significant
role in enhancing carotenoid migration.

Conclusion:

By optimizing extraction conditions, researchers can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness
of natural product isolation processes, thus facilitating further exploration and utilization
of these valuable bioactive compounds.
Aging-associated Aberrant Mitochondrial Redox Signaling, Physical
Activity, and Sarcopenia
Authors: Atayik Mehmet Can , Atasever Erdem , Turgut Şeydanur , Çakatay Ufuk
Published: June 2024

Aging-related alteration of mitochondrial morphology, impairment in metabolic capacity,
bioenergetics, and biogenesis are closely associated with loss of muscle mass and function. Mitochondrial
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) stimulate muscular redox signaling mechanisms.
Bioenergetic integrity of mitochondria and redox signaling dynamics deteriorates in aged skeletal
muscle. Mitochondrial bioenergetic impairment leads to excessive ROS levels and induces the generation
of defective mitochondria. Higher ROS levels may induce senescence or apoptosis. It is
not a resolved issue that mitochondrial dysfunction is either the sole reason or a consequence of
muscle loss (or both). However, Increasing evidence emphasizes that dysregulated mitochondrial
redox signaling has a central role in age-related muscle loss. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor
2 (Nrf2) regulates redox signaling pathways with the expression of antioxidant genes. As the
aberrant redox signaling mechanisms in aging skeletal muscle become clearer, new natural and
synthetic Nrf2-modulating substances and integrated daily physical activity alternatives are coming
into view for preventing muscle loss in the elderly. A comprehensive understanding of the relationship
between redox signaling pathways and age-related sarcopenia can help us to prevent sarcopenia
and its frailty effects with an optimized exercise program as an innovative non-pharmacological
therapeutic approach. A further aspect is necessary to consider both individualized physical
training options and alternative Nrf2 signaling modulators. Ameliorating the redox signaling
with physical activity and pharmacological interventions may help to prevent sarcopenia and its
frailty effects.
Superoxide Ion-Assisted Radical Cascade Reaction: Synthesis of 3-nitro-4-aryl-2H-chromen-2-ones from Aryl Alkynoate Esters under Methylene Blue Visible Light Photocatalysis
Authors: Natarajan Palani , Meena  , Partigya
Published: June 2024

Background:

From an industries and academic perspective, there is a need for a method
for producing 3-nitro-4-aryl-2H-chromen-2-ones from aryl alkynoate esters that is both economic
and environmental benign. In this context, superoxide ion-assisted radical cascade reaction can be
an efficient and greener protocol.

Objective:

Herein, we have demonstrated an unprecedented methylene blue (MB) visible light photocatalysis
for the production of a series of 3-nitro-4-aryl-2H-chromen-2-ones from readily available
aryl alkynoate esters and a nitrating agent in solution.

Methods:

Synthesis of 3-nitro-4-aryl-2H-chromen-2-ones has been performed in the presence of
aryl alkynoate ester, TBAN, DIPEA, solvent, catalyst and molecular oxygen under visible light irradiation
at room temperature. The products were purified by column chromatography using silica
gel, and the mixture of ethyl acetate/petroleum ether as an eluting solvent and characterized by IR,
NMR and mass spectroscopic analysis.

Results:

A series of aryl alkynoate esters were successfully nitrated into corresponding 3-nitro-4-
aryl-2H-chromen-2-ones with good isolated yields by this protocol, in which the key NO2-radicals
formed by the action of superoxide ion (O2−·).

Conclusion:

In contrast to the literature-reported methods of synthesis of 3-nitro-4-aryl-2Hchromen-
2-ones, the process described here for making 3-nitro-4-aryl-2H-chromen-2-ones uses
methylene blue visible light photocatalysis, is inexpensive, mild, does not require a metal precursor
or high temperatures, and is successful when using the direct sunlight.
Harnessing the Power of Probiotics: Boosting Immunity and Safeguarding against Various Diseases and Infections
Authors: Singh Archna , Mazumder Avijit , Das Saumya , Kanda Anmol , Tyagi Pankaj Kumar , Chaitanya MVNL
Published: June 2024

