bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can the natural system of viruses reconcile the current taxonomy with an alternative classification useful to clinicians?
Authors: Ezhov Alexandr Alexandrovich
Published: October 2023

In 2022, a group of basic and clinical virologists, bioinformaticians, and evolutionary and structural biologists met in Oxford, UK, to develop a consensus on methodologies used to classify viruses. They concluded that virus taxonomy, which is hierarchical and based on evolution, is only one of many possible ways to classify viruses. This taxonomy, while satisfying the four principles they set out, faces difficulties in coordinating with other classification systems useful to clinicians, infectious disease specialists, agronomists, etc. One example discussed is the grouping of different viral strains that cause different diseases into the species Enterovirus C. Here we show that the use of a previously proposed variant of a natural virus classification system based on the use of Neural Replicator Analysis can resolve this contradiction by establishing the fine structure of the Enterovirus C species, in which strains that cause different diseases are placed in several different cells of the binomial table of viruses. A key element in enabling this is the sophisticated preprocessing of the original viral genomes using neural replicators.
Systemic IL-26 correlates with improved asthma control in children sensitized to dog allergen
Authors: Kovach Melissa A. , Käck Ulrika , Che Karlhans F , Brundin Bettina , Konradsen Jon R. , Linden Anders
Published: October 2023

Background
Interleukin (IL)-26 is produced by T helper type 17 (Type 17) cells and exerts immunomodulatory plus antimicrobial effects. Previous studies show that local IL-26 concentrations in the airways are higher in patients with uncontrolled than in those with controlled asthma, and that this intriguing cytokine bears biomarker potential. Here, we determined how systemic IL-26 relates to allergen sensitization, asthma severity, and to IL-17A in children.
Methods
Serum samples were obtained from children with (n = 60) and without (n = 17) sensitization to dog allergen, and IL-26 and IL-17A protein concentrations were measured using ELISA. Self-reported history, including medication use and validated symptom-based questionnaire scores, was recorded.
Results
The serum concentrations of IL-26 were enhanced in allergen-sensitized subjects and correlated with those of IL-17A in a positive manner. However, the IL-26 concentrations did not markedly differ between allergen-sensitized subjects with and without asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis, or a history of food allergy. Notably, IL-26 concentrations correlated with increasing Asthma Control Test (ACT) scores in a positive manner and with inhaled corticosteroid in a negative manner, amongst sensitized subjects with asthma. Moreover, subjects with asthma requiring ≥ 1 course of oral corticosteroids in the preceding 12 months had decreased IL-26 concentrations.
Conclusion
This study forwards evidence that systemic IL-26, just like IL-17A, is involved in allergen sensitization among children. The association of systemic IL-26 with improved asthma control is compatible with the cellular sources being recruited into the airways in severe asthma, which supports that this kinocidin bears potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
The potential effects of magnesium, chromium, vitamin C, and metformin on inflammatory, hormonal, and metabolic factors of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: Pouraghajan Khadijeh , Mohamadpour Masoomeh
Published: October 2023

Background
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted endocrinopathy affecting women, typically characterized by chronic ovulation dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic anomalies including insulin resistance (IR), dyslipidemia, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. Numerous strategies have been explored to alleviate PCOS symptoms, but treatment-resistant cases still exist. This study aimed to assess the combined effects of vitamin C, chromium, magnesium, and metformin administration on the metabolic, inflammatory, and hormonal profiles of PCOS patients.
Methods
A descriptive placebo-controlled clinical trial enrolled 77 women aged 18–40 diagnosed with PCOS with no effective response to standard and common treatment protocols. Each participant underwent clinical, biochemical, and ultrasonographic assessments before and after the supplementation. Initially, they were categorized into intervention and placebo groups based on the HOMA-IR index and serum magnesium levels using random block allocation. The intervention group received daily doses of 2000 mg of vitamin C, 375 mg of magnesium (if magnesium deficiency was present), 200 µg of chromium, and 500 mg of metformin. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27.0 (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).
Results
Comparing data at the end of the study with baseline and placebo data, significant improvements were observed in serum carbohydrate parameters (fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, and IR), lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)), and hormonal levels (prolactin, testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol) (P < 0.05). Additionally, there was a noteworthy reduction in the mean level of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP) following supplementation (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
This study suggests that our combination supplement regimen can effectively enhance biochemical, inflammatory, and hormonal indicators in PCOS-positive women, potentially resulting in ovaries free of cysts.
Men’s involvement in family planning programs: An exploratory study from Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Jawaria Mukhtar , Abrejo Farina Gul , Gul Xaher , Saleem Sarah
Published: October 2023

