bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guidelines and best practices for assessing young children remotely
Authors: McRoy Kyla Z. , Skibbe Lori E. , Ahmed Sammy F. , Tatar Burcu H.
Published: June 2024

Given the recent rise in the use of remote assessments to collect data from young children, researchers and practitioners would benefit from guidance on best practices within the field. Based on our experiences with assessing over 600 preschoolers remotely, our research team provides a set of main principles to guide professionals to successfully create and operationalize systems for remote assessment. Guidelines include detailed information about how to choose a technology platform, select and use online assessments, and how to adapt traditional tasks for remote use. We also note the challenges inherent in using certain types of tasks, provide tips for scheduling remote sessions, and offer advice for how to promote children’s engagement throughout the assessment process.
Separation of isobaric phosphorothioate oligonucleotides in capillary electrophoresis: study of the influence of cationic cyclodextrins on chemo and stereoselectivity
Authors: Ghassemi Maryam K. , Hurlet Vincent , Crommen Jacques , Servais Anne-Catherine , Fillet Marianne
Published: June 2024

Phosphorothioate (PS) oligonucleotides have drawn more and more attention lately due to their great therapeutic potential. The presence of one (or several) phosphorothioate moiety (ies) improves pharmacokinetic properties but at the same time creates an additional chiral center for each phosphorothioate linkage, and thus diastereomers. It is therefore important to develop analytical strategies to monitor individual species to enable more in-depth investigations. In this study, a PVA coated capillary with a background electrolyte made of 100 mM phosphoric acid adjusted to pH 3.0 with triethanolamine was used. A design of experimental approach provides the optimal conditions for the separation of the eight isobaric diastereomers bearing one phosphorothioate linkage (Mix 1), and the separation of the 12 isobaric diastereomers of a mixture made of oligonucleotides with two phosphorothioate linkages (Mix 2). Remarkably, full separation in Mix 1 could be achieved using a combination of a cationic cyclodextrin (2-hydroxy-3-N,N,N-trimethylamino) propyl-γ-CD chloride, and an anionic cyclodextrin (carboxymethyl-β-cyclodextrin sodium salt), while a second cationic cyclodextrin (2-hydroxy-3-N,N,N-trimethylamino) propyl-β-CD chloride) was required for Mix 2, providing additional selectivity.
Fabrication of magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer-based covalent–noncovalent synergistic imprinting strategies for the highly specific enrichment of luteolin from honeysuckle
Authors: Zhang Liping , Hao Peizhi , He Yifan , Li Shujing , Li Tian , Wang Lan , He Suna
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Luteolin (LTL) is the primary active ingredient in honeysuckle, which exhibited wide pharmacological activities, including heat-clearing, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. The conventional method for the extraction of LTL consumed a substantial amount of time and organic solvents, and poor selectivity. Therefore, fabrication of novel material with simple preparation process, low cost and excellent selectivity is of great significance for the extraction and enrichment of LTL from honeysuckle.

Results

In this system, a novel surface imprinting polymer for luteolin, denoted as Fe3O4@SiO2@MIP, was synthesized using covalent-noncovalent synergistic imprinting strategies. 3-acrylamidephenylboric acid was adopted as covalent functional monomer, deep eutectic solvent (choline chloride/methacrylic acid (ChCl/MAA, 1/2, n/n)) and methacrylic acid as the non-covalent functional monomers, and Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles as the magnetic support. The resultant Fe3O4@SiO2@MIP displayed a uniform morphology, good crystallinity, and excellent magnetic properties. Meanwhile, the binding experiments demonstrated that Fe3O4@SiO2@MIP exhibited high binding performance and the maximum adsorption capacity was 20.97 mg/g. Moreover, the selectivity and reusability behavior of them were satisfactory. In addition, this polymer, serving as an adsorbent, presented practical application potential in separation and enrichment of LTL from honeysuckle.

Conclusion

The covalent-noncovalent synergistic imprinting strategy could greatly facilitate the preparation of imprinted nanoparticles for the specific recognition of LTL, providing a valuable approach for the enrichment of LTL in complex samples.
Applying new approach methodologies to assess next-generation tobacco and nicotine products
Authors: Thorne David , McHugh Damian , Simms Liam , Lee K. Monica , Fujimoto Hitoshi , Moses Sara , Gaca Marianna
Published: June 2024