The human microbiome, a diverse microorganism community, crucially defends
against pathogens. Probiotics, postbiotics, and paraprobiotics alone and in combination are
potent in countering fungal and waterborne infections, particularly against viral threats.
This review focuses on the mechanisms of the microbiome against viral infections, emphasizing
probiotic interventions. Certain Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) strains effectively eliminate
toxic aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) from microfungi-produced mycotoxins. LAB binding to
AFB1 persists post-gastric digestion, and pre-incubation with mycotoxins reduces probiotic
adhesion to mucus. Oral probiotic administration in animals increases mycotoxin excretion,
reducing associated health risks. Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus
show exceptional efficacy in removing cyanobacterial toxin microcystin-LR from
drinking water. Engineered probiotics promise advanced therapeutic applications for metabolic
disorders, Alzheimer's, and type 1 diabetes, serving as diagnostic tools for detecting
pathogens and inflammation markers. In antimicrobial peptide production, genetically
modified probiotics producing human β-defensin 2 (HBD2) treat Crohn's disease with implemented
biocontainment strategies preventing unintended environmental impacts.
Escuta e formação: O silêncio pedagógico em Montessori
Authors: Araújo Alberto Filipe Ribeiro de Abreu , Machado de Araújo Joaquim , Mont’Alverne Chaves Iduina
Published: June 2024

O silêncio é um fenómeno multifacetado com diferentes implicações no processo educativo. Remetido para as margens do discurso educacional, o tema do silêncio ressurge pela sua ligação aos temas da atenção e da escuta, bem como pela sua influência no ambiente de sala de aula e na qualidade do processo de ensino e aprendizagem. Pressupondo que a reconstrução da pedagogia se fortalece quando parte dos germes de construção nova contidos na sua própria conceção socio-histórica e cultural, este estudo retoma a proposta pedagógica de Maria Montessori. Neste sentido, pretende-se identificar a ideia e os tipos de silêncio preconizados no método desta pedagoga, assim como interpretá-los como expressão de princípios que marcaram o debate sobre a educação escolar no século XX. Este estudo, de natureza hermenêutica, destaca não apenas uma conceção positiva do silêncio como também a valorização do silêncio interior e a sua faceta de recolhimento. Assim, ainda serão relevantes as perspetivas da sua exercitação em contexto formal de educação infantil e do desenvolvimento pessoal e social potenciado pela unidade entre corpo e mente.
Quality and Comprehensibility of Large Language Model Responses to Common Patient Questions Regarding Musculoskeletal Disorders (Preprint)
Authors: Fu Yu , Chen Xi , You Mingke , Wang Lingcheng , Wang Li , Liu Weizhi , Zhou Kai , Chen Gang
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) are emerging as the transformative force in various fields, notably in medicine. Their effectiveness in creating physical exercise rehabilitation program and providing information on musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders has yet to be fully explored.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the quality and readability of an LLM’s responses to consultation questions addressing the various phases throughout the entire clinical process experienced by patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study retrieved frequently asked questions from Google (accessed September 3 to October 24, 2023) and randomly selected 25 adult patients suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain. Three different clinical scenario questions were designed to simulate the entire process of real-world clinical consultations. These questions were used as queries for an AI LLM, ChatGPT version 4.0 (accessed September 23 to December 24, 2023), to prompt LLM-generate responses. The quality of the responses was evaluated by two independent orthopedic clinicians with DISCERN instrument, and the readability was assessed on the WedFX tool website (accessed December 14 to December 20, 2023). Statistical analysis was conducted from January to April 2024.

RESULTS

Of the 98 generated programs, the response format was relatively fixed, based on the queries provided to the LLM. The mean (SD) DISCERN scores assigned by the two doctors were 52.49 (8.57) and 51.50 (8.64), respectively, with all scores ranging from 32 to 67. The analysis of variance between the two physicians (p=0.42) and among the five musculoskeletal disorders (p=0.08) showed no significant difference. The Cohen κ coefficient was calculated to be 0.73 (95% CI −0.710 to 0.756), signifying good internal agreement, while Cronbach's α value is 0.834, indicating good reliability. The mean (SD) scores across the six readability tools for all programs were as follows: FRES: 53.04 (16.23), FKGL: 10.15 (3.42), GF: 12.52 (3.41), SMOG: 9.87 (2.75), CLI: 13.28 (1.97), ARI: 10.48 (3.80). All these tools’ readability score were significantly different (worse) than the recommended reading level (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cross-sectional study, the LLM generated high quality physical exercise prescriptions throughout the entire consultation process of patients with musculoskeletal disorders. However, the lack of supporting materials and the readability of the responses was no sufficiently public-friendly. These findings suggest that, with professional physician evaluation and some improvements, LLMs could be potentially and widely applied in the field of orthopedics in the future.
Does Digital Transformation Impact Upper-Middle-Class Hospital Performance Through Business Model Innovation? (Preprint)
Authors: Hamsal Mohammad , Ichsan Mohammad , Binsar Faisal , Abdinagoro Sri Bramantoro
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

