bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perfil epidemiológico da hanseníase no Brasil
Authors: Rollemberg Carlos Eduardo Vieira , Santos Bruno de Santana , Silva Raul Santos , Paradis Rafael Joseph Macedo , Vieira Rodolfo da Silva , Lisboa Keila Henrique , Vieira Jessica Tayná de Carvalho , Machado Natan Martins , Azevedo Luiz Phillipe Silva , Bragança Gleide Gatto
Published: May 2024

A hanseníase é causada pela bactéria Mycobacterium leprae, é uma doença infectocontagiosa com período de latência prolongado. O Brasil é atualmente o segundo país mais endêmico do mundo. Apresenta-se com grande potencial incapacitante, o que se encontra intrinsecamente relacionado ao estigma e preconceito sobre a doença. Atualmente, essa doença persiste como um problema de saúde pública no mundo com forte determinação social. Diante desse contexto, o objetivo deste estudo é analisar o perfil epidemiológico por hanseníase, em todas as idades, no Brasil e suas regiões, entre 2012 e 2023. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico realizado tendo como embasamento os dados do departamento de informação de saúde do SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde). As variáveis utilizadas foram: internações hospitalares, óbitos, faixa etária, cor/raça, sexo, gastos hospitalares e macrorregião de saúde. Resultados: 49.229 internações ocorreram por hanseníase no período analisado. O maior ano de hospitalizações foi 2013, a região nordestina é responsável pelo maior número de hospitalizações e óbitos. As interações na região Sul são mais custosas e a região Sudeste é destaque no período médio dos pacientes por hanseníase. Homens, pardos, com idades entre 50 e 59 anos são os mais acometidos. Conclusão: Conhecer o padrão da hanseníase nessa população pode subsidiar o planejamento das ações de vigilância e controle da doença e a atenção pelas ações de educação propostas devem ser redobradas.
Análise das características clínico-epidemiológicas da endometriose no Brasil
Authors: Cardoso Wellington Campos , Oliveira Sheila Soares , Silveira Vanessa Fonseca Carvalho , Cerqueira Isabella Vilaronga , Messias Yasmin Prado , Souza Maria Victoria Miranda , Leite Fernanda Gabryelle Soares , Nascimento Luana Resende , Prado Carla Azevedo , Madruga Edna Passos
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A endometriose é uma doença inflamatória estrogênio-dependente caracterizada pela presença de glândula endometriais e estroma fora da cavidade uterina. Estimativas sobre o assunto apontam que no mundo 70 milhões de mulheres são acometidas pela patologia, e que se tornou um dos principais motivos de internação por causas ginecológicas nos países industrializados. Objetivo: analisar as características clínico-epidemiológicas da endometriose no Brasil. Metodologia: foi realizada uma revisão de literatura, a partir de artigos científicos da Scielo e Pubmed, utilizando os descritores endometriose, endometrioma, adenomiose. Foram incluídos artigos em português, publicados no período de 2000 a 2023 Ademais, realizou-se um estudo epidemiológico transversal descritivo embasado no departamento de informação de saúde do SUS (DATA/SUS) no período entre janeiro de 2012 e Outubro de 2023, utilizando as variáveis: internações hospitalares, taxa de mortalidade, óbitos, faixa etária, cor/raça, sexo, caráter de atendimento e macrorregião de saúde, média de internação hospitalar. Resultados: 66.775 internações ocorreram por endometriose e o maior número de hospitalizações foi em 2022. A região Sudeste foi a mais notificada quanto a quantidade de internados e de indivíduos que faleceram por endometriose. A maior faixa-etária acometida foi entre 40 e 49 anos. Conclusão: A endometriose é uma doença custosa aos cofres públicos e está relacionada a diagnóstico precoce e correto tratamento para um bom prognóstico.
Aerobic exercise program performed on a stationary bicycle associated to a photobiomodulation for knee osteoarthritis treatment: A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized, clinical trial and pilot study
Authors: Santos Thatiane Izabele Ribeiro , Vassão Patricia Gabrielli , Vasquez Jessica Dayane da Costa , Wen Yu Pin , Parisi Julia , Campos Raquel Munhoz da Silveira , Guerra Ricardo Luís Fernandes , Gonze Bárbara de Barros , Barbosa Alan Carlos Brisola , Dourado Victor Zuniga , Renno Ana Claudia Muniz
Published: May 2024

