bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arquitectura para el envejecimiento activo, reflexiones sobre el campo teórico.
Authors: Rearden Emilia
Published: April 2024

La manera de entender el envejecimiento determina su abordaje desde las distintas disciplinas que influyen en arquitectura, ya sea en lo que se refiere a la propuesta de alojamiento en la vejez (diseño y gestión de viviendas, centros de día o residencias para tercera edad), como en los espacios semi- públicos (accesos a edificios, galerías comerciales, comercios) o espacios públicos (instituciones, veredas, calles, parques, plazas). Se han aplicado diversos modelos para explicar y contextualizar el proceso de envejecimiento. El Envejecimiento Activo es el paradigma que hoy se propone como marco para mejorar la salud, los procesos de participación y la seguridad de los adultos mayores. La evolución de paradigmas implica que convivan en una realidad compleja distintas intervenciones que satisfacen en mayor o menor medida las necesidades y aspiraciones planteadas para este colectivo.
La vinculación universidad-territorio:
Authors: Oxarango Eduardo
Published: April 2024

La ciudad se concibe como algo más que un espacio físico y puede entenderse como un “escenario” en el cual los habitantes, a través de sus actividades, llevan a cabo múltiples acciones en virtud de sus intereses. En este sentido socio-espacial, se conceptualiza a la ciudad como ámbito de asentamientos humanos: los sujetos viven en ella actualizando las diferentes formas de apropiación al medio que están ligadas, a su organización social y a su cultura. En este marco, resulta pertinente un enfoque de los contextos urbanos a partir de las interacciones, comprendiendo su complejidad y permanente evolución. La relación entre una universidad y el territorio resulta un tema de interés para analizar las interacciones posibles entre esa institución y el entorno urbano en el que se inserta. Las universidades pueden contribuir a la evolución del contexto en que se fundan y las ciudades son un marco imprescindible para su desarrollo, entendiéndolas no sólo como un soporte para su localización sino como un valor privilegiado de reflexión. Ello implica una oportunidad para indagar y contribuir a la exploración de una temática estratégica para la planificación de la infraestructura universitaria y las ciudades en las que se implantan, procurando un aporte al desarrollo de nuestra sociedad.
Ensayo sobre el derecho de los niños a una alimentación saludable
Authors: Abeyá Gilardon Enrique O.
Published: April 2024

El derecho a la alimentación es un derecho humano fundamental reconocido en la Declaración Universal de Derechos Humanos y en la Constitución Nacional de Argentina. Sin embargo, la malnutrición sigue siendo un problema en la población infantil, manifestándose en forma de exceso de peso y relacionándose con el consumo de alimentos ultra procesados. La lactancia humana es el primer sistema alimentario y su pérdida a expensas de fórmulas infantiles contribuye a grandes pérdidas económicas y daño ambiental, además del perjuicio para la salud y economía familiar. El Código Internacional de Comercialización de Sucedáneos de la Leche Materna brinda reglas para promover, proteger y apoyar la lactancia humana, pero las políticas de comercialización abusivas de la industria se han mantenido. Es necesario que los gobiernos y la sociedad civil trabajen juntos para garantizar el derecho a la alimentación adecuada y promover la lactancia materna. Además, la industrialización y globalización de la industria alimentaria han llevado a la degradación ambiental y problemas de salud, incluyendo obesidad y enfermedades crónicas. La clasificación NOVA de alimentos categoriza los alimentos ultra procesados como los menos saludables. Es necesario un cambio en el sistema alimentario hacia la sostenibilidad y la importancia de abordar los determinantes comerciales de la salud. En este sentido, se han implementado políticas para limitar la comercialización y el consumo de alimentos poco saludables, incluyendo impuestos sobre bebidas azucaradas y etiquetado frontal de los envases. Sin embargo, existen desafíos en la implementación de estas políticas debido a la autoridad regulatoria fragmentada y los intereses políticos y económicos. Se necesita un nuevo sistema alimentario para garantizar el derecho a una alimentación adecuada y promover la salud y el bienestar de la población.
Material composition of copper slag of the Almalyk copper-smelting plant (Uzbekistan)
Authors: Sayitov Sardor S. , Tsoi Vladimir D. , Rasulov Shohruh M. ugli , Pechersky Ruslan D. , Rasulova Alina V. , Abduvaitov Azimjon К. ugli , Asrorov Azamat А. ugli
Published: April 2024

