bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
СОЦІАЛІЗАЦІЯ СТУДЕНТСЬКОЇ МОЛОДІ У ПРОЦЕСІ ВОЛОНТЕРСЬКОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ: ТЕОРЕТИЧНИЙ АСПЕКТ
Authors: ГУЦУЛЯК Лідія
Published: February 2024

У статті розкрито особливості соціалізації студентської молоді у процесі волонтерської діяльності. Визначено, що соціалізація ‒ це складний і невід'ємний процес взаємодії людини і соціального середовища; важливий елемент становлення повноцінної особистості в сучасному світі. Зазначено, що одним з найефективніших засобів соціалізації студентської молоді є волонтерська діяльність ‒ добровільна участь людей у різноманітних благодійних, громадських або соціальних ініціативах без матеріальної винагороди. Названо такі причини участі студентської молоді у волонтерській діяльності: перспективи, визнання, спілкування, формування професійних компетентностей. На основі теоретичного аналізу літературних джерел виділено та охарактеризовано такі соціально-педагогічні функції волонтерської діяльності як засобу соціалізації студентської молоді: ідентифікаційна, інтегруюча, особистісно-розвиваюча, ціннісно-смислова, професійно-трудова, інноваційно-ініціативна, творчо-перетворювальна, гуманістична, духовно-моральна; функція соціальної компетентності, громадянського виховання, самосвідомості. Авторкою наголошено, що волонтерська діяльність, як ефективний механізм соціалізації, надає студентській молоді унікальну можливість взаємодіяти з різноманітними соціальними групами, розширюючи їхні горизонти і розуміння реальних проблем суспільства. Цей процес не лише сприяє збагаченню соціального досвіду, але й формує в студентів цінність взаємодії, відповідальності перед громадськістю та розвитку критичного мислення щодо соціальних викликів, дозволяє не лише допомагати іншим самореалізовуватися, а й самим опановувати навички успішної соціалізації. У цьому контексті волонтерство виступає не лише як благородна справа, але й як потужний інструмент формування громадянської свідомості та активної життєвої позиції.
ВПЛИВ ТЕХНОЛОГІЧНИХ ІННОВАЦІЙ НА ПРАКТИКУ СОЦІАЛЬНОЇ РОБОТИ: ПЕРЕВАГИ, ВИКЛИКИ, МОЖЛИВОСТІ
Authors: ШЕВЧУК Олександр , ПАЛИЛЮЛЬКО Оксана , ЗАВАДСЬКА Ірина
Published: February 2024

У сучасному світі, де технологічний прогрес набуває безпрецедентного обсягу, соціальна робота не може залишатися осторонь від цих трансформацій. Технологічні інновації, такі як штучний інтелект, віртуальна реальність, телемедицина та інші, радикально переосмислюють підходи до надання соціальних послуг, відкриваючи нові можливості та одночасно створюючи виклики. Ця динамічна перетворення вимагають від професіоналів соціальної роботи глибокого розуміння та гнучкості у використанні нових інструментів та методик. Дана стаття присвячена дослідженню впливу технологічних інновацій на практику соціальної роботи, вивчаючи їх переваги, виклики та потенційні можливості для подальшого розвитку професії. За останні десятиліття технологічний прогрес невпинно змінює наше життя в усіх його сферах, а соціальна робота не є винятком. Запровадження штучного інтелекту, віртуальної реальності, телемедицини та інших інновацій викликає глибокі зміни у підходах та методиках соціальної роботи. Це ставить перед фахівцями завдання не тільки адаптуватися до нових умов, але й стратегічно використовувати ці технології для покращення якості та ефективності послуг для клієнтів. У цьому контексті, дана наукова стаття присвячена дослідженню «Вплив технологічних інновацій на практику соціальної роботи: переваги, виклики та можливості». Ми спробуємо розкрити, як сучасні технології перетворюють стратегії та інструменти соціальних робітників, а також як це впливає на якість надання соціальних послуг. Розглядаючи переваги та можливості цього технологічного витоку, ми також звернемо увагу на етичні та безпекові виклики, які виникають при його впровадженні. На базі цього дослідження ми сподіваємося висвітлити ключові аспекти та визначити шляхи подальшого розвитку соціальної роботи в епоху технологічних інновацій.
Action Research to Improve Online Teaching and Learning Activities at STIE Indonesia Banjarmasin
Authors: Said Meldasari , Fahrianta Riswan Yudhi
Published: February 2024

This study aims to analyze the readiness STIE Indonesia Banjarmasin students in facing online learning, and what actions are good to take so that learning outcomes can be achieved. This study used action research methods. The method of data collection through observation of three classes with a total of 145 students, complemented by interviews with eight students from representatives of each class as informants. Observations were made in three cycles, namely online synchronous class cycle, the online asynchronous cycle using video, and the online asynchronous cycle using video plus quizzes. Each cycle goes through four stages, namely design, implementation, evaluation, and rethink. The results show that postgraduate students prefer online classes because it saves travel costs and is more flexible in terms of time. They prefer synchronous classes because there is direct interaction. While undergraduate students prefer offline classes so they can focus, avoid a non-conducive learning environment. In addition, for the learning method with video, it is more effective if it is added with a quiz at the end of the material to increase students' access to watching online learning videos.
Bachelor-MARSYS education cruise in the Baltic Sea Cruise No. AL577, 28.07. – 08.08.2022, Kiel (Germany) – Kiel (Germany) BALTEACH - 1
Authors: Klinger Richard
Published: February 2024

