bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Kalaji watershed health based on hydrological and geomorphological criteria: relative and absolute approaches
Authors: Mosaffaie Jamal , Salehpour Jam Amin
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to assess the health of the Kalaji watershed based on relative and absolute approaches and highlight their differences. First, the sub-watersheds' status was evaluated regarding geomorphological, hydrological, water quality, and landscape criteria using five indicators: specific erosion, specific flood, landslide density, specific sediment, and the percentage of natural land uses. The overall health index was calculated by combining the weights (by AHP) and values of the indicators. The findings indicate a significant difference in the results of the two approaches. The minimum, maximum, and average of the health index of sub-watersheds are 0.302, 0.758, and 0.601 respectively in the relative approach, while they are equal to 0.194, 0.753, and 0.308 respectively in the absolute approach. The results also showed that the relative approach has a higher health index and more healthy class than the absolute approach. The findings emphasize that the appropriate approach should be chosen according to the desired goals before assessing the watershed's health. Overall, this study provides a better understanding of the two approaches to watershed health assessment, especially the absolute ones.
Modeling an evaluation framework for adding IoT water-level sensors based on ANN-derived 2D inundation simulations
Authors: Wu Shiang-Jen
Published: August 2024

This study aims to develop a smart model for evaluating the spatial density of added IoT sensors (called AIOT grids) to optimize their amount and placements, named SM_ESD_AIOT model; the proposed SM_ESD_AIOT model mainly collaborates cluster analysis with Akaike information criterion (AIC) based on the resulting 2D inundation simulations from the ANN-derived model in comparison with those from the physically based hydrodynamic (SOBEK) model under various sets of AIOT-based sensor networks. Miaoli City in northern Taiwan is selected as the study with the three practical IoT sensors; also, the 1,939 electrical poles are treated as the potential AIOT grids grouped under 5, 10, 15, and 20 clusters. Using a simulated rainfall-induced flood event of 51 h, the five AIOT-based sets, consisting of five added and three practical IoT sensors, could be selected as the optimal one with the minimum AIC (around 1.45). Also, on average, the 2D inundation simulation indices from the optimal five AIOT-based sensor networks are 0.7 better than the results from the three IoT sensors (about 0.495). As a result, the proposed SM_ESD_AIOT is shown to efficiently optimize the amount and placements of the AIOT sensors to enhance the reliability and accuracy of 2D inundation simulation.
Constante Cosmológica e Matéria Escura
Authors: Rodrigues Danilo , Lucena dos Santos Jojomar , Raymundo Novaes Chiappin José
Published: August 2024

O presente ensaio tem por objetivo mostrar o papel desempenhado pelas hipóteses ad hoc em dois importantes episódios da cosmologia científica: a adoção da constante cosmológica por Einstein e a descoberta da matéria escura por Zwicky. Há importantes semelhanças entre ambos, uma vez que foram hipóteses adotadas com base em possíveis interações cosmológicas gravitacionais. Comumente encontramos juízos distintos em relação aos dois casos, apenas por um ter sido lembrado como um “sucesso preditivo” e o outro como um “fracasso” de Einstein. Procuramos mostrar ao longo do texto como, não apenas essa avaliação não é justa, como também que a adoção de hipóteses ad hoc é um recurso largamente utilizado na ciência e necessário ao seu desenvolvimento. Até mesmo nos principais referenciais em filosofia da ciência, como Lakatos, Kuhn, Popper e Laudan, encontramos avaliações sobre a utilização destas hipóteses muito mais positivas do que popularmente se dissemina, classificando-as como “estratagemas convencionalistas” utilizadas apenas para mascarar dificuldades teóricas e conceituais. Todos estes referenciais citados se mostram unanimes sobre a importância das hipóteses ad hoc para o progresso da ciência, apesar de suas divergências sobre concepções de ciência e de progresso.
Da física prometeica aos magos modernos
Authors: Carvalho da Silva Vinícius , Castelo Branco Judikael
Published: August 2024

Neste trabalho, analisaremos as diferenças entre o epistemicismo e o utilitarismo a partir de um estudo comparado de dois autores: Eric Weil e Pierre Hadot. Primeiro, veremos como em “Science, magie et philosophie”, Weil trata das linhas fundamentais da ciência moderna em comparação com a ideia clássica de θεωρία e da noção renascentista de magia. Depois, como Hadot trabalha a questão em O Véu de Ísis por meio dos conceitos de física prometeica e física órfica. Ao final, defenderemos posição particular acerca de como podemos entender a ciência moderna a partir da relação entre os estudos de Weil e Hadot.
Circulating Exosomal Transfer RNA-Related Fragments as Diagnostic Biomarkers for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Meng Li , Ma Zhaolong , Ji Yingying , Li Guangyao , Wang Shiwen , Zhang Zhijun
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Exosomal transfer RNA-derived fragments [exo-tRF] possess the
capacity to be employed as biomarkers for several types of cancer. We aim to ascertain
the diagnostic significance of exosomal 5’tRF-TyrGTA and 5’tRF-ValTAC in non-small
cell lung cancer [NSCLC].

Methods:

Ultracentrifugation was deployed to obtain serum exosomes from NSCLC patients
and healthy donors. The acquired exosomes were then confirmed by transmission
electron microscopy [TEM], qNano, and western blot [WB] techniques. The level of exo-
tRF expression was validated by the use of microarrays and RT-qPCR. The diagnostic
performance of exo-tRFs for NSCLC was determined through the receiver operating
characteristic curve [ROC].