Relevance. Copper production is accompanied by release of a large volume of slag. Today, huge quantities of copper slags have accumulated all over the world, in which the copper content is even greater than that in original ores. The slags that result from the smelting of ores and concentrates of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, together with other metallurgical wastes such as tailings, are increasingly the subject of significant environmental controversy. The only way to reduce the negative impact of slag waste on the environment can be their disposal, by complex extraction of valuable components from them and further use of slag waste for construction purposes. In addition to the main component of copper, copper slags contain elevated contents of gold, silver, zinc, iron, etc. The form of finding valuable metals such as iron, copper, lead and zinc in copper slags is complex. A detailed study of the mineral composition of slags is used in development of an effective technology for processing slags. Aim. To study mineral composition of copper slags, the form of finding valuable components. Object. Copper slag waste from the copper-smelting plant of the Almalyk MMC. Methods. Chemical composition of copper slags was established by phase analysis, atomic absorption, X-ray fluorescence research methods. Mineral composition of the ores was established as a result of complex studies, including: optical microscopy in transmitted and reflected light, X-ray diffraction, microprobe studies and electron microscopy. Results. Copper content in composition of copper slag samples is higher than in copper ores and it is 0.77–0.97%. In addition to copper, copper slags contain elevated contents of a complex of metals (g/t): Au – 0.17–0.26; Ag 8.42–10.64, Zn 4.288–10216, Pb – 2014-3360. Ferrous silicates (fayalite, ferrosillite), vitreous mass of ferruginous-silicate composition predominate in the composition of copper slags. Ore minerals are mainly represented by magnetite. The mineral content is approximately 10–15%. Among сopper sulfides minerals bornite, chalcocite, less often cubanite, chalcopyrite, covellite sharply predominate. Cuprite is observed in small amounts, and native copper is metallic. The mineral form of finding molybdenum is molybdenite. Among the native silver minerals, native silver was found in association with lead minerals. Gold is included in the composition of native copper and chalcocite as an impurity and passes into copper concentrate during processing slags.
Power consumption of electric centrifugal pumping plants under extraction of highly watered oil
Authors: Vakhitova Roza I. , Saracheva Diana A. , Urazakov Kamil R.
Published: April 2024

Relevance. Currently, oil fields in Russia are mainly developed using the method of artificial maintenance of reservoir pressure to achieve high oil recovery. The use of artificial impact on productive formations by the method of water injection contributes to the premature irrigation of production wells. Water content of productive layers in oil fields significantly complicates the technology of oil production. With the increase in water content of the surface fluid, the power consumed by the engine increases. Minimization of energy consumption is quite relevant, as oil is produced with significant expenditures of electrical energy. It is important to investigate the dependences of the electric energy consumption on the well water cut. Aim. To study the dependence of energy consumption of submersible electric centrifugal units operated in oil production wells on water cut. Methods. Submersible electric centrifugal installations for oil production. Results. In order to study the effects of formation water cut on electrical energy specific consumption, wells with a water cut of more than 90% were selected. Using the formula, the authors have calculated the electrical energy specific consumption for oil production. The analysis of the results of the calculated data showed that in producing wells with a water cut of up to 90 %, the average specific electric power consumption for oil production is within the recommended standards. In wells with the water cut more than 90%, the average specific electric power consumption for oil production exceeds recommended specific norms of electric energy consumption during operation of oil producing wells equipped with electric centrifugal installations. Based on calculated data, the dependence of the specific electrical energy consumption for oil production on the water cut of reservoir products was plotted, and wells with a water cut of more than 90% were selected. The analysis of the graphical dependence showed that in wells with an oil water cut of more than 90%, the specific energy consumption reaches maximum values ​​(the specific energy consumption increases by 40%).
Women's Participation in Higher Education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Avis William Robert
Published: April 2024

This rapid evidence review collates available evidence on women’s participation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) (focused on Middle East North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia regions) and impact on social and economic development. The review notes that overall, the existing literature on vocational training programs in the global south has important gaps. The limited evidence and variation of impacts found in available studies across the global south may partly be explained by differences in social, economic, and labour market conditions, existing skill levels of targeted groups, and training program characteristics. Despite these challenges positive impacts have been identified in the following areas: impact on poverty; impact on inequality and impact on social exclusion.
Key Considerations for Responding to Floods in South Sudan Through the Humanitarian-Peace-Development Nexus - Infographic
Authors: Moro Leben , Palmer Jennifer , Hrynick Tabitha
Published: April 2024

Infographic: The brief also provides an overview of flood response efforts and innovations, and public attitudes towards them. The brief emphasises the need to link short-term humanitarian efforts with longer-term peacebuilding and development efforts through meaningful collaboration between actors working in these often-siloed spaces.
Association between physical activity and sleep indicators among adolescents
Authors: Coledam Diogo Henrique Constantino , Ré Alessandro Hervaldo Nicolai
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The aim of the present study is to analyze the association between physical activity and sleep indicators among adolescents. Methods: Cross-sectional study involving 647 adolescents (53.0% female). Leisure time physical activity at low and at moderate to vigorous intensities (420 min/week) were the independent variables and the outcomes were daytime sleepiness, classroom sleepiness, poor sleep perception, sleep duration, bedtime, and wake up time. The multivariate association was performed by Poisson regression to estimate Prevalence Ratios (PR). Results: Not achieving 420 min/week of physical activity at light and at moderate to vigorous intensities was associated with a higher prevalence ratio for classroom sleepiness (PR=1.79 and 1.64), daytime sleepiness (PR=1.25 and 1.17), and poor sleep perception (PR=1.52 and 1.27), all P<0.05. However, not achieving 420 min/week showed the opposite association and decreased the prevalence ratio for having a sleep duration <8h (PR=0.74 and 0.72), P<0.05. No association was found between physical activity and bedtime or wake up time. Mediation analysis revealed that the association between physical activity and daytime sleepiness was fully mediated by a poor perception of sleep quality, while classroom sleepiness showed a partial mediation. Conclusion: Physical activity seems to have a positive effect on daytime sleepiness, classroom sleepiness, and perceived sleep quality. Poor sleep perception was the pathway through which physical activity was associated to sleepiness in the present sample. Conversely, physical activity reduced the likelihood of students achieving 8h of sleep.
THE COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSING ASSESSMENT OF TUNJUNGSARI SUBURBAN, BANTUR VILLAGE, MALANG DISTRICT: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Mazarina Devi Hilda , Soebagiono  , Denik Retno
Published: April 2024