Background:
In Pakistan, family planning has traditionally been perceived as primarily a women's concern, resulting in the exclusion of men from relevant initiatives. This situation is further exacerbated by cultural and social barriers that hinder men's access to family planning services. This study addresses a significant research gap by assessing the extent of family planning service provision for men in urban areas of Karachi. It delves into the exploration of men’s involvement in family planning service delivery, identifies existing gaps in services catering to men, records men’s perceptions of accessibility and acceptability of these services, and ultimately offers recommendations to enhance men's involvement and strengthen service provision to better meet their needs.
Methods:
We employed a qualitative exploratory research design using semi-structured interviews to investigate perceptions regarding family planning service provision to men. This approach involved 25 interviews, comprising eight key informant interviews with stakeholders, eight with service providers, and nine in-depth interviews with married men.
Results:
This study highlights the limited engagement of men in family planning programs, primarily due to entrenched sociocultural norms that confine female healthcare providers to serving women, hindering men's involvement. While national and provisional policies endorse men’s participation, they lack defined roles for male providers. Behavioral and information-sharing barriers at the community level discourage male healthcare providers from collaborating with females. Family planning programs, except for NGO-led vasectomy projects, fail to adequately address men's needs. Despite policy recognition, implementation remains inadequate. Bridging the men’s involvement gap necessitates more male providers and improved contraceptive stigma combat training. Further research is vital to explore effective methods for involving men in community and service delivery in family planning.
Conclusion:
There is a need to change the perception of contraception that it is solely the responsibility of women, as men’s participation in family planning in Karachi is limited. Engaging men can yield positive health and non-health outcomes. Culturally sensitive services, developed with community input using a couple-centered approach, are crucial for equitable family planning. Further research is needed to explore men's inclusion strategies in service provision and utilization.
Responses to the Toxic Effects of the Neonicotinoid Thiamethoxam in Oreochromis niloticus Tissues Using Multiple Biomarkers
Authors: Temiz Özge , Kargın Ferit
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to look at the toxicity of the synthetic organic insectisid thiamethoxam (TMX) at sublethal concentrations in the blood and kidney of Oreochromis niloticus. In the experiment, fish were exposed to 0, 50, 100 and 150 ppm TMX for 7 days and divided into four groups with the control group (N = 6). By the end of the experiment, fish kidney and blood collected for biochemical analysis. The hematological profile and serum levels of Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), albumin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and cortisol, serum electrolytes (potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), calcium (Ca+ 2)), uric acid, and urea were analyzed. Spectrophophotometric methods and ELISA techniques were used to assess the enzyme activities of ionoregulation (Na+/K+ ATPase, Ca+ 2 ATPase), acetylcholinesterase (AChE). In addition, the levels glutathione (GSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), DNA oxidation 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and protein carbonyl (PC) were detected. The results showed that parameters indicating renal function in blood samples showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in BUN, urea, uric acid creatinine and cortisol concentrations, while albumin concentration decreased in TMX exposure compared to control group. Meanwhile, the levels of ALT, AST, and ALP were significantly (p < 0.05) dose-dependently increased in fish exposed to TMX. In parallel with the decrease in blood serum Na+, K+ and Ca+ 2 ion levels, a decrease in the activity of the ionoregulation enzymes Na+/K+ ATPase, Ca+ 2 ATPase were also observed. In the TMX effect, AChE enzyme activity, the levels of GSH and stress protein HSP70 were significantly decreased in kidney tissue depending on the dose. It was determined that lipid, protein and DNA oxidation parameters, which were examined as biomolecular parameters, caused a toxic effect of TMX with a significant increase in TBARS, PC, 8-OHdG levels, respectively (p < 0.05). As a result, in our study, it was determined by many biochemical analyzes that O. niloticus caused parallel toxic effects in kidney and blood tissue in the exposure of TMX, but this effect was more toxic with increasing dose of TMX, moreover, oxidative damage, DNA oxidation, ionregulation system also affected.
The role of working time, consumption and mobility for declining German household GHG footprints: Kaya Decompositions for 2000 – 2019
Authors: Wiedenhofer Dominik , Plank Barbara , Antal Miklós
Published: October 2023

Understanding the drivers of household footprints is crucial for measures accelerating emission reductions. Well-documented drivers are demand, energy efficiency and decarbonization of energy supply, while working time and mobility have received little attention.
Herein, German household energy and emissions footprints for 2000–2019 are investigated using Kaya Decompositions. We find that footprints are declining at -1%/year, due to improving energy efficiency and decarbonization overcompensating the growth of per-capita and per-hour incomes. GHG footprints are suggested to increase as a result of growing aggregate hours driven by increasing part-time employment while full-time employment is stable, even if falling average per-capita working time appears to have the opposite effect in the Kaya framework. Private mobility footprints decrease by -1.4%/year, driven up by growing distances, car-dominated modal splits and growing air travel, but overcompensated by improving energy efficiency, decarbonizing of mobility, slightly decreasing numbers of trips and stable expenditure on mobility.
Remaining issues are the role of work-related trips, mobility on company expenses, delivery services, transport of goods, and more differentiated analyses of working arrangements across socio-economic groups. Part-time work, which is a form of working time reduction for which assumptions of the Kaya Decomposition look fairly realistic and could be useful for a policy-mix. However macro-economic feedbacks and potentially negative social side-effects need to be addressed to design equitable policy measures.
New pyranoxanthones from the stem bark of Calophyllum soulattri Burm. F.
Authors: Lizazman Mas Atikah , Mian Vivien Jong Yi
Published: October 2023

