bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of replacing soybean meal with enzymolysis-fermentation compound protein feed on growth performance, apparent digestibility of nutrients, carcass traits, and meat quality in growing-finishing pigs
Authors: Cheng Yu , He Jun , Zheng Ping , Yu Jie , Pu Junning , Huang Zhiqing , Mao Xiangbing , Luo Yuheng , Luo Junqiu , Yan Hui , Wu Aimin , Yu Bing , Chen Daiwen
Published: September 2024

Background

Addressing the shortage of high-quality protein resources, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with different levels of enzymolysis-fermentation compound protein feed (EFCP) in the diets of growing-finishing pigs, focusing on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, carcass traits, and meat quality.

Methods

Sixty DLY (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) pigs with an initial body weight of 42.76 ± 2.05 kg were assigned to 5 dietary treatments in a 2 × 2 + 1 factorial design. These dietary treatments included a corn-soybean meal diet (CON), untreated compound protein feed (UCP) substitution 50% (U50) and 100% SBM (U100) diets, and EFCP substitution 50% (EF50) and 100% SBM (EF100) diets. Each treatment had 6 pens (replicates) with 2 pigs per pen, and the experiment lasted 58 d, divided into phase I (1–28 d) and phase II (29–58 d). Following phase I, only the CON, U50, and EF50 groups were continued for phase II, each with 5 replicate pens. On d 59, a total of 15 pigs (1 pig/pen, 5 pens/treatment) were euthanized.

Results

During phase I, the EF50 group had a higher average daily gain (ADG) in pigs (P < 0.05) compared to the CON group, whereas the U50 group did not have a significant difference. As the substitution ratio of UCP and EFCP increased in phase I, there was a noticeable reduction in the final body weight and ADG (P < 0.05), along with an increase in the feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) (P < 0.05). In phase II, there were no significant differences in growth performance among the treatment groups, but EF50 increased the apparent digestibility of several nutrients (including dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, acid detergent fiber, ash, gross energy) compared to U50. The EF50 group also exhibited significantly higher serum levels of neuropeptide Y and ghrelin compared to the CON and U50 groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the EF50 group had higher carcass weight and carcass length than those in the CON and U50 groups (P < 0.05), with no significant difference in meat quality.

Conclusions

The study findings suggest that replacing 50% SBM with EFCP during the growing-finishing period can improve the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and carcass traits of pigs without compromising meat quality. This research offers valuable insights into the modification of unconventional plant protein meals and developing alternatives to SBM.
Design transformations in monuments and memorials as monumental buildings: new perspectives on the place-making model
Authors: Chen Guoxing , Suneta Vanvipha
Published: September 2024

The monument, or the memorial, as a place of memory and emotional support, has been the focus of scholarly attention. Although existing studies have explored its space’s materialization, identity, history, and memory content, the materials about its design transformation have yet to be deeply excavated. Based on the relevant theories of place and place-making, the researchers constructed a knowledge system of the place-making model, the spatial vector pattern, and the worship behaviors of monuments. On this basis, a qualitative research methodology is adopted. Through case studies and participant observation, the design transformation of the monument/memorial is interpreted in the following five dimensions: function theme, morphology style, spatial relationship, visitor experience, and symbolic meaning. The results of this study show that the monument/memorial tends to promote in-depth public reflection and critical engagement with history, reflecting changes in how society perceives historical events. This research provides new perspectives for understanding the multidimensionality of the monument/memorial but also emphasizes the need to continue exploring its interaction with the socio-cultural context.
Gastrointestinal nematodes in German outdoor-reared pigs based on faecal egg count and next-generation sequencing nemabiome data
Authors: Fischer Hannah R. M. , Krücken Jürgen , Fiedler Stefan , Duckwitz Veronica , Nienhoff Hendrik , Steuber Stephan , Daher Ricarda , von Samson-Himmelstjerna Georg
Published: September 2024

Background

There is a higher risk for nematode infections associated with outdoor-reared pigs. Next to Ascaris suum, Oesophagostomum dentatum and Trichuris suis, there is the potential of infections with other nodular worm species, Hyostrongylus rubidus, Stongyloides ransomi and Metastrongylus spp. lungworms. Next-generation sequencing methods describing the nemabiome have not yet been established for porcine nematodes.

Methods

FLOTAC was used for faecal egg counts of porcine gastrointestinal nematodes and lungworms in piglets, fatteners and adults individually. A nemabiome analyses based on ITS-2 gene region metabarcoding was used to differentiate strongyle species. Additionally, questionnaire data was analysed using mixed-effect regression to identify potential risk factors associated with parasite occurrences and egg shedding intensity.