Background: The community health nursing assessment is a process to understand the health problems that are often found in such location including health behavior problems, environmental problem, also health services utilization problem which will cause various effect among age group population
Purpose: Researcher would like to perform nursing process to the community health problems at the Tunjungsari Suburban, Bantur Village, Malang District.
Methods: The case study with a cross sectional approach used as research design. The nursing community assessment checklist delivered to 641 respondents who lives at 217 households around Tunjungsari Suburban, Bantur Village. The data then analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis based on community nursing approach using community as partner theory.
Results: The results showed that the community had a risky health behaviour marked by 47% adult were smoking inside the house, 73% of the elders never performing any health check, 89% of the elder’s never to come to the Posyandu. 38,27% of the total population experienced acute inflammatory respiratory disease during the past 6 months, and failed to managing the household waste due to limited facilities.
Conclusion: Based on the result of this study, it is recommended for the stakeholders to improve the community health services, increases the health promotion programs distribution especially targeting the elder’s population. For the government providing final waste management in this community will help to increases the community health.
Keywords: Case study; community health; nursing process.
Analyse d'impact ex post de trente ans de recherche et développement sur les conditions de pré-abattage des ruminants
Authors: BERGER Christine , CLAVEL Laëtitia , DUCREUX Barbara , DAVID Valérie
Published: April 2024

Cette analyse d’impact ex post démarre en 1984 et porte donc sur plus de 30 ans de travaux de R&D conduits par Idele et ses partenaires (MSA, DGAL, DGER, Interbev, INRAE, ADIV) sur les conditions de pré-abattage. Elle a été mise en œuvre par les méthodes ASIRPA et ImpresS. Ce cas concret a confirmé l’intérêt et l’applicabilité de ces méthodes, mais elles ont nécessité des adaptations, i) en renforçant la caractérisation des « bénéficiaires » directs comme indirects et ii) en confortant la structure du « récit d’impact ». Les connaissances opérationnelles destinées aux bouviers d'abattoirs et aux chauffeurs de camions transportant des animaux vivants, ont été valorisées sous forme i) de guides de bonnes pratiques et formations à la manipulation des animaux ; ii) de références pour la rénovation des bâtiments, utiles pour le plan de modernisation des abattoirs ; et iii) de spécifications pour l'aménagement des camions destinés au transport du bétail. Contribuant à l’élaboration de nouvelles réglementations sur le transport des animaux vivants, elles ont accompagné la mise en œuvre du règlement sur la protection animale dans les abattoirs. Ce déploiement a contribué à l’amélioration des bâtiments et des équipements de la zone de pré-abattage, mais aussi à l'appropriation de connaissances permettant aux bouviers de réduire les facteurs de stress liés à la manipulation. Les principaux impacts observables sont i) une contribution à la réduction des accidents (humains et animaux) ; ii) une meilleure rémunération des éleveurs ; iii) une amélioration de la qualité de la viande ; et iv) une contribution à construire un argumentaire de nature à rassurer les consommateurs.
Unveiling the Impact and Strategies of AI Integration in Sabah's Academic Realm: Opportunities, Challenges, and Recommendations
Authors: Mohd. Ali Nur Afiqah Shahirah
Published: April 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into academic settings in Sabah, Malaysia, is transforming education and research landscapes. While AI technologies promise to enhance teaching, learning, and scholarly activities, they also pose challenges such as ethical concerns and skill gaps among academic staff. This study addresses the multifaceted impacts of AI adoption on academicians in Sabah, focusing on two key research questions: the impact of AI-based intelligent tutoring systems on student engagement, learning outcomes, and educational equity, and the challenges and opportunities in building academicians' capacity to integrate AI technologies effectively. Through a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from education, computer science, social sciences, and ethics, this research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of AI tools in educational settings and identify strategies for skill development and infrastructure support. The study recommends empirical assessments within Sabah's educational institutions, considering contextual factors and fostering collaborative partnerships with local communities. Professional development programs, collaboration with industry partners, and improved access to AI infrastructure are proposed strategies. Longitudinal studies and interdisciplinary research initiatives are suggested for future research, along with qualitative methods to capture diverse perspectives. Ultimately, by embracing a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach, Sabah's academic community can harness the transformative potential of AI to advance education, research, and scholarship while promoting ethical and inclusive practices.
Advancing AI Integration in Sabah Business Landscape: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: AINAH NURUL
Published: April 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into business practices presents both opportunities and challenges for Sabah, Malaysia. This dynamic abstract explores the latest research problem at the intersection of AI and business in Sabah, focusing on optimizing resource allocation in agriculture and enhancing tourism experiences through AI-driven solutions.In Sabah's agricultural sector, AI holds immense potential to revolutionize traditional farming practices. With limited arable land and unpredictable weather patterns, farmers face significant challenges in maximizing crop yields while minimizing resource inputs. Through the application of machine learning, remote sensing, and IoT devices, researchers aim to develop precision farming techniques that can analyze soil health, monitor crop growth, and predict pest outbreaks with unprecedented accuracy. By optimizing resource allocation and enhancing decision-making processes, these AI-driven solutions have the potential to revolutionize Sabah's agriculture industry, promoting sustainability and resilience in the face of environmental uncertainties.Moreover, the tourism industry in Sabah stands to benefit from AI integration, particularly in enhancing visitor experiences and destination management. With its diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Sabah attracts tourists from around the globe. AI-powered recommendation systems, tailored to individual preferences and behavior, have the potential to provide personalized travel itineraries, optimize resource allocation, and boost visitor satisfaction. Additionally, natural language processing (NLP) algorithms can analyze online reviews and social media sentiments, providing valuable insights for destination marketing and management strategies. By harnessing the power of AI, Sabah can elevate its tourism offerings, attract more visitors, and enhance its reputation as a premier travel destination.However, alongside these opportunities, challenges abound in the integration of AI into Sabah's business landscape. Concerns regarding data privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical implications must be carefully addressed to ensure the responsible and sustainable deployment of AI technologies. Furthermore, the digital divide and limited access to technology in rural areas pose barriers to widespread adoption, necessitating comprehensive strategies for capacity building and infrastructure development.In conclusion, the advancement of AI integration in Sabah's business landscape holds immense promise for driving innovation, economic growth, and sustainability. By addressing the research problems outlined in this abstract, researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders can collaboratively navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI integration, paving the way for a prosperous and inclusive future for Sabah, Malaysia.
El uso de nanomateriales antimicrobianos ante el enemigo latente: la resistencia bacteriana
Authors: España Sánchez Beatriz Liliana
Published: April 2024