Four new pyranoxanthones together with eight known xanthones were isolated from hexane extract of C. soulattri stem bark. Among the new compounds, three of the xanthones (1-3) are structural isomers and xanthone 4 is an angular dipyranoxanthone. The structures of compounds 1-12 were determined by 1D and 2D NMR analysis.
Prospective Evaluation of the Analgesic Efficacy and Emetogenic Profile of Intravenous Ibuprofen and Metamizole in the Immediate Postoperative Period of Pediatric Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Montero Javier Arredondo , Antona Giuseppa , Jaso Eva Murillo , Rico Patricia Unzué , Unanua Iranzu Antuñano , Martín-Calvo Nerea
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND
Literature comparing different alternatives for pain control in the immediate postoperative period of pediatric acute appendicitis (PAA) is scarce.
METHODS
We conducted a prospective study to compare the analgesic and emetogenic profile of ibuprofen and metamizole in the postoperative period of PAA in a sample of children operated on in 2021 in our center. Participants were recruited on arrival at the Emergency Department and histopathological confirmation of the diagnosis was obtained in all of them. Pain was evaluated every 8 hours after the surgery with validated visual analog scales ranging from 0 to 10 points. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the evolution of pain in the 48 hours after surgery between the two groups.
RESULTS
The sample included 95 patients (65% males) with a mean age of 9.7 years (sd: 3.14). 41 patients were treated with Ibuprofen (group 1) and 54 with metamizole (group 2). No significant differences were found in the level of pain either in the comparisons of point measurements or in its evolution in the 48 hours after surgery (p = 0.58). After adjusting for the received fluid therapy, children in the metamizole group had significantly more emetic episodes and needed significantly more doses of ondansetron. No differences were observed between groups in relation to the need of opioids, problems associated with venous catheterization or mean days of admission.
CONCLUSIONS
In our cohort, ibuprofen had a similar analgesic efficacy and a better emetogenic profile than metamizole in the immediate postoperative period of PAA. Future prospective, adequately controlled studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate these findings.
Involving citizens in monitoring the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
Authors: Danielsen Finn , Ali Natasha , Andrianandrasana Herizo , Baquero Andrea , Basilius Umai , Constantino Pedro , Frederiksen Per Ole , Isaac Max , Jakobsen PâviâraK , Klimmek Helen , Mapendembe Abisha , Meng Han , Moul Katherine , Oliva Maria Julia , Schmidt-Vogt Dietrich , Sophat Seak , Sulyandziga Rodion , Burgess Neil
Published: October 2023

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), and its monitoring framework, aims to reverse the decline of nature. The GBF tasks governments to report progress towards 23 targets and four goals. The monitoring framework ”Invites Parties and relevant organizations to support community-based monitoring and information systems and citizen science”. We assessed how Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs), and citizen- and professional-scientists, can monitor the GBF. Of 365 indicators, 110 (30%) can involve IPLCs and citizen scientists, 184 (50%) could benefit from IPLC and citizen scientist involvement in data collection, and 181 (50%) require scientists and governmental statistical organizations. Seventeen headline indicators from 12 GBF targets are amenable to citizen monitoring, lower than the Aichi Targets, or other multilateral environment agreements, largely because 196 indicators are analytically complex (54%) and 175 require a legislative overview (48%). Further involving citizens in the GBF would progress environmental conservation.
Monitoring memory B cells by next generation ImmunoSpot® provides insights into humoral immunity that measurements of circulating antibodies do not reveal
Authors: Kirchenbaum Greg A. , Becza Noémi , Lehmann Paul V. , Valente Alexis V. , Wang Junbo , Liu Zhigang
Published: October 2023

Memory B cells (Bmem) provide the second wall of adaptive humoral host defense upon specific antigen rechallenge when the first wall, consisting of pre-formed antibodies originating from a preceding antibody response, fails. This is the case, as recently experienced with SARS-CoV-2 infections and previously with seasonal influenza, when levels of neutralizing antibodies decline or when variant viruses arise that evade such. While in these instances reinfection can occur, in both scenarios, the rapid engagement of preexisting Bmem into the recall response can still confer immune protection. Bmem are known to play a critical role in host defense, yet their assessment has not become part of the standard immune monitoring repertoire. Here we describe a new generation of B cell ELISPOT/FluoroSpot (collectively ImmunoSpot®) approaches suited to dissect, at single-cell resolution, the Bmem repertoire ex vivo, revealing its immunoglobulin class/subclass utilization, and its affinity distribution for the original, and for variant viruses/antigens. Because such comprehensive B cell ImmunoSpot® tests can be performed with minimal cell material, are scalable, and robust, they promise to be well-suited for routine immune monitoring.
Assessing the affinity spectrum of the antigen-specific B cell repertoire via ImmunoSpot®
Authors: Kirchenbaum Greg A. , Becza Noémi , Liu Zhigang , Chepke Jack , Gao Xing-Huang , Lehmann Paul V.
Published: October 2023