This research examines the influence of Digital Transformation (DT) and Resources Integration (RI) on Hospital Performance (HP), with Business Model Innovation (BMI) as a mediating variable. The focus is on upper-middle-class hospitals in Indonesia.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study is to analyze how DT and RI impact HP and to explore the mediating role of BMI in this relationship

METHODS

The study employs quantitative methods, collecting data through a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Valid responses were gathered from 241 hospitals. The data were analyzed using SmartPLS

RESULTS

The findings reveal that DT does not have a significant direct influence on HP, whereas RI has a significant positive impact on HP. Both DT and RI significantly influence BMI, which in turn significantly affects HP, highlighting its strong mediating role. These results underscore the importance of BMI as a crucial link between DT, RI, and improved hospital performance.

CONCLUSIONS

The study concludes that focusing on innovative business models enables hospitals to better leverage digital technologies and integrated resources to enhance their performance. Practically, this research suggests that hospital managers in Indonesia should prioritize developing innovative business models, invest in training and skill development programs, and implement appropriate innovation strategies to improve performance, patient outcomes, and operational efficiency. This study contributes to the literature on hospital management and Digital Transformation, particularly in the Indonesian context, and provides actionable recommendations for leveraging digital advancements and resource integration for superior healthcare delivery.
The Implementation Plan and Reform Path for Integrating Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education into Professional Education—Take the Engine Principles Course for Example
Authors: Lin Xiaodan , Zhang Bin
Published: June 2024

In recent years, in the context of "Innovation and entrepreneurship", colleges and universities have been actively fostering versatile talents with a strong foundation in professional skills, innovative thinking, and entrepreneurial abilities. This has posed new Innovation and entrepreneurship challenges to the professional education of vehicle engineering. Taking the teaching of "Automobile Engine Principles" as an example, this paper integrates innovation and entrepreneurship education into professional education by reforming the teaching practice plan for the course on engine principles. It optimizes the course content, enhances the course evaluation system, cultivates students' potential for innovation and entrepreneurship, improves their abilities in these areas, and achieves the educational goal of comprehensive cultivation of knowledge, skills, and qualities.
Efectividad de la enseñanza a distancia de los principios básicos de cirugía veterinaria
Authors: Perez-Rivero Juan José , Herrera Barragán José Antonio , Lozada Gallegos Angel , Rendón Franco Emilio
Published: June 2024