Results:

Exosomal 5’tRF-TyrGTA and 5’tRF-ValTAC were significantly downregulated
in both early- and late-stage NSCLC patients compared to healthy donors, representing
favorable diagnostic efficiency for NSCLC. In addition, the exosomal 5’tRF-TyrGTA
level was correlated with tumor stage and lymph node metastasis.

Conclusion:

Exosomal 5’tRF-TyrGTA and 5’tRF-ValTAC can serve as potential biomarkers
for NSCLC.
Recent Progress and Perspectives in Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter 1/2
Inhibitors
Authors: Demirkiran Cahit , Demiryurek Seniz , Demiryurek Abdullah Tuncay
Published: August 2024

Sodium‐Glucose Co‐transporter‐1/2 (SGLT1/2) inhibitors (also called glifozins) are a
class of glucose‐decreasing drugs in adults with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). SGLT2 inhibitors diminish
sodium and glucose reabsorption in the renal proximal convoluted tubule. Recent clinical trials have
revealed that SGLT2 inhibitors might be beneficial for treating diseases other than diabetes, including
chronic renal disease and Heart Failure (HF). Currently, SGLT2 inhibitors are recommended not
only for the glycemic management of T2D but also for cardiovascular protection. SGLT2 inhibitors
have become one of the foundational drugs for HF with reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF) treatment
and the first medications with proven prognostic benefit in HF with preserved Ejection Fraction
(HFpEF). At present, 11 SGLT1/2 inhibitors have been approved for clinical use in different
countries. Beyond their anti-hyperglycemic effect, these inhibitors have shown clear cardio- and
nephroprotective properties. A growing body of research studies suggests that SGLT1/2 inhibitors
may provide potential clinical benefits in metabolic as well as oncological, hematological, and neurological
disorders.
Targeting the Molecules in EMT: A Potential Therapeutic Opportunity in Breast Cancer
Authors: Gampa Siri Chandana , Garimella Sireesha
Published: August 2024

Breast Cancer (BC) is one of the most frequently occurring diseases in
women, accounting for 90% of cancer-related deaths in women. Tumor cells can
invade nearby tissues and spread to distant organs by metastasis. The epithelialmesenchymal
transition or EMT, which involves a number of transcription factors and
signaling pathways, is a mechanism by which cells of the epithelium change into
mesenchymal type capable of motility, invasion, and metastasis. EMT has grown to be
a more intriguing target for developing cutting-edge treatment approaches since it is
involved in diverse malignant transformation-related activities. Besides preventing
tumor cell invasion and spread and the development of metastatic lesions, anti-EMT
treatment methods also lessen cancer stemness and improve the efficacy of more
traditional chemotherapeutics. EMT is, therefore, a desirable target in oncology. This
review gives an overview of EMT, various markers of EMT, and different inhibitors
used in therapies targeting EMT in BC.
Green Synthetic and Pharmacological Developments in the Hybrid Quinazolinone Moiety: An Updated Review
Authors: Jaiswal Shivangi , Verma Kanika , Srivastva Anamika , Arya Nikilesh , Dwivedi Jaya , Sharma Swapnil
Published: August 2024

Bicyclic quinazolinone constitutes an important class of organic framework enveloping
numerous biological properties which enthused organic and medicinal chemists to explore
green synthetic strategies for the construction of quinazolinone hybrids with significantly improved
pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetic profiles. In this perspective, the present review
summarizes the most recent green synthetic strategies, biological properties, structure-activity relationship,
and molecular docking studies of the 4-quinazolinone-based scaffold. This review
provides deeper insight into the hit-to-lead synthesis of quinazolinone derivatives in the development
of clinically important therapeutic candidates.
Computational Design of a Novel Inhibitor against COVID
Authors: Chandrasekaran Balakumar , Boomi Pandi , Bayan Mohammad F. , Muthumanickam Sankar , Alyami Mohammad H.
Published: August 2024

Background:

In recent years, in silico computational approaches have tremendously guided
computational medicinal chemists and research scientists to analyze protein structures, kinetics,
functions, and molecular interactions of the administered drugs.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify a novel inhibitor against SARS-CoV-2 using human CD26
and modeled spike protein through suitable in silico approaches.

Methods:

In this work, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation experiments were
conducted to gain insights into the binding affinity and stability, respectively. The docked complex
of CD26 with modeled spike protein showed higher binding affinity than the complex of CD26 with
resolved spike protein due to the existence of strong interactions with the crucial amino acid residues
of the target proteins.

Results:

The results of the molecular dynamics simulation demonstrated that CD26 with the modeled
spike protein docked complex showed good stability when compared with the resolved protein.

Conclusion:

From this computational finding, it was also suggested that the structure was stable and
would rapidly guide the discovery of potential inhibitors against COVID-19.
Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib for Axial Spondyloarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ali Ahmed Hamdy G. , Elganady Asmaa , Diaa Hindawi Mahmoud , Mousa Ahella Ismail A. , Eldeeb Hatem Abdelmoneim , Fatiem Ahmed Ramadan , Skopina Yulia
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Upadacitinib, a selective JAK1 inhibitor, has demonstrated promising results
in the treatment of axial Spondyloarthritis (AxSpA). AxSpA management remains challenging
since there is a gap in knowledge regarding the potential effect of upadacitinib in axSpA patients.
Exploring novel therapeutic options is crucial. Therefore, we performed this systematic review
and meta-analysis to summarize and synthesize results collected from available randomized--
controlled trials (RCTs) about the efficacy and safety of upadacitinib for patients with axSpA.