During this teaching cruise, bachelor students of the Institute of Marine Ecosystem and Fishery Science (IMF) were supposed to get the opportunity to learn about the most commonly used scientific methods, gears and working procedures on board of a research vessel for fisheries science as well as biological oceanography. In order to achieve a great number of students participating a teaching cruise, this one has been split in half. Thus a change of 7 students has been realizable in Rønne, on the Danish island Bornholm. The scientific objective of the cruise was the investigation of distribution patterns of certain spawning fish species, such as cod, whiting, sprat, plaice, flounder and dab in the Kiel, Arkona and with special focus within the Bornholm Basin. In addition to fisheries, a comprehensive grid of plankton net stations was sampled in order to gain insights into the spatial distribution of fish eggs, planktivorous prey (larval to adult life stages) cod larvae and plankton distribution (most important for sprat) within the Bornholm Basin. Of special interest were picoplankton communities´ short term responses (on board) to temperature along the respective gradient in the Baltic Sea with an additional sampling scheme to later isolate Ostreococcus sp. and its associated viruses for future laboratory studies at the Institute for Marine Ecosystem and Fishery Science. (Alkor-Berichte ; AL577)
(Re)emphasizing Urban Infrastructure Resilience via Scoping Review and Content Analysis
Authors: Shaker Richard Ross , Rybarczyk Greg , Brown Craig , Papp Victoria , Alkins Shenley
Published: February 2024

Although the importance of urban infrastructure resilience can be inferred, its terminology remains convoluted within the literature due to a lack of systematic review from a sustainable development planning perspective. This review paper was designed to elucidate connected research themes, scientific popularity, and conceptual boundaries of the term infrastructure resilience in an urban context. Three guiding research questions were asked: What does urban infrastructure resilience really mean? What are the most common research topics connected to urban infrastructure resilience? How can humanity further improve urban infrastructure resilience from a sustainable development planning perspective? To answer these research questions, a two-step literature analysis was adopted consisting of: (i) a scoping review to select relevant publications based on a specific search query; and (ii) a content analysis to reduce and synthesize the scoping review findings further based on the three most applicable publishing outlets. The scoping review reduced articles to 535, while content analysis further condensed it to 84 across three key journals. With North America and Europe leading, the findings corroborated that eight connected subject areas establish the conceptual boundaries of urban infrastructure resilience. The eight related research topics in decreasing abundance were: (1) climate change, (2) floods, (3) disasters, (4) environmental policy, (5) ecosystems, (6) risk assessment, (7) emergency preparedness, and (8) adaptation. In conclusion, these research topics should be pursued when creating urban infrastructure resilience strategies for moving towards sustainability.
Participatory Readership
Authors: Butchart Megan
Published: February 2024

Despite the emerging proliferation of periodical studies scholarship attentive to various facets of the publishing circuit, relatively little is known about the readers of historical periodicals. Who were they? How were they reading? Why were they reading? How did readers participate in the work of periodicals discursively and non-discursively? This article outlines the process of reconstructing, from archival subscription records, the historical subscribership of South Today, a “little” literary magazine and activist publication published in the American South in the 1930s and 1940s by editors Lillian Smith and Paula Snelling. Combining the findings of this data with reader testimony in the magazine and archive, I consider the difference between “imagined” and “real” readerships and investigate how Smith and Snelling’s curation of readerly community spaces—and the resultant reader participation both on and off the page—contributed to the magazine’s development and community-based political activism. Although South Today has fallen somewhat into obscurity, it had a relatively large circulation and long run for a little magazine, and it serves as an insightful publication in the history of the long civil rights movement. Furthermore, its community approach to publishing and openly anti-segregationist politics make it an interesting candidate for a study of readership, for as South Today was increasingly subjected to state surveillance, reading the magazine became more and more of a political act. This article contributes not only to studies of little magazines and their readerships generally, but also proposes that understanding South Today’s politics and historical significance necessitates a study of its approach to readership. Ultimately, this article offers evidence of South Today’s readers as active participants rather than passive consumers, and argues that these peripheries around print objects are important sites of community and activism that deserve greater attention.
A Difference Equation of Banking Loan with Nonlinear Deposit Interest Rate
Authors: Ansori Moch. Fandi , Gümüş F. Hilal
Published: February 2024

This paper considers a banking loan model using a difference equation with a nonlinear deposit interest rate. The construction of the model is based on a simple bank balance sheet composition and a gradient adjustment process. The model produces two unstable loan equilibriums and one stable equilibrium when the parameter corresponding to the deposit interest rate is situated between its transcritical and flip bifurcations. Some numerical simulations are presented to align with the analytical findings, such as the bifurcation diagram, Lyapunov exponent, cobweb diagram, and contour plot sensitivity. The significance of our result is that the banking regulator may consider the lower and upper bounds for setting the nonlinear interest rate regulation and provide a control regulation for other banking factors to maintain loan stability.
Відбір і збереження плюсових дерев cосни звичайної в умовах Чернігівського Полісся та лісостепової частини України
Authors: Терещенко Л. І.
Published: February 2024