Objective: Investigate the effects of photobiomodulation (PBMT) and an exercise program aerobic on pain, range of motion, mobility, functionality and quality of life of women with knee osteoarthritis (OA). 24 volunteers were included and randomized into 2 groups: Exercise and Placebo PBMT Group (EPPG) (n=12) and Exercise and Active PBMT Group (EAPG) (n=12). The aerobic exercise program was performed on a stationary bicycle, 2 times a week and PBMT was applied in the most affected lower limb. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) were used. In addition, Knee Flexion Range of Motion (ROM), 40m Fast-Paced Walk Test (40mFPWT), 9-Stair Climb Test (9-step SCT) and, 30s Chair Stand Test (30sCST). Results: The level of pain was significantly reduced for both groups after the intervention (EAPG p= 0.01; EPPG p= 0.01). Also, a significant increase in the variables measured by KOOS evaluation for both groups were seen after the treatment. An increase in functional capacity of SF-36 was observed only in the EAPG group (p= 0.004) in the revaluation compared to evaluation. For the evaluations of active flexion ROM, 40m Fast-Paced Walk, 9-Stair Climb and 30s Chair Stand Tests no differences were seen for both groups in the reevaluation. Conclusions: After 8 weeks, the aerobic exercise program (with or without PBM) was effective pain, symptoms, activities of daily living, function in sport and recreation, quality of life and general KOOS score in women with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).
Hamartoma cístico retrorretal: Um relato de caso de Tailgut Cyst
Authors: Machado Camila Zanetti , Ferreira Thiara de Medeiros Jabor , Almeida Leticia Rodrigues de , Santos Ilana Chaves de Botica , Lage Helena Gouvêa Galhardo , Leal Renan Helio Sens , Mesquita Vinicius Amaro Chagas
Published: May 2024

Desenho de estudo: Relato de caso. O Tailgut Cyst (TC) é um tumor retrorretal congênito que surge a partir de remanescentes do intestino posterior durante o desenvolvimento embrionário, cujos sintomas podem ser inespecíficos e o tratamento consiste na excisão completa do cisto, visando evitar complicações intra e pós-operatórias. Objetivo: O objetivo desta pesquisa é abordar o caso de uma paciente portadora de Tailgut Cyst e discutir o tema com ênfase em diagnóstico e tratamento cirúrgico, analisando as técnicas e incisões possíveis para o procedimento. Métodos: O estudo consiste em um caso específico de uma paciente de 56 anos que foi submetida a ressecção de um tumor retrorretal, posteriormente diagnosticado pelo anatomopatológico como Tailgut Cyst, juntamente com uma análise bibliográfica exploratória e descritiva, utilizando métodos e abordagens qualitativas. O participante da pesquisa desempenhou um papel crucial ao fornecer informações valiosas sobre seu quadro clínico por meio de uma entrevista estruturada, analisada e aprovada pelo Comitê de ética. Conclusão: A abordagem individualizada deve ser preconizada para diagnóstico e tratamento do TC, com colaboração entre diversas especialidades médicas. A seleção da técnica cirúrgica e o seguimento ambulatorial são cruciais para garantir resultados bem-sucedidos e a recuperação completa dos pacientes. Em resumo, o caso destaca a complexidade do Tailgut Cyst e a necessidade de uma abordagem abrangente e interdisciplinar para seu manejo adequado.
Moderasi Size Pada Struktur Modal dan Pembiayaan Murabahah Terhadap Profitabilitas Bank Umum Syariah
Authors: Azlinda Noer , Setiyowati Supami Wahyu , Made Anwar
Published: May 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah memahami dan menyelidiki bagaimana pengaruh moderasi size pada struktur modal dan pembiayaan murabahah terhadap profitabilitas pada bank umum syariah di (OJK) antara tahun 2017-2020. Metode yang dipakai pada analisis ini merupakan pendekatan kuantitatif. Penelitian ini menggunakan populasi Bank Umum Syariah (BUS) yang terdaftar di (OJK) tahun 2017-2020 berjumlah 15 perusahaan.  8 sampel BUS yang dipakai sesuai dengan kriteria. Uji Data yang diteliti berupa data tahunan. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan yaitu PLS dengan alat analisis data yaitu Smart Partial Least Square (SmartPLS) 3. Hasil penelitian yang dilakukan adalah Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa struktur modal berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap profitabilitas, pembiayaan murabahah berpengaruh negatif dan tidak signifikan terhadap profitabilitas, firm size memoderasi struktur modal terhadap profitabilitas, Firm size tidak memoderasi pembiayaan murabahah terhadap profitabilitas.
Deteksi Manajemen Laba Melalui Karakteristik Perusahaan: Studi Empiris pada Perusahaan yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Nailufaroh Lulu , Maulita Dian , Framita Dien Sefty
Published: May 2024

Manajemen laba merupakan cara manajer perusahaan untuk mengubah informasi yang terkandung dalam laporan keuangan dengan tujuan untuk menipu pemangku kepentingan yang ingin mengetahui kinerja dan keadaan perusahaan (Sulistyanto, 2014). Tujuan dari riset ini adalah untuk menguji dan menganalisis variabel-variabel yang dapat mempengaruhi manajemen laba pada perusahaan  industri kimia pada tahun 2019-2021. Peneliti memakai variabel independen yaitu karakteristik perusahaan. Karakteristik perusahaan diukur dengan ukuran perusahaan dan leverage keuangan. Data penelitian yang terkumpul diolah melalui berbagai teknik analisis regresi dan teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan purposive sampling. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa leverage tidak berpengaruh terhadap manajemen laba, sedangkan ukuran perusahaan berpengaruh negatif signifikan terhadap manajemen laba.
Optimalisasi Hasil Tangkap Rajungan Masyarakat Kampung Rajungan sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Ekonomi Masyarakat Kecamatan Paciran Kabupaten Lamongan
Authors: Masyhadi Ahmad , Mauluddin Moh. , Wardil Lathif Sahro
Published: May 2024