Results

On 15 of 17 farms nematode eggs were detected. Ascaris suum, strongyles and T. suis were detected on 82%, 70% and 35% of the 17 farms, respectively. Lungworms were detected on one out of four farms with access to pasture. Strongyloides ransomi was not detected. 32% (CI 28–36%), 27% (24–31%), 5% (4–7%) and 3% (0.9–8%) of the samples where tested positive for strongyles, A. suum, T. suis and lungworms, respectively. The nemabiome analysis revealed three different strongyle species, with O. dentatum being the most common (mean 93.9%), followed by O. quadrispinulatum (5.9%) and the hookworm Globocephalus urosubulatus (0.1%). The bivariate and multivariate risk factor analyses showed among others that cleaning once a week compared to twice a week increased the odds significantly for being infected with A. suum (OR 78.60) and strongyles (2077.59). Access to pasture was associated with higher odds for A. suum (43.83) and strongyles (14.21). Compared to shallow litter systems, deep litter and free range systems resulted in significant higher odds for strongyles (85.74, 215.59, respectively) and T. suis (200.33, 623.08).

Conclusions

Infections with A. suum, O. dentatum, O. quadrispinulatum, T. suis, Metastrongylus spp. and G. urosubulatus are present in German outdoor-reared pigs. This is the first report of G. urosubulatus in domestic pigs in Europe. Metabarcoding based on the ITS-2 region is a suitable tool to analyse the porcine nemabiome. Furthermore, management practices have the potential of reducing the risk of parasite infections.
Integrating social sciences in community engagement in humanitarian action: benefits and challenges seen from the field
Authors: Geise Mandy , Lana Benedetta , Puri Anu , Maffi Paola , Apráez Laura Martínez , van Dormolen Simone , Maukner Anna Christina , Cusano María Falero , Elessawi Rania , de Vries Daniel H.
Published: September 2024

The application of social sciences has been recognized as valuable to inclusive humanitarian programming that aims to be attentive to the needs and initiatives of affected communities. However, the integration of social science-informed community engagement (CE) approaches in humanitarian action remains episodic, fragmented, and under-resourced. This research article provides insights from a study that reviewed existing and needed capacities for the systematic integration of social sciences for community engagement in humanitarian action. We examined what capacity resources exist and what resources need to be developed for strengthening social science integration into humanitarian programming for improved engagement of affected and at-risk communities in conflict and hazard contexts. A mixed method approach was used, including twenty-two key informant interviews and a focus group discussion with social scientists and humanitarian practitioners, an online survey with 42 respondents, a literature review, and a year-long monthly consultation with social scientists and humanitarian practitioners in a UNICEF-led global technical working group. Results illustrate insights on the value of the “social science lens” in humanitarian action and current usage of different social science disciplines. Challenges found include different understandings (e.g., on standardization), languages and methods used by practitioners and social scientists, and how to integrate the seemingly “slow” processes of social sciences to fit emergency response. Institutional barriers to mainstream community-centered humanitarian action facilitated by the social sciences include top-down decision-making and resourcing, lack of localization, and many siloed, dispersed, and episodic efforts.
Exploring obesity-related endocrine disorders beyond diabetes: a narrative review
Authors: Meligi Amr Abel Hady El , Ahmed Rabab Mahmoud , Shaltout Inass , Soliman Amin Roshdy
Published: September 2024

Background

While insulin resistance and diabetes shine as the central stars in the constellation of obesity-related conditions, other common endocrine diseases are also closely associated with obesity and high body mass index.

Main body

This review aims to illuminate the hormonal imbalances associated with obesity, beyond diabetes. It covers the prevalence, clinical presentation, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of some of these conditions.

Conclusion

In obese patients, physicians must pay attention to hormonal disorders that may be associated with obesity.
Unveiling the effects of microplastics pollution on marine fauna
Authors: Paul Sonali , Nath Somava , Bhattacharjee Shreya , Mukherjee Susmita
Published: September 2024

Microplastics have emerged as a pervasive environmental concern, threatening the health and stability of marine ecosystems worldwide. Microplastics permeate marine environments through various sources, including fragmentation of larger plastic debris, industrial discharges, and urban runoff. Once introduced into the marine ecosystem, microplastics interact with many organisms across trophic levels, from zooplankton to top predators. Through ingestion, entanglement, and bioaccumulation, microplastics pose direct threats to marine organisms' health, reproductive success, and survival. Moreover, microplastics serve as vectors for persistent organic pollutants, leaching harmful chemicals into the marine environment and exacerbating toxicity risk for marine life. This study highlights the broader ecological implications of microplastic pollution, including disruptions of marine food chain, and degradation of essential habitats such as coral reefs and estuaries. By altering species interactions and habitat structure, microplastics can compromise the resilience and functioning of marine ecosystems, with far-reaching consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services. With the increase in microplastics in the marine environment it is important to have control measures as well. Comprehensive strategies for managing microplastic pollution should incorporate a combination of conventional approaches, including reduction at the source and targeted interventions to enhance degradation.
Comprehensive Analysis of Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Real-World Data From the Middle East
Authors: Abu-Hijlih Ramiz , Salah Samer , Abaza Haneen , Taqash Ayat , Abdelkhaleq Hadeel , Al-Ibraheem Akram , Al-Omari Amal
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