Наведено результати обстеження 80 плюсових дерев сосни звичайної (Pinus sylvestris L.), відібраних понад 35 років тому в деревостанах Чернігівської, Харківської та Черкаської областей. Визначено їхні ростові та якісні показники, селекційну категорію, стан, інтенсивність репродукції. Отримані в процесі обстежень дані зіставлені з даними паспортів плюсових дерев на рік відбору. За результатами дослідження не виявлено чіткої тенденції щодо характеру зміни ростових показників плюсових дерев. Із віком ростові показники плюсових дерев зменшили перевершення над середніми показниками обстежених деревостанів до 3–9 % за висотою та до 3–13 % за діаметром. Більшість обстежених плюсових дерев характеризувалися якісними стовбурами. Висота й прямизна стовбура визначені найважливішими показниками під час відбору плюсових дерев. Відзначено тенденцію до погіршення стану плюсових дерев із віком. Проаналізовано підходи до відбору плюсових дерев сосни звичайної та надано пропозиції щодо удосконалення критерію відбору. Запропоновано спрямувати подальшу діяльність на створення електронної бази даних детальних протоколів відбору дерев і характеристик їхніх генотипів, а також збереження всіх відібраних плюсових дерев в умовах ex situ.
Belantamab mafodotin: an important treatment option for vulnerable patients with triple class exposed relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Mateos Maria Victoria , Weisel Katja , Terpos Evangelos , Delimpasi Sossana , Kastritis Efstathios , Zamagni Elena , Delforge Michel , Ocio Enrique , Katodritou Eirini , Gay Francesca , Larocca Alessandra , Leleu Xavier , Otero Paula Rodriguez , Schjesvold Fredik , Cavo Michele , Dimopoulos Meletios A.
Published: February 2024

Not available.
Estenosis e insuficiencia pulmonar: Caso Clínico
Authors: Celi Sinchiri Diana Catalina , Mesa Cano Isabel Cristina , Pacurucu Ávila Nube Johanna
Published: February 2024

Introducción. La estenosis y la insuficiencia pulmonar, son patologías que ocasionan alteraciones en el flujo de sangre dentro de las cavidades derechas del corazón. Se presentan mayoritariamente como defectos congénitos, pero en una gran cantidad de pacientes no son diagnosticadas sino hasta llegar a la edad adulta; debido a la poca sintomatología que usualmente presentan y debido al gran periodo de latencia que tienen de forma asintomática. Objetivo. Determinar las principales manifestaciones clínicas y los métodos diagnósticos de las patologías de la válvula pulmonar a través de un caso clínico, con el fin de ayudar a facilitar sus diagnósticos tempranos. Metodología.  Estudio de caso clínico de tipo descriptivo, retrospectivo. La recolección de la información del caso se realizará mediante la revisión de la historia clínica. La expectativa del siguiente trabajo de investigación es identificar las principales causas, síntomas y signos, el diagnóstico, tratamiento y prevención de la estenosis e insuficiencia pulmonar. Resultados. Presentamos el caso de una femenina de 34 años edad con antecedente de valvulopatía pulmonar en la infancia y 24 horas de evolución de disnea más dolor retroesternal. Se realizan los exámenes complementarios y se diagnostica una estenosis con insuficiencia pulmonar. Se Realiza una cirugía de reemplazo valvular y es dada de alta con buen pronóstico. Conclusión. La principal manifestación de las enfermedades de la válvula pulmonar son manifestaciones características de insuficiencia cardiaca derecha y retención de líquidos. El principal estudio diagnóstico de las enfermedades de la válvula pulmonar es la ecocardiografía más estudio Doppler. El tratamiento de elección en estenosis e insuficiencia pulmonar cuando los síntomas son graves es el reemplazo valvular. Las enfermedades valvulares pulmonares cuando son diagnosticadas correctamente e intervenidas a tiempo, suelen tener una remisión muy buena y el pronóstico es favorable. Área de estudio general: medicina. Área de estudio específica: cardiología. Tipo de estudio: Casos clínicos.
Enhancing Growth, Yield, and Physio-Chemical Properties of Mustard (Brassica Napus L) Through Combined Application of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers Under Salinity Condition in Satkhira, Bangladesh
Authors: Reza M S , Hasan M J , Nadim MKA , Chowdhury SMA , Akter MB , Kamruzzaman M
Published: February 2024