In vitro toxicology research has accelerated with the use of in silico, computational approaches and human in vitro tissue systems, facilitating major improvements evaluating the safety and health risks of novel consumer products. Innovation in molecular and cellular biology has shifted testing paradigms, with less reliance on low-throughput animal data and greater use of medium- and high-throughput in vitro cellular screening approaches. These new approach methodologies (NAMs) are being implemented in other industry sectors for chemical testing, screening candidate drugs and prototype consumer products, driven by the need for reliable, human-relevant approaches. Routine toxicological methods are largely unchanged since development over 50 years ago, using high-doses and often employing in vivo testing. Several disadvantages are encountered conducting or extrapolating data from animal studies due to differences in metabolism or exposure. The last decade saw considerable advancement in the development of in vitro tools and capabilities, and the challenges of the next decade will be integrating these platforms into applied product testing and acceptance by regulatory bodies. Governmental and validation agencies have launched and applied frameworks and “roadmaps” to support agile validation and acceptance of NAMs. Next-generation tobacco and nicotine products (NGPs) have the potential to offer reduced risks to smokers compared to cigarettes. These include heated tobacco products (HTPs) that heat but do not burn tobacco; vapor products also termed electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), that heat an e-liquid to produce an inhalable aerosol; oral smokeless tobacco products (e.g., Swedish-style snus) and tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches. With the increased availability of NGPs and the requirement of scientific studies to support regulatory approval, NAMs approaches can supplement the assessment of NGPs. This review explores how NAMs can be applied to assess NGPs, highlighting key considerations, including the use of appropriate in vitro model systems, deploying screening approaches for hazard identification, and the importance of test article characterization. The importance and opportunity for fit-for-purpose testing and method standardization are discussed, highlighting the value of industry and cross-industry collaborations. Supporting the development of methods that are accepted by regulatory bodies could lead to the implementation of NAMs for tobacco and nicotine NGP testing.
Advanced Computer Vision Methods for Tracking Wild Birds from Drone Footage
Authors: Mpouziotas Dimitris , Karvelis Petros , Stylios Chrysostomos
Published: June 2024

Wildlife conservationists have historically depended on manual methods for the identification and tracking of avian species, to monitor population dynamics and discern potential threats. Nonetheless, many of these techniques present inherent challenges and time constraints. With the advancement in computer vision techniques, automated bird detection and recognition have become possible. This study aimed to further advance the task of detecting wild birds using computer vision methods with drone footage, as well as entirely automating the process of detection and tracking. However, detecting objects from drone footage presents a significant challenge, due to the elevated altitudes, as well as the dynamic movement of both the drone and the birds. In this study, we developed and introduce a state-of-the-art model titled ORACLE (optimized rigorous advanced cutting-edge model for leveraging protection to ecosystems). ORACLE aims to facilitate robust communication across multiple models, with the goal of data retrieval, rigorously using various computer vision techniques such as object detection and multi-object tracking (MOT). The results of ORACLE’s vision models were evaluated at 91.89% mAP at 50% IoU.
Exopolysaccharide Production in Submerged Fermentation of Pleurotus ostreatus under Red and Green Light
Authors: Bakratsas Georgios , Tsoumanis Christoforos , Stamatis Haralambos , Katapodis Petros
Published: June 2024

Light controls the developmental, physiological, morphological, and metabolic responses of many fungi. Most fungi respond primarily to blue, red, and green light through their respective photoreceptors. In this study, a screening of different light wavelengths’ effects on submerged Pleurotus ostreatus cultivation in baffled flasks was conducted. P. ostreatus growth was not inhibited in all tested conditions, while an equal or higher protein content was observed in comparison with dark conditions. Red and green light favored exopolysaccharide (EPS) production while red and blue light favored intracellular polysaccharide (IPS) production. To focus on EPS production, the effect of red and green light wavelengths on the production of the polysaccharide via submerged cultivation of P. ostreatus LGAM 1123 was tested. Submerged cultivation using red light in baffled flasks resulted in EPS production of 4.1 ± 0.4 g/L and IPS content of 23.1 ± 1.4% of dry weight (dw), while green light resulted in EPS production of 4.1 ± 0.2 g/L and 44.8 ± 5.2% dw IPS content. Similar production levels were achieved in a 3.5 L bioreactor using red light. The EPS produced using red light revealed a polysaccharide with a higher antioxidant activity compared to the polysaccharides produced by green light. In addition, the analysis of the crude polysaccharides has shown differences in biochemical composition. The structural differences and β glucan’s existence in the crude polysaccharides were confirmed by FT-IR analysis. Overall, these polysaccharides could be used in the food industry as they can enhance the functional health-promoting, physicochemical, and sensory properties of food products.
Functional Alpha and Beta Diversity of Fish Communities and Their Relationship with Environmental Factors in the Huanghe River (Yellow River) Estuary and Adjacent Seas, China
Authors: Li Shaowen , Huang Yufang , Li Fan , Liu Yanfen , Ma Hongliang , Zhang Xiaomin , Wang Xiuxia , Chen Wei , Cui Guangxin , Wang Tiantian
Published: June 2024

Fisheries and bottom seawater data were collected in July in 2022 and 2023 from 15 sampling stations in the Huanghe River estuary and adjacent seas in China. The patterns of functional alpha and beta diversity of fish communities in this area and their relationships with environmental factors were studied using trait-based analysis. Five functional classifications, which included 16 functional traits, four functional alpha diversity indices (functional richness, functional evenness, functional divergence, and community-weighted mean), three functional beta diversity indices (functional beta diversity and its turnover and nestedness components), and 14 bottom environmental factors were considered. The dominant traits of fish communities were the following: benthivorous feeding habits, small and front-facing mouths, high trophic level, demersal, anguilliform, low growth coefficient, medium resilience, low vulnerability, and adapted to warm temperate conditions. The dominant migration traits and types of fish eggs varied by year, and fish abundance was the main factor affecting the dominant traits of the communities. The results of multiple regression on distance matrices and variance partitioning analysis indicated that ammonia nitrogen content, total phosphorus content, and pH were the main environmental factors that affected fish functional diversity. The N/P ratio had a bottom-up control effect on fish functional diversity. Our findings also revealed that high pH gradients and distant geographical distances can inhibit trait turnover in fish communities.
The Establishment of the Multi-Visual Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Method for the Rapid Detection of Vibrio harveyi, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Singapore grouper iridovirus
Authors: Li Tao , Ding Ronggang , Zhang Jing , Zhou Yongcan , Liu Chunsheng , Cao Zhenjie , Sun Yun
Published: June 2024