The affinity distribution of the antigen-specific memory B cell (Bmem) repertoire in the body is a critical variable that defines an individual’s ability to rapidly generate high affinity protective antibody specificities. Detailed measurement of antibody affinity so far has largely been confined to studies of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), and are laborious, since each individual mAb needs to be evaluated in isolation. Here, we introduce two variants of the B cell ImmunoSpot® assay that are suitable for simultaneously assessing the affinity distribution of hundreds of individual B cells within a test sample, at single-cell resolution, using relatively little labor and with high-throughput capacity. First, we experimentally validated that both ImmunoSpot® assay variants are suitable for establishing functional affinity hierarchies using B cell hybridoma lines as model antibody-secreting cells (ASC), each producing mAb with known affinity for a defined antigen. We then leveraged both ImmunoSpot® variants for characterizing the affinity distribution of SARS-CoV-2 Spike-specific ASC in PBMC following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. Such ImmunoSpot® assays promise to offer tremendous value for future B cell immune monitoring efforts owing to their ease of implementation, applicability to essentially any antigenic system, economy of PBMC utilization, high-throughput capacity, and suitability for regulated testing.
A leap forward in green photochemistry: singlet fission in water solution
Authors: Magne Chloe , Streckaite Simona , Domínguez-Ojeda Eduardo , Echeverri Andrea , Brigiano Flavio Siro , Ha-Thi Minh-Huong , Fanckevičius Marius , Jašinskas Vidmantas , Quaranta Annamaria , Pascal Andrew A. , Pino Thomas , Robert Bruno , Contreras-García Julia , Finkelstein-Shapiro Daniel , Gulbinas Vidmantas , Llansola-Portoles Manuel J.
Published: October 2023

We provide the first direct evidence of singlet fission occurring with water-soluble compounds. Perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic forms dynamic oligomers in aqueous solution, with lifetimes long enough to allow intermolecular processes such as singlet fission. As these are transient oligomers rather than large, stable aggregates, they retain a significant degree of disorder. We performed a comprehensive analysis of such dynamic assemblies using time-resolved absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and theoretical modelling, allowing us to observe the characteristic signatures of singlet fission and develop a model to explain the different species observed. Our findings reveal that the twist and tilt angles between perylenes are key in favoring either singlet fission or charge separation. The efficiency of triplet formation is higher than 100% and the disordered system leads to triplets living in the nanosecond time range.
Characterization of carotenoids, proximal analysis, phenolic compounds, anthocyanidins and antioxidant capacity of an underutilized tuber (Tropaeolum tuberosum) from Bolivia
Authors: Castañeta Grover , Miranda-Flores Daniela , Bascopé Marcelo , Peñarrieta J. Mauricio
Published: October 2023

The tubers of Tropaeolum tuberosum, locally known as Isaño and native to the Andean region of South America, have been known since ancient times for their multiple uses in the Bolivian population. They are used both as food in various preparations and in traditional medicine. In this investigation, we report the study of three Isaño cultivars currently consumed in Bolivia. We determined their proximal composition, characterized carotenoids, determined antioxidant capacity, measured total phenols and total flavonoids, and quantified the major polyphenols. The results show that, apart from being a source of important nutrients such as proteins, Bolivian Isaño is a source of antioxidants and has a higher concentration of flavonoids and anthocyanidins, particularly in the purple cultivar. Additionally, we identified the presence of three carotenoids in this food for the first time: Lutein, Neoxanthin, and β-carotene. Through these types of studies, we aim to revalue this food, which is little known both in Bolivia and outside the Andean region of South America. Considering its nutritional properties, we seek to increase its consumption.
Ammonia and ion studies in the CERN CLOUD chamber
Authors:   , Pfeifer Joschka
Published: October 2023

This work describes the development and characterization of two instruments and their data evaluation, which contributes to a better understanding of new particle formation and growth, as well as their interactions with clouds. Both instruments were characterized at the Cosmics Leaving Outdoor Droplets (CLOUD) experiment at the European Center for Nuclear Research (CERN).
Examining Students’ Perceptions of Indonesian High School Students on the Use of TikTok in Learning English
Authors: Fata Ika Apriani , M. Nur Lathifah , Alya Andira Riski
Published: October 2023

