bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State-of-the-Art Robotic Technologies in Fighting the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Fajinmi John , Oloyede Joseph
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to global healthcare systems, necessitating rapid innovation in healthcare delivery methods. State-of-the-art robotic technologies have emerged as vital tools in combating the spread of the virus and mitigating its impact on healthcare systems. This paper explores the role of advanced robotics in pandemic response, focusing on key areas such as disinfection, telemedicine, delivery systems, and patient care. Robots equipped with ultraviolet (UV) light, autonomous vehicles, and drones have demonstrated significant effectiveness in sanitizing high-traffic areas, delivering essential supplies, and reducing human contact, thereby minimizing virus transmission. Additionally, robotic systems have facilitated remote healthcare services through telepresence robots, enabling healthcare providers to monitor patients and offer consultation without physical interaction. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in robotic systems has further enhanced their adaptability, enabling real-time decision-making and personalized care. This study provides an overview of the advancements in robotic technologies, their application in healthcare settings, and their potential for long-term benefits in pandemic preparedness and response. Challenges in implementation, ethical considerations, and future directions are also discussed to highlight the evolving role of robotics in healthcare innovation.
Effectiveness Evaluation Through Z-Test in Auditory Perception of an Adaptive Noise Canceling Filter Based on Least Mean Squares Algorithm
Authors: Rodríguez Alan , García Abel , Cárdenas Marco Aurelio , Pineda Ulises , Arce Armando , Macías Sharon Idali , Perez Obed
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation using a Z-test to assess the 1 effectiveness of an adaptive Least Mean Squares (LMS) filter driven by the Steepest Descent 2 Method (SDM). The study utilizes a male voice recording, captured in a controlled studio 3 environment, to which persistent Gaussian noise was intentionally introduced, simulating 4 real-world interference. All signal processing methods were implemented accordingly 5 in MATLAB. The adaptive filter demonstrated a significant improvement of 20 dB in 6 Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) following the initial optimization of the filter parameter μ. 7 To further assess the LMS filter’s performance, an empirical experiment was conducted 8 with 30 young adults, aged between 20 and 30 years, who were tasked with qualitatively 9 distinguishing between the clean and noise-corrupted signals (blind test). The quantitative 10 analysis and statistical evaluation of the participants’ responses revealed that a significant 11 majority, specifically 80%, were able to reliably identify the noise-affected and filtered 12 signals. This outcome highlights the LMS filter’s potential—despite the slow convergence of 13 the SDM—for enhancing signal clarity in noise-contaminated environments, thus validating 14 its practical application in speech processing and noise reduction
Beyond Low Prevalence: Exploring Antibiotic Resistance and Virulence Profiles in Sri Lankan Helicobacter pylori with Comparative Genomics
Authors: Fauzia Kartika Afrida , Rathnayake Jeewantha , Doohan Dalla , Lamawansa Meegahalande Durage , Alfaray Ricky Indra , Saruuljavkhlan Batsaikhan , Phuc Bui Hoang , Waskito Langgeng Agung , Tuan Vo Phuoc , Kabamba Evariste Tshibangu , Ansari Shamshul , Matsumoto Takashi , Akada Junko , Yamaoka Yoshio
Published: January 2025