Groupers are valuable economic fish in the southern sea area of China, but the threat of disease is becoming more and more serious. Vibrio harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, and Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV) are three important pathogens that cause disease in groupers, and infection with either a single one or a mix of these pathogens poses a serious threat to the healthy development of grouper culture. To enhance the rapid diagnosis and screening in the early stages, it is necessary to develop rapid detection methods of these pathogens. To simultaneously and rapidly detect the three pathogens, in this study, we utilized the TolC of V. harveyi, DNAJ of V. parahaemolyticus, and RAD2 of SGIV as the target genes and established a triple visual loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method. This LAMP method showed a detection time as fast as 30 min and a high sensitivity of 100 fg/μL. Moreover, this method exhibited strong specificity and no cross-reaction with seven types of Vibrio and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as five common viruses in aquatic animals. Then, the LAMP products were enzymically cut, and three characteristic strips were used to identify the pathogen species. The results of the clinical trials demonstrated that the method could accurately and specifically detect V. harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, and SGIV in grouper tissues. In summary, this study successfully established a triple visual LAMP rapid detection method for V. harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, and SGIV. The method offers several advantages including simple equipment, easy operation, rapid reaction, high specificity, high sensitivity, and visual results. It is suitable for the early and rapid diagnosis of groupers infected with V. harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, and SGIV, thereby providing useful technical support for further application in the large-scale disease surveillance of aquaculture animals.
Development and Characterization of New Plant-Based Ice Cream Assortments Using Oleogels as Fat Source
Authors: Ropciuc Sorina , Ghinea Cristina , Leahu Ana , Prisacaru Ancuta Elena , Oroian Mircea Adrian , Apostol Laura Carmen , Dranca Florina
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to develop candelilla wax oleogels with hemp seed oil and olive oil and use them as a fat source in the development of new plant-based ice cream assortments. Oleogels were structured with 3 and 9% candelilla wax and characterized by oil-binding capacity, peroxide value and color parameters. The oil-binding capacities of 9% wax oleogels were significantly higher than those of 3% wax oleogels, while peroxide values of oleogels decrease with increasing wax dosage. All oleogel samples are yellow-green due to the pigments present in the oils and candelilla wax. Physicochemical (pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids, fat, protein) and rheological (viscosity and viscoelastic modulus) parameters of plant-based ice cream mixes with oleogels were determined. Also, sensory attributes and texture parameters were investigated. The results showed that titratable acidity and fat content of plant-based ice cream samples increased with increasing wax percentage, while pH, soluble solids and protein values are more influenced by the type of plant milk used. The plant-based ice cream sample with spelt milk, hemp oil and 9% candelilla wax received the highest overall acceptability score. The hardness of the plant-based ice cream samples increased as the percentage of candelilla wax added increased.
Non-Uniform Spatial Partitions and Optimized Trajectory Segments for Storage and Indexing of Massive GPS Trajectory Data
Authors: Yang Yuqi , Zuo Xiaoqing , Zhao Kang , Li Yongfa
Published: June 2024

The presence of abundant spatio-temporal information based on the location of mobile objects in publicly accessible GPS mobile devices makes it crucial to collect, analyze, and mine such information. Therefore, it is necessary to index a large volume of trajectory data to facilitate efficient trajectory retrieval and access. It is difficult for existing indexing methods that primarily rely on data-driven indexing structures (such as R-Tree) or space-driven indexing structures (such as Quadtree) to support efficient analysis and computation of data based on spatio-temporal range queries as a service basis, especially when applied to massive trajectory data. In this study, we propose a massive GPS data storage and indexing method based on uneven spatial segmentation and trajectory optimization segmentation. Primarily, the method divides GPS trajectories in a large spatio-temporal data space into multiple MBR sequences by greedy algorithm. Then, a hybrid indexing model for segmented trajectories is constructed to form a global spatio-temporal segmentation scheme, called HHBITS index, to achieve hierarchical organization of trajectory data. Eventually, a spatio-temporal range query processing method is proposed based on this index. This paper implements and evaluates the index in MongoDB and compares it with two other spatio-temporal composite indexes for performing spatio-temporal range queries efficiently. The experimental results show that the method in this paper has high performance in responding to spatio-temporal queries on large-scale trajectory data.
One-Year Outcome of an Ongoing Pre-Clinical Growing Animal Model for a Tissue-Engineered Valved Pulmonary Conduit
Authors: Schweiger Martin , Krüger Bernard , Malbon Alexandra , Fleischmann Thea , Weisskopf Miriam , Frauenfelder Thomas , Lemme Frithjof , Cesarovic Nikola , Knirsch Walter , Hübler Michael
Published: June 2024