A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth, yield, and physio-chemical properties of mustard (Brassica napus L) during the Rabi season 2021-2022 at the experimental field of BINA (Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture) substation farm, Satkhira, Bangladesh. The experiment had 10 treatments viz. T1 = 100% RDF (Recommended Dose Fertilizer), T2 = 75% RDF + 3 ton ha-1 vermicompost, T3 = 50% RDF + 5 ton ha-1 vermicompost, T4 = 75% RDF + 3 ton ha-1 cow-dung, T5 = 50% RDF + 5 ton ha-1 cow-dung, T6 = control, T7 = 3 ton ha-1 cow-dung, T8 = 5 ton ha-1 cow-dung, T9 = 3 ton ha-1 vermicompost, T10 = 5 ton ha-1 vermicompost with three (3) replications in randomized complete block design (RCBD). The combined effect of treatments varied significantly for most of the characters studies. The results revealed that the maximum plant height (cm), No. of primary branches plant-1, no. of secondary branches plant-1, total siliqua plant-1, siliqua length (cm), seeds siliqua-1, seeds plant-1, and yield plot-1 were recorded with the application of 75% RDF + 3 ton ha-1 vermicompost which was significant over control. The combined effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers was found significant in the growth, yield, and physio-chemical properties of mustard cultivation. 
SAARC J. Agric., 21(2): 169-182 (2023)
Kiệt quệ tài chính và quyết định tái cấu trúc doanh nghiệp Việt Nam trong từng chu kỳ sống
Authors: Khúc Thế Anh , Trần Bá Ngọc Khôi , Lưu Thị Phương Anh , Nguyễn Hồng Anh , Nguyễn Thị Minh
Published: February 2024

Bài viết này nghiên cứu ảnh hưởng của kiệt quệ tài chính đến quyết định tái cấu trúc của các doanh nghiệp Việt Nam trong từng chu kỳ sống, khi số liệu các doanh nghiệp giải thể của Tổng cục thống kê đã chỉ ra sự thương tổn của nền kinh tế. Dữ liệu thu thập từ 645 doanh nghiệp niêm yết tại Việt Nam vào giai đoạn 2010-2022 được xử lý bằng mô hình hồi quy logistic và dự báo rủi ro tín dụng KMV Merton trên STATA17 và Excel VBA. Nhóm nghiên cứu phát hiện kiệt quệ tài chính xảy ra khiến các công ty gia tăng sử dụng các chiến lược tái cấu trúc tài sản, hoạt động và nguồn tài trợ. Ở giai đoạn bão hòa và suy thoái, các doanh nghiệp Việt Nam có xu hướng cắt giảm giá vốn hàng bán, phát hành thêm vốn cổ phần và sử dụng nợ nhiều hơn so với việc bán tài sản cố định và cắt giảm cổ tức chi trả.
Sustainable open innovation for ammunition waste management: Proposal for implementation in brazilian public security institutions
Authors: Haltenburg Neusa Rejane Pinheiro de Carvalho , Cândido Ana Clara
Published: February 2024

The study describes how looking at collaborative processes with a sustainable bias can effectively contribute, through sustainable open innovation, to opportunities for solving challenges of the same context. Therefore, we present a study proposal to improve the public security arena (reverse logistics of ammunition expended in training), aiming at recycling the generated waste. The research strategy was case study analysis, which is appropriate for investigating real-life events. It was necessary to understand which factors contribute to qualifying the requirements for reverse logistics and sustainable innovation in public security institutions. The specific objective is to link the maturity level of the public security institutions to its goals in reverse logistics, to give greater view to implement it. As a result, we were able to increase the current status of knowledge regarding the sustainable disposal of expended ammunition cases and get a better understanding of the economic gains by selling the brass scraps waste (expended ammunition) as a large expected benefit, collaborating to reduce the customer’s costs by enhancing their reverse logistics processes. Also, considering the solutions to complex problems through collaboration, knowledge of purposes, and organizational maturity, point out the relationship between sustainability and innovation.
Mapping and characterization of social sports projects in the south zone of Macapá: an experience with jiu-jitsu
Authors: Trindade Vieira Jefferson Augusto , COSTA ALISSON VIEIRA , Silva Dias Marcela Fabiani
Published: February 2024

The study aimed to map and characterize jiu-jitsu social projects in the city of Macapá. An exploratory and descriptive research was carried out. Data were collected through the application of a questionnaire with project coordinators. The absolute frequency and percentages related to the project profiles were described and 12 projects were identified. Regarding the public served, it was found that most of the projects work with the general public, from children to the elderly. The jiu-jitsu modality in the investigated locus has served as an educational and social inclusion tool for children, young people, adults and the elderly. There is a need to carry out more studies to obtain a total idea of ​​the projects that make up the other neighborhoods of the city of Macapá.
Meningkatkan Motorik Kasar Anak Melalui Permainan Tradisional Sondah Usia 4 â€“ 5 Tahun
Authors: Khotrunnida Khotrunnida
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to find out the importance of gross motor for early childhood in improving their development in KB Darul Falah Graha Walantaka Serang. This research is a type of classroom action research or Classroom Action Research. The first own classroom action research was introduced by an American social psychologist, Kurt Lewis in 1946. The results of this study show that the application of the method of playing with traditional sondah games carried out in the learning system at KB Darul Falah has increased in terms of gross motor skills in early childhood. This is evident from the research results that have been described in the previous chapter. It is seen from several cycle tables above that the increase from pre-cycle, cycle I, and cycle II has a very effective increase. The application of traditional sondah games can develop children's gross motor skills in KB Darul Falah Graha Walantaka Serang
Analisis Faktor-Faktor Yang Memengaruhi Keberhasilan Menghafal Al-Qurâ€™an Santri Pondok Pesantren Tahfidz Daarul Qurâ€™an Iâ€™daad Shigor Putri Tangerang
Authors: Syafril Muthia Islami
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors that influence the success of students in memorizing the Koran in the Islamic Boarding School Tahfidz Daarul Qurâ€™an Iâ€™daad Shigor Putri Tangerang. This research is a qualitative research with a phenomenological approach. The research subjects were students at the Islamic Boarding School Tahfidz Daarul Qurâ€™an Iâ€™daad Shigor Putri Tangerang which was divided into supporting and inhibiting factors. The results showed several factors influence the success of memorizing the Qur'an santri in Tahfidz Daarul Qur'an Islamic Boarding School I'daad Shigor Putri Tangerang divided into supporting and inhibiting factors.
Pola Asuh Orang Tua Dalam Membentuk Kemandirian Anak Remaja
Authors: Aftiani Sayyida
Published: February 2024