Mucho se ha escuchado acerca del uso indiscriminado de antibióticos y su impacto en la generación de súper bacterias. Sin embargo, ¿sabes qué es la resistencia bacteriana y cómo estos microorganismos pueden comprometer tu salud y la de tus seres queridos? Y no solo eso, ¿sabías que la nanotecnología puede evitar el crecimiento y la propagación de estos patógenos?
Expectation Gap na Auditoria em Saúde Pública: um Estudo no Contexto das Atribuições e Responsabilidades dos Profissionais da Auditoria do SUS da Bahia
Authors: Santos Daniela Silva dos , Ribeiro Elizabeth Matos , Pinheiro Francisco Marton Gleuson , Albuquerque Katia Silene Lopes de Souza
Published: April 2024

Objetivo da pesquisa: Identificar e analisar as possíveis diferenças entre o que o auditor interno da Auditoria do SUS/BA acredita ser sua atribuição e o que os atores que integram a estrutura do Sistema de Governança e Gestão da Sesab esperam que a auditoria interna realize, em relação ao propósito da auditoria e à responsabilidade do Auditor.
Enquadramento Teórico: Duas teorias dão suporte teórico a esse estudo, enquanto a teoria da agência explica o porquê da auditoria, a teoria da legitimidade explica como a auditoria é utilizada e reconhecida.
Metodologia: Tratou-se de estudo de natureza exploratória, com abordagem qualitativa, realizada na Auditoria do SUS/BA com dados obtidos com fundamento na literatura, pesquisa documental e entrevistas semiestruturadas, avaliados mediante análise de conteúdo e triangulação de informações.
Resultados: Os resultados apontaram lacunas de expectativas entre a percepção dos dois grupos entrevistados, corroborando com a literatura explorada.
Originalidade: O estudo se diferencia dos demais por transpor para a Auditoria do SUS/BA um fenômeno de interesse da auditoria do setor privado, carente de exploração no setor público; e pela abordagem qualitativa, a despeito das evidências empíricas utilizarem abordagem quantitativa. 
Contribuições teóricas e práticas: Ratificou-se o fenômeno expectation gap sustentado pela teoria da legitimidade. A implicação teórica também se mostra na abordagem qualitativa, que permitiu identificar não somente a existência das lacunas como, também, quais são e por que existem. Em termos práticos, com a revelação das diferenças, a Auditoria do SUS/BA poderá se aproximar institucionalmente dos atores da Governança e Gestão e promover capacitações para tratar das expectativas dos auditores, suas atribuições e responsabilidades.
Palavras-chave: Auditoria Governamental, Auditoria do SUS, Expectation Gap, Governança Pública.
Convergência das Normas de Contabilidade no Setor Público: uma Análise do Posicionamento Acadêmico nas Principais Bases Científicas.
Authors: Oliveira Prates Rigoni Bríscia , Zuccolotto Robson , Pinto de Souza Frederico
Published: April 2024