Durante el confinamiento por la pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), se evaluó la efectividad de la enseñanza a distancia de los principios básicos de cirugía utilizando la plataforma Entorno Virtual de Aprendizaje (ENVIA). Participaron 209 estudiantes de la licenciatura en Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, en su cuarto año de carrera. La instrucción se llevó a cabo de manera asincrónica, a través de foros, lecturas y podcast, también se realizaron sesiones sincrónicas mediante videoconferencia. Para evaluar el cambio en el nivel de conocimientos, se aplicó un cuestionario al inicio del curso (semana 1) y al final (semana 10), utilizando la plataforma de Formularios de Google™. Los estudiantes participaron de forma voluntaria, y solo se recopiló su dirección de correo electrónico institucional para vincular los cuestionarios inicial y final. Las preguntas del cuestionario abarcaron diferentes áreas de conocimiento: anestesia (10 %), asepsia (20 %), hemostasia (10 %), manejo delicado de tejidos (20 %) y sutura (40 %). En el cuestionario inicial, el promedio de calificación fue de 5 sobre 10; mientras que, en el final, de 8 sobre 10. Mediante la prueba de rangos firmados de Wilcoxon, se encontró una diferencia significativa (P < 0.0001) entre las calificaciones iniciales y finales. Se identificó la necesidad de reforzar los conocimientos en el manejo delicado de tejidos y sutura. Estos resultados indican que este modelo de enseñanza a distancia tiene el potencial de mejorar la eficacia del autoaprendizaje de los estudiantes en los principios básicos de cirugía.
Neoextractivism and corporate authoritarianism in the resettlement process of Bento Rodrigues, Mariana-MG
Authors: Soares Natalia Beneton , Bonduki Nabil
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the dynamics of neoextractivism and corporate authoritarianism in the context of the Fundão Dam criminal disaster in Mariana, in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. It analyzes the role of Samarco, the company responsible, and the impact of its activities on the municipality, which, in 2015, culminated in the collapse of the dam. The study revisits the old urban-territorial structure of the community in Bento Rodrigues, a sub-district in Mariana, which was violently affected, examines the reparation process, administrated by the Renova Foundation, and reveals the lack of participation by the affected community and the violence that it has suffered. The Bento Rodrigues resettlement is explored as an example of corporate authoritarianism, where the reparation process has failed due to a lack of transparency, and has disrespected the community, imposing an urban and architectural structure that does not meet their needs and has mischaracterized their way of life.
Neoextrativismo e autoritarismo corporativo no processo de reassentamento de Bento Rodrigues, Mariana-MG
Authors: Soares Natalia Beneton , Bonduki Nabil
Published: June 2024

Este artigo investiga a dinâmica do neoextrativismo e do autoritarismo corporativo no contexto do desastre-crime da Barragem de Fundão no município de Mariana, Minas Gerais. Analisam-se o papel da Samarco, empresa responsável, e o impacto de suas atividades no referido município, que culminaram no rompimento da barragem em 2015. O estudo recupera a antiga estrutura urbano-territorial da comunidade de Bento Rodrigues, subdistrito de Mariana-MG, violentamente afetada, e examina o processo de reparação administrado pela Fundação Renova, mostrando a falta de participação da comunidade atingida e a violência sofrida por ela. O reassentamento de Bento Rodrigues é explorado como um exemplo de autoritarismo corporativo, em que o processo de reparação peca pela falta de transparência e não respeita a comunidade, impondo uma estrutura urbana e arquitetônica que não atende às necessidades dela e descaracteriza seu modo de vida.
Handling of radioactive waste from the use of radionuclides in hospitals
Authors: CENA Besire , HASI Nazmi
Published: June 2024

The waste that is generated during the different applications of radionuclides in medicine is considered as biomedical radioactive waste. This waste includes contaminated materials and syringes generated from Nuclear Medicine procedures, unused radioactive seeds from implants in Radiation Oncology as well as sealed sources used for calibration purposes, which are no longer useful. The overall goal of biomedical radioactive waste handling is to minimize the hazards posed by the waste prior to discharge or disposal. In order to plan the treatment of radionuclides in medical facilities, it is important to design an effective system for the overall management of radioactive biomedical waste. In this scientific paper I make a general assessment of the planning methods used in the handling of radioactive waste in medical facilities, including the collection, separation and packaging of radioactive biomedical waste.
Optimal Proactive Eavesdropping Scheme Based on Stackelberg Game Framework Against State-Secrecy Encoding: A Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach
Authors: Liu Kecheng , Wu Tiejun , Zhang Ya , Sun Changyin
Published: June 2024

This paper studies proactive eavesdropping in remote estimation systems
where the eavesdropping attacker attacks sensors’ ACK channels, and all
sensors defend against the eavesdropping attack according to the
designed state-secrecy encoding scheme and calibration scheme. Given
essential analysis and proofs, a novel dynamic Stackelberg game
framework and a Markov Stackelberg game framework are developed to
design proactive eavesdropping schemes for the cases when the packet
loss rate is entirely random or driven by Markovian process
respectively. Utilizing state-secrecy encoding with a calibration
mechanism and deep reinforcement learning, the frameworks approximate
the optimal strategy of the eavesdropper based on the best response of
sensors. Specifically, the objective of the optimal strategy is to
minimize the minimum mean square error (MMSE) incurred when the
eavesdropper decodes the transmitted message. In the reinforcement
learning, the action decompositions and constraints are introduced to
obtain a more efficient reduction of the action space and exploration of
reasonable strategies. The superiority of the proactive eavesdropping
strategies derived from both game frameworks is demonstrated through
numerical simulations.
Photosynthetic insights into winter-green leaves in Quercus pubescens Willd. seedlings
Authors: Bobinac Martin , Susic Nikola , Sijacic-Nikolic Mirjana , Kerkez Jankovic Ivona , Veljovic-Jovanovic Sonja
Published: June 2024