This research was conducted to determine the parenting patterns of parents in forming the independence of adolescents in Kampung Gebang RT 001 RW 002 Periuk Tangerang District. This research uses a phenomological approach so that researchers can capture various problems that exist in society and reveal a meaning in the problem, because this research emphasizes understanding of problems that exist in social life. The result is that the parenting style applied by parents is a democratic parenting style, that is, giving freedom to the child but there is still proper control for the child, 2. Factors supporting children's independence are family, busy parents, availability of facilities, agreements between children and parents, and being the first child. Factors inhibiting children's independence are: laziness, being too pampered, lack of confidence and parents' words.
Efektivitas Lingkungan Pesantren Babus Salam Dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas Xi Pada Mata Pelajaran Fiqih Pasca Pandemi Di Sma Babus Salam Karawaci Kota Tangerang
Authors: El Tamam Muhammad Badru , Muslim Ahmad Buchori
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine the learning outcomes of class XI students in fiqih subjects at Babus Salam High School during the pandemic and post-pandemic, find out the support provided by the Babus Salam Islamic boarding school in improving class XI learning outcomes in fiqih subjects and analyze the effectiveness of the Babus Salam islamic boarding school environment in improving the learning outcomes of class XI students at Babus Salam High School. This research is a qualitative research. By using field research, with observation, interview, and documentation data collection techniques. The source of the data comes from the principal, homeroom teacher, fiqh maple teacher, dormitory caregiver, student organization supervisor, ustadz / ustadzah, student organization administrator, student, tatib document, learning outcome report and field observation. Data validity using triangulation and defendability tests. Data analysis uses data reduction, data presentation and data verification. The results showed that the learning outcomes of class XI students in fiqh subjects decreased during the pandemic and increased after the pandemic, the Babus Salam islamic boarding school environment provided adequate support and encouragement in fiqh learning and was considered effective in improving the learning outcomes of class XI students in fiqih subjects.
PENINGKATAN HASIL BELAJAR SISWA MATA PELAJARAN BACA TULIS AL-QURâ€™AN (Analisis Model Pembelajaran Aktif, Inovatif, Kreatif, Efektif dan Menyenangkan (PAIKEM))
Authors: Ramadhan Nanda Salsa
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to improve student learning outcomes in BTQ subjects in grade IV using the PAIKEM model. This research is a classroom action research (Classroom Action Research). This research was divided into two cycles with each cycle consisting of planning, implementation, action, observation and reflection. The research subjects were fourth grade students at MI As-Syarifiyah, totaling 31 people. Sources of data come from teachers and students. Data collection techniques using observation, interviews, data validity using source, technique, and time triangulation techniques, data analysis using quantitative data analysis techniques and qualitative data analysis. The results of the study show that the use of the PAIKEM model can improve student learning outcomes. This result can be seen from the comparison of presentations between pre-cycle, cycle I and cycle II which have been carried out well.
Numerical methods for solving second-order initial value problems of ordinary differential equations with Euler and Runge-Kutta fourth-order methods
Authors: Workineh Yenesew , Mekonnen Habtamu , Belew Basaznew
Published: February 2024

This paper presents two standard numerical methods for solving second order initial value problems for ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The Euler and the Runge-Kutta fourth-order methods are applied without any discretization or restrictive assumptions for solving ODEs. The numerical solutions obtained by the two methods are in good agreement with the exact solutions. The convergence and error analysis which are discussed demonstrate the effectiveness of the methods. The results obtained from the two numerical methods show that the RK4 method is appropriate, consistent, convergent, quite stable, and more accurate than the Euler's method.
Posterior inference of Hi-C contact frequency through sampling
Authors: Zhang Yanlin , Cameron Christopher J. F. , Blanchette Mathieu
Published: February 2024

Hi-C is one of the most widely used approaches to study three-dimensional genome conformations. Contacts captured by a Hi-C experiment are represented in a contact frequency matrix. Due to the limited sequencing depth and other factors, Hi-C contact frequency matrices are only approximations of the true interaction frequencies and are further reported without any quantification of uncertainty. Hence, downstream analyses based on Hi-C contact maps (e.g., TAD and loop annotation) are themselves point estimations. Here, we present the Hi-C interaction frequency sampler (HiCSampler) that reliably infers the posterior distribution of the interaction frequency for a given Hi-C contact map by exploiting dependencies between neighboring loci. Posterior predictive checks demonstrate that HiCSampler can infer highly predictive chromosomal interaction frequency. Summary statistics calculated by HiCSampler provide a measurement of the uncertainty for Hi-C experiments, and samples inferred by HiCSampler are ready for use by most downstream analysis tools off the shelf and permit uncertainty measurements in these analyses without modifications.
The effect of personalized orthopedic insoles on plantar pressure during running in subtle cavus foot
Authors: Ma Mujia , Song Qingquan , Liu Hui
Published: February 2024

Objective: This study aims to investigate the patterns of plantar pressure distribution during running for patients with subtle cavus foot (SCF) and determine the impact of personalized orthopedic insoles with forefoot wedge on plantar pressure distribution in patients with SCF.