Objetivo da pesquisa: Identificar e organizar as diversas posições, que podem ser observadas na área acadêmica, em relação à convergência das normas contábeis aplicáveis ao setor público (IPSAS).
Enquadramento teórico: Este trabalho realiza uma revisão sistemática da literatura sobre as IPSAS, não estando relacionado a uma teoria específica.
Metodologia: Para alcançar o objetivo proposto foi realizada uma revisão sistemática, da literatura sobre convergência e IPSAS, nas bases Web of Science, Scopus e Scielo Citation Index, no período de 2005 a 2023. A seleção dos artigos utilizou o método ProKnow-C e o protocolo Prisma 2020 para organizar e apresentar os resultados.
Resultados: Os resultados foram agrupados, conforme posicionamento dos autores em relação à convergência às IPSAS, onde foram identificadas três posições predominantes. Os trabalhos com posição neutra abordaram a convergência sem realizar uma crítica ou defesa das IPSAS. Os de posição favorável enfatizaram que as normas IPSAS permitem elevar a transparência, responsabilização e reduzir os níveis de corrupção, enquanto os de posições críticas questionaram a efetiva harmonização contábil, visto que muitos países não utilizam as IPSAS de forma inalterada, discutiram a influência e interesses de organismos internacionais e afirmaram que as IPSAS ferem a soberania nacional e provocam alteração na racionalidade dos governos, segundo princípios neoliberais de mercado.
Originalidade: O trabalho sistematizou a posição adotada por trabalhos acadêmicos em relação às normas IPSAS.
Contribuições teóricas e práticas: Os achados desse trabalho suscitam o desenvolvimento de uma agenda de pesquisa, a fim de melhor compreender algumas questões como, por exemplo, a relação entre organismos financeiros internacionais e a disseminação das normas IPSAS, o papel das grandes empresas de auditoria, das organizações contábeis e da academia, assim como, a utilidade das normas IPSAS no processo de tomada de decisão.
Palavras-chave: IPSAS. Convergência Contábil no Setor Público. Análise Sistemática. Posicionamento.
LEGAL PROTECTION OF LINGUISTIC MINORITY UNDER DISCRIMINATION: THE CASE OF ANGLOPHONE CAMEROON
Authors: Kome Donard
Published: April 2024

The minority English-speaking population in Cameroon, where French is the majority language, has a number of political, economic, and social complaints that collectively make up the "Anglophone problem." These grievances are described using the terms discrimination, marginalization, and second-class citizenship. The right to speak English in Cameroon must always be upheld as a fundamental right.  To protect the rights of minorities, Cameroon has established a number of laws. Since Cameroon and many other countries have ratified a number of human rights instruments, it is the state's duty to safeguard all the rights guaranteed by these instruments, including those of minorities. As demonstrated by the current crisis, another escalation in that cycle, there are several political systemic deficiencies that need to be closed if Cameroon is to grow as a single nation. Greater localized control over political and financial resources might be necessary to achieve this. In order to better serve the needs of citizens, existing institutions and leadership structures must become more accommodating.
LA RESPUESTA DE LA UNIÓN EUROPEA A LOS PROBLEMAS DE FRAGILIDAD DE MALÍ Y LA OPERACIÓN EUCAP SAHEL MALÍ
Authors: Nasoni Alessandra
Published: April 2024

In light of recent events that have brought Mali back to the focus of the international community, this article aims to analyse on the basis of the various strategies adopted by the European Union to address the complex problems affecting the Sahel region, the basic pillars of the action of the International Organization for European Integration in this area of the African continent, and in particular in Mali, following a diagnosis of the situation on the ground, focusing the analysis on the civilian mission of the EU Common Security and Defence Policy, EUCAP Sahel Mali.
Agonistic song rate positively correlates with male breeding success and avian malaria infection in a promiscuous songbird with female-only parental care
Authors: Kubacka Justyna , Dubiec Anna , Arantes Larissa Souza , Herdegen-Radwan Magdalena , Mazzoni Camila , Sparmann Sarah , Osiejuk Tomasz Stanisław
Published: April 2024

The link between male song and reproductive success has been explored at length in socially monogamous birds, but results were inconsistent and under-represented socially non-monogamous species with uniparental care. Here, we evaluated whether metrics of male song in the aquatic warbler Acrocephalus paludicola, a promiscuous songbird with female-only care and large repertoires, are associated with fitness- and quality-related traits. We showed that the number of 9-day-old nestlings fathered and probability of avian malaria infection increased with the rate of agonistic song, produced in male-male interactions, and that male scaled mass index (proxy for energy reserves) positively correlated with the repertoire size. The male breeding success was not explained by repertoire size and song duty cycle. None of the song variables clearly explained the male return rate or change in the tarsus length (proxy for structural body size) and scaled mass index of the fathered chicks between days 2 and 9 post-hatch. No other relationships between the song characteristics and the inbreeding coefficient, scaled mass index, wing-length and Trypanosoma infection status of the males were supported, and Plasmodium infection was unrelated to the song duty cycle and repertoire size. We conclude that in male aquatic warblers the repertoire size could be a signal of early developmental stress or current body condition, and the agonistic song rate could be shaped by sexual selection and signal to females a genetic makeup that enhances survival upon infection by Plasmodium.
Quantitative and qualitative analysis of medical students’ symptoms and feelings during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Felix Soraia Nogueira , Costa Anna Paula Lima , Andrade Juliana Matsumoto , Ballester Denise , Tempski Patrícia Zen , Kobayasi Renata , Garcia Maria Lúcia Bueno , Costa Fernanda Magalhães Arantes , Freitas Lucas Rodrigues Silva , Correia Aristides Tadeu , Tibério Iolanda de Fátima Lopes Calvo , Romanholo Beatriz Mangueira Saraiva , Martins Milton de Arruda
Published: April 2024