Metastatic prostate cancer (Pca) is a complex disease with diverse clinical characteristics and outcomes across the geographical distribution. Herein, we present a series of patients from the Middle East, aiming at identifying disease outcomes and prognostic factors specific to this regional context.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This is a retrospective study of patients with metastatic Pca, diagnosed at King Hussein Cancer Center, Jordan, between 2006 and 2018. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Factors that significantly affected overall survival (OS) in the univariable analysis were examined in a multivariable Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 188 patients with metastatic Pca were included in this analysis, of whom 168 (89%) had de novo metastatic disease. The median age at diagnosis was 68 years, 144 (77%) had bone metastasis, 32 (17%) had visceral metastasis, and 126 (67%) had high-volume disease. At a median follow-up of 67 months, the median OS was 44.3 months. The following factors predicted inferior OS in univariable analysis: smoking, normal BMI, high-volume disease, high alkaline phosphatase (ALP), previous local therapy for prostate, and orchiectomy versus medical androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). On multivariable analysis, high-volume disease (hazard ratio [HR], 1.92 [95% CI, 1.17 to 3.13]; P = .0094), high ALP (HR, 2.136 [95% CI, 1.38 to 3.31]; P < .001), and orchiectomy (HR, 2.40 [95% CI, 1.51 to 3.82]; P < .001) emerged as independent factors for inferior OS.

CONCLUSION

Metastatic Pca outcomes in our population closely align with the global benchmark. High volume status, elevated ALP, and performance of surgical as opposed to medical ADT emerge as prognostic indicators of poor survival.
Amazon Mechanical Turk: The Human Sciences’ Labor Problem
Authors: Wei Jiemin Tina
Published: September 2024

This article investigates the rise of Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk), Amazon Web Services, Inc.’s crowdsourcing labor platform, in social science research since 2005. A new “digital sweatshop,” the platform hired online workers to do precarious, extremely low-wage tasks to support artificial intelligence (AI) and survey research, while effectively stripping workers of all protections except those they built for themselves. Bringing together labor history and the history of science through an investigation of MTurk, this article intervenes in the historiography bidirectionally. Interpreting research participation as work, it argues, first, that the history of knowledge production is a labor history. To understand the ensuing conflict between workers and researchers on the MTurk platform, one must understand its labor context. Their struggle lay at the intersection between social science's notion of ideal research subjects and the concerns, interests, and vulnerabilities of crowdsourced participants as a class of exploited and unprotected workers. This article asks, second, how the labor conditions of research subjects impacted the knowledge produced from them. As in other industries, dialectics of labor exploitation shaped (and spoiled) the knowledge products that digital piecework yielded. The “labor” being deskilled, in this case, was being human.
Is It Justified to Sacrifice the Pituitary Stalk During Craniopharyngioma Surgery? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Elbaroody Mohammad , Dokhan Mohamed , Kassay Andrea , Ezzat Ahmed A. M. , Marei Ahmed A. , Eldessouky Amr Helmy , Alhayen Basem Ismail , Algabrouny Muhammad , Ezz Adham , Alsawy Mohamed F. , El Refaee Ehab , Soliman Mohamed A. R.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Pituitary stalk sacrifice is a surgical dilemma in craniopharyngioma surgery that needs a wise decision. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to conduct a meta-analysis of the current literature to assess if it is worth preserving the stalk during craniopharyngioma surgery or it is justified to sacrifice it.

METHODS:

PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched for craniopharyngioma studies till December 2021 that directly compared the endocrine sequelae of stalk sacrifice vs preservation in their patients. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI was used through fixed- and random-effects models.

RESULTS:

Fourteen studies with a total of 2074 patients met our inclusion criteria. The stalk was preserved in 925 patients (44.6%), was sacrificed in 1053 patients (50.8%), and was not identified intraoperatively or partially preserved, or the authors did not mention enough data for 96 patients (4.6%). Our study found that sacrifice of the pituitary stalk was associated with a significantly increased risk of endocrine dysfunction at the last follow-up (OR = 6.69, 95% CI = 3.36-13.35, P < .0001); however, it was not associated with a significant decrease in the risk of recurrence/progression of the disease (OR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.60-1.06, P = .13).

CONCLUSION:

Pituitary stalk sacrifice significantly increased the risk of postoperative endocrine dysfunction without reducing the risk of progression or recurrence of craniopharyngioma. The ability to preserve the pituitary stalk intraoperatively is multifactorial, and stalk preservation is recommended whenever possible. Future prospective studies are recommended to assess the effect of confounding factors on the outcomes of stalk sacrifice/preservation.
Long-Term Outcomes After Cyberknife Radiosurgery for Nonfunctioning Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Wei Nathan , Gunawan Kevin , Tsai Chiao-Ling , Yang Shih-Hung , Hsu Feng-Ming , Lai Dar-Ming , Xiao Furen
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has been widely adopted as an important adjunctive treatment modality for managing nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs). However, current studies on the long-term effects of SRS on pituitary adenomas have been largely limited by small sample sizes and short follow-up periods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of SRS for NFPAs.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective review of 178 patients with NFPAs who received Cyberknife radiosurgery at a single institution between February 2008 and July 2021. Long-term outcomes of tumor control, new-onset hypopituitarism, and new visual disorders were assessed.