Paciran Village is renowned for its marine produce, one of which is the blue swimmer crab. Many villagers in Paciran work as blue swimmer crab fishermen. Consequently, the village is known as "crab village." In recent months, many of the blue swimmer crabs caught by fishermen have not met the standards required for export, leading to a decline in income for the crab fishermen. This decline has directly impacted the well-being of the fishermen's families. In light of this situation, researchers were interested in providing assistance to the blue swimmer crab fishermen of Paciran. The main focus of this community engagement included understanding the conditions of the crab fishermen in the village, developing a model and strategy to assist in finding solutions to the issues faced by the crab fishermen, assessing the impact of this assistance on the sustainability of the crab fishermen's livelihoods. The objectives of this community engagement were to comprehend the situation of the crab fishermen in the village, determine and implement suitable models and strategies to address the issues faced by the crab fishermen, enhance the resilience of the crab fishermen's livelihoods and produce marketable products at competitive prices. The methodology employed in this engagement was Community-Based Research (CBR). This engagement revealed that the fishermen's knowledge regarding matters related to blue swimmer crabs improved. Also, sustainable fishing techniques were implemented, and income for the crab fishermen increased. Besides, better understanding of regulations concerning fisheries and marine life was achieved, and negative impacts on the marine environment were reduced. It suggested that effective and sustainable assistance for the crab fishermen can yield long-term benefits.
Empowering Mahasantri Community In Developing Open Educational Resources On Ecological-Based Islamic Education Learning
Authors: Anam Nurul , Syaehotin Sayyidah
Published: May 2024

Currently, society is confronted with highly significant issues. These issues pose significant concerns caused of global climate change and the advent of Society 5.0. The Department  of Islamic Education in Islamic higher education may encounter these issues. The department is responsible for producing competent prospective teachers who are capable of adapting to contemporary advancements. Indeed, the findings of the preliminary study indicate that students enrolled in the Department of Islamic Education at IAI Al-Qodiri Jember seems to be insufficiently prepared to confront these two highly significant challenges. Thus, this community service aimed to empower mahasantri by enabling them to create an open educational resource for Ecological-based Islamic Education learning. The objective was to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to address the challenges posed by global climate change and the Society 5.0 era. The community service used the Community-based Research (CBR) method. The findings resulted some points. First, students in the department exhibited an awareness to confront the challenges they encountered and fostered a desire among students to promote changes through the educational-oriented open educational resources movements. Secondly. students were capable of generating advancements in the form of IT-based Islamic Education learning materials and instructional media. Thirdly, students demonstrated the ability to create diverse products through the process of developing learning media, specifically open educational resources that encompassed materials and other Ecological-based Islamic Education learning activities.
Pengolahan Limbah Organik Pasar Sayur Kota Metro Sebagai Media Kultur Maggot Hermetia Illucens Melalui Pot Biokonversi Bagi Peternak Ayam Skala UMKM
Authors: Anwar Muhammad Saidun , Wati Yuning Eka Rahma
Published: May 2024

This activity aims to explore the effectiveness of applying organic waste from the Vegetable Market in Metro City as a medium for Hermetia Illucens maggot culture, as well as to determine the ecological and economic impacts of the activity on small-scale poultry farmers in Metro City. The community service was conducted using the Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) method. Several points were obtained from the conducted community service: first, the discovery and dream phase involved educating and socializing the potential of organic waste as a maggot cultivation asset, as well as formulating the desired targets. Second, the design and define phase aimed to formulate program activities to achieve the targets, including determining the timing, location, and necessary equipment. Third, the destiny phase included the implementation of the community service, which involved education and practical activities such as hatching maggot eggs, making larva maggot breeding boxes, sorting and fermenting organic waste, and constructing a production house. Based on the monitoring conducted, challenges were found in the form of predator attacks such as rats, chickens, and green flies on the maggot egg hatching containers. Evaluation was carried out by creating special containers equipped with lamp lighting and using netting as covers for the containers. Challenges were also found in the aspect of maggot growth, where the utilization of organic waste from the Metro City vegetable market was not sufficient to maximize growth. Therefore, evaluation was conducted by mixing organic waste from the Metro City vegetable market with household waste generated by each partner of the community service. Education and mentoring in the management of organic waste from the Metro City vegetable market have impacted the community's perspective on viewing organic waste as a valuable asset and their skills in managing waste as a medium for maggot cultivation.
The Palestinian Rural Notables’ Class in Ascendency: The Hannun Family of Tulkarm (Palestine)
Authors: Marom Dr Roy
Published: May 2024