Helicobacter pylori infects at least half the population worldwide, and its highly diverse genomic content correlates with its geographic distribution, because of its prolonged relationship with humans. The extremely low infection prevalence alongside low inflammation severity observed in some countries might be caused by strains with low virulence potential. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whole genome analysis datasets of Sri Lankan H. pylori strains. H. pylori strains isolated from biopsy specimens underwent whole genome sequencing to investigate their antibiotic resistance and virulence potential. The prevalence of H. pylori infection in Sri Lanka is extremely low (1.7% in a previous study), and only six H. pylori strains were successfully isolated from bacterial culture. Antibiotic resistance analysis showed a high prevalence of metronidazole resistance (83.3%, 5/6), and investigation of the related genes showed truncation of the rdxA and frxA genes and single nucleotide polymorphisms in the rdxA, frxA, ribF, omp11, and fur genes. Most virulence genes of the 144 assessed were present, except for the cag pathogenicity island (cagPAI), babA/B/C, and tlpB genes. An incomplete type 4 secretion system (tfs) was found in three strains. Pan-genome analysis revealed 1926 genes in Sri Lankan H. pylori strains, with 1225 core genes. Analysis of non-Sri Lankan H. pylori strains showed that the htpX gene was found only in Sri Lankan strains (P-corrected = 0.0008). Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Sri Lankan strains clustered with strains from hpAsia2 and hpEurope. This comparative genomic study shows that H. pylori strains with low virulence potential are present in countries with a low prevalence of infection and disease severity, indicating a strain-type geographical pattern.
“I Wish No Child Died Like This”: Analyzing Responses from Parents of Children Who Died of Complex Congenital Heart Disease in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Benedetti Francsca , Verzeletti Viviana , Papa Simonetta , Giacomelli Luca , Agosto Caterina
Published: January 2025

Background: The death of a child due to complex congenital heart disease (CCHD) in pediatric intensive care units profoundly affects families, often resulting in lasting grief and emotional distress. Despite advancements in pediatric palliative care (PPC), significant gaps persist in communication and end-of-life (EoL) planning. This study explores the experiences and perceptions of bereaved parents to identify areas for improvement in PPC delivery. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological design was used to analyze the lived experiences of 18 bereaved parents whose children died from CCHD at a tertiary cardiac center. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted, incorporating five open-ended questions. Data were analyzed inductively using Colaizzi’s method to identify recurring themes and subthemes. Results: Four key thematic areas emerged: communication issues, the parental role, child care, and bereavement support. Parents highlighted inconsistent communication, lack of preparedness for EoL decisions, and emotional isolation as major challenges. Positive experiences often involved compassionate healthcare providers and structured psychological support. A significant proportion of parents identified family support and faith as key coping mechanisms, while others expressed dissatisfaction with post-mortem follow-up and absence of long-term bereavement care. Conclusions: Bereaved parents’ experiences underscore the need for improved communication strategies, greater parental involvement in care, and enhanced bereavement support. Integrating structured decision-making pathways early in the care trajectory may help mitigate parental distress and improve the quality of EoL experiences for children with CCHD.
Eco-Innovation in the Food and Beverage Industry:
Persistence and the Influence of Crises
Authors: Garcia-Sánchez Antonio , Rama Ruth
Published: January 2025

This study explores the role of persistence in eco-innovative activities (EI) in enhancing firms' resilience during crises, focusing on the Spanish food and beverage industry. It distinguishes between two types of eco-innovators: efficiency-focused eco-innovators, who aim to reduce material and energy usage, and environmental eco-innovators, who seek to minimize direct harm to the environment. Additionally, the analysis evaluates the impact of regulation and institutional interventions on fostering eco-innovation during economic downturns. Using panel data from Spanish food and beverage companies between 2004 and 2016, we adopt a longitudinal approach to study how long-term commitments to EI influence green technology adoption. We identify three distinct periods: 2004–2007 (boom), 2008–2013 (crisis), and 2014–2016 (recovery). The analysis provides theoretical insights and tailored managerial and policy recommendations.
Assessing the Role of Cultural Identity in the Preservation of Blaan Heritage in Kiblawan, Davao del Sur
Authors: Fajinmi John , Oloyede Joseph
Published: January 2025

The preservation of cultural heritage is intricately tied to the cultural identity of a community, serving as a foundation for its traditions, values, and social cohesion. This study examines the role of cultural identity in the preservation of Blaan heritage in Kiblawan, Davao del Sur, Philippines. Through qualitative research methods, including interviews with community elders, participatory observations, and analysis of cultural artifacts, this study explores how the Blaan people perceive and express their cultural identity in the face of modern influences and socio-economic changes. The findings highlight the critical role of cultural identity in sustaining traditional practices, such as weaving, oral storytelling, and ritual ceremonies, which serve as key markers of Blaan heritage. The study also identifies challenges such as generational shifts, urbanization, and the loss of indigenous knowledge, which threaten the continuity of these traditions. Recommendations emphasize the need for collaborative efforts between local government units, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations to empower the Blaan community in documenting, revitalizing, and transmitting their heritage to future generations. This research underscores the significance of cultural identity as both a catalyst and a safeguard for preserving indigenous heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation of the Blaan's unique contributions to cultural diversity.
The Logarithmic Derivative in Scientific Data Analysis
Authors: Grunwald Ruediger
Published: January 2025