RESULTS:

During a median radiological follow-up of 49.7 months (range, 2.5-158.1 months), only 11 (7.0%) patients experienced tumor progression. The progression-free survival at 3, 5, and 10 years was 97.47%, 95.57%, and 93.04%, respectively. New-onset hypopituitarism was diagnosed in 27 (16.9%) patients with a median clinical follow-up duration of 71.2 months (range, 11.5-175.4 months). The median time from SRS to new-onset hypopituitarism was 28.3 months (range, 2.8-101.7 months). The cumulative incidence of new-onset hypopituitarism at 3, 5, and 10 years was 8.47%, 12.43%, and 15.25%, respectively. Biological effective dose >140 Gy and single fraction equivalent dose >16.0 Gy were significant risk factors for new-onset hypopituitarism (P = .046). Other adverse events were experienced by 15 (8.4%) patients, 9 (5.1%) of whom presented with new visual disorders. Development of new visual disorders was associated with a pretreatment tumor volume of >2.5 mL (P = .044).

CONCLUSION:

SRS is an effective and relatively safe means of managing both primary and residual/recurrent NFPAs.
Οργάνωση, διοίκηση, διεύθυνση και ηγεσία των εκπαιδευτικών οργανισμών
Authors: Κωνσταντινίδης Θεόδωρος
Published: September 2024

Οι σχολικές μονάδες όπως είναι φανερό διαφέρουν ως προς τη λειτουργία τους αλλά και τη δομή τους, σε σχέση όχι μόνο τον ιδιωτικό  τομέα αλλά και τους υπόλοιπους δημόσιους οργανισμούς, γιατί αποτελεί έναν ξεχωριστό θεσμό της κοινωνίας μας. Το σχολείο έχει έναν διττό ρόλο να διαδραματίσει. Από τη μία το ρόλο του δημόσιου οργανισμού και από την άλλη τον ρόλο του κοινωνικού θεσμού (Μπουραντάς, 2005). Στην ελληνική πραγματικότητα επικρατεί η γραφειοκρατική οργάνωση του σχολείου (Κατσαρός, 2008). Αυτό σημαίνει ότι το βάρος της ηγεσίας δίνεται στην απλή διεκπεραίωση υποχρεώσεων και όχι στο όραμα για τον οργανισμό και την προσπάθεια για καινοτόμες δράσεις. Το συγκεντρωτικό κεντρικό σύστημα διοίκησης των σχολικών μονάδων, μειώνει τη δυνατότητα αυτονομίας στους διευθυντές και τους εκπαιδευτικούς και αποδυναμώνει την ουσιαστική διοίκηση της σχολικής μονάδας. Λειτουργεί αποτρεπτικά στην εφαρμογή ηγετικών πρακτικών  που δίνουν έμφαση στο μετασχηματισμό και τη καινοτομία. Αρνητικός συντελεστής είναι και η έλλειψη επιμόρφωσης και κατάλληλης εκπαίδευσης των διευθυντών σε θέματα ηγεσίας και διοίκησης της σχολικής μονάδας. Στο υπόβαθρο αυτό η διοικητική ηγεσία περιγράφεται ως μια πρακτική της επιτυχίας των αποτελεσμάτων, των στόχων και των σκοπών της εκπαιδευτικής μονάδας. Επιπλέον, ο Behn (1998) θεωρεί ότι η άσκηση ηγεσίας επιβάλλεται στο χώρο της εκπαιδευτικής διοίκησης προκειμένου να συνεισφέρει στην επιδιόρθωση ατελειών της, ενώ η διαχείριση των επιμέρους τμημάτων και διαδικασιών  είναι τμήμα της.
O ρόλος του διευθυντή στη διοίκηση επιχειρήσεων/ οργανισμών: Η περίπτωση των μονάδων ιδιωτικής δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης
Authors: Μαλαγκονιάρη Μαρία , Ντέλιου Κλεοπάτρα
Published: September 2024

Περίληψη
Η εκπαίδευση μίας χώρας στηρίζεται εν πολλοίς στην οργάνωση και τη διοίκηση των εκπαιδευτικών μονάδων, οι οποίες στην προσπάθειά τους να ανταποκριθούν στις απαιτήσεις της σύγχρονης κοινωνίας, καλούνται να παρακολουθούν και να μετρούν περιοδικά την αποδοτικότητα, την αποτελεσματικότητα, την παραγωγικότητά τους καθώς και άλλους συναφείς δείκτες απόδοσης.
Κατά κανόνα, η δια βίου εκπαίδευση των διευθυντών, ως επικεφαλής του σχολείου, συνεπάγεται τη διαρκή βελτίωσή του. Με βάση αυτό, αντικείμενο της παρούσας έρευνας είναι η διερεύνηση των χαρακτηριστικών που προσδιορίζουν ένα αποδοτικό και αποτελεσματικό διευθυντή στο πλαίσιο της επιχείρησης/ του οργανισμού που διοικεί.
Επειδή ένας εκ των κυρίων στόχων της εκπαίδευσης είναι να συμβάλλει στην ολόπλευρη, αρμονική κι ισόρροπη ανάπτυξη των διανοητικών και ψυχοσωματικών λειτουργιών των εκπαιδευόμενων, η έρευνα προβάλλει ότι κρίνονται ως απαραίτητα προαπαιτούμενα για την επίτευξη του στόχου, η καλή διοίκηση κι ο συντονισμός των πόρων (ανθρώπινων, υλικών, τεχνικών) και των λειτουργιών που υποστηρίζουν την εκπαιδευτική διαδικασία.
Abstract
A country's education is largely based on the educational units’ administration and management, which are required to monitor and measure, periodically, their efficiency, effectiveness, productivity as well as other relevant performance indicators in order to meet the demands of modern society.
As a rule, the headmasters’ lifelong education, as the head of the school, implies his/ her continuous improvement. Based on this, the object of this research is to investigate the characteristics that define an efficient and effective manager in the context of the business/organization he/she manages.
Because one of the main goals of education is to contribute to the all-round, harmonious and balanced development of the intellectual and psychosomatic functions of the students, this research shows that both the sound administration and the coordination of resources (human, materials, techniques) and the functions that support the educational process.
In silico analysis of molecular mimicry between human aquaporin 3, Aspergillus fumigatus aquaporin and aquaporins from allergic sources
Authors: Sánchez Andrés , Padilla Yaquelin , Lorduy Adriana , Sanchez Jorge , Munera Marlon , Baena Claudia , Bernal Carlos , Urrego Juan
Published: September 2024

Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that has a significant impact on quality of life. The immune response and allergy symptoms in AD are triggered by the recognition of specific allergens by IgE antibodies. Cross-reactivity can lead to auto-IgE responses, potentially worsening AD symptoms. Our research aimed to enhance our understanding of allergenic sources, including A. fumigatus, and their role in AD. We focused on molecular mimicry between human AQP3 and A. fumigatus aquaporin. Methods In our in-silico analysis, we compared the amino acid sequences of human aquaporin 3 (AQP3) and A. fumigatus aquaporin with 25 aquaporins from various allergenic sources, sourced from the UniProt and NCBI databases. Phylogenetic relationship analysis and homology-based modeling were conducted. We identified conserved antigenic regions located within the 3D structures. Results The global identity levels among the studied aquaporins averaged 32.6%. One antigenic site exhibited a remarkable local region, with a conserved identity of 71.4%. We categorized the aquaporins into five monophyletic clades (A–E), with group B showing the highest identity (95%), including six mammalian aquaporins, including AQP3. When comparing A. fumigatus aquaporins, the highest identity was observed with Malassezia sympodialis at 35%. Both human and A. fumigatus aquaporins have three linear and three discontinuous epitopes. Conclusions We identified potential linear and conformational epitopes of AQP3, indicating a possible molecular mimicry between humans and A. fumigatus aquaporins. This suggests autoreactivity and potential cross-reactivity, although further validation using in vitro and in vivo experiments is required.
Daily life in the Open Biologist’s second job, as a Data Curator
Authors: Scorza Livia C.T. , Zieliński Tomasz , Kalita Irina , Lepore Alessia , El Karoui Meriem , Millar Andrew J.
Published: September 2024

Background Data reusability is the driving force of the research data life cycle. However, implementing strategies to generate reusable data from the data creation to the sharing stages is still a significant challenge. Even when datasets supporting a study are publicly shared, the outputs are often incomplete and/or not reusable. The FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles were published as a general guidance to promote data reusability in research, but the practical implementation of FAIR principles in research groups is still falling behind. In biology, the lack of standard practices for a large diversity of data types, data storage and preservation issues, and the lack of familiarity among researchers are some of the main impeding factors to achieve FAIR data. Past literature describes biological curation from the perspective of data resources that aggregate data, often from publications. Methods Our team works alongside data-generating, experimental researchers so our perspective aligns with publication authors rather than aggregators. We detail the processes for organizing datasets for publication, showcasing practical examples from data curation to data sharing. We also recommend strategies, tools and web resources to maximize data reusability, while maintaining research productivity. Conclusion We propose a simple approach to address research data management challenges for experimentalists, designed to promote FAIR data sharing. This strategy not only simplifies data management, but also enhances data visibility, recognition and impact, ultimately benefiting the entire scientific community.
Educação para o empreendedorismo e a ação distribuída de atores-rede
Authors: Tonelli Dany , Gibson David
Published: September 2024

Discute-se a experiência da Universidade do Texas-Austin em educação empreendedora, de modo a ampliar a compreensão do tema para além de cursos e programa formais, incorporando a influência de práticas coletivas de coisas, estudantes, professores e staff. Baseando-se na Teoria Ator-Rede, a partir de estudo de caso realizado entre junho/22 e abril/23, apresentam-se resultados que descrevem parcialmente o cenário onde a UT-Austin e seus programas estão inseridos. A contribuição teórica perpassa pela demonstração da educação para o empreendedorismo como algo que abrange extensa rede de atores e relações heterogêneas que produzem efeitos não limitados por intencionalidades formalizadas.
Exit Game with Private Information
Authors: Kwon H. Dharma , Palczewski Jan
Published: September 2024