Background: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional face-to-face teaching has been disrupted. Social restrictions and isolation during this period may have contributed to various physical and emotional disorders. We aimed to assess the perceptions of medical students regarding their emotions, anxiety and depression symptoms, and daily experiences during the pandemic.
Methods: We conducted a prospective mixed methods study involving students in their 1st to 4th years of medicine at a university in São Paulo, Brazil,in 2020 and 2021. Participants completed online questionnaires, including the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ), and Medical Student Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (VERAS-Q) and participated in an online focus group.
Results:313 students finished the questionnaires, and 200 were involved in the focus group. Women exhibited higher scores for anxiety (p=0.002) and depression (p=0.007); men demonstrated better quality of life (p=0.042). The students aged 18 to 24 years (p=0.048) presented better quality of life and lower trait anxiety (p=0.001). Both trait and state anxiety were strongly associated with depression (p<0.01) and inversely related to quality of life, showing a moderate association with happiness (p<0.01). Depression was strongly linked to both trait and state anxiety (p<0.01) and moderately negatively correlated with happiness and quality of life (p<0.01). The focus groups revealed recurring negative feelings, such as anxiety, depression, tiredness, loneliness, difficulty managing time and others, resulting in reduced mental and physical health during the pandemic. Coping strategies were discussed, including the adoption of new healthy habits, religious practices, and reconnection with family.
Conclusion: Depression and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent among females, while quality of life improved for younger and male students. The qualitative analysis enhanced our understanding of the determinants and consequences of students' recurring negative feelings and revealed positive aspects such as greater proximity to family and religiosity.
E2GO : Free Your Hands for Smartphone Interaction
Authors: Liang Dong , Yan Shaoming , Ju Yuanliang , Quan Rong , Tu Huawei
Published: April 2024

Current eye-gaze interaction technologies for smartphones are considered inflexible, inaccurate, and power-hungry. These methods typically rely on hand involvement and accomplish partial interactions. In this paper, we propose a novel eye-gaze smartphone interaction method named Event-driven Eye-Gaze Operation (E2GO), which can realize comprehensive interaction using only eyes and gazes to cover various interaction types. Before the interaction, an anti-jitter gaze estimation method was exploited to stabilize human eye fixation and predict accurate and stable human gaze positions on smartphone screens to further explore refined time-dependent eye-gaze interactions. We also integrated an event-triggering mechanism in E2GO to significantly decrease its power consumption to deploy on smartphones. We have implemented the prototype of E2GO on different brands of smartphones and conducted a comprehensive user study to validate its efficacy, demonstrating E2GO’s superior smartphone control capabilities across various scenarios.
Effects of nitrogen and phosphorus addition on plant diversity and primary productivity in a semiarid grassland
Authors: He Yuying , Wang Hongjiao , Xiao Rui , Yang Zhongling
Published: April 2024

Nutrient enrichment has the potential to influence biodiversity and primary productivity, but the general patterns and potential mechanisms are still elusive. Using a five-year field nutrient addition experiment, we evaluated response patterns and potential mechanisms of plant diversity and productivity to nitrogen (N) enrichment, phosphorus (P) enrichment, and nitrogen (N) plus phosphorus (P) enrichment. The results showed that N or P addition alone significantly decrease species richness by 25.9% and 23.5%. N plus P addition was stronger than N or P addition alone by 51.9% decline of species richness. Plant community composition under P addition was similar to control but separated in the N and N plus P addition plots from the control plots. N addition remarkably increased aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) by 93.3% by increasing grass biomass, whereas P addition had no effect on ANPP. However, P addition stimulated the positive effect of N addition on ANPP, leading to 127.8% enhancement of ANPP under N plus P addition. N addition decreased species richness by increasing community height and decreasing soil pH, while P addition decreased species richness by increasing community height and soil available phosphorus. The increased community height, community weighted means (CWM) of leaf N content and leaf area explained the enhancement of ANPP under N addition. Our findings are crucial for understanding of the effects of N and P enrichment on ANPP and species richness in the semi-arid grassland, and will provide scientific support for optimizing the management and utilization of semiarid grassland.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profiling of Bacterial Isolates from Wastewater and Environmental Samples Collected from Pharmaceutical Industries in South India
Authors: Kamatham Sravani , Seeralan Manoharan , Sekar Uma , Kuppusamy Sujatha
Published: April 2024