Methods: Sixteen undergraduate participants (8 with SCF and 8 with normal arches) were recruited based on arch height index measurements. Two full-length insoles were personalized for each SCF based on plantar pressures during running, an arch support insole (ASI) and an arch support with forefoot wedge insole (AFI). Foot pressure data collected during different insole conditions in running, analyzing ten regions of footprints for peak pressure and pressure-time integral.

Results: Higher peak pressures were observed in patients with SCF at the medial forefoot (p = 0.021), medial heel (p = 0.013), and lateral heel (p = 0.025), with a higher pressure-time integral also noted at the medial forefoot (p = 0.025), medial heel (p = 0.015), and lateral heel (p = 0.047) when compared to normal arches. Compared with without-insole, both the AFI and the ASI reduced peak pressure at the medial (AFI p = 0.011; ASI p = 0.024) and lateral heel (AFI p = 0.028; ASI p = 0.032). The AFI reduced peak pressure at the medial heel (p = 0.013) compared with the ASI. Both the AFI and the ASI reduced pressure-time integral at the medial forefoot (AFI p = 0.003; ASI p = 0.026), central forefoot (AFI p = 0.005; ASI p = 0.011), medial heel (AFI p = 0.017; ASI p = 0.005), and lateral heel (AFI p = 0.017; ASI p = 0.019). Additionally, the ASI reduced pressure-time integral at the big toe (p = 0.015) compared with the without-insole.

Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that during running in patients with SCF, plantar pressures are concentrated in the forefoot and heel compared to the normal arch. The personalized orthotic insoles can be used to effectively redistribute plantar pressure in patients with SCF running. Incorporating a forefoot wedge to specifically address the biomechanical abnormalities associated with SCF may enhance the effectiveness of orthopedic insoles.
Identification of plasminogen-binding sites in Streptococcus suis enolase that contribute to bacterial translocation across the blood-brain barrier
Authors: Zhao Tiantong , Gussak Alex , van der Hee Bart , Brugman Sylvia , van Baarlen Peter , Wells Jerry M.
Published: February 2024

Streptococcus suis is an emerging zoonotic pathogen that can cause invasive disease commonly associated with meningitis in pigs and humans. To cause meningitis, S. suis must cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) comprising blood vessels that vascularize the central nervous system (CNS). The BBB is highly selective due to interactions with other cell types in the brain and the composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Purified streptococcal surface enolase, an essential enzyme participating in glycolysis, can bind human plasminogen (Plg) and plasmin (Pln). Plg has been proposed to increase bacterial traversal across the BBB via conversion to Pln, a protease which cleaves host proteins in the ECM and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1) to disrupt tight junctions. The essentiality of enolase has made it challenging to unequivocally demonstrate its role in binding Plg/Pln on the bacterial surface and confirm its predicted role in facilitating translocation of the BBB. Here, we report on the CRISPR/Cas9 engineering of S. suis enolase mutants eno261, eno252/253/255, eno252/261, and eno434/435 possessing amino acid substitutions at in silico predicted binding sites for Plg. As expected, amino acid substitutions in the predicted Plg binding sites reduced Plg and Pln binding to S. suis but did not affect bacterial growth in vitro compared to the wild-type strain. The binding of Plg to wild-type S. suis enhanced translocation across the human cerebral microvascular endothelial cell line hCMEC/D3 but not for the eno mutant strains tested. To our knowledge, this is the first study where predicted Plg-binding sites of enolase have been mutated to show altered Plg and Pln binding to the surface of S. suis and attenuation of translocation across an endothelial cell monolayer in vitro.
USGS and social media user dialogue and sentiment during the 2018 eruption of Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i
Authors: Goldman Robert T. , McBride Sara K. , Stovall Wendy K. , Damby David E.
Published: February 2024