Objectives: A self-constructed valved pulmonary conduit made out of a de-cellularized porcine small intestinal submucosal extracellular matrix biological scaffold was tested in a chronic growing lamb model. Methods: The conduit was implanted in pulmonary valve position in 19 lambs. We monitored clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic findings until 12 months after surgery. In two animals, euthanasia was planned at nine and twelve months. Pre-mortem chest computed tomography and post-mortem pathologic work up were performed. Data are presented as frequency and percentage, median and range, or mean and standard deviation. Results: Twelve (63.2%) animals survived the perioperative period. Three unexpected deaths occurred during the follow-up period: one due to aspiration pneumonia at 23 days after surgery, and two due to early and late infective endocarditis of the conduit at 18 and 256 days. In the two animals with planned scarification, the pre-mortem CT scan revealed mild or no calcification within the conduit or valve leaflets. In the echocardiographic examination at 12 months, peak and mean systolic pressure gradients across the conduit valve were 6.5 (3–21) mmHg and 3 (2–12) mmHg, while valve regurgitation was none (n = 2), trivial (n = 5), moderate (n = 1), or severe (n = 1). No clinical or laboratory signs of hemolysis were seen. After 12 months of follow-up, the animals’ body weights had increased from 33 (27–38) kg to 53 (38–66) kg (p = 0.010). Conclusions: Implantation of a valved pulmonary conduit in our growing lamb model was feasible. Infective endocarditis of the implanted valved conduit remained a significant complication.
Bias-Correction Methods for the Unit Exponential Distribution and Applications
Authors: Xin Hua , Lio Yuhlong , Fan Ya-Yen , Tsai Tzong-Ru
Published: June 2024

The bias of the maximum likelihood estimator can cause a considerable estimation error if the sample size is small. To reduce the bias of the maximum likelihood estimator under the small sample situation, the maximum likelihood and parametric bootstrap bias-correction methods are proposed in this study to obtain more reliable maximum likelihood estimators of the unit exponential distribution parameters. The procedure to implement the bias-corrected maximum likelihood estimation method is derived analytically, and the steps to obtain the bias-corrected bootstrap estimators are presented. The simulation results show that the proposed maximum likelihood bootstrap bias-correction method can significantly reduce the bias and mean squared error of the maximum likelihood estimators for most of the parameter combinations in the simulation study. A soil moisture data set and a numerical example are used for illustration.
RETRACTED: Cai et al. Computational Analysis of Variational Inequalities Using Mean Extra-Gradient Approach. Mathematics 2022, 10, 2318
Authors: Cai Tingting , Yu Dongmin , Liu Huanan , Gao Fengkai
Published: June 2024

The Mathematics Editorial Office retracts the article entitled “Computational Analysis of Variational Inequalities Using Mean Extra-Gradient Approach” [...]
Event-Triggered Adaptive Neural Prescribed Performance Tracking Control for Nonlinear Cyber–Physical Systems against Deception Attacks
Authors: Li Chunyan , Li Yinguang , Zhang Jianhua , Li Yang
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the problem of the adaptive neural network tracking control of nonlinear cyber–physical systems (CPSs) subject to unknown deception attacks with prescribed performance. The considered system is under the influence of unknown deception attacks on both actuator and sensor networks, making the research problem challenging. The outstanding contribution of this paper is that a new anti-deception attack-prescribed performance tracking control scheme is proposed through a special coordinate transformation and funnel function, combined with backstepping and bounded estimation methods. The transient performance of the system can be ensured by the prescribed performance control scheme, which makes the indicators of the controlled system, such as settling time and tracking accuracy, able to be pre-assigned offline according to the task needs, and the applicability of the prescribed performance is tested by selecting different values of the settling time (0.5 s, 1 s, 1.5 s, 2 s, 2.5 s, and 3 s). In addition, to save the computational and communication resources of the CPS, this paper uses a finite-time differentiator to approximate the virtual control law differentiation to avoid “complexity explosion” and a switching threshold event triggering mechanism to save the communication resources for data transmission. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is further verified by an electromechanical system simulation example.
Network Synchronization via Pinning Control from an Attacker-Defender Game Perspective
Authors: Pei Ping , Zhang Haihan , Zhang Huizhen , Yang Chen , An Tianbo
Published: June 2024

The pinning control of complex networks is a hot topic of research in network science. However, most studies on pinning control ignore the impact of external interference on actual control strategies. To more comprehensively evaluate network synchronizability via pinning control in the attack–defense confrontation scenario, the paper constructs an attacker-defender game model. In the model, the attacker needs to control nodes in the network as much as possible. The defender will do their best to interfere with the attacker’s control of the network. Through a series of experiments, we find that the random attack strategy is always the dominant strategy of the attacker in various equilibriums. On the other hand, the defender needs to constantly change dominant strategy in equilibrium according to the set of defense strategies and cost constraints. In addition, scale-free networks with different network metrics can also influence the payoff matrix of the game. In particular, the average degree of the network has an obvious impact on the attacker’s payoff. Moreover, we further verify the correctness of the proposed attacker-defender game through a simulation based on the specific network synchronization dynamics. Finally, we conduct a sensitivity analysis in different network structures, such as the WS small-world network, the ER random network, and the Google network, to comprehensively evaluate the performance of the model.
Modal Analysis of a Multi-Supported Beam: Macroscopic Models and Boundary Conditions
Authors: Rallu Antoine , Boutin Claude
Published: June 2024