The logarithmic derivative is shown to be a useful tool for data analysis in applied sciences because of either simplifying mathematical procedures or enabling an improved understanding and visualization of structural relationships and dynamic processes. In particular, spatial and temporal variations of signal amplitudes can be described independently on their sign by one and the same compact quantity, the inverse logarithmic derivative. In the special case of a single exponential decay function, this quantity becomes directly identical to the decay time constant. Generalized, the logarithmic derivative enables to flexibly describe local gradients of physical or non-physical system parameters by using exponential behavior as a meaningful reference. It can be applied to complex maps of data containing multiple superimposed and alternating ramping or decay functions as, e.g., in the case of time-resolved plasma spectroscopy, multiphoton excitation or spectroscopy. Examples of experimental and simulated data are analyzed in detail together with reminiscences on early activities in the field. Further emerging applications are addressed.
Semantic Communication on Digital Wireless Communication System
Authors: Huang Binhong , Chen Hao , Guo Cheng , Xu Xiaodong , Ma Nan , Zhang Ping
Published: January 2025

Semantic communication has become a hot research topic in recent years. However, it faces an urgent and crucial issue that how semantic communication can be compatible with current wireless systems. To address this issue, we propose a bit-conversion-based transmission framework to make the balance between the modifications of the existing wireless systems and the advantages of semantic communication. Specifically, a specific physical layer procedure including binary conversion coding, rate matching, packet tail detection, and demodulation hard decision is designed to make the end-to-end (E2E) transmission work. Furthermore, a semantic communication simulator is developed to implement this framework. In order to optimize the performance of this framework, a novel physical layer metric, integer error rate (IER), is proposed as a physical layer metric for semantic information transmission. We also prove that IER is more suitable than bit error rate (BER) for the evaluation of semantic communication by simulations. On the basis of IER, a minimum Manhattan distance constellation mapping scheme is proposed, which can improve the transmission quality of semantic communication under the same BER condition. To release the limitation of this constellation mapping scheme that the semantic quantization output has to be bound with the modulation order, we proposed a hybrid JSCC/SSCC transmission scheme, which can separate the semantic quantization output from the modulation order by segmenting the bits to be transmitted. At the same time, the simulation results verified that the hybrid JSCC/SSCC transmission scheme can improve the transmission quality of semantic communication at the low SNR range while saving the bandwidth 50% compared to the benchmark schemes.
Potential Synergistic Effects of Microplastics in the Bloodstream and Electromagnetic/Magnetic Fields in Households: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Rajitha Kawshalya Mailan Arachchige Don
Published: January 2025

Microplastics and electromagnetic/magnetic fields (EMF/MF) represent two emerging environmental health concerns. Microplastics are widely distributed in the environment and have permeated human tissues, including the bloodstream, where their presence can provoke toxicological effects, such as inflammation and oxidative stress. Meanwhile, household EMF/MF exposure derives from the increased use of electronic devices and is linked to physiological stress and cellular disruption, with possible long-term health risks. For instance, research is being carried out on the effect of microplastics and EMF/MF on human health, but these are being done in isolation. The present review deals with the possible synergy between microplastics present in the circulatory system and exposure to EMF/MF. Despite a direct study of this interaction not being conducted, separate studies on their influences suggest that the way of interaction goes through oxidative stress and inflammation. The paper describes relevant biological mechanisms, gives an overview of the currently available evidence, and highlights the deficiency in research regarding the joint effects of microplastics together with EMF/MF on human health.
Impact of Traditional Dance and Games on Cardiovascular Health: A Scoping Review of Outcomes Across Diverse Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Dube Adiele , Shaw Ina , Mathunjwa Musa L. , Shaw Brandon S.
Published: January 2025