Responsive and empathic communication by scientists is critical for building trust and engagement with communities, which, in turn, promotes receptiveness toward authoritative hazard information during times of crisis. The 2018 eruption of Hawai‘i's Kīlauea Volcano was the first volcanic crisis event in which communication via the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) social media group, “USGS Volcanoes,” played a major role in providing eruption information to publics. Providing a concrete assessment of the social media effort during the eruption is necessary for optimizing future social media hazard crisis communication. We present qualitative and quantitative analyses of USGS Volcanoes' Facebook posts and over 22,000 follow-on comments spanning the 2018 eruption. Our analyses reveal that, for the 16 posts with the highest user engagement, USGS Volcanoes and informed non-USGS users directly answered 73% of questions and directly corrected or called out inaccuracies in over 54% of comments containing misinformation. User sentiments were 66% positive on average per comment thread regarding eruption information, and user feedback toward USGS Volcanoes, USGS scientists, or the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory was 86% positive on average. Quantitative sentiment analysis reveals a 61% correlation between users' overall expressed sentiments and frequency of the word “thank,” providing further evidence that social media engagement by USGS Volcanoes and informed users positively impacted collective user sentiment. Themes emerging from our qualitative thematic analysis illustrate how communication strategies employed by USGS Volcanoes successfully engaged and benefitted users, providing insights for communicating with publics on social media during crisis situations.
Concept mapping and conceptual change texts: a constructivist approach to address the misconceptions in nanoscale science and technology
Authors: Naeem Sarwar Muhammad , Shahzad Asif , Ullah Zaka , Raza Shahid , Wasti Shahbaz Hassan , Shrahili Mansour , Elbatal Ibrahim , Kulsoom Sumaira , Qaisar Shahzada , Faizan Nazar Muhammad
Published: February 2024

Nanoscale Science and Technology (NST) is a rapidly evolving field with profound implications for various industries and our everyday lives. However, misconceptions among learners can hinder their ability to grasp the fundamental concepts of NST, thereby impeding their potential contributions to this advancing domain. Concept maps (CM) and conceptual change texts (CCT) are graphical and written representations of knowledge that enable learners to visualize relationships between concepts and assess the coherence of their understanding. In this pursuit, we engage with the concept of rehabilitation for misconceptions, viewing the learning process as a transformative journey akin to cognitive rehabilitation. Through this CM-CCT constructivist approach, learners are encouraged to engage in critical reflection, self-questioning, and peer discussions, which facilitate the identification of misconceptions. Moreover, CM-CCT provide a structured framework for presenting accurate information about NST, offering a clear depiction of the hierarchical and interconnected nature of nanoscale phenomena. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of CM-CCT in correcting the misconceptions of undergraduate university students regarding nanotechnology and the taxonomy of nonmaterial. Prior to the implementation of the CM-CCT, an assessment of pre-existing knowledge of the students was performed through the structure of the observed learning outcomes (SOLO) taxonomy. A quasi-experimental research design was carried out. A total of 70 undergraduate university students, divided into two intact groups, were cross-examined for the study. Further, before and after the instructional tools, an achievement test based on nanotechnology and classification of nonmaterial was conducted, covering all six cognitive domains of the Bloom taxonomy of educational objectives. Data analysis revealed that the instructional tools based on constructivist approach had a statistically significant impact on students for elimination of their misconceptions about nanotechnology, nano science and classification of nonmaterial.
Comparison of endoscopic healing and durability between infliximab originator and CT-P13 in pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Kim Eun Sil , Choi Sujin , Choe Byung-Ho , Park Sowon , Lee Yeoun Joo , Sohn Sang Jun , Kim Soon Chul , Kang Ki Soo , Lee Kunsong , Shim Jung Ok , Kim Yu Bin , Hong Suk Jin , Lee Yoo Min , Kim Hyun Jin , Choi So Yoon , Kim Ju Young , Lee Yoon , Park Ji-Sook , Kim Jae Young , Yi Dae Yong , Lee Ji Hyuk , Choi Kwang-Hae , Jang Hyo-Jeong , Jeong In Sook , Kang Ben
Published: February 2024

Background and aims

Favourable clinical data were published on the efficacy of CT-P13, the first biosimilar of infliximab (IFX), in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); however, few studies have compared the effect on endoscopic healing (EH) and drug retention rate between the IFX originator and CT-P13. Therefore, we aimed to compare EH and the drug retention rate between the IFX originator and CT-P13.

Methods

Children with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC)/IBD-unclassified (IBD-U) at 22 medical centers were enrolled, with a retrospective review conducted at 1-year and last follow-up. Clinical remission, EH and drug retention rate were evaluated.

Results

We studied 416 pediatric patients with IBD: 77.4% had CD and 22.6% had UC/IBD-U. Among them, 255 (61.3%) received the IFX originator and 161 (38.7%) received CT-P13. No statistically significant differences were found between the IFX originator and CT-P13 in terms of corticosteroid-free remission and adverse events. At 1-year follow-up, EH rates were comparable between them (CD: P=0.902, UC: P=0.860). The estimated cumulative cessation rates were not significantly different between the two groups. In patients with CD, the drug retention rates were 66.1% in the IFX originator and 71.6% in the CT-P13 group at the maximum follow-up period (P >0.05). In patients with UC, the drug retention rates were 49.8% in the IFX originator and 56.3% in the CT-P13 group at the maximum follow-up period (P >0.05).