This paper deals with the long-wavelength behaviour of a Euler beam periodically supported by co-located rotation and compression springs. An asymptotic homogenization method is applied to derive the several macroscopic models according to the stiffness contrasts between the elastic supports and the beam. Effective models of differential order two or four are obtained, which can be merged into a single unified model whose dispersion relations at long and medium wavelengths fit those derived by Floquet-Bloch. Moreover, the essential role of rotation supports is clearly evidenced. A mixed “discrete/continuous” approach to the boundary conditions is proposed, which allows the boundary conditions actually applied at the local scale to be expressed in terms of Robin-type boundary conditions on macroscopic variables. This approach can be applied to both dominant-order and higher-order models. The modal analysis performed with these boundary conditions and the homogenised models gives results in good agreement with a full finite element calculation, with great economy of numerical resources.
Time–Frequency and Spectrum Analyses of All-Solid-State Self-Mode-Locked Burst Pulse Lasers
Authors: Xu Mengmeng , Hu Miao , Li Zerong , Wang Jinxiu , Fu Jiaxin , Wang Shaokun , Ji Yingying , Li Haozhen , Bi Meihua , Zhou Xuefang , Pan Sunqiang , Liu Chong
Published: June 2024

The theoretical and experimental characteristics of all-solid-state self-mode-locked burst pulse lasers are investigated in this study. The time–frequency and spectrum analyses of the lasers incorporating Fabry–Pérot (F-P) structures are presented, along with the development of the corresponding theoretical model. Self-mode-locked burst pulse lasers are experimentally constructed to reduce intracavity losses using the front and rear end surfaces of the gain media to form F-P structures. When the laser cavity length is 600 mm and the gain media lengths are 5, 6, and 10 mm, each burst pulse produced contains 56, 47, and 28 subpulses, respectively, with the same burst pulse width of 2 ns. The burst pulse train with beam quality M2 = 1.37 and an average output power of 0.23 W is obtained when the gain medium length is 5 mm and the pump power is 4.5 W. The corresponding burst pulse repetition frequency is 0.25 GHz and the subpulse repetition frequency is 13.66 GHz. The time–frequency spectral analyses of the laser signals provide a good representation of laser spectral information that even the currently available highest-resolution spectrometers cannot resolve.
A Hierarchical Bayesian Examination of the Chronological Relationship between the Noaillian and Rayssian Phases of the French Middle Gravettian
Authors: Banks William E. , Vignoles Anaïs , Lacarrière Jessica , Morala André , Klaric Laurent
Published: June 2024

Issues of chronology are central to inferences pertaining to relationships between both contemporaneous and successive prehistoric typo-technological entities (i.e., archaeological cultures), culture–environment relationships, and ultimately the mechanisms at play behind cultural changes observed through time in the archaeological record. We refine the chronology of Upper Paleolithic archaeological cultures between 35–18 calibrated kiloanni before the present in present-day France by incorporating recently published radiocarbon data along with new 14C ages that we obtained from several Gravettian archaeological contexts. We present the results of a Bayesian age model that includes these new radiometric data and that, more importantly, separates Gravettian contexts in regions north of the Garonne River into two successive cultural phases: The Northern Noaillian and the Rayssian, respectively. This new age model places the beginning of the Noaillian during Greenland Stadial 5.2. The appearance of contexts containing assemblages associated with the Rayssian lithic technical system occurs immediately prior to the termination of Greenland Interstadial 5.1, and it is present throughout Heinrich Event 3 (GS-5.1) and into the following GI-4 climatic amelioration. Despite the Rayssian’s initial appearance during the brief and relatively weakly expressed Greenland Interstadial 5.1, its duration suggests that Rayssian lithic technology was well-suited to the environmental conditions of Greenland Stadial 5.1.
Associations of Urinary Heavy Metal Mixtures with High Remnant Cholesterol among US Adults: Evidence from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1998–2018)
Authors: Li Hui , Cheng Bei-Jing , Yang Pei-Yan , Wang Chun , Meng Ke , Li Tian-Lin , Wang Jia , Liu Ran
Published: June 2024

The main objective of our study is to explore the associations between combined exposure to urinary heavy metals and high remnant cholesterol (HRC), a known cardiovascular risk factor. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2018, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 5690 participants, assessing urinary concentrations of ten heavy metals. Ten heavy metals in urine were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Fasting residual cholesterol ≥0.8 mmol/L was defined as HRC (using blood samples). Statistical analyses included weighted multivariable logistic regression, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, quantile g-computation (qgcomp), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) to evaluate the associations of heavy metal exposure with HRC. Stratified analyses based on individual characteristics were also conducted. Multivariable logistic regression found that the four metals (OR Q4 vs. Q1: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.01–1.75 for barium (Ba); OR Q4 vs. Q1: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.16–1.94 for cadmium (Cd); OR Q4 vs. Q1: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.15–2.01 for mercury (Hg); OR Q4 vs. Q1: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.06–1.73 for lead (Pb)) were positively correlated with the elevated risk of HRC after adjusting for covariates. In addition, all three mixed models, including WQS (OR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.07–1.46), qgcomp (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.03–1.34), and BKMR, consistently showed a significant positive correlation between co-exposure to heavy metal mixtures and HRC, with Ba and Cd being the main contributors within the mixture. These associations were more pronounced in younger adults (20 to 59 years), males, and those with a higher body mass index status (≥25 kg/m2). Our findings reveal a significant relationship between exposure to the mixture of heavy metals and HRC among US adults, with Ba and Cd being the major contributors to the mixture’s overall effect. Public health efforts aimed at reducing heavy metal exposure can help prevent HRC and, in turn, cardiovascular disease.
Procalcitonina y proteína C reactiva versus hemocultivos en el diagnóstico de sepsis
Authors: Cedeño Zambrano Maureen Nathali , Pachay Solórzano Jorge Washington
Published: June 2024