This paper discusses the Palestinian rural notables’ class, comprised of rural sheikhs, village or clan headmen with similar life trajectories in late Ottoman and British Mandate Palestine. The paper uses the Palestinian Hannun family of Tulkarm to demonstrate how these notables exploited changing legal, administrative and political conditions, and global economic realities, to attain socio-economic and political ascendency in the Palestinian countryside and its emergent towns. The article analyses their actions in structuralist terms of clans, households, marriage alliances and networks of patronage, and historically contextualises their rational decision-making process about selling land to Jews and cooperation with the British authorities.
Habakkuk 2:4 Implications in Biblical Counseling
Authors: Theo Sahara
Published: May 2024

Habakkuk 2:4 conveys the contrast between the life of a proud person עפל (`aphal) or a person with all pride and dishonesty contrasted with a righteous person דִּיק ( tsaddiq ) who lives with faithfulness. Habakkuk has given an understanding that each person has a personal relationship with God and must live in loyalty to Him. People who are arrogant depend on human strength and abilities, while righteous people live by relying on faith in God. This verse quoted by Paul (Rom. 1:17, Gal. 3:11) and the book of Hebrews (Heb. 10:38). This section provides teaching about the importance of living with loyalty to God and relying on Him in every aspect of life and the implications in Biblical Counselling.
Challenges for crop diversification in cotton-based farming systems in India: a comprehensive gap analysis between practices and policies
Authors: Keller Chigusa , Joshi Smita , Joshi Tanay , Goldmann Eva , Riar Amritbir
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Crop diversification is a promising practice to improve the sustainability of agricultural production systems, contributing to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem functions, and food security without compromising productivity. Although diverse cropping systems may be more labour-intensive and require good knowledge of the specific cropping system in the local context, they have high potential in managing many of the problems faced in current cotton production in India. However, the adoption of crop diversification is still moderate, with an overall crop diversification index (CDI) of 0.65 for all of India and state-wise CDI between 0.43 and 0.83.

Methods

Therefore, a four-phased study was conducted to identify the main barriers to crop diversification in cotton-based farming systems in India and highlight levers that can foster their wide adoption to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. The study was carried out between January to October 2020 and consisted of i) a literature review of regional and national policy and planning, ii) situational analysis with a problem tree approach, iii) individual stakeholder interviews with stakeholders from the broader Indian cotton sector, and iv) a participatory feedback workshop with said stakeholders. A total of 51 stakeholders from 24 different organizations were interviewed, 37 of them on technical aspects of crop diversification and 21 stakeholders on market and policy aspects. The same stakeholders were invited to the participatory feedback workshop, where 26 participated in the session on different benefits of crop diversification practices, and the session on market and policy challenges counted 24 participants. The study focused on the main organic cotton producing states in India: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.

Results and discussion

In our study, it became evident that many policies and governmental schemes exist to promote national food security, sustainable agriculture, and agricultural marketing infrastructure, but crop diversification is still not gaining momentum on the ground. Various levers were identified in the areas of market and procurement, capacity building and knowledge transfer, supply industry and infrastructure, and farmers and women empowerment, where the current policy landscape is failing to foster crop diversification effectively on the farm level.
Implementation of dose calculation methods for NORM by-products in building materials in the circular economy framework
Authors: La Verde Giuseppe , Gagliardo Gaetano , Ambrosino Fabrizio , Pugliese Mariagabriella
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Risk assessment of exposure to indoor pollutants plays an increasingly important role in human protection, and one of the main sources of indoor pollutants is building materials (BMs). In addition, production processes, including those related to BMs, are also involved in economic transition: the use of by-products from other industrial sectors as raw materials for the production processes in compliance with environmental sustainability is evaluated.

Methods: In this work, we evaluate not only the radiation protection of BMs but also the possibility of adopting the circular economy principles. The two main objectives of this study were 1) radiometric characterization and calculation of Index I of pozzolan from Altavilla Irpina (Avellino) in Italy, used as a natural igneous additive for concrete, using gamma spectroscopy, and 2) comparison of different methodologies for calculating the annual effective dose of BMs (CEN/TR 17113:2017, RESRAD-BUILD software, and a previously developed experimental method). The same approach was extended to the possibility of reusing fly ash—a naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) by-product of coal combustion in thermal power plants—for the production of concrete.

Results and Discussion: The study aligns with the principles linked to the circular economy to extend the life cycle of materials by reducing the need for natural resources, suggesting a possible positive compromise between radioprotection and preservation of environmental heritage.
In vitro biofilm formation of Gardnerella vaginalis and Escherichia coli associated with bacterial vaginosis and aerobic vaginitis
Authors: Shang Xiang , Bai Huihui , Fan Linyuan , Zhang Xin , Zhao Xiaowen , Liu Zhaohui
Published: May 2024

Objective

To determine the optimum biofilm formation ratio of Gardnerella vaginalis (G. vaginalis) in a mixed culture with Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Methods

G. vaginalis ATCC14018, E. coli ATCC25922, as well as five strains of G. vaginalis were selected from the vaginal sources of patients whose biofilm forming capacity was determined by the Crystal Violet method. The biofilm forming capacity of E. coli in anaerobic and non-anaerobic environments were compared using the identical assay. The Crystal Violet method was also used to determine the biofilm forming capacity of a co-culture of G. vaginalis and E. coli in different ratios. After Live/Dead staining, biofilm thickness was measured using confocal laser scanning microscopy, and biofilm morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy.