Methods:

A systematic literature search of Medline via PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO,
and Cochrane Central was conducted in October 2023. Relevant RCTs were selected, and
their data were extracted and analyzed using the RevMan 5.4 software. The main outcomes were
assessment in Spondylarthritis International Society (ASAS) 20, ASAS40, SPARCC MRI sacroiliac
joint, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis disease activity index (BASDAI) 50.

Results:

Three RCTs with a total of 920 participants were included in this study. Upadacitinib
showed significant improvement in the ASAS40 response, ASAS20 response, BASDAI50 response,
and SPARCC MRI Sacroiliac Joint change from baseline compared to placebo at 14-week
duration (RR 2.19, 95% CI (1.79 to 2.68), P < 0.00001), (RR 1.62, 95% CI [1.42 to 1.84), P <
0.00001), (RR 2.16, 95% CI (1.75 to 2.67), P < 0.00001), and (MD -3.32 points, 95% CI (-3.96 to
-2.68), P < 0.00001) respectively. However, this efficacy decreased after the 52-week duration in
terms of ASAS40 RR 2.19 vs. 1.02, ASAS20 RR 1.62 vs. 0.98, BASDAI 50 RR 2.16 vs. 1.05, and
ASAS Partial Remission RR 3.82 vs. 1.07.

Conclusion:

Upadacitinib 15 mg showed satisfactory and promising efficacy in the treatment of
AxSpA, with no difference in safety profile compared to the placebo.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Yuwono Angelina , Adisuhanto Marcella , Cahyadi Alius , Budiman Maxmillion , Prasetya Alver
Published: August 2024

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic condition that afflicts millions of people
worldwide. T2DM correlates with increased levels of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic
molecules and respiratory cell injury leading to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) development.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients with T2DM have a higher rate of progression and worse
prognosis, including higher hospital stay length and mortality rate. On High-resolution Computed
Tomography (HRCT), IPF patients with T2DM are more likely to exhibit the Usual Interstitial
Pneumonia (UIP) pattern (reticular and honeycomb patterns) than those without T2DM. Interventions
for IPF include non-pharmacological interventions, i.e., oxygen supplementation and pulmonary
rehabilitation, and pharmacological interventions, including nintedanib and pirfenidone. Antidiabetic
agents, such as metformin, thiazolidinediones, and glucagon-like peptide 1, have shown
anti-pulmonary fibrotic effects and to be associated with better clinical outcomes.
Exploring the Challenges of Recruiting Older People for a Randomised Trial Assessing the Feasibility of Treating White Coat Hypertension in the UK General Practices: A Mixed-methods Study
Authors: Mensah Ekow , Ali Khalid , Okorie Michael , Bremner Stephen , McAlister Colin , Perry Nicky , Rajkumar Chakravarthi
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

There is a recognised association between white coat hypertension
(WCH) and adverse cardiovascular outcomes in older adults. However, there is no consensus on
the management of WCH in this group. The objective of the Hypertension in the Very Elderly
Trial (HYVET-2) study was to assess the feasibility of randomising 100 patients > 75years with
WCH from General Practice in the UK to treatment or usual care. The study did not randomise
any patients. In this follow-up study, we sought to explore the reasons for not recruiting.

Methods:

Furthermore, using a mixed-methods study design, staff from 29 General Practice (GP)
sites and the Clinical Research Network (CRN) in Kent, Surrey, and Sussex (KSS), UK, were sent
an online questionnaire about local research facilities and infrastructure, and HYVET-2 study
methodology and target population demographics.

Results:

Nineteen (19) individuals responded to the online questionnaires (15 primary care staff, 4
CRN staff). Moreover, using a framework approach, we identified six themes summarising challenges
to HYVET-2 recruitment. These themes are established approaches of primary care towards
managing WCH in older people, target patient demographics, study design complexity, patient-
facing study documents, limited research resources in primary care, and identification of eligible
patients using existing coding.

Conclusion:

Our experience showed that recruiting older people from primary care to a WCH
study was not feasible. A national scoping survey amongst primary care physicians in the UK, as
well as robust patient and public involvement (PPI) targeting older people with WCH, might improve
recruitment in future studies addressing the management of WCH in older people.
In-silico Screening of Natural Compound Library against COVID-19 Main Protease
Authors: Nag Mrinmoy , Paul Rakesh Kumar , Dasgupta Deboprotim , Yakin Josef , Biswas Souvik , Chattopadhyay Souvik , Bora Rinchi , Alam Faruk
Published: August 2024

Aims:

To perform in-silico screening of the natural phytoconstituents against COVID-19 main protease

Background:

COVID-19 is an atypical virus that is universal around the globe. WHO (World Health Organization) has also affirmed the emergency public health concerns regarding COVID-19. As COVID-19 spreads globally within a shorter duration, there is a great demand for effective therapy with minimal side effects.