La sepsis es una condición clínica prevenible altamente mortal que genera disfunción orgánica. Los hemocultivos son una herramienta esencial ante su sospecha, sin embargo, sus limitaciones impulsan el uso de otros marcadores para identificar a los pacientes infectados y determinar su gravedad. En este trabajo se analizó la procalcitonina y proteína C reactiva versus hemocultivos en el diagnóstico de sepsis en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos del Hospital General Portoviejo durante el período noviembre 2022- mayo 2023. La investigación fue observacional, descriptiva, retrospectiva y transversal, en la que se analizó una base de datos anonimizada que constaba de las variables demográficas y analíticas de los pacientes. En la muestra (n=108) el género que predominó fue el femenino, la edad promedio fue de 65 ± 18 años y prevalecieron los hemocultivos negativos. En los pacientes con hemocultivos positivos con mayor frecuencia se aisló la Escherichia coli asociada a sitio urinario y el Staphylococcus aureus de un origen no especificado. En la sepsis de origen indeterminado y urinario las concentraciones de procalcitonina y proteína C reactiva fueron superiores en el grupo de hemocultivos positivos, a diferencia del conteo total de leucocitos que fue superior en el grupo de hemocultivos negativos.
Audiological Signs of Meniere’s Disease: A Literature Review
Authors: Марьенко И.П. , Гребень Н.И. , Поддубный А.А. , Смоляк А.М. , Лисоцкая В.В.
Published: June 2024

Болезнь меньера (БМ) – идиопатическое заболевание внутреннего уха, характеризующееся периодическими приступами системного головокружения, заложенностью, шумом в ушах, снижением слуха и развитием нейросенсорной тугоухости (НСТ). Является распространенным заболеванием, частота которого составляет от 15 до 250 случаев на 100 000 населения. Считается, что эндолимфатический гидропс (ЭГ) является гистологическим маркером БМ. Диагностика БМ в клинической практике представляет собой трудную задачу в связи с многообразием патологических изменений при различных стадиях заболевания и вовлечением в процесс лабиринта внутреннего уха. На сегодняшний день не существует универсального метода диагностики ЭГ, для подтверждения диагноза необходимо проводить аудиологические и вестибулологические методы диагностики и оценивать их в динамике. Результаты исследования слуха и вестибулярного аппарата зависят от стадии заболевания БМ.

Meniere’s disease (MD) is an idiopathic disease of the inner ear characterized by periodic attacks of systemic dizziness, congestion, tinnitus, hearing loss and the development of sensorineural hearing loss (SHL). It is a common disease, the frequency of which ranges from 15 to 250 cases per 100,000 population. In 1938, a histological examination of the temporal bone revealed for the first time endolymphatic hydrops (EH) in a patient during his lifetime having clinically similar symptoms with MD. Since then, it has been believed that EG is a histological marker of MD. Diagnosis of MD in clinical practice is a difficult task due to the variety of pathological changes at various stages of the disease and the involvement of the inner ear labyrinth in the process. To date, there is no universal method of diagnosing EH, to confirm the diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct audiological and vestibulological diagnostic methods and evaluate them in dynamics. The results of the healing of hearing and vestibular apparatus depend on the stage of the MD disease.
Stop Bullying Melalui Edukasi, Attitude Change dan Empathy di Sekolah
Authors: Ida Sofiyanti  , Risma Aliviani Putri  , Isfaizah
Published: June 2024

Bullying is an imbalance of power that can make others feel uncomfortable, scared, and hurt that is often done due to differences in appearance, culture, race, religion, sexual orientation and gender identity of people. Bully behavior is not only treated physically but can be in the form of words (verbal) either directly or indirectly. Schools are places where children learn, socialize, play, but schools can also be places where children experience bullying or bullying. The lack of knowledge of children about bullying makes children can accidentally bully their themes so that children become perpetrators and victims of bullying. The implementation of the activity was carried out at SDN Sumurrejo 01 Semarang City.  The method used is counseling which begins with opening, perception, provision of material, evaluation and conclusion. Data collection instruments are in the form of questionnaires while the media used are visual media. Education about bullying given to students increased their knowledge with an increase in the percentage of knowledge quite good by 36 students (46.75%), good knowledge 30 students (38.96%) and knowledge less 11 students (14.29%). Children’s knowledge about bullying behavior must be known early so as not to have a greater impact in the future because children become perpetrators or victims of bullying. 
 