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where healthcare resources may be limited, the elderly are especially vulnerable to the adverse effects of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The aging population in these regions presents unique challenges, highlighting the urgent need for effective, accessible, and culturally appropriate interventions to address this cardiovascular health challenge in older adults. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the impact of traditional dance and games on cardiovascular health outcomes in LMICs through a scoping review of existing literature. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines and Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) methodology recommendations of conducting scoping reviews. PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, EBSCO, SPORT Discuss, Web of Science, and grey literature were searched from 2000 until 20 September 2024. Two reviewers independently screened the titles, abstracts, and full text and conducted data extraction. All conflicts were resolved with a third reviewer. A total of 3,465 records were identified, of which 12 full-text articles were included in the review. The studies, 5 randomised clinical trials and 7 non- randomised clinical trials, included varied ages groups, populations including healthy, sedentary and obese. The interventions were traditional dance and games interventions with some extension to nutrition education. All the interventions were short term, with less than 6 months follow-up. Any traditional dance style and game that involve physical performance can induce positive health outcomes. Undertaking traditional dances and games (TDGs) are equally effective on cardiovascular, functional and metabolic adaptations and improvements in older adults than other forms of structured exercise. Collaboration of health practitioners, legislators, non-governmental agencies and local communities in LMICs in using TDGs may reduce the burden of CVDs.
A Higher Algebraic K-Theory of Causality
Authors: Mahadevan Sridhar
Published: January 2025

Causal discovery involves searching intractably large spaces. Decomposing the search space into classes of observationally equivalent causal models is a well-studied avenue to making discovery tractable. In this paper, we study the topological structure underlying causal equivalence to develop a categorical formulation of Chickering’s transformational characterization of Bayesian networks. We describe a homotopic generalization of the Meek-Chickering theorem on the connectivity structure within causal equivalence classes, and a topological representation of Greedy Equivalence Search (GES) that moves from one equivalence class of models to the next. Specifically, we define causal models as propable symmetric monoidal categories (cPROPs), a functor category CP from a coalgebraic PROP P to a symmetric monoidal category C. Such functor categories were first studied by [], who showed that they define the right adjoint of the inclusion of Cartesian categories in the larger category of all symmetric monoidal categories. cPROPs are an algebraic theory in the sense of Lawvere. CPROPs are related to previous categorical causal models, such as Markov categories and affine CDU categories, which can be viewed as defined by cPROP maps specifying the semantics of comonoidal structures corresponding to the “copy-delete" mechanisms. We develop a higher algebraic K-theory of causality by studying the classifying spaces of observationally equivalent causal cPROP models by constructing their simplicial realization through the nerve functor. We show that Meek-Chickering causal DAG equivalence generalizes to induce a homotopic equivalence across observationally equivalent cPROP functors. We present a homotopic generalization of the Meek-Chickering theorem, where covered edge reversals connecting equivalent DAGs induce natural transformations between homotopically equivalent cPROP functors and correspond to an equivalence structure on the corresponding string diagrams. We give a topological characerization of the Meek-Chickering Greedy Equivalence Search (GES) procedure. Finally, we present the Grothendieck group completion of cPROP causal models corresponding to causal DAGs using the Grayson-Quillen construction and relate the classifying space of Meek-Chickering equivalence classes to classifying spaces of an induced groupoid.
Landscape of Life, Life of Landscape - The Role and Importance of Landscape in Art
Authors: Kosiacka-Beck Ewa , Dymitryszyn Izabela , Banaszek Michał , Jojczyk Agata , Rykala Ewa
Published: January 2025