Results

The biofilm forming capacity of E. coli under anaerobic environment was similar to that in a 5% CO2 environment. The biofilm forming capacity of G. vaginalis and E. coli was stronger at 106:105 CFU/mL than at other ratios (P<0.05). Their thicknesses were greater at 106:105 CFU/mL than at the other ratios, with the exception of 106:102 CFU/mL (P<0.05), under laser scanning microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy revealed increased biofilm formation at 106:105 CFU/mL and 106:102 CFU/mL, but no discernible E. coli was observed at 106:102 CFU/mL.

Conclusion

G. vaginalis and E. coli showed the greatest biofilm forming capacity at a concentration of 106:105 CFU/mL at 48 hours and could be used to simulate a mixed infection of bacterial vaginosis and aerobic vaginitis in vitro.
Frontal delta and theta power reflect strategy changes during human spatial memory retrieval in a virtual water maze task: an exploratory analysis
Authors: Thornberry Conor , Commins Sean
Published: May 2024

Brain oscillations in humans play a role in a wide range of cognitive processes, including navigation and memory. The oscillatory dynamics contributing to successful spatial memory recall in humans are not well-understood. To investigate specific oscillatory frequency bands during the recall process in human navigation, we recorded electroencephalographic (EEG) activity during a recall trial in healthy young adults (n = 15) following the learning of a goal location in a Virtual Water Maze task. We compared this to the activity during the same trial length, in a group of participants who did not learn a target location and navigated freely but were time-matched to the learning group (non-learning, n = 15). We compared relative power in Delta (2–4 Hz), Theta (5–7 Hz), Alpha (8–12 Hz), Beta (15–29 Hz), and Gamma (30–40 Hz) bands across the scalp. We found that delta and theta activity were greater during recall in our learning group, as opposed to our non-learning group. We also demonstrated clear suppression in the alpha band at posterior sites during memory-guided navigation compared to our non-learning group. Additionally, when goal-directed navigation switches to focused searching behavior, power becomes greater at the frontal region; with increases in the delta and theta bands reflecting this strategy change. There was also greater beta and gamma activity at posterior sites in our learning group. We discuss the results further in terms of the possible roles and functions of these oscillations during human navigation and hope this exploratory analysis can provide hypotheses for future spatial navigation and memory work.
The role of emotional intelligence on academic motivation of schoolchildren
Authors: Taibolatov Kuandyk M. , Pfeyfer Nellie E. , Burdina Elena I. , Kudysheva Ainash A. , Bolatov Aidos K.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to inverstigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and academic motivation among secondary school students in Kazakhstan.

Methods

In total, 682 schoolchildren in grades 6 to 8, corresponding to the 11/12-year Kazakhstani curriculum, were interviewed, and their level of emotional intelligence was analysed using a scale that assessed the level of interpersonal and intrapersonal emotional intelligence, understanding emotions, managing emotions, and general level of emotional intelligence.

Results

The results showed that emotional intelligence levels varied by class and gender, with males scoring higher on intrapersonal emotional intelligence, emotion management, and general emotional intelligence, while females scored higher on interpersonal emotional intelligence. Levels of academic motivation were also found to vary by grade and gender, with 6th grade students and females having higher levels of motivation. There was a significant positive correlation between emotional intelligence and academic motivation. Moreover, the study described differences in the level of emotional intelligence in the predominance of the academic motivation (intristic or extrinsic), desire to achieve success in school or avoid failure, and in the implementation of motives in the schoolchildren’s behavior.

Conclusion

This study indicates the relationship between the level of emotional intelligence and academic motivation of schoolchildren. The results of the study are important for policy makers in the field of school education and planning the academic life of schoolchildren.
Teaching Graphic Design for undergraduate students in Vietnam: a curriculum analysis
Authors: Quyen Tran Thi Le , Liou Shyhnan , Yang Chia Han
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The present study aims to examine the effects of autonomy policies implemented after 2014 on the undergraduate education of Graphic Design in Vietnam. The focus is on how these policies have influenced the transition of curricular content from traditional print-based principles to modern digital design methodologies.

Methods

This study employs a targeted analysis of specialized knowledge courses within Graphic Design programs, tracing their progression from conventional design principles for the print medium to modern digital design principles. It includes a comprehensive examination of curricular adjustments made in response to the evolving digital landscape.

Results

The analysis reveals a significant shift in the curriculum post-2014, from focusing predominantly on traditional design concepts such as typography, layout, and color theory to embracing digital design principles suitable for online platforms. These include responsive design, user experience/user interface, motion graphics, and animation. Empirical data presented in the study highlights the profound impact of increased institutional autonomy on this transformation.