The timing of strategic exit is one of the most important but difficult business decisions, especially under competition and uncertainty. Motivated by this problem, we examine a stochastic game of exit in which players are uncertain about their competitor’s exit value. We construct an equilibrium for a large class of payoff flows driven by a general one-dimensional diffusion. In the equilibrium, the players employ sophisticated exit strategies involving both the state variable and the posterior belief process. These strategies are specified explicitly in terms of the problem data and a solution to an auxiliary optimal stopping problem. The equilibrium that we obtain is further shown to be unique within a wide subclass of symmetric Bayesian equilibria.
The Relationship of Stress, Depression and Suicidal Ideation in the Elderly
Authors: Jang Mi-Heui , Kim Yoon-Hee
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study was to identify the relationship between stress, depression and suicidal ideation in the elderly. Methods: The subjects were 201 elderly adults over 60 in Seoul. Data were collected by questionnaire surveys using convenience sampling. The instruments used in this study are the Seo's SESS(Seo‘s Elderly Stress Scale) developed by Seo, Yu & Hah(2001), the GDSSF-K(Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form-Korea) by Kee( 1996) developed by Sheilkh & Yesavage(1986), and the SSI(Scale for Suicidal Ideation) developed by Beck et al.(1979). Data were analyzed by the SPSS/PC 11.0 program, using descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation Coefficient, t-test, ANOVA and stepwise Multiple Regression. Results: The mean suicidal ideation score was 24.81, which was near moderate level. The suicidal ideation was influenced significantly by marrital status, income, spending money and perceived health status. There were significant correlations between all the predictive variables and the suicidal ideation(r= 0.481 〜 0.592, p <0.05). Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that 34.3% of the suicidal ideation was significantly accounted by depression(25.7%)，stress(5.0%) and education(3.6%). Conclusion: These results suggested that depression and stress can be potential risk factors in suicidal ideation of the elderly. Therefore, these findings will give useful information for constructing an intervening and preventative program focused on suicidal prevention in the elderly.
The School Related Stress and Mental Health Education Need among the Middle School Students
Authors: Hyun Myung-Sun , An Yong-Mi , Nam Kyoung A , Park Sung-Won
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This present study was conducted to investigate the school related stress and mental health education need among the middle school students. Methods: The subjects were collected by convenient sampling comprised of 599 middle school students(two male middle school and one female middle school). The instrument of the study was modified School stress by Kim (2001) and mental health education need developed by the research team. Results: As for the school related stress, the female students showed higher than the male students. The stress related academic activity among the stress were highest for the all students. As for the mental health education needs, female students showed higher than the male students. The needs for the stress management were highest and self-management followed. As for the general characteristics related to the mental health education needs and school related stress, the needs were significantly different according to the sex, grade, and experience of mental health education and the school related stress were significantly different according to the sex and grade.Finally, there were significant correlation between school related stress and mental health education needs.Conclusion: This study revealed there was the relationship with school related stress and mental health education needs among the middle students. This study also suggested the basic information and framework for planning, developing, and providing the school based mental health promotion education for the middle school students.
The Effects of Psychological Factors on Eating Attitude in University Hospitals Nurses
Authors: Kang Hyung Gon , Jee Young Gun , Kim Su Jin , Lim Ji Young , Yoon Ho , Jung Woo Sik , Kim Myung Ah
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of psychological factors on eating attitude in university hospital's nurses. Methods: For this assessment, a cross-sectional study was conducted with 286 nurses who have worked in university hospital. Nurses were questioned with self-reported questionnaire forms. We investigated eating attitude, psychological factors(anxiety, depression, stress, selfesteem) and general characteristics of nurses. Results: Nurses with abnormal eating attitude were 47 cases( 16.43%). The proportions of abnormal eating attitude were higher in cases of nurses with having anxiety, depression, high stress and low self-esteem.After controlling confounding variables, the factors associated with the abnormal eating attitude were stress, exercise, drink and weekly working hours. Conclusion: Nurses having higher stress had more abnormal eating attitude. So, it is necessary to develope an program for reducing psychological disturbances.
Study on Alcoholic Couples Communication Types and Efficiency
Authors: Park Jung Suk , Yang Soo
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study was conducted by investigating alcoholic couples and their types of communication to provide the necessary data for improving their communication problems. Methods: A questionnaire survey was administered to 50 alcoholic couples with the husbands receiving treatment as inpatients or outpatients after being diagnosed as alcoholics at K Hospital in U City and 50 normal couples living in Seoul and Incheon. Results: 1) The two groups also showed significant difference in terms of communication types. Alcoholics in particular tended to be indifferent to communication, although their wives showed the highest tendency toward mutual respect. 2) The combined types of communication between the two groups significantly differed, with the communication types of alcoholic couples found to be mostly dysfunctional and those of normal couples found to be mostly functional. 3) There was also a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the efficiency of communication, where alcoholics and their wives showed an average of 5.12 and 3.41 points, respectively.Conclusion: Results suggest that alcoholic couples use more dysfunctional communication methods compared to normal couples. It is therefore necessary to develop various programs to address the communication problems based on the results of this study.
Making the most of teachable moments
Authors: Tassoni Penny
Published: September 2024

An increasing number of babies are in early education and care as subsided hours are now available from the age of nine months. Penny Tassoni, author, trainer and education consultant, outlines the importance of care routines for infants and shares ways to use them to teach children key skills.
Dialogic Scaffolding: How to Design Critical Questions in Developing Students Algebraic Reasoning?
Authors: Basir Mochamad Abdul , Kusmaryono Imam , Maharani Hevy Risqi
Published: September 2024