Objective:

To perform SP and XP docking of the naturally obtained ligand Quercetin (flavonoid)
based on HTVS.

:

To identify the effectiveness of natural phytoconstituents for COVID-19 main protease virus.

Methods:

In the present study, natural ligands were used for performing the virtual screening, which was obtained from Prestwick Phytochemical Library by applying hierarchal screening. Several docking protocols, such as SP and XP, are used to screen the best natural hit compounds. The three best-hit compounds and hydroxychloroquine were further studied for SAR analysis. Moreover, the ADME study by QikProp and the identification of biological sources were carried out by Duke's Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases.

Results:

The results suggest that Quercetin showed good binding affinity towards 6LU7 (-56.689 kcal/mol), which could be an effective natural phytoconstituent for COVID-19.

Conclusion:

Based on HTVS, SP, and XP docking, the naturally obtained ligand Quercetin (a flavonoid) can be used in place of Hydroxychloroquine against COVID-19's main protease virus. This scientific exploration will help to identify the effective natural compound for the COVID-19 main protease virus.
Isolation and Identification of Iron, Chromium, and Manganese Tolerant Filamentous Fungi from Mining Soil
Authors: de A. Nóbrega Patrícia , Ferreira Beatriz L. , Sá Lucas S. , Braga Francinaldo S. , Bezerra Roberto M. , Ferreira Irlon M.
Published: August 2024

Background:

In this study, filamentous fungi from iron mining soils in the Amazon
were isolated and identified as Talaromyces verruculosus, Trichoderma pseudoasperelloides, Penicillium
rolfsii, Aspergillus cf. pseudoviridinutans, Aspergillus niger, Purpureocillium lilacinum,
and Penicillium cf. guaibinense.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the isolated strains for radial growth rate
(VCR) on solid media and liquid in the presence of metals.

Methods:

All these strains showed adaptive behavior in the presence of metals (Fe2+, Mn2+, and
Cr3+), but not significantly compared to controls.

Results:

The T. verruculosus strain was selected to evaluate its growth capacity in solid and liquid
media, enriched with 1, 10, and 20 mg/L of iron, chromium, and manganese, respectively.

Conclusion:

T. verruculosus strain showed tolerance to the concentrations of the metals studied.
Therefore, we can suggest that this characteristic of metal tolerance (Fe2+, Mn2+, and Cr3+) exhibited
by fungi isolated from Amazonian environments may indicate the potential for bioremediating
areas polluted by heavy metals.
ABUNDANCE AND PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF HIGH-DENSITY POLYETHYLENE (HDPE) BIODEGRADING BACTERIA FROM BRANTAS RIVER, MALANG CITY
Authors: Nofa Wiratno Ekwan , Sandra Wardani Erika , Agustin Nurmalita
Published: August 2024

Microplastic pollution has become a global concern after Pandemic COVID-19. This requires efforts to resolve the various negative effects of microplastic pollution in the aquatic environment. The purpose of this study was to isolate, enumerate and potency of microplastic biodegrading bacteria from the Brantas River, Malang City. These research steps consist of environmental factor measure, bacterial isolation, enumeration, biodegradation test (qualitative and quantitative) and data analysis. The environmental conditions of the sampling locations are generally homogeneous. The river temperature observed ranged from 24.1 to 27.2 °C. Research locations that have acidity ranging from 7.35 to 8.16. The salinity of the Brantas River ranges from 205-306 ppm or 0.0205-0.306%. The conductivity of the Brantas River ranges from 410-612 µS/cm. Isolation produced 6 different bacterial isolates. The amount of each isolate varies in each sample. Each isolate was characterized according to colony character standards (configurations, margins and elevations) and cells (shape, gram). Microplastic biodegradation qualitative test indicated by the growth of colonies in the plastic area. This indicates that the bacterial isolate uses plastic as a carbon source. All isolates grow around plastic. Quantitative tests using HDPE sheets show that not all isolates are capable of biodegrading microplastics. Bacterial isolates capable of biodegrading HDPE plastic were isolates K2 (5.41%), K22 (5.16%) and K5 (6.69%).
Gonzalo Halffter Salas (1932–2022) La biodiversidad y el desarrollo sustentable de México
Authors: Guevara Sada Sergio
Published: August 2024

Las perspectivas y alternativas actuales de la conservación y el manejo de la diversidad de México fueron concebidas y desarrolladas por científicos mexicanos a partir de la década de 1960. Entre ellos, se destacó la labor y contribuciones de Gonzalo Halffter Salas (1932-2022), cuyos logros en el estudio y evaluación de la diversidad mexicana y las causas de su distribución, forjaron las ideas que alentaron el diseño de un modelo innovador, que armonizaba la conservación de la diversidad, con el desarrollo sustentable a largo plazo. Es un modelo que ha demostrado tener el potencial de adaptarse a los constantes cambios ambientales, inclusive los ocasionados por las transformaciones que provoca el cambio climático y el uso actual del suelo. Esas ideas influyeron también en la orientación de nuevas instituciones académicas y programas de investigación científica en México.
Penerapan Metode Multisensori Berbantu Balok Hurup Dalam Meningkatkan Kemampuan Membaca Siswa Disleksia Di Sekolah Dasar Inklusi
Authors: Mulyawati Yuli Yuli
Published: August 2024