With the availability of mobile devices and Web 2.0 technologies, various networking apps have become essential to English language learning (ELL). TikTok, a global app similar to YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Twitter, is becoming increasingly popular. TikTok is a video-sharing app that allows users to produce and share content while discovering material from other users. TikTok has yet to be thoroughly researched for educational purposes. However, some research suggests that social media can help language learners. This study evaluated Islamic school students' perspectives on using TikTok to learn English to enhance four English skills. In this study, 55 high school students from an Islamic country participated in an online quantitative research survey. The information was gathered using a Google Forms questionnaire. According to the research, students were enthusiastic about utilizing TikTok as a visual aid in enhancing their English skills. Writing was discovered to be the least likely of the four English skills to develop using TikTok Apps. Besides, students also stated a high preference for watching native English channels rather than local channels when learning English. As a result, TikTok has the potential to affect pupils' English proficiency positively. As a result, students and teachers can mix social networking apps to enhance English teaching and learning. Further research may be performed to look at students' voices, in the future teachers' views, and an experimental classroom design.
Exploring Indonesian Lecturers' Perceptions and Practices on English Language Assessment
Authors: Munandar Imam , Shaumiwaty Shaumiwaty
Published: October 2023

Assessments are crucial in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL), impacting students' knowledge acquisition and influencing teachers' beliefs and training. The present research investigates lecturers' fundamental conceptions regarding assessing English as a foreign language (EFL) and their instructional practices in higher education. Twelve English department EFL lecturers participated in a study using purposive sampling, semi-structured interviews, and questionnaires. The research used a thematic analysis methodology to identify themes, classifications, and subcategories reflecting respondents' perspectives on EFL evaluation. The study's results showed that the subjects used diverse terminology to illustrate evaluation, offering a stimulating context for their respective methodologies. Furthermore, the participants believed that language assessment serves multiple purposes, including administrative and educational functions. Most respondents viewed evaluation as a continuation of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom instruction and acquisition, significantly influencing students' educational outcomes and learning strategies. Therefore, considering how assessments can improve student learning will likely influence educators' working in EFL assessment. Research highlights the need for professional development for lecturers to improve their understanding of language assessment and practice through workshops, training sessions, and resources.
Application of optimized CNN algorithm in landslide boundary detection
Authors: Wang Lili , Qiao Yun
Published: October 2023

Landslide, as a natural geological phenomenon with great harm, seriously threatens human social activities and life safety. It has a variety of latent and immeasurable destructiveness, which has a significant impact on the economic losses in rural areas. Therefore, it is urgent to take measures to accurately identify landslides to reduce their negative impacts. However, traditional manual visual interpretation has been unable to meet the current needs for emergency rescue of landslides, so computer intelligent methods have been paid attention to. This study proposes a new recognition network to address the problem of low accuracy of intelligent landslide boundary recognition methods. Firstly, the experiment incorporated boundary structure information into the Full Convolutional Network (FCN) for optimization, and constructed an Improved Full Convolutional Network (IFCN) model to better achieve image reconstruction. After that, Attention Mechanism (AM) is further introduced to achieve accurate detection of landslide boundaries in images, namely the IFCN-AM model. The attention mechanism introduced include spatial attention mechanism and multi-channel attention mechanism. Both are responsible for enhancing the language representation ability of the model and aggregating the interrelated features between different channels. The experimental results show that IFCN-AM has a 3 % to 7 % improvement in accuracy, recall, F1 value, and MIoU value.
Evaluating hydroelectric potential in Alaknanda basin, Uttarakhand using the snowmelt runoff model (SRM)
Authors: Rautela Kuldeep Singh , Kumar Dilip , Gandhi Bandaru Goutham Rajeev , Kumar Ajay , Dubey Amit Kumar , Khati Bhishm Singh
Published: October 2023

Hydropower is one of the best renewable energy sources to meet India's rapidly growing energy demand. The Remote Sensing and GIS tools provide reliable information for assessing the available water of the Himalayan rivers. In this study, the basin is divided into 12 elevation zones, and temperature and precipitation were extrapolated within these zones. The MODIS (Terra&Aqua) cloud-free images have been used for mapping the Snow Cover Area and it was found that the SCA will vary from 18–72 % during the simulation period. The model simulation period is divided into calibration (2003–2015) and validation (2016–2019). During the study, it was observed that the model efficiency parameters significantly exceeded the acceptable range. In this study, the snowmelt's contribution increases until zone 8; after this, the snowmelt contribution decreases, and the snow accumulation increases. Also, the Hydro-Electric Power (HEP) generation of the basin is modeled with the help of a power equation for a turbine efficiency of 0.8. The simulation of daily streamflow and generated HEP are compared with the measured values, and both tracked the observed pattern very precisely. The findings of the present study will be implemented on the other ungauged basins and could help us to identify the potential sites for HEP with the help of RS and GIS tools.
¿Es posible obtener estimaciones confiables del porcentaje de anemia y retraso en el crecimiento en niños menores de cinco años en los distritos más pobres del Perú?
Authors: Sikov Anna , Cerda Hernández José Javier , Haro Abanto Marcial Eduardo
Published: October 2023