Scaffolding dialogue is a concept in learning that refers to the support or assistance given to individuals during the dialogue process. The main objective of this research is to create a basic structure of dialogue to help and support students during the learning process in improving their algebraic reasoning skills. Algebraic reasoning is a process in which students generalize mathematical ideas from a certain set of examples, establish these generalizations through argumentative discourse, and express them in a formal and age-appropriate way. The study was designed using the grounded theory qualitative model method, which used three sequential steps: open coding, selective coding, and theoretical coding. The research was conducted on students of the mathematics education department at Universitas Islam Sultan Agung. Data collection methods include algebraic reasoning ability tests, questionnaires, and interviews. Data analysis in grounded theory is an iterative and non-linear process that requires researchers to constantly move back and forth between data collection and analysis. This process aims to produce a theory that is valid and can explain phenomena well based on empirical data obtained during research. The dialogue scaffolding strategy framework in improving students' algebraic reasoning abilities includes instructing, locating, identifying, modeling, advocating, exploring, reformulating, challenging, and evaluating.
Central European Helconini (Hymenoptera, Braconidae): Distribution, new host records and illustrated key to the species
Authors: HOVORKA TOMÁŠ , JANŠTA PETR
Published: September 2024

Braconid wasps of the tribe Helconini are known to be koinobiont endoparasitoids of wood-boring coleopteran larvae, namely Cerambycidae and Buprestidae. However, the biology of most species of Helconini remains unknown. The European fauna of this tribe was last studied in detail in 1987, so updating knowledge of the biology of individual species, including their relationship to their hosts and potential use in protecting woody plants from invasive and native pests, is needed. We present first country record of Helcon angustator Nees, 1814 for Azerbaijan, Helcon claviventris Wesmael, 1835 for Slovakia and first record of Helcon tardator Nees, 1814 for Russian Far East. We have found seven new host records in the studied material which were not published elsewhere and nine new host records in literature not listed in the most comprehensive database of Yu et al. (2016). An updated photographic key to the genera and species of the central European Helconini is also presented here. Further, diagnosis, distributional data (worldwide and in detail for Czechia and Slovakia), biology, elevation distribution in Czechia and Slovakia and host records in each species is given. Wroughtonia claviventris (Wesmael, 1835) is transfered to the genus Helcon Nees, 1814 as Helcon claviventris Wesmael, 1835, stat. rev.
Broadband reconfigurable instantaneous microwave multifrequency measurement system based on a nonuniform optical frequency comb
Authors: Ji Qian , Zhang Jiahong , Zhang Jing , Ma Di
Published: September 2024

A broadband reconfigurable instantaneous microwave multifrequency measurement system based on a nonuniform optical frequency comb has been proposed and investigated. An amplitude nonuniform optical frequency comb (OFC) with 2l+1 lines is generated using periodic sawtooth wave modulation. One path of the OFC is passed through an optical frequency selector (OFS) to output one of the lines as the optical carrier, which, along with the unknown signal, are input into a dual-parallel Mach–Zehnder modulator (DPMZM) for carrier-suppressed single-sideband (CS-SSB) modulation and then channelized by using demultiplexer (DEMUX1). The other path is input into DEMUX2 for comb line separation. A 90° optical hybrid coupler (OHC) is used to merge the signals output from the two demultiplexers, and a pair of balanced photodetectors (BPD) is employed to convert the optical signals into electrical signals. Finally, the frequency of the unknown microwave signal can be determined by detecting the channel position i in which the signal falls, and the frequency fPD detected within channel i. Simulation experiments show that when the OFC consists of 35 lines, the measurement range is 0.01–70 GHz, with an error within ±3.24MHz. By adjusting the number of OFC to 51, the measurement range can be expanded to 0.01–102 GHz, while the measurement error of the system remains nearly unchanged. All these results demonstrate that the proposed approach possesses broadband reconfigurability.
High efficiency regulation method to generate an illumination source by adopting the micromirror array in DUV lithography
Authors: Chen Yuqing , Li Yanqiu , Liu Lihui
Published: September 2024

Source and mask optimization (SMO) is an important lithography resolution enhancement technique for 22 nm technology nodes and beyond in lithography. This technique generates freeform sources by adjusting the inclination angle of the micromirror array (MMA). In this paper, a high efficiency regulation method to generate an illumination source by adopting the micromirror array in DUV lithography is proposed. The number and inclination angles of micromirrors required for adjustment to convert the initial source into any illumination source are quickly and accurately obtained by using the proposed method. The illumination source is obtained on the pupil plane by adjusting the inclination angles of some micromirrors. The simulation results show that the initial source is converted into another illumination source with different complexities by adjusting some micromirrors. Compared with the traditional MMA allocation method, when the initial source is the freeform source, the regulation efficiency of micromirrors has been improved by at least 20%. The method reduces the regulation time of micromirrors and the number of micromirrors required for adjustment. Moreover, the number of micromirrors required for adjustment is positively correlated with the coherence coefficient. The results illustrate that this method is effective and has significant engineering implications.
Evolution of geometric phase and explaining the geodesic rule
Authors: Hagen Nathan , Garza-Soto Luis
Published: September 2024