The protection of the landscape in accordance with the European Landscape Convention can be realized, among other things, by showing and disseminating the beauty, meanings, and impressions of landscape perception that define the values of native landscapes that we experience in our daily lives. One of the media creating such a message is art. The questions that arise, however, are whether artists deal with landscape in contemporary works of visual art? If so, what dimensions of landscape and its values are captured in their works.
These questions became the impetus for organizing the exhibition" Landscape of Life, Life of Landscape'' (Tuczno Castle), which, due to the theme taken up, brought together 36 artists, who are authors of nearly 80 works from various fields. The artists tried to convey their way of perceiving the value of the landscape along with the processes occurring in it.
The works collected at the exhibition became the material subjected to formal and semantic analysis and classified in terms of the spatial values fixed in them according to Królikowski (2010). The result of the analysis is the thesis that landscape is a frequently taken theme and inspiration for contemporary creative activities in the field of visual arts. In the analyzed works of painting, sculpture, photography, film and spatial installations, one notices abstract shots aiming to articulate artistic, aesthetic and symbolic values to realistic shots highlighting sacred, historical, social, individual, local, national, universal values and, finally, landscape and natural values.
A New Histology-based Prognostic Index for Acute Myeloid leukemia: Preliminary results for the "AML Urayasu Classification "
Authors: Mitsumori Toru , Nitta Hideaki , Takizawa Haruko , Iizuka-Honma Hiroko , Furuya Chiho , Fujishiro Maki , Tomita Shigeki , Hashizume Akane , Sawada Tomohiro , Miyake Kazunori , Okubo Mitsuo , Sekiguchi Yasunobu , Ando Miki , Noguchi Masaaki
Published: January 2025

Background: To elucidate the mechanisms of resistance to treatment in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) except for M3 so as to devise ways to overcome them and improve the treatment outcomes. Methods: For this study, we randomly selected 35 patients with AML who had received combined cytarabine plus idarubicin treatment for new-onset AML at our hospital. Expressions of 23 treatment-resistance-related proteins in the biopsy specimens were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining using the corresponding antibodies, followed by retrospective analysis of the correlations between the expression　of the resistance proteins and patient survival. Results: The following four proteins were identified as being particularly significant in relation to treatment resistance and patient prognosis. 1) p53, 2) Multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1) (Idarubicin extracellular efflux pump) 3)Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10 (AKR1B10) (Idarubicin-inactivating enzyme), and 4)AKR1B1 (AKR1B10 competitive
Characterization of Alternaria alternata Allergoids: Evaluation of the Stability of Grass Pollen Allergen Extracts Mixed with Alternaria alternata Allergoids
Authors: Abel-Fernández Eva , Fernández-Caldas Enrique , Iborra Salvador
Published: January 2025

Allergens from pollen, mites, and moulds often sensitize patients simultaneously, posing challenges for developing stable and effective combination vaccines. Alternaria alternata, a major source of indoor and outdoor allergens, is strongly linked to asthma development and contains proteolytic enzymes that can degrade other allergens, potentially reducing vaccine efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and stability of polymerized A. alternata extracts (allergoids) compared to native extracts and their compatibility with pollen extracts (Phleum pratense). Allergoids were prepared using glutaraldehyde and characterized through SDS-PAGE, LC-MS/MS, NMR, and gas chromatography. Their immunogenicity and IgE-binding properties were assessed via Western blot and ELISA competition assays, while enzymatic activity was analysed using ApiZym kits. Mice immunization experiments were conducted to evaluate antibody responses. Polymerized extracts exhibited reduced IgE-binding capacity while maintaining IgG-binding and immunogenicity. Mice immunized with allergoids generated antibodies that efficiently blocked IgE binding in allergic patients. Proteolytic activity was significantly reduced in allergoids, and pollen extracts remained stable when combined with them. These findings demonstrate that A. alternata allergoids are a safer, more stable alternative for immunotherapy, offering enhanced efficacy and reduced injections for polysensitized patients. This study provides critical insights for designing optimized combination vaccines.
Giant Fungal Ball, Emphysematous Cystitis and Spontaneous Vesico-Vaginal Fistula in a Lady with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sailo Stephen Lalfakzuala , Sailo Laltanpuii
Published: January 2025