En este artículo, obtenemos predicciones confiables del porcentaje de niños con anemia y el porcentaje de niños con retraso del crecimiento por distrito en el Perú, utilizando los datos de la Endes del año 2019 y del censo nacional realizado el año 2017, en los distritos donde el tamaño de la muestra no es suficiente para implementar una estimación directa, y en los distritos no muestreados. Como el objetivo principal de las encuestas nacionales es describir el estado de la población (por ejemplo, la salud, el estado de empleo y desempleo, gastos familiares, educación, etc.), uno de los problemas más comunes de las encuestas nacionales es que estas son generalmente planeadas de tal forma que tengan una buena representación solamente a nivel nacional, nacional urbano, nacional rural o región natural. Por tal motivo, la inferencia a niveles más desagregados, como a nivel distrital o provincial, no es confiable por tener muestras pequeñas a estos niveles. Es decir, hay muchos distritos que no fueron incluidos en la muestra o no cuentan con suficientes observaciones para realizar estimaciones adecuadas al nivel provincial y distrital utilizando estimadores directos. En este trabajo, presentamos y aplicamos el modelo de Fay-Herriot espacial (Pratesi & Salvati, 2006) para obtener estimaciones robustas de la prevalencia de anemia y de retraso en el crecimiento en la niñez en los distritos del Perú donde no se tiene observaciones o estas son pocas para poder hacer inferencia. Este tipo de modelos usa la información global del censo y la combina con la información local y espacial de la Endes para obtener estimadores fiables de las variables de interés.
Marine Natural Products as Tools for Discovering New Antimicrobial Targets
Authors: Vasantha Packiavathy Issac Abraham Sybiya , Jeyapragash Danaraj , Sweetly Dharmadhas Jeba , Ravi Arumugam Veera
Published: October 2023

The discovery of drugs for human ailments has been greatly attributed to
nature ever since the existence of mankind. Continuous isolation of metabolites from
terrestrial resources leads to a bargaining effect on the synthesis of novel compounds.
Remarkably, marine biotope, one of nature’s resources, accommodates approximately
75% of the global surface. To acclimatize in a marine environment characterized by
unique circumstances that diverge from the individuals present in other habitation,
marine organisms occasionally accumulate structurally distinctive bioactive secondary
metabolites that are deficient in terrestrial organisms. Marine metabolites are currently
employed as the key components in pharmacological research and drug discovery,
acting as drugs and active lead molecules towards the development of novel
antimicrobials. Numerous marine metabolites that are derived from macro and
microorganisms have attained the level of clinical assessment. Hence, marine
environments are considered tools for discovering new antimicrobial agents as they
comprise a vast untapped reservoir of metabolite diversity.
Antimicrobials from Mangroves
Authors: Annapoorani Angusamy , Ravi Arumugam Veera , Janarthanan Sundaram , Kathiresan Kandasamy
Published: October 2023

Mangroves are a promising source of antimicrobials owing to the
bioavailability of genes, plant metabolites and biological diversity. Mangroves are
known for their many biological properties, such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral
and anti-cancer activities etc. Besides mangroves, the microbes associated with
mangroves are called endophytes, which are proven effective antimicrobials and are
also well-known for their many other pharmacological properties. Mangrove extracts
coated with nanoparticles exhibit better antimicrobial activity due to their easy
absorption and distribution properties. The antimicrobial activity of mangroves is due
to the presence of abundant phenolic and flavonoid compounds, especially tannins, and
to the antioxidant property of the bioactive substances present in the mangroves. Thus,
mangroves have a great bioprospecting potential for developing the most potent
antimicrobials to treat pathogenic bacteria, viruses and fungi. This chapter deals with
the antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-mycotic, anti-virulence and anti-biofilm properties of
mangrove extracts and mangrove endophytes against various pathogenic and
multidrug-resistant microbes. In addition, patenting of natural compounds from
mangroves and their endophytes, as well as metabolomics and proteomics, are also
discussed in this chapter.
Children’s rights and personal data protection in the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Díaz Arce Sergio Ruiz
Published: October 2023