Discussion

The transition to digital platforms marks a substantial development in Graphic Design education, aligning with the growing acceptance of interdisciplinary methodologies. The study discusses how these curricular changes are a direct response to the dynamic requirements of contemporary design practice, characterized by digital technology’s pervasive influence, interactivity, and sustainability considerations. The results emphasize the importance of adapting Graphic Design education to meet the demands of the modern industry, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the digital age.
Dissociation protocols influence the phenotypes of lymphocyte and myeloid cell populations isolated from the neonatal lymph node
Authors: DaMata Jarina P. , Zelkoski Amanda E. , Nhan Paula B. , Ennis Katherine H. E. , Kim Ji Sung , Lu Zhongyan , Malloy Allison M. W.
Published: May 2024

Frequencies and phenotypes of immune cells differ between neonates and adults in association with age-specific immune responses. Lymph nodes (LN) are critical tissue sites to quantify and define these differences. Advances in flow cytometry have enabled more multifaceted measurements of complex immune responses. Tissue processing can affect the immune cells under investigation that influence key findings. To understand the impact on immune cells in the LN after processing for single-cell suspension, we compared three dissociation protocols: enzymatic digestion, mechanical dissociation with DNase I treatment, and mechanical dissociation with density gradient separation. We analyzed cell yields, viability, phenotypic and maturation markers of immune cells from the lung-draining LN of neonatal and adult mice two days after intranasal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. While viability was consistent across age groups, the protocols influenced the yield of subsets defined by important phenotypic and activation markers. Moreover, enzymatic digestion did not show higher overall yields of conventional dendritic cells and macrophages from the LN. Together, our findings show that the three dissociation protocols have similar impacts on the number and viability of cells isolated from the neonatal and adult LN. However, enzymatic digestion impacts the mean fluorescence intensity of key lineage and activation markers that may influence experimental findings.
Host skin immunity to arthropod vector bites: from mice to humans
Authors: Lacsina Joshua R. , Kissinger Ryan , Doehl Johannes S. P. , Disotuar Maria M. , Petrellis George , Short Mara , Lowe Elliot , Oristian James , Sonenshine Daniel , DeSouza-Vieira Thiago
Published: May 2024

Infections caused by vector-borne pathogens impose a significant burden of morbidity and mortality in a global scale. In their quest for blood, hematophagous arthropods penetrate the host skin and may transmit pathogens by the bite. These pathogens are deposited along with saliva and a complex mixture of vector derived factors. Hematophagous arthopod vectors have evolved a complex array of adaptations to modulate the host immune response at the bite site with the primary goal to improve blood feeding, which have been exploited throughout evolution by these pathogens to enhance infection establishment in the host. While this paradigm has been firmly established in mouse models, comparable data from human studies are scarce. Here we review how the host skin immune response to vector bites in animal models is hijacked by microbes to promote their pathogenesis. We mainly explored four distinct vector-pathogen pairs of global health importance: sand flies and Leishmania parasites, Ixodes scapularis ticks and Borrelia burgdorferi, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and arboviruses, and Anopheles gambiae mosquitos and Plasmodium parasites. Finally, we outline how critical it is for the field of vector biology to shift from rodent models to clinical studies focused on the interface of vector-pathogen-host immune system to push further the frontiers of knowledge of the field.
Characteristics and generation mechanisms of anticyclonic eddies, cyclonic eddies and dipole eddies in the Mozambique Channel
Authors: Huang Ting , Zhou Feng , Ma Xiao , Zeng Dingyong , Tang Yong , Ma Yunlong , Raul Andre Emidio , Ding Ruibin , Mafuca Jorge Mario , Ye Ruijie , Huang Daji
Published: May 2024

The discovery of cyclonic and dipole eddies in the Mozambique Channel (MC) indicates that the understanding of the mesoscale eddy characteristics in the MC is incomplete. The distributions of anticyclonic, cyclonic, and dipole eddies along the MC were elucidated in this study using satellite observations. It was observed that these eddies exhibit a preference for emergence and movement in the western MC. The occurrence frequencies of anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies are four and three times per year, respectively, in the narrowest section of the MC. In contrast, the frequency of mesoscale eddies reaches its peak at nine times per year in the central region of the MC. The occurrence of dipole eddies also reaches its peak twice per year in the middle MC. Dipole eddies are more prevalent in the MC and exhibit larger dimensions and shorter lifespans compared to anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies. Mesoscale eddies, which traverse the narrowest section of the MC and propagate southward, are predominantly generated within the western Comoros Basin due to barotropic instability. The southward branch of the Northeast Madagascar Current (NEMC) plays a crucial role in transporting these eddies to the middle MC. The eastern middle MC is also a generation site for mesoscale eddies in addition to the Comoros Basin, where cyclonic eddies are generated twice per year. These cyclonic eddies are also generated due to barotropic instability.
A preclinical animal study to evaluate the operability and safety of domestic one-way endobronchial valves
Authors: Jiao Yang , Tian Sen , Liu Jian , Shen Xiaping , Wang Qin , Li Xiang , Zhang Wei , Dong Yuchao , Li Yonghua , Bai Chong , Huang Haidong
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the operability and safety of bronchoscopic domestic one-way endobronchial valves (EBV) on animals.