A 52-year-old diabetic lady on hypoglycemic drugs attended emergency services with history of lower abdominal pain, fever and urinary incontinence along with passing of whitish material in urine for one week. She was a thinly built lady with aenemia (Hb, 8.4mg%) and hyperglycemia (random blood sugar, 564 mg%). Urinary bladder was palpable. She had renal failure (serum creatinine, 2.7mg%). She was started on injection Piperacillin /Tazobactum and regular Insulin. She was transfused two units of red blood cells. Urine analysis showed haematuria and pyuria and urine culture grew non-candida albicans. She was started on injection Fluconazole.
CT scan (non-contrast) detected moderate bilateral hydronephrosis, intraluminal gas in urinary bladder with thickened walls suggestive of emphysematous cystitis. At cystoscopy, a whitish mass filling up the whole of urinary bladder was found and the mass extruded in toto into the vagina through a vesico-vaginal fistula. The histopathological report demonstrated predominantly necrotic material, fungal organism in the form of spores and hyphae. PAS and GMS stain were positive for fungal organism. Ultrasonography repeated after 14 days of Fluconazole showed resolution of hydronephrosis. Patient was scheduled for repair of the vesico-vaginal fistula after six weeks but she did not return for the operation.
Barriers to E-Tendering Implementation in the Construction Industry: A Decade and Beyond Comprehensive Review and Analysis
Authors: Inusah Yusif , Kazaz Aynur , Ulubeyli Serdar
Published: January 2025

The traditional paper-based tendering processes are very fast becoming obsolete due to the advances in technology these past few years. The electronic tendering system is observed as a tool and process for improving efficiency and encouraging the construction industry stakeholders and experts to better oversee the tendering procedure, thereby minimizing project delays and increasing profits. Although e-tendering has been in operation for several years, some construction industry stakeholders are still unfamiliar with it, and its adoption and implementation have experienced many hindrances. The main aim of this paper is to discover the major barriers to electronic tendering adoption. This research used a systematic literature review technique to identify these barriers. Relevant scientific databases were employed to conduct a thorough literature review. The findings were divided into 6 geographical locations. The study found eight significant barriers were consistent across all 6 geographical locations (1) Inadequate technical/ICT skilled personnel (2) Inadequate data security (3) Inadequate policy or uniform standard and inadequate legal framework (4) Resistance to change (5) Inadequate ICT and internet infrastructure (6) High investment cost of implementation (7) Lack of support (8) Technical challenges. The study also identified the ten (10) topmost e-tendering affecting the construction industry. This adds to our understanding of barriers to e-tendering around the globe according to geographical locations in the construction sector.
Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Moment-Resisting Frame with Steel Damper Columns under Earthquake Sequences: Evaluation Using Extended Critical Pseudo-Multi Impulse Analysis
Authors: Fujii Kenji
Published: January 2025

In major seismic events (e.g., the 2011 Tohoku-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake, the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake in Japan, and the 2023 Kaharamanmaraş Earthquake in Turkey), many building structures are subjected to a series of earthquake sequences. Therefore, evaluating the seismic demands of building structures under earthquake sequences is important. This article proposes extended critical pseudo-multi impulse (PMI) analysis considering sequential input. In this extended PMI analysis, seismic input is modeled as two parts of multi impulses (MIs). The parameters of the seismic input are (a) the pulse velocities of the first and second MIs, (b) the number of impulsive lateral forces of the first and second MIs, and (c) the length of the interval between the two MIs. In the numerical analysis, the peak and cumulative responses of an eight-story reinforced concrete (RC) moment-resisting frame (MRF) with steel damper columns (SDCs) subjected to the earthquake sequence recorded during the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake were predicted using the proposed extended critical PMI analysis. For this prediction, the pulse velocities of the first and second MIs were determined based on the maximum momentary input energy of the input ground motions. The main findings are as follows. (1) The accuracy of the predicted peak response of RC MRFs with SDCs subjected to earthquake sequences from the extended critical PMI analysis was satisfactory. (2) The accuracy of the cumulative response of RC MRFs with SDCs depended on the ground motion records and the number of impulsive lateral forces of the first and second MIs.
Evaluation of Meditation as a Treatment for GAD.
Authors: Lenh Liam
Published: January 2025