The study was aimed to determine the phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance in the isolated bacteria from the influent (25), effluent (15) and surface, ground water (15) surrounding the pharmaceutical industries located in south India. Forty-eight isolates out of 55 samples were obtainedviz.Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, Corynebacterium sp., Acinetobacter sp., Aeromonas punctata, Ralstonia picketti, Staphylococcus aureus, Stenotrophomonas maltophillia, and Citrobacter freundii. The phenotypic profile of resistance through antibiotic susceptibility test was carried out against sixteen different antibiotics. Standard PCR technique was used for the detection of 12 genes encoding carbapenems, quinoline, aminoglycoside, β-lactam belonging blaOXA-58, blaOXA-22, qnrA, qnrB, aac(6)-Ib-cr, aac (3)-XI, mec A, qepA, aadB, blaVIM, blaOXA-48 and blaNDM. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1: TN/I/2020) showed presence of 3 resistance genes. qnrB (489 bp) gene was present in a maximum of 7 isolates while blaVIM (196 bp) gene was present in 6 isolates. The resistant gene blaNDM (621 bp) was present in three different isolates; aac (X):6)-lb-cr (482 bp), qepA (495 bp), aadB (500 bp), blaOXA-58 (843 bp) resistant genes were present in two different isolates each among the bacterial isolates obtained in this study. In phenotypic resistance profiling by AST method, a maximum of 14 antibiotics were resistant among 16 tested. Similarly, in genotypic resistance profiling, among 12 resistant genes tested, a maximum of three resistant genes were noticed in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. There were positive and negative correlations observed between phenotypic and genotypic resistance among different antibiotics and their resistance genes indicating the variations in the resistant gene expression.
Health survey on anxiety, depression, and stress in Afghanistan: A large-scale cross-sectional survey study
Authors: Neyazi Ahmad , Mohammadi Abdul Qadim , Razaqi Nosaibah , Rahimi Bilal Ahmad , Sifat Sifatullah , Rahimy Najeebullah , Tareen Zarghoon , Mehmood Qasim , Satapathy Prakasini , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: April 2024

Background:The present cross-sectional survey study examined the mental health of Afghans living under the Taliban government. It examined the underlying factors associated with depression, anxiety, and stress.Methods:Between June 5, 2023 and February 12, 2024, a cross-sectional study was conducted among the Afghan population in three key regions of Afghanistan. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Logistic regression models were employed to explore the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and depression, anxiety, and stress among 2,698 participants.Results:The prevalence of (i) depression was 72.05%, (ii) anxiety was 71.94%, and (iii) stress was 66.49%. Multiple regression analysis indicated that gender (being female), economic status (being poor), residency (living in rural areas), education level (being illiterate), being a cigarette smoker, and having experienced a traumatic event during the past month were significantly associated with depression, anxiety and stress.Conclusion:The mental health crisis in Afghanistan is a complex and urgent issue that requires a comprehensive and compassionate response. The findings of the present study show very high levels of anxiety, depression, and stress, most likely reflecting the profound impact of recent political, social, and economic changes. Notably, a significant majority of participants, particularly females and individuals above 35 years of age, reported severe to extremely severe mental health symptoms.
Impact of a 12-week personalized dietary intervention on vascular function and cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Thijssen Dick , Wanders Lisa , Gijbels Anouk , Hul Gaby , Feskens Edith , Afman Lydia , Blaak Ellen , Hopman Maria , Goossens Gijs
Published: April 2024

Objective. Given the interaction between insulin resistance (IR) and cardiovascular risk, we examined whether a personalized diet according muscle insulin-resistant (MIR) or liver insulin-resistant (LIR) phenotypes improves vascular function and cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Methods. Individuals were randomized to a personalized phenotype diet (PhenoDiet) A or B and followed a 12-week low-fat, high-protein (LFHP) diet or high-monounsaturated fatty acid (HMUFA) diet (PhenoDiet A; MIR/HMUFA-LIR/LFHP; PhenoDiet B: MIR/LFHP-LIR/HMUFA). We included 101 participants.
Results. Dietary interventions decreased blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and the Framingham risk score (all P<0.05), improved IR ((Matsuda index, HOMA-IR) P<0.001), but not vascular function (P=0.485). Changes in outcome parameters were not significantly different between PhenoDiet groups. The LFHP diet resulted in more pronounced improvements in cholesterol, DBP, and IR compared to the HMUFA diet (all P<0.05).
Conclusion. A 12-week healthy diet improves metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes, but not vascular function in IR adults with overweight or obesity. Whilst the LFHP diet resulted in greater improvements in cardiometabolic risk markers than the HMUFA diet, we found no significant differences between the PhenoDiet groups.
Assessment of Diabetes Related-Knowledge and Practice Among Algerian University Students: A Cross- sectional Survey
Authors: LOUNIS Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Diabetes is increasing significantly in the world especially among low- and middle-income countries including Algeria where it is ranked second in term of morbidity. This study was conducted aiming to evaluate the level of knowledge and lifestyle practice among Algerian university students. A national online cross-sectional survey was conducted between 14 November 2022 and 11 February 2023. 417 students answered the questionnaire. Demographically, females (82%), singles (86.1%), students aged between 20 and 30 years old (62.2%) and those living in urban areas (86.8%) were the most represented. More than half were students of bachelor level (52.3%) and were mainly studying in Natural and Life Sciences (37.2%) and Humanities (29.5%) faculties, and 10.6% of them declared living with diabetes. Overall, an average percentage of 75.1% correct responses was obtained and 54.6% of the respondents have shown a high level of knowledge. If age, the field of study and paternal education were associated with a high level of knowledge, being a Health Sciences student (OR: 10.175, CI 95%: 2.985–34.677) and being diabetic (OR: 10.486, CI95%: 3.424–32.12) were highly significant factors (p < 0.01). Regarding lifestyle practice, a moderate level of good practice of 54.2% was obtained and the level of knowledge was the only associated factor. These results described that some gaps of knowledge were observed especially among certain categories including students without formal education in Health, and Natural and Life Sciences. Results of this study could be helpful to the health program deciders in their campaigns of prevention against this silent disease.
Genome-Wide Hepatoprotective Molecule Screening using Tissue-Specific Transcriptome Analyses of the White-Spotted Flower Chafer (Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis)
Authors: hwang jihye , Hwang Ui Wook
Published: April 2024