ABSTRAK
Perundungan atau Bullying adalah ketidakseimbangan kekuasaan yang dapat membuat orang lain merasa tidak nyaman, takut, dan sakit hati yang sering dilakukan dikarenakan adanya perbedaan pada penampilan, budaya, ras, agama, orientasi seksual dan identitas gender orang. Perilaku Bully tidak hanya perlakukan secara fisik namun bisa berupa perkataan (verbal) baik secara langsung maupun tidak langsung. Sekolah menjadi tempat anak-anak belajar, bersosialisasi, bermain, namun sekolah bisa juga menjadi tempat bagi anak-anak mengalami perundungan atau bullying. Kurangnya pengetahuan anak mengenai bullying menjadikan anak bisa saja secara tidak sengaja melakukan perundungan pada temanya sehingga anak-anak menjadi pelaku dan korban bullying. Pelaksanan kegiatan dilaksanakan di SDN Sumurrejo 01 Kota Semarang.  Metode yang digunakan adalah penyuluhan yang diawali dengan pembukaan, apersepsi, pemberian materi, evaluasi dan kesimpulan. Instrumen pengumpulan data berupa kuesioner sedangkan media yang digunakan adalah  media visual. Edukasi tentang bullying yang diberikan kepada siswa meningkatkan pengetahuan mereka dengan terjadinya kenaikan prosetase pengetahuan cukup baik sejumlah 36 siswa (46,75%), pengetahuan baik 30 siswa (38,96%) dan pengetahuan kurang 11 siswa (14,29%). Pengetahuan anak mengenai perilaku bullying harus diketahui sejak dini agar tidak memberikan dampak yang lebih besar dikemudian hari karena anak menjadi pelaku atau korban bullying.
A stake in their future: Advancing local community engagement in Northeast Nigerian development initiatives
Authors: Oyewo Hussain T.
Published: June 2024

This article examines the level of local community engagement in development initiatives in the northeast of Nigeria, highlighting the importance of local community engagement in the successful implementation and sustainability of development projects and their current challenges. The study delves into the existing literature and reports using a desk research methodology, providing a comprehensive overview of current practices and the barriers hindering effective community involvement. This exploration identifies several key research gaps, including the lack of consensus on effective community engagement measurement, insufficient understanding of participation dynamics, and limited investigation into the long-term effectiveness of capacity-building initiatives. In response to these gaps, the article proposes strategies to improve community engagement in the region, such as developing robust metrics for community engagement, implementing inclusive participation practices, and incorporating capacity-building components in development initiatives. The article underscores the critical need for further research in this area and advocates for more inclusive, sustainable, and effective community engagement in Northeast Nigeria’s development efforts.
Sistem Informasi Pariwisata Pantai Glory Melur Berbasis Web
Authors: Husnul Abdul Halim , Nurhatisyah Nurhatisyah , Friadi John
Published: June 2024

After the Covid-19 pandemic that hit Indonesia, the government through the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) formulated several new policies to restore the tourism economy in Indonesia. The government also believes that this policy can attract foreign tourists to visit Indonesia, especially Bali, Batam and Bintan. Tourists can enjoy various tourist destinations in Batam. Glory Melur Beach is also one of the tourist attractions visited by many local and foreign tourists. Glory Melur Beach has various facilities that can be rented, but information regarding the rental of facilities is still limited.
Purpose: For this reason, this study aims to create a web-based information system that can manage and disseminate information on Glory Melur beach tourism.
Methodology: The system development method used is waterfall modeling. With this system, it is hoped that visitors can easily find out information about entrance ticket prices, rental rates for facilities and can find out information on the availability of halls at Glory Melur Beach because it can be accessed anywhere and anytime in any place that is connected to the internet. For this reason, in the future, Glory Melur beach management must always update the existing database with the latest tourism development information and complete this system according to technological developments by adding more complete features according to the needs of visitors.
Results: The results of this study are to attract foreign and local tourists, the authors will create an information system on Glory Melur Beach. With this information system, it can make it easier for visitors to find information about the facilities and rental prices available at Glory Melur Beach. With this online Hall ordering system, it can make it easier for visitors and officers of Glory Melur Beach to easily order and manage the Hall, because it can be accessed anywhere and anytime in an internet-connected place.
Hack the Business Canvas Model Based on Product-Service System: Natural Language Processing (NLP) Perspective
Authors: Sudarmaji Eka , Masrio Herlan , Nasip Ismiriati
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This research aims to explore the business model used for energy service companies or ESCOs.
Research methodology: This research uses action research based on soft systems methodology and uses business analogies to explore implementing alternative PSS business models. The question component of this research uses the canvas business model (BMC) framework. The use of Natural Language Processing (NLP) from the sub-field of artificial intelligence is used to investigate the problems and concerns of stakeholders about energy efficiency services today.
Results: It was found that NLP can extract issues or sentiments about positive or negative aspects when it comes to the development and role of energy service companies in Indonesia. It was also found that PSS's alternative business model can be used as a visual representation of how an energy service company creates, delivers, and adds value to its proportion of customers.
Limitations: This research investigated case studies conducted between June 2020 and April 2021 on ESCO company. The findings from this case study may not generalize well to other contexts. Additional case studies on different populations are often needed.
Contribution: Due to the increasing demand for energy and limited energy supply, companies can gain a competitive advantage by applying the PSS business model to the energy efficiency industry. Furthermore, there is a vast and untapped market potential for energy service companies in the energy efficiency industry in Indonesia.
RIJIMO SUTRIKIMAI PO ANKSTYVŲJŲ STADIJŲ GERKLŲ VĖŽIO CHIRURGINIO GYDYMO
Authors: Šiupšinskienė Nora , Dubosas Naglis , Vaitkus Saulius
Published: June 2024