The ability to read is very important in life, because by reading we can find various information through various writings that are given to us by other people. By reading we can improve our knowledge skills with reading literacy in various ways. Obstacles in reading greatly affect students' cognitive abilities. Where should be reading, students are able to reason about various things in learning. However, if there are problems with just reading, it is very possible that this interferes with other things related to the learning process. There are several things that can cause students to experience reading difficulties. There are reading difficulties caused by students who suffer from dyslexia. Dyslexia in general is a learning disorder in children characterized by difficulty reading and writing. The main causative factor is the brain. But it could also be due to psychological, biological and educational factors seen from the way of learning. And to handle it, special treatment is needed for children who have dyslexia. In class 2, SDN Bantar Jati 9, Bogor City, there are students who have indications of dyslexia. The method in this research is qualitative with a case study approach. The results of the study show that the efforts made to improve the reading ability of dyslexic students are by applying the Multisensory Method. In the implementation of the application of the multisensory method requires learning media that can assist in the learning process, based on the results of research the appropriate media is to apply block letters media. The results showed that the application of the multisensory method assisted by letter blocks can improve the reading ability of dyslexic students. The conclusion is that the application of the multisensory method assisted by letter blocks is effective.
Nilai Nilai Karakter Pada Tradisi Kenduri Sko Masyarakat Adat Desa Tarutung Kerinci Jambi
Authors: Hajri Priazki
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis nilai-nilai karakter yang terkandung dalam tradisi Kenduri Sko masyarakat adat Desa Tarutung Kerinci. Kenduri Sko merupakan kegiatan Pembersihan benda-benda pusaka dengan ritual-ritual tertentu, dan pada puncaknya adalah kegiatan upacara penobatan ninik mamak atau anggota adat yang baru. Hal ini telah dilaksanakan dan ditransmisikan secara turun temurun bahkan sampai saat ini. Metode dalam penelitian ini adalah Kualitatif dengan pendekatan etnografi, dimana sebuah kebudayaan dianalisis berdasarkan aspek-aspek yang berkaitan dengan budaya tersebut secara spesifik, teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah melalui observasi dan wawancara mendalam kepada informan yang dianggap paling mengetahui terkait tradisi kenduri sko, diantaranya yaitu tokoh adat, ninik mamak, dan masyarakat sekitar. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ada empat  nilai karakter yang terkandung dalam tradisi Kenduri Sko diantaranya pertama yaitu nilai tanggung jawab, dimana pada nilai ini tanggung jawab terhadap pelaksanaan tradisi diembankan kepada para pemangku adat, kedua tanggung jawab terhadap pemeliharaan tradisi, nilai ini diembankan kepada generasi muda. Kedua nilai yang berhasil dieksplorasi adalah nilai toleransi, dimana dalam pelaksanaan tradisi ini memiliki latar belakang ekonomi, status social dan kedudukan ditengah-tengah masyarakat, namun tetap melaksanakan tradisi atas dasar persatuan, ketiga yaitu nilai karakter kecintaan terhadap tradisi dan leluhur, dan keempat adalah nilai peduli sosial, hal ini ditunjukkan dengan masyarakat bahu membahu bergotong royong dalam pelaksaan tradisi agar berjalan dengan lancar.
Tahapan pembelajaran ilmu pengetahuan sosial berdiferensiasi berbasis Asset Based Community Development (ABCD)
Authors: Lewu Ezra Gerry Yohanes
Published: August 2024

Model pembelajaran berdiferensiasi menjadi salah satu strategi yang ditawarkan dalam pelaksanaan kurikulum merdeka. Setiap guru diarahkan untuk melihat berbagai potensi siswa dan lingkungan sekitar agar dapat dimanfaatkan untuk memenuhi capaian pembelajaran. Pendekatan Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) dapat menjadi salah satu pilihan dalam melaksanakan pembelajaran berdiferensiasi khususnya dalam Pelajaran Ilmu Pengetahuan Sosial (IPS). ABCD dapat dimanfaatkan sebagai kerangka konseptual untuk membangun pembelajaran yang berbasis pada kekuatan lokal yang dimiliki oleh setiap komunitas belajar. Melalui analisis studi literatur dan refleksi pembelajaran, penelitian ini mengidentifikasi tahapan-tahapan yang dapat dilakukan untuk melaksanakan pembelajaran IPS berdiferensiasi dengan berbasis aset lokal. Tahapan tersebut mencakup Pemetaan Aset, Membangun Ikatan dan Hubungan, Mobilisasi Komunitas, Penemuan dan Imajinasi, Evaluasi dan Refleksi serta Dukungan Eksternal. Penelitian ini menggambarkan bagaimana model ABCD dapat diintegrasikan dalam praktik pembelajaran kurikulum merdeka. Tahapan-tahapan ini diharapkan dapat menjadi alternatif dalam pelaksanaan praktik pembelajaran berdiferensiasi yang responsif terhadap keberagaman murid dan aset lokal yang dimiliki. Kata kunci: pembelajaran berdiferensiasi, pengembangan komunitas berbasis aset, ilmu sosial
Achievement of safer learning facilities standards in the disaster safe education unit program at Panggang elementary school
Authors: Utami Anindita Ayu Nisa , Dwiastuti Anggit Nur , Nurmalasari Yuli
Published: August 2024