Quercus pubescens Willd. is a deciduous species that can retain leaves in the winter either as dead, standing leaves (marcescence), or as living, winter-green leaves. The retention of green leaves through winter is rare in continental areas. Winter-green leaves were observed on one-year-old seedlings of Q. pubescens in the winter of 2020 in the nursery of the Faculty of Forestry that lasted until the end of April 2021. The photosynthetic activity of photosystem II was measured using the rapid light curve method based on modulated pulse chlorophyll fluorescence. We assessed the potential photosynthetic activity of the leaves across the range of physiological stages: winter-green leaves retained from the previous growing season and on the leaves from the first, second, and third growth flush during the growing season. Photosystem II of winter-green leaves attained ~50-60% of the maximal photosynthetic activity obtained in spring and summer leaves, respectively. Climate data indicated that winter-green leaves exhibited frost resistance in the winter of 2020/2021, as their photosynthetic activity was preserved despite 33 days with sub-zero temperatures. The rapid light curve method also revealed the gradual acclimation of seedlings on a flush level, with leaves from the third flush best able to use available light under high temperatures and insolation efficiently. The results of rapid light use as an indicator of seedling acclimation are discussed. Some remarks on the possible practical significance of the winter-green leaves phenomenon (as in genetic selection) are highlighted.
How Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Affect Audit Fees and Filing Delays?
Authors: Ettredge Michael L. , Mao Juan , Stone Mary , Sun Lili
Published: June 2024

We investigate the effect of the 2019 Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) on audit fees and filing delays following the pandemic’s onset. Employing location-specific stay-at-home (S@H) mandates to proxy for COVID’s disrupting effects on audits, we fail to find evidence of a change in audit fees in response to initial S@H mandates. However, S@H mandates are associated with an increase in filing delays. We drill down to explore two mechanisms underlying the effect of COVID-19 on filing delays: increased risk of material misstatement and difficulties in audit team coordination. We find that S@H mandates increase filing delays to a greater extent for engagements with high misstatement risk and engagements with high coordination challenges. Our findings are important for understanding the pandemic’s effect on audits and have implications for future audits in regard to audit team coordination.

Data Availability: Data are available from the public sources cited in the text.

JEL Classifications: M40; M41; M42.
The Effect of Financial Audits on Governance Practices: Evidence from the Nonprofit Sector
Authors: Duguay Raphael
Published: June 2024

I evaluate the effect of financial statement audits on the governance practices of nonprofit organizations. Using a regression discontinuity design that exploits revenue-based exemption thresholds, I find that financial audits cause organizations to implement governance mechanisms, such as conflict of interest policies, whistleblower policies, and formal approval of the CEO’s compensation by a committee. Consistent with these governance practices curtailing managers’ private benefits, I document reductions in nepotism and CEO-to-employee pay ratio. The results are more pronounced for organizations (1) whose audit is overseen by an audit committee, (2) that already have an independent board, and (3) that face high charity-level demand for oversight. Collectively, these findings shed light on how financial audits shape the governance practices of small, less sophisticated organizations like nonprofits in ways that go beyond financial statements’ direct use in decision-making and contracting.