Methods

Nine pigs were randomly assigned (2:1) to receive domestic one-way EBV (the experimental group, n = 6) and Zephyr® EBV (the control group, n = 3). Routine blood tests, arterial blood gases, and CT scans of the lungs were performed 1 day pre-procedure in addition to 1 week and 1 month post-procedure to assess changes in blood markers and lung volumes. At 1 month post-procedure, the animals were sacrificed, followed by removal of all valves via bronchoscopy. Pathological examinations of critical organs were subsequently performed.

Results

A total of 15 valves were placed in the experimental group and 6 valves were placed in the control group, without serious complications. Routine blood tests and arterial blood gas examinations at 1 day pre-procedure, 1 week post-procedure, and 1 month post-procedure did not differ significantly in both groups. No EBV displacement was noted under bronchoscopy, and the valve was smoothly removable by bronchoscope at 1 month post-procedure. At 1 week post-procedure, varying degrees of target lung lobe volume reduction were observed on lung CT in both groups. Lung volume reduction was achieved at 1 month post-procedure in both groups, without significant statistical difference. Although 3 cases in the experimental group and 1 case in the control group developed varying degrees of pneumonia, the inflammatory response did not increase over time during the experimental period. Pathological examination revealed no significant abnormal changes in the critical organs for both groups.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that domestic EBV is safe and reliable for endobronchial application in general-grade laboratory white pigs. The safety of domestic EBV is similar to that of Zephyr® EBV, with good ease of use and operability. This kind of domestic EBV can meet the safety evaluation requirements for animal testing.
Poor sleep quality and associated factors among adult chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Gela Yibeltal Yismaw , Limenh Liknaw Workie , Simegn Wudneh , Ayenew Wondim , Chanie Gashaw Sisay , Seid Abdulwase Mohammed , Beyna Alemante Tafese , Esubalew Dereje , Mitku Melese Legesse , Mengesha Assefa Kebad , Melese Mihret
Published: May 2024

Background

Poor sleep quality is a common concern in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, which can accelerate the progression of chronic renal disease and negatively impact their health-related quality of life, potentially leading to greater morbidity and mortality rates. It can also have an effect on the immune system, cognitive function, and emotional well-being of CKD patients. Furthermore, poor sleep quality may contribute to drug noncompliance and decreased participation in the entire treatment plan. Nonetheless, no research has been undertaken in Ethiopia on the prevalence of poor sleep quality and its associated factors among CKD patients.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of poor quality of sleep and associated factors among chronic kidney disease patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized and Felege Hiwot Referral Hospitals in 2020.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was implemented at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized and Felege Hiwot Referral Hospitals between February and April 2020. The study participants were chosen through systematic random sampling techniques. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a validated assessment tool, was utilized to measure sleep quality. A PSQI total score > 5 was used as an indicator of poor sleep quality. Subsequently, the data obtained were entered into Epi Data version 3.0 and then transferred to STATA 14 for analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were performed to recognize factors associated with poor sleep quality. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, variables demonstrating a p-value of ≤0.05 were considered statistically associated to poor sleep quality.

Results

In this study, 424 CKD patients were included. Among screened CKD patients, 42.9% tested positive for poor sleep quality with a 95% CI (38 to 47%). Independent predictors of poor sleep quality among CKD patients were common mental disorder [AOR = 1.8, 95% CI (1.19–2.89)], anemia [AOR = 2.7, 95% CI (1.71–4.36)], declined eGFR between 60 and 89.9 [AOR = 1.6; 95% CI (2.28–5.54)], 30–59.9 [AOR = 2.6, 95% CI (1.53–4.43)], and ≤ 30 [AOR = 3.8, 95% CI (1.17–12.61)], age > 50 years [AOR = 1.7(1.11–2.69)] and duration of disease 2.9 [AOR = 2.9, 95% CI (1.77–4.90)].

Conclusion

In our study, almost 1 out of 2 CKD patients assessed for poor sleep quality tested positive. It was noted that poor sleep quality was more frequent among CKD patients with common mental disorders, anemia, decreased eGFR levels, individuals aged over 50 years, and those with a longer duration of the disease. Consequently, it’s advised to regularly screen these CKD patients for poor sleep quality.
High prevalence of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses in blood donors during a dengue outbreak and an endemic period in Colombia
Authors: Cáceres Munar Brian Alejandro , Urbina Adriana , Ortíz Tatiana , Rodríguez Ayda , Fernández Olga Lucía , Ospina Luisa Fernanda , Flórez Iris , Uribe Dora , Alvarado Celia , Calvo Eliana Patricia , Delgado Félix Giovanni , Castellanos Jaime Eduardo
Published: May 2024

Objective

Arboviruses pose a challenge in ensuring the supply of pathogen-free blood components because they are not routinely screened in blood banks, and blood components from infected asymptomatic donors could be transfused. This study aimed to detect and characterize arboviral infections in Colombian blood donors.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, the prevalence of dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), and chikungunya (CHIKV) viruses and co-infections of blood donors were compared between an epidemic period (November 2019–February 2020, n = 462) and an endemic period (November 2021–August 2022, n = 1,119). Viral RNA from each donor serum was purified, and the viruses were detected using a previously standardized multiplex hemi-nested RT-PCR protocol. Subsequently, donors who tested positive were surveyed 15 days after the detection of the virus to identify clinical characteristics related to the arboviral infection. The prevalences of each virus were presented as percentages and compared between epidemic and endemic periods.