This study aims to discover and describe the achievement of safer learning facility standards for the disaster safe education unit  program at Panggang elementary school, Bambanglipuro. This study is a descriptive evaluative research mixed methods approach with a sequential explanatory strategy. The sampling technique was carried out with saturated samples. Data collection techniques used observation, interviews, documentation studies, and questionnaires. Data validity uses internal validation, technical triangulation, and source triangulation. Quantitative data analysis uses a percentage formula calculation according to Sugiyono, while qualitative data analysis uses an interactive analysis model. However, each aspect still has gaps. The gaps that occur are not too significant, but still affect the achievement of safer learning facilities. Efforts are needed from Panggang elementary school Bambanglipuro to reduce or even eliminate existing gaps so that safe learning facilities in the disaster safe education unit program can be fully achieved. Keywords: program evaluation, disaster safe education unit  program, safer learning facilities
Mitigating Sociodemographic Bias in Opioid Use Disorder Prediction: Fairness-Aware Machine Learning Framework
Authors: Yaseliani Mohammad , Noor-E-Alam Md , Hasan Md Mahmudul
Published: August 2024

Background

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a critical public health crisis in the United States, affecting >5.5 million Americans in 2021. Machine learning has been used to predict patient risk of incident OUD. However, little is known about the fairness and bias of these predictive models.

Objective

The aims of this study are two-fold: (1) to develop a machine learning bias mitigation algorithm for sociodemographic features and (2) to develop a fairness-aware weighted majority voting (WMV) classifier for OUD prediction.

Methods

We used the 2020 National Survey on Drug and Health data to develop a neural network (NN) model using stochastic gradient descent (SGD; NN-SGD) and an NN model using Adam (NN-Adam) optimizers and evaluated sociodemographic bias by comparing the area under the curve values. A bias mitigation algorithm, based on equality of odds, was implemented to minimize disparities in specificity and recall. Finally, a WMV classifier was developed for fairness-aware prediction of OUD. To further analyze bias detection and mitigation, we did a 1-N matching of OUD to non-OUD cases, controlling for socioeconomic variables, and evaluated the performance of the proposed bias mitigation algorithm and WMV classifier.

Results

Our bias mitigation algorithm substantially reduced bias with NN-SGD, by 21.66% for sex, 1.48% for race, and 21.04% for income, and with NN-Adam by 16.96% for sex, 8.87% for marital status, 8.45% for working condition, and 41.62% for race. The fairness-aware WMV classifier achieved a recall of 85.37% and 92.68% and an accuracy of 58.85% and 90.21% using NN-SGD and NN-Adam, respectively. The results after matching also indicated remarkable bias reduction with NN-SGD and NN-Adam, respectively, as follows: sex (0.14% vs 0.97%), marital status (12.95% vs 10.33%), working condition (14.79% vs 15.33%), race (60.13% vs 41.71%), and income (0.35% vs 2.21%). Moreover, the fairness-aware WMV classifier achieved high performance with a recall of 100% and 85.37% and an accuracy of 73.20% and 89.38% using NN-SGD and NN-Adam, respectively.

Conclusions

The application of the proposed bias mitigation algorithm shows promise in reducing sociodemographic bias, with the WMV classifier confirming bias reduction and high performance in OUD prediction.
The Effect of Prebedtime Behaviors on Sleep Duration and Quality in Children: Protocol for a Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Jackson Rosie , Gu Chao , Haszard Jillian , Meredith-Jones Kim , Galland Barbara , Camp Justine , Brown Deirdre , Taylor Rachael
Published: August 2024

Background

It is recommended that children should avoid eating dinner, being physically active, or using screens in the hour before bed to ensure good sleep health. However, the evidence base behind these guidelines is weak and limited to cross-sectional studies using questionnaires.

Objective

The aim of this randomized crossover trial was to use objective measures to experimentally determine whether recommendations to improve sleep by banning electronic media, physical activity, or food intake in the hour before bed, impact sleep quantity and quality in the youth.

Methods

After a baseline week to assess usual behavior, 72 children (10-14.9 years old) will be randomized to four conditions, which are (1) avoid all 3 behaviors, (2) use screens for at least 30 minutes, (3) be physically active for at least 30 minutes, and (4) eat a large meal, during the hour before bed on days 5 to 7 of weeks 2 to 5. Families can choose which days of the week they undertake the intervention, but they must be the same days for each intervention week. Guidance on how to undertake each intervention will be provided. Interventions will only be undertaken during the school term to avoid known changes in sleep during school holidays. Intervention adherence and shuteye latency (time from getting into bed until attempting sleep) will be measured by wearable and stationary PatrolEyes video cameras (StuntCams). Sleep (total sleep time, sleep onset, and wake after sleep onset) will be measured using actigraphy (baseline, days 5 to 7 of each intervention week). Mixed effects regression models with a random effect for participants will be used to estimate mean differences (95% CI) for conditions 2 to 4 compared with condition 1.

Results

Recruitment started in March 2024, and is anticipated to finish in April 2025. Following data analysis, we expect that results will be available later in 2026.