JEL Classifications: M42; G34; M48; L31.
Leucine Suppresses α-Cell cAMP and Glucagon Secretion via a Combination of Cell-Intrinsic and Islet Paracrine Signaling
Authors: Knuth Emily R. , Foster Hannah R. , Jin Erli , Ekstrand Maia H. , Knudsen Jakob G. , Merrins Matthew J.
Published: June 2024

Glucagon is critical for the maintenance of blood glucose, however nutrient regulation of pancreatic α-cells remains poorly understood. Here, we identified a role of leucine, a well-known β-cell fuel, in the α-cell–intrinsic regulation of glucagon release. In islet perifusion assays, physiologic concentrations of leucine strongly inhibited alanine- and arginine-stimulated glucagon secretion from human and mouse islets under hypoglycemic conditions. Mechanistically, leucine dose-dependently reduced α-cell cAMP, independently of Ca2+, ATP/ADP, or fatty acid oxidation. Leucine also reduced α-cell cAMP in islets treated with somatostatin receptor 2 antagonists or diazoxide, compounds that limit paracrine signaling from β/δ-cells. Studies in dispersed mouse islets confirmed an α-cell–intrinsic effect. The inhibitory effect of leucine on cAMP was mimicked by glucose, α-ketoisocaproate, succinate, and the glutamate dehydrogenase activator BCH and blocked by cyanide, indicating a mechanism dependent on mitochondrial metabolism. Glucose dose-dependently reduced the impact of leucine on α-cell cAMP, indicating an overlap in function; however, leucine was still effective at suppressing glucagon secretion in the presence of elevated glucose, amino acids, and the incretin GIP. Taken together, these findings show that leucine plays an intrinsic role in limiting the α-cell secretory tone across the physiologic range of glucose levels, complementing the inhibitory paracrine actions of β/δ-cells.

Article Highlights
The Longitudinal Effect of Diabetes-Associated Variation in TCF7L2 on Islet Function in Humans
Authors: Zeini Maya , Laurenti Marcello C. , Egan Aoife M. , Muthusamy Kalpana , Ramar Anisha , Vella Emma , Bailey Kent R. , Cobelli Claudio , Dalla Man Chiara , Vella Adrian
Published: June 2024

The T allele at rs7903146 in TCF7L2 increases the rate of conversion from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes. This has been associated with impaired β-cell function and with defective suppression of α-cell secretion by glucose. However, the temporal relationship of these abnormalities is uncertain. To study the longitudinal changes in islet function, we recruited 128 subjects, with 67 homozygous for the diabetes-associated allele (TT) at rs7903146 and 61 homozygous for the protective allele. Subjects were studied on two occasions, 3 years apart, using an oral 75-g glucose challenge. The oral minimal model was used to quantitate β-cell function; the glucagon secretion rate was estimated from deconvolution of glucagon concentrations. Glucose tolerance worsened in subjects with the TT genotype. This was accompanied by impaired postchallenge glucagon suppression but appropriate β-cell responsivity to rising glucose concentrations. These data suggest that α-cell abnormalities associated with the TT genotype (rs7903146) occur early and may precede β-cell dysfunction in people as they develop glucose intolerance and type 2 diabetes.

Article Highlights
Betydningen av grundige refleksjoner og deliberative dialoger
Authors: Hauge Kåre
Published: June 2024

This chapter focuses on what reflections and deliberative dialogues are and the significance these relatively heavy terms have for both student teachers and teachers. Reflection is a familiar term in the educational field, while deliberative dialogues and processes are somewhat less common. One of the main points of the chapter is to thoroughly explore these two terms in order to clarify and emphasize what a reflection process actually is and what deliberative dialogues/processes are about. In teacher training and in schools, reflection and tasks involving reflection are widely used as an approach to think back on exercises, activities and actions so that students, pupils and teachers develop and learn. In many ways, reflection has become such a popular and well-established approach to learning and development that it is in danger of losing its importance and being taken for granted. Therefore, there is a need to take stock of and clarify the concepts of reflection and deliberation in order to create meaningful processes for students, pupils and teachers.
Diversity and community structure of predators in surjan (polyculture) and lembaran (monoculture) paddy fields
Authors: Trisnawati Dina Wahyu , Nurkomar Ihsan , Antono Andri , Puspitasari Era
Published: June 2024