Darbo tikslas − objektyviai įvertinti pacientų, operuotų nuo ankstyvųjų stadijų gerklų vėžio daline laringekto­mija, rijimo funkciją vėlyvuoju pooperaciniu laikotar­piu. Išanalizuoti 65 vyrų (amžiaus vidurkis – 64,9 ± 8,9 m.), 2011–2018 metais universitetinės ligoninės Kauno klinikų Ausų, nosies ir gerklės ligų skyriuje gydytų nuo ankstyvųjų stadijų gerklų vėžio (T1–T2N0M0; I, II st.), fibroendoskopinio rijimo tyrimo, naudojant da­žytą maistą, duomenys. Pagal chirurginio gydymo būdą pacientai suskirstyti į dvi grupes: 54 pacientams atlikta dalinė išorinė laringektomija per kaklą (dalinės laringek­tomijos (DL) grupė), o 11 pacientų atliktos endolaringi­nės IV–VI tipo kordektomijos chirurginiu CO2 lazeriu (endolaringinės kordektomijos lazeriu grupė). Tyrimo metu naudotos 4 skirtingo kietumo maisto medžiagos: geriamasis vanduo, jogurtas, pudingas ir sausainis. Ver­tinti keturi sutrikusio rijimo požymiai: skysčių ir kietojo maisto penetracija, aspiracija, liekamasis maistas ryklėje bei ezofagofaringinis refliuksas. Sutrikusio rijimo požy­miai registruoti daugiau nei pusei (64,6 proc.) pacientų. Pacientams po DL sutrikusio rijimo požymiai nustatyti 68,5 proc. atvejų, o po endolaringinių operacijų lazeriu reikšmingai mažiau – 45,5 proc. atvejų (p <0,05). Daž­niausiai abiejų grupių pacientams nustatytas liekamasis maistas ryklėje: atitinkamai 44,4 proc. ir 36,4 proc. Pe­netracija, aspiracija ir ezofagofaringinis refliuksas buvo reti. Pastarieji du požymiai nustatyti tik pacientams po DL. Tyrimas parodė, kad vėlyvuoju laikotarpiu po anks­tyvųjų stadijų gerklų vėžio chirurginio gydymo praėjus vidutiniškai 4,1 m., vyrauja nesunkūs rijimo sutrikimai. Dažniausiai nustatomas liekamasis maistas ryklėje. Pa­cientams po dalinės laringektomijos rijimo sutrikimų registruojama reikšmingai dažniau nei pacientams po endolaringinės kordektomijos lazeriu.
HUBUNGAN ANTARA BEBAN KERJA DENGAN KELELAHAN KERJA PADA TENAGA KERJA KONTRUKSI BAGIAN FABRIKASI DI PT. SOMATRA POLAREKASARANA
Authors: Subekti Agung Tyas , Rakhmadi Triyono , Pratiwi Anggit
Published: June 2024

Kelelahan adalah suatu yang terjadi pada syaraf otot – otot manusia sehingga tidak dapat berfungsi lagi sebagaimana mestinya. Makin berat beban yang dikerjakan dan semakin tidak teraturnya pergerakan, maka timbulnya kelelahan akan lebih cepat. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengidentifikasi beban kerja pada tenaga kerja kontruksi bagian fabrikasi di PT. Somatra Polarekasarana, untuk mengidentifikasi kelelahan kerja pada tenaga kerja kontruksi bagian fabrikasi di PT. Somatra Polarekasarana, dan untuk mengetahui hubungan antara beban kerja dengan kelelahan kerja pada tenaga kerja kontruksi bagian fabrikasi di PT. Somatra Polarekasarana. Metode dalam penelitian ini yaitu menggunakan jenis penelitian kuantitatif dengan melakukan survey dimana peneliti mencoba menggali bagaimana dan mengapa fenomena ini terjadi dengan menggunakan pendekatan Cross Secrional. Hasil penelitian : menunjukan bahwa beban kerja didapatkan hasil 12 orang (46,2%) dalam kategori ringan, 14 orang (53,8%) dalam kategori sedang,  sedangkan untuk kelelahan kerja 11 orang (42,3%) dalam kategori tidak Lelah , 15 orang (57,7%) dalam kategori Lelah. Hasil uji statistic Chi – Square didapatkan nilai P Value sebesar 0,020. Simpulan penelitian : berdasarkan hasil dan pembahasan dapat disimpulkan bahwa adanya hubungan antara beban kerja dengan kelelahan kerja pada pada tenaga kerja kontruksi bagian fabrikasi di PT. Somatra Polarekasarana dengan nilai P < 0,05 dengan tingkat kepercayaan 80% yaitu sebesar 0,020.
Massed Instruction vs. Spacing Instruction in Iranian Pre-Intermediate EFL Learners’ Learning of English Prepositions
Authors: Suzani Samad Mirza , Zakerin Shohreh
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of using spacing and massed instructions on Iranian EFL learners’ learning of English prepositions. To this end, 48 Iranian male participants were selected among 78 students based on the results of the Oxford Quick Placement Test (OQPT). The participants were randomly divided into two experimental groups of spacing and massed instructions. Then, both groups were pretested through a researcher-made prepositions test. After pre-testing, the prepositions of “in, on, at, from, about, and across” were taught to the experimental groups through spacing instruction and massed instruction. In the massed class, the mentioned prepositions were taught during five sixty-minute sessions while in the spacing class with the same number of sessions, each sixty-minute session was divided into three 20 minutes. Also, the massed class was held once a week while the spacing class was held three times a week. After the treatment, the results of the descriptive statistics as well as paired samples t-test and independent samples t-test indicated that the spacing group had better performance than the massed group on the post-test. Also, there was a significant difference between the post-tests of both groups in favor of the spacing group.