Recently, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) has become a more prevalent mental health issue across the population. It is on the rise globally and is particularly affecting higher-income countries, such as the United States; in the United States, anxiety prevalence rose from 5.12% in 2008 to 6.68% in 2018 among adults aged 18 and older, indicating a significant upward trend. Furthermore, evidence suggests there is a significant number of people suffering from undiagnosed GAD, in addition to the diagnosed count. Most of the widely used methods like medication and professional therapy, while decently effective, can be expensive and inaccessible to many people. This literature review explores the effectiveness of mindfulness meditation, specifically Buddhist Vipassana, in managing GAD compared to conventional treatments.
A Comparative Study on the Methods of Predictor Extraction from Global Sea Surface Temperature Fields for Statistical Climate Forecast System
Authors: Cai Yawei , Shi Xiangjun
Published: January 2025

Statistical climate forecast system typically does not use preceding global gridded sea surface temperature (SST) data directly; instead, they extract a single predictor (e.g., the Niño3.4 index) or multiple predictors (e.g., time series of several SST spatial modes). In this study, four different SST predictor extracting methods (one single-predictor method and three multiple-predictor methods) are comparatively analyzed within the same climate forecast platform incorporating either the linear regression (LR) model or the neural network (NN) forecast model. Rolling forecast experiments with the LR model show that, compared to a single strong SST predictor, only multiple predictors with more high-quality information (high signal-to-noise ratio) could improve the forecast skill. Sensitivity experiments also show that the influence of multiple-predictor extracting methods on forecast skill from the NN model is much weaker than that from the LR model. Moreover, whether or not multiple SST predictors are orthogonal might also affect the forecast skill. The above experiences provide a reference for establishing statistical climate forecast system based on preceding SST data.
Lateral Ventricular Neural Stem Cells (LV NSCs) Regulate Neural Circuitry Activity Through GABAergic Signaling
Authors: Naffaa Moawiah , Yin Henry
Published: January 2025

Recent studies have demonstrated that circuit activation in vivo can regulate lateral ventricular neural stem cells (LV NSCs), although the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Here we investigated the role of GABAergic signaling in the bidirectional interaction between LV NSCs and the anterior cingulate cortex-subependymal-ChAT+ (ACC-subep-ChAT+) circuit. We found that monoamine oxidase B (MAOB), a key enzyme involved in GABA synthesis, is expressed in LV NSCs, and that activation of the ACC-subep-ChAT+ circuit can modulate MAOB activity. Additionally, LV NSCs express lrrc8d, a core component of volume-regulated anion channels, and Slc6a1, the gene encoding GABA transporter-1 (GAT-1). LRRC8D and GAT-1 can regulate neural circuit activity through GABA signaling to regulate proliferation of LV NSCs. Collectively, these findings underscore the pivotal role of GABA signaling in NSC function, mediated by MAOB-driven GABA synthesis, LRRC8D-regulated GABA transport, and GAT-1-facilitated GABA reuptake, which together regulate neural circuit activation and influence NSC proliferation dynamics.
Risks Associated with Subsidence-Collapse of Sinkholes. A Case Study in the Town of Alcalá de Ebro (Zaragoza, Spain)
Authors: Gracia Alberto , Torrijo Francisco Javier , Garcia Alberto , Boix Alberto
Published: January 2025