Predator diversity decreases because of low ecosystem quality in modern agriculture that applies monoculture systems. However, polyculture systems in paddy fields can improve biodiversity, including pests, natural enemies, and microorganisms. Surjan is a local polyculture farming practice that originated in Yogyakarta. This farming practice consists of raised beds for cultivating palawija or horticultural crops and sunken beds for rice cultivation. Surjan farming may have an impact on predatory diversity and abundance, although this has not been studied. To address this issue, research was carried out to investigate the diversity, abundance, and structure of the community of predators in the paddy fields of surjan (polyculture) and lembaran (monoculture). The field experiment was conducted in three pairs, surjan and lembaran, in Panjatan District, Kulon Progo Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region, Indonesia. In each field, five random plots arranged in a cross pattern were used to collect a sample of predators. Several traps, including sweeping, pitfall traps, yellow adhesive traps, and yellow pan traps, were used to determine the abundance and diversity of predators. Results showed that species diversity, abundance, species composition, and biodiversity index in surjan farming were significantly improved compared to lembaran farming. Ceratopogonidae and Formicidae were the most abundant families in both surjan and lembaran farming, although they are more abundant in surjan. It can be concluded from the study that surjan farming could improve ecosystem quality by implementing predators for pest management.
In House Training: Penyusunan Perencanaan Pembelajaran pada Modul Ajar dalam Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka
Authors: Yulistia Annisa , Wicaksono Lungit , Khairani Fadhilah , Izzatika Amrina
Published: June 2024

Adanya kebijakan Kurikulum Merdeka menimbulkan berbagai tantangan dan kendala tersendiri bagi para pendidik.  Dengan berbagai tantangan dan kendala tersebut, para pendidik dan kepala sekolah mengehendaki pelatihan dan pendampingan penyusunan modul ajar yang sesuai dengan kebijakan kurikulum merdeka melalui kegiatan in house training (IHT).  Tujuan dilaksanakan kegiatan ini agar para peserta pelatihan memiliki wawasan, pemahaman serta dapat menyusun dan mengaplikasikan modul ajar pada jenjang Sekolah Dasar (SD). Metode yang digunakan untuk mencapai tujuan tersebut adalah ceramah, diskusi, pemecahan masalah, dan praktik. Bentuk evaluasi dilakukan pada kegiatan pengabdian ini terbagi menajdi 4 tahap, yaitu evaluasi awal, proses, akhir, dan dampak. Hasil dari kegiatan ini yaitu; 1) pada evaluasi awal, guru belum pernah membuat modul ajar, namun dalam penyusun perencanaan pembelajaran sudah cukup terampil; 2) pada proses IHT, guru mulai praktik merancang perencanaan pembelajaran yang sesuai dalam implementasi kurikulum merdeka; 3) akhir dari kegiatan IHT menunjukkan bahwa guru mulai memahami dan dapat penyusunan CP-TP-ATP yang dituangkan dalam modul ajar secara mandiri; 4) kegiatan ini memberi dampak mengaktifkan kembali komunitas belajar dalam sekolah untuk saling sharing best practice dalam menyusun perencanaan pembelajaran.
Workshop on Implementing the Problem Based Learning With Communicative Games (Pbl-Cg) Model for English Teachers in Elementary Schools
Authors: Kurniati Erisa , Fitri Nurul , Kumalasari Ade
Published: June 2024

Kegiatan Pengabdian berbentuk workshop ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pelatihan kepada Mahasiswa Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris dan Guru di SD 205/IV Kota Jambi. Model yang ditawarkan penulis dalam kegiatan PKM ini adalah PBL-CG (Problem Based Learning with Communicative Games). Model ini dikembangkan dari model PBL yang terdahulu (PBL) untuk pengajaran Bahasa Inggris di Sekolah Dasar. Metode yang digunakan dalam workshop ini meliputi tiga hal, yaitu; 1)menetapkan masalah prioritas mitra, 2)justifikasi penentuan masalah prioritas, dan 3)prosedur kerja. Prosedur kerja meliputi tiga tahapan, yakni; persiapan, pelaksanaan dan pelaporan. Kegiatan workshop dilaksanakan selama dua hari bertempat di SD N 205/IV Kota Jambi. Adapun hasil dari workshop ini adalah guru-guru Bahasa Inggris SDN 205/IV Kota Jambi terlihat sangat antusias dan berjalan lancar. Materi pelatihan dapat diserap dengan baik oleh peserta terihat dengan meningkatnya nilai rata-rata peserta pada evaluasi post test. Sehingga para peserta dapat menyusun RPP Bahasa Inggris berbasis yang berbasis Kurikulum 2013 dengan menerapkan model PBL-CG dalam proses pembelajaran Bahasa Inggris di sekolah beserta rubrik penilaiannya.