This article analyses the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in order to identify and characterise the argumentative conclusions produced by the Court in their decisions on personal data protection and that affect children’s rights. The data collection technique consisted of a search and selection of the arguments in the Court’s judgments on situations that refer to violations of personal data. For the argumentative analysis, through an argumentation scheme, a judgment of a case that refers to child protection against sexual online exploitation was selected. In this context, we have observed that the Court structured its arguments to verify the violation of privacy and protection of personal data using the following topics: (i) respect for private life; (ii) criminal-law provisions; and (iii) positive obligations. The use of these topics in the subsequent judgments of the ECtHR is also identified through the citations to justify their own decisions.
The concept of personal data protection culture from European Union documents: a “Brussels effect” in Latin America?
Authors: Veronese Alexandre , Silveira Alessandra , Lemos Igreja Rebecca , Lopes Espiñeira Lemos Amanda Nunes , Guimarães Moraes Thiago
Published: October 2023

This article aims to analyse, based on documentary sources and data collected through extensive field research, the potential cultural influence of EU (European Union) standards for protecting personal data in Latin American countries, which have data protection authorities and specific laws on the subject. The text has two sections, with an introduction and a conclusion. The introduction presents the subject, indicating the sources that lead up to the text analysis and conclusions. In the first section, the article deals with the EU’s data protection model from its fundamentalist legal perspective. The second section deals with constructing the personal data protection culture concept and how extensive EU documents research can help infer it. The conclusion indicates that the EU’s data protection perspective – as a fundamental right and public policy – can potentially influence several Latin American countries. Also, it concludes that there is an evident difficulty in culturally measuring greater or lesser effectiveness in protecting personal data based on the documents. Despite this dilemma, the EU documentation points to some qualitative suggestions that deserve to be incorporated into the analysis of cultures of personal data protection, focusing on Latin American countries.
Un análisis de las tendencias investigativas en el uso del cuestionario Wellness
Authors: Santamaría Romero Milena
Published: October 2023