Results

Significantly higher prevalences were found in the epidemic period compared with the endemic period for DENV (14.5 vs. 1.9%), ZIKV (7.8 vs. 0.3%), CHIKV (8 vs. 3.3%), and co-infections (4.3 vs. 0.2%). The survey response rate of positive donors in the two periods was 83/175 (47%). In total, 57% of the donors surveyed were asymptomatic. Symptomatic donors most frequently reported headache (31%), malaise (13%), arthralgia (10%), and fever/chills (8%).

Conclusion

The prevalence observed in epidemic and endemic periods was higher than that reported in other studies in the Americas. The high proportion of asymptomatic cases found, in addition to the mild and nonspecific manifestations among the symptomatic, may limit the effectiveness of the donor selection criteria used to mitigate the risk of transfusion-transmitted arboviruses.
Woodfordia fruticosa fermented with lactic acid bacteria impact on foodborne pathogens adhesion and cytokine production in HT-29 cells
Authors: Lee Eon-Bee , Lee Kyubae
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The study into the interplay between foodborne pathogens and human health, particularly their effects on intestinal cells, is crucial. The importance of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in promoting a healthy balance of gut microbiota, inhibiting harmful bacteria, and supporting overall gastrointestinal health is becoming more apparent.

Methods

Our study delved into the impact of fermenting Woodfordia fruticosa (WF), a plant known for its antimicrobial properties against gastrointestinal pathogens, with LAB. We focused on the influence of this fermentation process on the binding of foodborne pathogens to the gut lining and cytokine production, aiming to enhance gut health and control foodborne infections in HT-29 cells.

Results and discussion

Post-fermentation, the WF exhibited improved antimicrobial effects when combined with different LAB strains. Remarkably, the LAB-fermented WF (WFLC) substantially decreased the attachment of pathogens such as L. monocytogenes (6.87%  ±  0.33%) and V. parahaemolyticus (6.07%  ±  0.50%) in comparison to the unfermented control. Furthermore, WFLC was found to upregulate IL-6 production in the presence of pathogens like E. coli O157:H7 (10.6%) and L. monocytogenes (19%), suggesting it may activate immune responses. Thus, LAB-fermented WF emerges as a potential novel strategy for fighting foodborne pathogens, although additional studies are warranted to thoroughly elucidate WF’s phytochemical profile and its contribution to these beneficial outcomes
Key developments and hotspots of exosomes in Alzheimer’s disease: a bibliometric study spanning 2003 to 2023
Authors: Liu Siyu , Geng Daoying
Published: May 2024

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a degenerative illness of the central nervous system that is irreversible and is characterized by gradual behavioral impairment and cognitive dysfunction. Researches on exosomes in AD have gradually gained the attention of scholars in recent years. However, the literatures in this research area do not yet have a comprehensive visualization analysis. The aim of this work is to use bibliometrics to identify the knowledge constructs and investigate the research frontiers and hotspots related to exosomes in AD.

Methods

From January 2003 until June 2023, we searched the Web of Science Core Collection for literature on exosomes in AD. We found 585 papers total. The bibliometric study was completed using VOSviewer, the R package “bibliometrix,” and CiteSpace. The analysis covered nations, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords.

Results

Following 2019, the articles on exosomes in AD increased significantly year by year. The vast majority of publications came from China and the US. The University of California System, the National Institutes of Health, and the NIH National Institute on Aging in the US were the primary research institutions. Goetzl Edward J. was frequently co-cited, while Kapogiannis Dimitrios was the most prolific author in this discipline with the greatest number of articles. Lee Mijung et al. have been prominent in the last two years in exosomes in AD. The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease was the most widely read publication, and Alzheimers & Dementia had the highest impact factor. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, and Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease were the three journals with more than 1,000 citations. The primary emphasis of this field was Alzheimer’s disease, exosomes, and extracellular vesicles; since 2017, the number of phrases pertaining to the role of exosomes in AD pathogenesis has increased annually. “Identification of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease by a profile of pathogenic proteins in neurally derived blood exosomes: a case–control study” was the reference with the greatest citing power, indicating the future steered direction in this field.

Conclusion

Using bibliometrics, we have compiled the research progress and tendencies on exosomes in Alzheimer’s disease for the first time. This helps determine the objectives and paths for future study.