The white-spotted flower chafer (Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis) is widely distributed across Asian countries and is used in traditional medicine to treat chronic fatigue, blood circulation disorders, and paralysis. Here, we present the novel P. b. seulensis transcriptome assembly from four different third instar larva stages (fat body, muscle, hematocyte, and midgut tissue), with expression analyses of overlapping and tissue-specific genes. The assembly, with 96.7% coverage, consisted of 23,551 high-quality transcripts. Tissue-specific genes were functionally mapped using gene set enrichment analysis. When we explored tissue-specific disease-related genes with human liver disease genes, these former genes were highly downregulated, apart from the Supervillin-like (Svil-like) gene. We constructed a phylogenetic profile with high sequence homology (>70) of liver disease-associated genes and found that Svil-like only existed in the crustacean-specific clade. We selected 92 genes based on co-expression correlations with Svil-like, and our functional analyses confirmed that processes were related to glycolysis, mitochondria, ATP synthesis, and structural cuticle constituents. Therefore, mitochondrial function, ATP generation, and improved mechanical cell membrane maintenance may be related to hepatoprotective P. b. seulensis activity in humans.
Optimizing nutrient management to improve tobacco quality while reducing nutrient losses in tobacco fields
Authors: Wang Chen , Miao Qi , Guo Yingxin , Liu Lu , Sun Junwei , Fan Zhiyong , Hu Yanxia , Wang Dexun , Li Junying , Cui Zhenling
Published: April 2024

Efficient nutrient management is imperative to control nutrient losses from farmland in the Erhai Lake Basin (ELB). To address this, a two-year field experiment (2021–2022) was conducted in the northern part of the ELB. The study aimed to quantify the impact of various fertilization treatments on nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) losses. The four fertilizer treatments included: no fertilizer (CK), farmer’s fertilizer-purely organic fertilization (FP), chemical fertilizer (CF), and a combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers (OIC). The OIC treatment significantly decreased N losses throughout the entire flue-cured tobacco season compared to the FP treatment, reducing TN runoff losses by 2.68 kg ha− 1 and TP runoff losses by 0.10 kg ha− 1. For leaching losses, the OIC treatment demonstrated a reduction of 21.3% in total N (TN) losses and 17.3% in total P (TP) losses compared to the purely organic fertilization treatments. Regarding yield and economic, the two-year average yield of the OIC treatment was 2573.93 kg ha− 1, a 3.8% increase compared to the FP treatment, accompanied by a significant rise in economic value. Correlation analysis revealed that soil available N and soil water content were key factors significantly influencing TN and TP runoff losses. These findings offer a theoretical foundation for the control of nutrient losses in farmland in the ELB.
Oral mucosa and subacute systemic toxicity of anacardic acid loaded-zein nanoparticles
Authors: de Souza Smyrna Luiza Ximenes , Brasileiro Érica Pinto de Azevedo , Lima Laís Aragão , Silva Paulo Goberlânio de Barros , de Araújo Jennifer Thayanne Cavalcante , de Sousa Francisco Fábio Oliveira , Lima Ramille Araújo
Published: April 2024

Anacardic acid, a bioactive phytochemical extracted from cashew shell liquid of Anacardium occidentale, is a promising oral antimicrobial agent, lacking complete toxicity evaluation. This study aimed to evaluate the oral mucosal and systemic toxicity of zein nanoparticles containing anacardic acid in vivo. Oral (gavage) and topical administration on oral mucosa were performed in mice (female c57bl/6j) over 30 days, distributed in four groups: Negative control - sterile saline solution 0.89%; Standard Group – chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12%; Group AaZNp – anacardic acid loaded-zein nanoparticles (9.337 µg/mL) and Group BZNp – blank zein nanoparticles. Weight variation, relative organs weight, and thickness of target organs were analyzed. Subepithelial inflammation frequency (%) was determined. ANOVA/Tukey test and chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests were used (p < 0.05). Groups AaZNp (-4.2 ± 1.49 g) and BZNp (-4.00 ± 1.30 g) showed the highest weight loss; although without significant difference in kidneys, lungs, liver, and spleen weights. Groups AaZNp (0.16 ± 0.01 g) and BZNp (0.16 ± 0.02 g) presented lower cardiac mass than the negative (0.21 ± 0.01 g) and standard (0.22 ± 0.02 g) (p = 0.045) groups. Ventral tongue epithelium thickness of the negative control (3250 ± 439 µm) was significantly lower than BZNp treated (8650 ± 1079 µm) (p = 0.001); Jugal epithelial thickness was lower in AaZNp and BZNp than Standard Group (p < 0.001), while the thickness of gingival epithelium was lower in the negative control (134 ± 13 µm) than the other groups (p = 0.001). There were no significant signs of inflammatory infiltrate. The administration of AaZNp and BZNp caused a reduction in the cardiac mass without showing other signs of oral mucosal or systemic toxicity.