Artículo sobre las tendencias investigativas en el uso del cuestionario Wellness y sus principales campos de aplicación, según 22 artículos. Como criterio de selección se tuvo que la fecha de publicación no fuera menor a 2016 y, en cuanto a la sistematización, se analizaron campos como el objetivo de la investigación, el problema estudiado y la metodología. Los resultados sugieren que las ciencias del deporte son el campo donde más se utiliza el Cuestionario Wellness, en algunos casos como objeto de estudio, aunque en la mayoría, como instrumento de medición del bienestar autopercibido. Se concluye que el Cuestionario Wellness es un recurso valioso para los tomadores de decisiones en el campo del desempeño físico de las personas, especialmente de los deportistas.
Pengaruh Rasio Keuangan terhadap Financial Distress Perusahaan Makanan dan Minuman di Indonesia Sebelum dan Saat Covid-19
Authors: Anisa Shindi , Shafitranata Shafitranata , Azizah MT Rahmawati , Octavia Ria
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThe aim of the research was to analyze the effect of liquidity, leverage, profitability, and activity on the financial distress of food and beverage companies before and during Covid-19. The data used is secondary data in the form of audited financial statements for 2017-2021. The sampling technique is purposive sampling. This research uses descriptive research with a quantitative approach. The analytical tools used are multiple linear regression (CR, DER, ROA, TATO, Altman Z Score), normality test and paired sample t-test. The results of this study indicate that liquidity, leverage, and activity have a significant effect on financial distress, while profitability has no effect and is not significant to financial distress, and there are differences in financial ratios on financial distress before and during Covid-19. Companies need to implement operational cost efficiency and debt management strategies.Keywords: Liquidity, Leverage, Profitability, Activity, Financial DistressABSTRAKTujuan penelitian adalah menganalisis pengaruh likuiditas, leverage, profitabilitas, dan aktivitas terhadap financial distress perusahaan makanan dan minuman sebelum dan saat Covid-19. Data yang digunakan adalah data sekunder berupa laporan keuangan audited Tahun 2017-2021. Teknik pengambilan sampel adalah purposive sampling. Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Alat analisis yang digunakan berupa regresi linier berganda (CR, DR, ROA, TATO, Altman Z Score), Uji Normalitas dan paired sample t-test. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa likuiditas, leverage, dan aktivitas berpengaruh signifikan terhadap financial distress, sedangkan  profitabilitas tidak berpengaruh dan tidak signifikan terhadap  financial distress, dan terdapat perbedaan  rasio keuangan terhadap financial distress sebelum dan saat Covid-19. Perusahaan perlu melaksanakan strategi biaya operasional dan manajemen utang.Kata Kunci: Likuiditas, Leverage, Profitabilitas, Aktivitas, Financial Distress
Money Matters: Investigating Mental Accounting Proxies in Indonesia through Behavioral Accounting Lens
Authors: Ardimansyah Ardimansyah , Putri Della Arnita , Wulandari Hesty Safitri , Haryono Haryono , Yunita Khristina
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThe main objective of this research is to provide a historical context for the development of mental accounting studies in Indonesia, specifically by analyzing how the field of mental accounting has evolved in Indonesia, with a focus on the topics covered in the articles published in accredited accounting journals. Among the 72 accredited accounting journals and those indexed in the Science and Technology Index (SINTA) ranking second and third, a total of 8 articles representing accounting research in Indonesia were identified. This study analyzes the development of the mental accounting field using the charting the field approach. The articles or journals are classified in this research according to research topics, research methodologies, and publication years. Based on the mapping conducted, articles with mental accounting topics were predominantly based on quantitative methods. Research on mental accounting topics needs to be continuously developed given its importance in everyday implementation.Keywords: Accredited Journal, Accounting Research, Mental Accounting.ABSTRAKTujuan utama dari penelitian ini adalah untuk memberikan konteks sejarah bagi perkembangan kajian mental accounting di Indonesia secara khusus menganalisis bagaimana bidang akuntansi mental telah berkembang dari waktu ke waktu di Indonesia dengan fokus pada topik artikel tersebut yang telah diterbitkan dalam jurnal akuntansi terakreditasi. Di antara 72 jurnal akuntansi terakreditasi dan jurnal akuntansi yang terindeks Science and Technology Index (SINTA) dengan peringkat kedua dan tiga besar, yang memuat total 8 (delapan) artikel yang mewakili penelitian akuntansi Indonesia. Studi ini menganalisis bagaimana perkembangan bidang akuntansi mental melalui penggunaan pendekatan charting the field. Artikel atau jurnal diklasifikasikan dalam penelitian ini sesuai dengan topik penelitian, metodologi penelitian, dan tahun publikasi. Berdasarkan hasil pemetaan yang dilakukan, artikel dengan topik mental accounting didominasi oleh metode kuantitatif. Penelitian dengan topik mental accounting harus terus dikembangkan mengingat pentingnya dalam implementasi sehari-hari.Kata Kunci: Jurnal Terakreditasi, Riset Akuntansi, Akuntansi Mental
Analisis Prediksi Kebangkrutan Perusahaan Sub Sektor Pariwisata, Restoran dan Hotel Sebelum dan Saat Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Ayudhea Yessinta , Puspita Dewi Ayu
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThis research was conducted to analyze the bankruptcy prediction of companies in the subsectors of tourism, restaurants, and hotels during the Covid-19 pandemic. This study is a quantitative research. The analysis of bankruptcy prediction was carried out using the Springate Score model. The research data consists of secondary data in the form of financial reports of tourism, restaurant and hotel sub-sector companies listed on the IDX from 2018 until 2021. Hypothesis testing to predict bankruptcy uses the Springate Score (S-Score) model, and then the S-Score results were tested using the Wilcoxon signed rank test to see the difference in bankruptcy predictions before and during the Covid-19 pandemic. The result of the research showed that before the pandemic 38.46% of companies were predicted to go bankrupt, while during the pandemic, 80.77% of companies were predicted to go bankrupt. The S-Score test results, companies predicted to go bankrupt during the Covid-19 pandemic.Keywords: Springate Score, Bankruptcy Prediction, Signaling TheoryABSTRAKPenelitian ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis prediksi kebangkrutan perusahaan sub sektor pariwisata, restoran dan hotel saat pandemi covid-19. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif.  Analisis prediksi kebangkrutan dilakukan dengan memanfaatkan model Springate Score.  Data penelitian berupa data sekunder berupa laporan keuangan perusahaan sub sektor pariwisata, restoran dan hotel yang terdaftar BEI periode 2018-2021. Uji hipotesis untuk memprediksi kebangkrutan perusahaan menggunakan model springate score (S-Score), kemudian hasil S-Score dilakukan uji beda menggunakan uji beda wilcoxon signed rank test untuk melihat perbedaan prediksi kebangkrutan sebelum dan saat pandemi Covid-19. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan sebelum pandemi sebesar 38,46% perusahaan diprediksi bangkrut dan saat pandemi sebesar 80,77% perusahaan diprediksi bangkrut.  Dari hasil uji S-Score, perusahaan yang diprediksi bangkrut saat pandemi Covid-19 meningkat dibandingkan dengan sebelum pandemi Covid-19.Kata Kunci: Skor Springate, Prediksi Kebangkrutan, Teori Pensinyalan
Adaptive Peer Tutoring and Insights From a Neurooncology Course
Authors: Ozkara Burak Berksu , Karabacak Mert , Ozcan Zeynep , Bisdas Sotirios
Published: October 2023

Peer teaching in medicine is a valuable educational approach that benefits students and tutors alike. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the advancement of remote education in the medical field. In response, the Cerrahpasa Neuroscience Society organized a web-based, volunteer-based peer tutoring program to introduce students to central nervous system tumors. This viewpoint examines our peer mentoring experience in medical education. We discussed how we shaped the course, its positive effects, and the flexible nature of the course, which brought medical students from different regions together. In addition to evaluating academic results, we examined the social relations made possible by this unique teaching method by analyzing student feedback and test scores. Finally, we discussed the promise of global web-based mentoring, highlighting its significance in the dynamic and global context of medicine.