Conclusions

Using objective measures, we will be able to establish if causal relationships exist between prebedtime behaviors and sleep in children. Such information is critical to ensure appropriate and achievable sleep guidelines.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12624000206527; https://tinyurl.com/3kcjmfnj

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/63692
Efficacy of Real-Time Feedback Exercise Therapy in Patients Following Total Hip Arthroplasty: Protocol for a Pilot Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Widhalm Klaus , Maul Lukas , Durstberger Sebastian , Putz Peter , Leder-Berg Sebastian , Kainz Hans , Augat Peter
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis of the hip joint is an increasing functional and health-related problem. The most common surgical treatment is hip replacement to reduce pain and improve function. Rehabilitation after total hip arthroplasty (THA) is not regulated in Austria and mostly depends on the patient’s own initiative and possibilities. Functional deficits, such as valgus thrust of the leg, functional Trendelenburg gait, or Duchenne limp, are characteristic symptoms before and, due to the performance learning effect prior to surgery, also after the operation. Addressing these deficits is possible through neuromuscular-focused exercise therapy. The efficacy of such therapy relies significantly on the quality of performance, the frequency of exercise, and the duration of engagement. Enhancing sustainability is achievable through increased motivation and real-time feedback (RTF) on exercise execution facilitated by digital feedback systems.

OBJECTIVE

This study will be performed to quantify the medium-term effectiveness of digital home exercise feedback systems on functional performance following THA.

METHODS

A clinical trial with a cluster-randomized, 2-arm, parallel-group design with an 8-week intervention phase and subsequent follow-ups at 3 and 6 months postsurgery will be conducted. Feedback during exercising will be provided through a blended-care program, combining a supervised group exercise program with a self-developed digital feedback system for home exercise. In total, 70 patients will be recruited for baseline. The primary outcome parameters will be the frontal knee range of motion, pelvic obliquity, and lateral trunk lean. Secondary outcomes will be the sum scores of patient-reported outcomes and relevant kinematic, kinetic, and spatiotemporal parameters.

RESULTS

The trial started in January 2024, and the first results are anticipated to be published by June 2025. RTF-supported home exercise is expected to improve exercise execution quality and therapeutic adherence compared to using paper instructions for excise guidance.

CONCLUSIONS

The anticipated findings of this study aim to offer new insights into the effect of a blended-care program incorporating digital RTF on exercise therapy after unilateral THA, in addition to knowledge on the functional status 3 and 6 months postsurgery, for further improvement in the development of rehabilitation guidelines following THA.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06161194; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06161194

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/59755
The Effect of Prebedtime Behaviors on Sleep Duration and Quality in Children: Protocol for a Randomized Crossover Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Jackson Rosie , Gu Chao , Haszard Jillian , Meredith-Jones Kim , Galland Barbara , Camp Justine , Brown Deirdre , Taylor Rachael
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

It is recommended that children should avoid eating dinner, being physically active, or using screens in the hour before bed to ensure good sleep health. However, the evidence base behind these guidelines is weak and limited to cross-sectional studies using questionnaires.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this randomized crossover trial was to use objective measures to experimentally determine whether recommendations to improve sleep by banning electronic media, physical activity, or food intake in the hour before bed, impact sleep quantity and quality in the youth.

METHODS

After a baseline week to assess usual behavior, 72 children (10-14.9 years old) will be randomized to four conditions, which are (1) avoid all 3 behaviors, (2) use screens for at least 30 minutes, (3) be physically active for at least 30 minutes, and (4) eat a large meal, during the hour before bed on days 5 to 7 of weeks 2 to 5. Families can choose which days of the week they undertake the intervention, but they must be the same days for each intervention week. Guidance on how to undertake each intervention will be provided. Interventions will only be undertaken during the school term to avoid known changes in sleep during school holidays. Intervention adherence and shuteye latency (time from getting into bed until attempting sleep) will be measured by wearable and stationary PatrolEyes video cameras (StuntCams). Sleep (total sleep time, sleep onset, and wake after sleep onset) will be measured using actigraphy (baseline, days 5 to 7 of each intervention week). Mixed effects regression models with a random effect for participants will be used to estimate mean differences (95% CI) for conditions 2 to 4 compared with condition 1.

RESULTS

Recruitment started in March 2024, and is anticipated to finish in April 2025. Following data analysis, we expect that results will be available later in 2026.

CONCLUSIONS

Using objective measures, we will be able to establish if causal relationships exist between prebedtime behaviors and sleep in children. Such information is critical to ensure appropriate and achievable sleep guidelines.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12624000206527; https://tinyurl.com/3kcjmfnj

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/63692
Mental Health on a Shoestring? Assessing Awareness and Acceptance of Digital Phenotyping in Dhaka's Korail Slum: A Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Alam Nadia , Giacco Domenico , Rasel Sheikh , Siddiqi Mohammad Bulbul Ashraf , Singh Swaran P. , Jilka Sagar
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Digital phenotyping (DP), the process of using data from digital devices, like smartphones and wearable technology to understand and monitor people's behaviour, health, and daily activities, has shown significant promise in mental health care within high-income countries (HICs). However, its application in lower and middle-income countries (LMICs) is limited, particularly among impoverished populations such as slum residents.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the awareness, knowledge, acceptance, and implementation of DP, including willingness to share data, and concerns regarding privacy and data security, among residents of Dhaka's Korail slum, one of Bangladesh's largest and most densely populated informal settlements.

METHODS

We conducted eight focus group discussions (FGDs) with 38 participants with individuals diagnosed with serious mental disorders (SMDs) and their caregivers. The FGDs also included a section explaining what DP is.