We use the recently developed wave model of geometric phase to track the continuous evolution of geometric phase as a wave propagates through optical elements and throughout an optical system. By working directly with the wave properties, we encounter a natural explanation of why the conventional Poincaré sphere solid angle method must use geodesic paths rather than the physical paths of the polarization state—the “geodesic rule”—and show that the existing rules for the solid angle algorithm are incomplete. Finally, we use the physical model to clarify the differences between the Pancharatnam connection and the geometric phase of a wave.
Comparison and benchmark of deep learning methods for non-coding RNA classification
Authors: Creux Constance , Zehraoui Farida , Radvanyi François , Tahi Fariza
Published: September 2024

The involvement of non-coding RNAs in biological processes and diseases has made the exploration of their functions crucial. Most non-coding RNAs have yet to be studied, creating the need for methods that can rapidly classify large sets of non-coding RNAs into functional groups, or classes. In recent years, the success of deep learning in various domains led to its application to non-coding RNA classification. Multiple novel architectures have been developed, but these advancements are not covered by current literature reviews. We present an exhaustive comparison of the different methods proposed in the state-of-the-art and describe their associated datasets. Moreover, the literature lacks objective benchmarks. We perform experiments to fairly evaluate the performance of various tools for non-coding RNA classification on popular datasets. The robustness of methods to non-functional sequences and sequence boundary noise is explored. We also measure computation time and CO2 emissions. With regard to these results, we assess the relevance of the different architectural choices and provide recommendations to consider in future methods.
Case fatality among people with drug-susceptible TB enrolled in a private health sector TB treatment support program in Bihar, India during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Faust Lena , Ranjan Ayushi , Jha Nita , Pai Madhukar , Huddart Sophie
Published: September 2024

Experiencing 27% of the global tuberculosis (TB) burden, India’s TB epidemic is the largest in the world. Due to COVID-19-related disruptions to TB programs, India has also seen the largest drop in TB case notifications of any country globally. We estimated case fatality among people treated for TB in India during the pandemic and compared these to pre-pandemic estimates. A random sample of 4,000 adults enrolled in World Health Partners (WHP), a private sector TB treatment support program (enrolling only people with drug-susceptible TB) in Bihar, India in the first year of COVID-19 (Mar 2020-Mar 2021) were contacted via phone to collect information on TB case fatality and other relevant covariates. Inverse probability of selection (IPS) weighting was used to obtain selection-bias-corrected in-treatment and post-treatment case fatality estimates. Covariates associated with (but not necessarily causal of) case fatality were identified by estimating adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) using the Cox proportional hazards model. WHP enrolled 19,826 adult drug-susceptible TB patients in the first year of COVID-19 (Mar 2020 to Mar 2021). Of our random sample of 4,000 patients, n = 2,962 (74.1%) answered the follow-up call. Unweighted and IPS-weighted in-treatment case fatality in the primary analysis were 6.12% (95%CI: 5.31–6.97%) and 6.07% (95%CI: 5.22–6.93%), respectively. Post-treatment case fatality estimates were 0.97% (95%CI: 0.61–1.33%) (unweighted) and 1.27% (95%CI: 0.79–1.79) (IPS-weighted). Our IPS-weighted estimates for in-treatment and post-treatment case fatality were similar to pre-pandemic IPS-weighted estimates (in-treatment: 7.27%, 95%CI: 5.97%- 8.49% and 12 months post-treatment: 1.23, 95%CI: 0.75–1.73). Although not higher than pre-pandemic estimates, the observed case fatality in this private sector cohort of people treated for drug-susceptible TB during COVID-19 in Bihar, India is above the level needed to reach the 2025 and 2030 End TB Strategy targets for reductions in TB deaths, underlining the extent of pandemic-related setbacks to TB elimination.
Household preparedness for emergencies during COVID-19 pandemic among the general population of Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Salina , Malla Rabin , Shrestha Sadhana , Singh Pallavi , Sherchand Jeevan B.
Published: September 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the global economy affecting numerous people’s livelihoods. Despite preventive behaviors and advancements of vaccination, the risk of infection still exists due to the emergence of new variants of concern and the changing behavior of the SARS CoV-2 virus. Therefore, preparedness measures are crucial for any emergency. In such situations, it is important to understand preparedness behavior at the household level, as it aids in reducing the risk of transmission and the severity of the disease before accessing any external support. Our study aimed to evaluate household preparedness level for emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic and its relationship with socio-demographic characteristics among the general population of Nepal. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey. Descriptive statistics, a Chi-square test, and logistic regression model were used for analysis. The study demonstrated that 59.2% had a good preparedness level. Good preparedness was observed among the respondents living in urban areas, those who were married, had white-collar occupations, high-education with graduate and above and high-income levels with monthly income >NPR 20,000, and were young-aged. The study findings underscore the need to develop tailored programs on preparedness prioritizing vulnerable population. It further highlights the importance of proper and consistent information flow, resources distribution, capacitating human resources and better health surveillance.