Conclusions

The IFX originator and CT-P13 demonstrated comparable therapeutic response including EH, clinical remission, drug retention rate and safety in pediatric IBD.
In vitro immunomodulation activity of protein hydrolysate from spirulina (Arthrospira platensis): the ingredient of future foods
Authors: Htoo Nang Yee Mon , Kraseasintra Oranit , Buncharoen Wararut , Kaewkod Thida , Pekkoh Jeeraporn , Tragoolpua Yingmanee , Khoo Kuan Shiong , Chaipoot Supakit , Srinuanpan Sirasit , Pumas Chayakorn
Published: February 2024

Microalgae, especially spirulina, have been globally used as a food supplement due to their rich protein content, safety for human consumption, and provision of enhanced immunomodulatory capabilities. There are, however, few reports that have investigated the immunomodulatory properties of spirulina protein hydrolysate. Consequently, this study aims to optimize the best extraction techniques for spirulina protein hydrolysate and characterize its antioxidant activities and immunomodulation properties in vitro. The results indicated that protein hydrolysate with Flavourzyme and alkaline extraction after ultrasonication and pre-enzymatic assistant with cellulase exhibited superior antioxidant properties compared to other methods. Additionally, all the protein extracts demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibition of nitric oxide production without significantly impacting cell viability. Furthermore, in vitro immunomodulatory properties were evaluated using Candida albicans (DMST 5815) as the test pathogen, with phagocytic activity and index measurements conducted. Notably, the results correlated with the previous assessments, wherein the protein hydrolysate with Flavourzyme displayed the highest phagocytic percentage, measuring 52.3% at a concentration of 10 mg/mL. These findings suggest that enzymatically derived protein hydrolysates from spirulina could serve as a potential source for enhancing immunostimulant activity. Thus, they hold promise as natural bioactive ingredients for therapeutic purposes and the development of functional foods.
Optimization and mechanism analysis of a compound additive for unfired bricks made of construction and demolition wastes
Authors: Liu Han-Dong , Fan Liujun
Published: February 2024

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) was fully exploited to prepare high-strength and low-cost unfired bricks. A compound additive consisting of sodium silicate, microsilica powder, an early-strength water reducer, and wood fiber was incorporated into the bricks. Tests (compressive tests, freeze–thaw cycle tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)) were carried out to determine the effect of the contents of the additive components on the properties (the strength, softening coefficient, freezing resistance, hydration products, and microscopic morphology) of unfired bricks of different curing ages. The experimental results were used to determine the optimum ratio of the components and the hydration mechanism. The optimized compound additive considerably improved the mechanical properties and crack resistance of the bricks, where the optimum content was found to be only 3.15% of the CDW dry mass. Compared with unfired bricks with no additives, unfired bricks with the optimized compound additive exhibited increases in the 1- and 28-day compressive strengths and softening coefficient of up to 66.8%, 65.9%, and 8.46%, respectively (corresponding to values of 8.46 MPa, 29.36 MPa, and 0.934, respectively) and a decrease in the freeze–thaw strength loss rate of 61.38%. Incorporating the compound additive into the unfired bricks considerably reduced the environmental impact. The SEM micrographs showed that the compound additive increased the silicon-to-calcium ratio and workability of the preparation mixture, increased the hydration rate, promoted the conversion of calcium hydroxide in the product to a C–S–H gel, and enhanced the density and strength of the hydration product.
Experimental study on the seismic performance of concrete-filled steel tube columns with a multiple-chamber round-ended cross-section
Authors: Liu Jing , Yu Wenzuo , Fang Yawei , Pan Zimao
Published: February 2024

Reinforced concrete bridge piers with round-ended sections are susceptible to bending, bending–shear, and shear failure after earthquakes in high-intensity areas, thus necessitating improved seismic performance. This study introduced a novel design for a concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) column, featuring a multi-chambered, round-ended cross-section. The use of longitudinal and transverse stiffeners divided the column section into distinct chambers, thereby enhancing the seismic performance of the columns. A total of 12 groups of static tests were performed to examine the effect of chamber layout, axial compression ratio, and aspect ratio on columns’ hysteresis behavior, and the hysteresis curves, skeleton curves, failure modes, stiffness degradation, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity were obtained. Results demonstrated the favorable seismic performance of composite columns. Additionally, an increase in chambers led to a full hysteresis curve, enhancing bearing and energy dissipation capacities. The displacement ductility coefficient (μ) ranged between 3.88 and 7.45, and the design parameters have minimal influence on the stiffness degradation of the composite beam. Based on the results, the long and short sides of the CFST columns with a large length–width ratio should be arranged to be relatively close in length.
A multi-variable predictive warning model for cervical cancer using clinical and SNPs data
Authors: Li Xiangqin , Ning Ruoqi , Xiao Bing , Meng Silu , Sun Haiying , Fan Xinran , Li Shuang
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among female worldwide. Early detection and intervention are essential. This study aims to construct an early predictive warning model for cervical cancer and precancerous lesions utilizing clinical data and simple nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Methods

Clinical data and germline SNPs were collected from 472 participants. Univariate logistic regression, least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO), and stepwise regression were performed to screen variables. Logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), decision tree (DT), extreme gradient boosting(XGBoost) and neural network(NN) were applied to establish models. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to compare the models’ efficiencies. The performance of models was validated using decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

The LR model, which included 6 SNPs and 2 clinical variables as independent risk factors for cervical carcinogenesis, was ultimately chosen as the most optimal model. The DCA showed that the LR model had a good clinical application.

Discussion

The predictive model effectively foresees cervical cancer risk using clinical and SNP data, aiding in planning timely interventions. It provides a transparent tool for refining clinical decisions in cervical cancer management.