RESULTS

There was a general lack of awareness about DP among the participants. Most had no prior knowledge of DP, but after receiving an explanation, they acknowledged its potential applications and benefits. Participants recognized the utility of DP for health monitoring, particularly in managing mental health conditions. They expressed their interest in sharing data, if the content of their activities was not accessed. Despite these perceived benefits, significant concerns about privacy and data security emerged. Participants expressed fears about the potential misuse of their personal information, with some feeling resigned to the idea of already being constantly monitored. This highlights a critical barrier to the adoption of DP tools: the need for robust data protection measures and transparent communication to build trust among users. Participants stressed the need for DP to reflect local customs and practices.

CONCLUSIONS

To implement DP effectively in LMICs, educational initiatives are necessary to raise awareness and understanding of the technology. Additionally, robust data protection measures must be in place, and clear communication about these measures can help alleviate fears and build trust. DP tools should be adapted to fit the cultural context of the target population, possibly involving modifications to the types of data collected or the way data is interpreted. In conclusion, while DP holds potential to improve mental health care in underserved communities, addressing barriers related to awareness, privacy, culture and usability is crucial. Focusing on educational initiatives, robust data protection, cultural adaptation, user-friendly design, and community engagement, DP can become a valuable tool in bridging the mental health care gap in LMICs.
Folklore Writing by South African Diasporic Writers—Taking Zakes Mda’s Novels as an Example
Authors: Hu Zhongqing , Zhang Shuqin , Cui Yan
Published: August 2024

As a diasporic writer, while suffering from “island consciousness” that resulted from the conflicts of heterogeneous cultures, Zakes Mda had the opportunity to re-examine his home country as both an insider and an outsider. By deeply rooting his writing in the African continent and focusing on African folklore, Mda opens up space for another discourse to express his ideals and conscience as a diasporic intellectual, and he conveys the voice of Africa to the world. Through folklore writing, Mda not only expresses his identification with national culture, but also explores the charm and value of global indigenous culture in a modern situation within the framework of global culture and expresses his concern for human existence in a broad vision.
Antibiotics in Poultry: Examining Alternatives for Safer Food Production
Authors: Sharma Ankit , Kumar Anil , Gangwar Sumit , Shashikant Shashikant , Sarma Gautami , Kumar Rishav
Published: August 2024

Chicken is the most commonly farmed species with over 90 billion tons of chicken meat produced per year. Many food-producing animals are given antibiotics daily to grow faster and prevent diseases in many parts of the world. When antibiotics are used for the purposes of growth promotion a small amount is often administered as compared to therapeutic use. Therefore, this may cause bacteria to develop antibiotic resistance (World Health Organization, 2017). There are several challeneges related to antibiotic free bird production. Several alternatives to antibiotics, including probiotics, prebiotics, competitive exclusion, enzymes, and organic acids, have shown promise in replacing antibiotics. The use of prebiotics aids in preventing the colonization of the digestive system by harmful pathogens, achieved by creating an unfavorable environment through pH alterations in the intestinal content. Probiotics, which are live strains of strictly selected microorganisms have beneficial effects on health. The incorporation of enzymes in poultry diets offers several advantages, including reduced digesta viscosity, improved digestion and nutrient absorption, increased feed intake, and enhanced weight gain. Maximizing performance and sustaining poultry productivity will rely on employing well-balanced combinations of diverse alternatives alongside effective management practices. This approach remains essential for accomplishing our ultimate goal of reducing antibiotic usage.
Modelación de una red de procesos en una organización de educación superior
Authors: Hernández Cansino Carmen , Carreón Vázquez Gustavo , Urbiola Solís Alejandra Elizabeth , Vázquez García Ángel Whilhelm
Published: August 2024

Objetivo: presentar la aplicación de una herramienta metodológica para construir redes basada en procesos organizacionales, con el fin de extender y corroborar su uso para modelar estructuralmente diversas formas de organización y detectar vulnerabilidades, permitiendo establecer e implementar estrategias de mejora en su gestión y respaldar la toma de decisiones.
Diseño metodológico: se aplicaron las cuatro fases de la metodología para construir redes basadas en procesos organizacionales y obtener información sobre la organización donde se aplicará, sus procedimientos y la construcción de la red, en este caso, de la Coordinación de la Licenciatura en Administración de la Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Xochimilco. Además, se recabó información proveniente de dos fuentes: del manual de procedimientos proporcionado por la institución y por un estudio de campo para recabar información sobre sus actividades durante un año.
Resultados: con este estudio de caso se muestra que la metodología es flexible y su aplicación puede hacerse en cualquier tipo de organización, además, se extendió al trabajar no solo con nodos conformados por un solo puesto, sino por entidades formadas por dos o incluso más nodos.
Limitaciones de la investigación: en las redes resultantes hay nodos que se visualizan cuando reciben información, pero no puede verse hacia dónde dirigen esa información, esto es porque las interacciones y conexiones que tienen con actores de otras áreas no se analizaron para este ejercicio.
Hallazgos: los resultados muestran, a diferencia del trabajo previo a este estudio de caso, que existe un trabajo en conjunto en el flujo de algunos de los procesos, lo cual impacta de manera cotidiana en las actividades, donde el trabajo en equipo es relevante para la Coordinación de Administración.