Alcalá de Ebro is located 35 kms northwest of the city of Zaragoza. On the banks of the river Ebro itself. And more specifically at the outlet, towards the river, of a ravine (Juan Gastón), with a basin of reception of contributions of more than 230 km2. Over time, urbanisation and agricultural development have eliminated the final stretch of the drainage channel, and these water inputs have become sub-surface, filtering through the ground. This section of the Ebro River valley is located on a Tertiary substratum, marliferous, which favours dissolution-socavation processes that, in turn, cause sinkholes. The land tends to sink progressively or generates sudden collapses in the ground. Many studies have been carried out to try to understand not only the origin of the phenomenon, but also its geometry and the area affected by it in the town of Alcalá de Ebro. In this sense, it has been possible to model an area around the main access road, where numerous collapsing sinkholes have been found, blocking the way and affecting houses. It also affects the mote that protects the village from the floods of the river Ebro. Based on these studies, specific knowledge has been obtained, which has allowed us to evaluate measures to consolidate the ground, which have been implemented with apparent success up to now. Several injection campaigns have been carried out; first using expansive resins and finally with columnar development, with special low-mobility mortars, to fill-consolidate the undermined areas and prevent new subsidence. The actions have produced satisfactory results, but it is considered necessary to continue with the observation of the situation, extending the attention to a wider area to prevent, as far as possible, new problems of subsidence-collapse.
PENGEMBANGAN USER INTERFACE DAN USER EXPERIENCE SISTEM INFORMASI INVENTARIS BERBASIS WEBSITE PADA CV. JAYANTI JAYA DENGAN METODE FIVE PLANES
Authors: Dinda Putri Arivia  , Muchammad Ficky Duskarnaen  , Z.E. Ferdi Fauzan Putra
Published: January 2025

Inventaris merupakan hal penting untuk menjamin keberlangsungan operasional organisasi yang sukses. Inventarisasi juga dapat menjamin kelancaran dalam pemenuhan permintaan barang dan mengakomodir ketidakpastian suatu barang yang ada pada supplier. Hal tersebut tentunya dilakukan oleh seluruh organisasi/perusahaan, tak terkecuali pada CV. Jayanti Jaya. Sistem  inventaris pada CV. Jayanti Jaya saat ini manual menggunakan Microsoft Excel standalone yang tidak terintegrasi oleh ketiga cabang dan belum adanya sistem informasi inventaris berbasis website pada CV. Jayanti Jaya, maka sistem informasi inventaris berbasis website pada CV. Jayanti Jaya diperlukan, namun belum memiliki rancangan User interface (UI) dan User experience (UX) pada sistem informasi inventaris berbasis website CV. Jayanti Jaya. Hasil dari perancangan yaitu high-fidelity prototype yang dibangun menggunakan aplikasi figma dengan Metode Five Planes. Selanjutnya dilakukan pengujian usability testing menggunakan penilaian SUS. Hasil dari pengujian tersebut didapat tingkat keberhasilan 94,5. Maka hasil keberhasilan penelitian ini masuk pada tingkatan “Acceptable” pada tingkat Acceptable, “Best Imaginable” pada tingkat Adjective, dan “A” pada tingkat Grade.
The Effect of Magnetic Maze Media on Problem-Solving and Fine Motor Skills in 5-6 Year Old Children at TK Islam Al-Abrar Makassar
Authors: Arianti Sri Dewi , Musi Muhammad Akil , Saodi Syamsuardi - , Lismayani Angri -
Published: January 2025

Problem-solving and fine motor skills are critical for young children, as they mutually reinforce each other’s development. Incorporating engaging and educational media tools in early childhood learning is essential to ensure effective and enjoyable activities. This study investigates the impact of magnetic maze media on the problem-solving and fine motor skills of children aged 5–6 years at Al-Abrar Islamic Kindergarten. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent group approach. It used a purposive sampling technique to select 21 children from a population of 42 children as the experimental group. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and parametric tests, including normality and hypothesis testing. The findings indicate that magnetic maze media significantly enhances problem-solving and fine motor skills in children aged 5–6. This conclusion is supported by a paired-sample t-test, which revealed significant differences between children who engaged with the magnetic maze and those who did not. This study highlights the effectiveness of magnetic maze media as a learning tool for improving cognitive skills, particularly problem-solving and fine motor skills, in young children.
Fostering Entrepreneurial Values in Early Childhood Education: A Case Study of Craft-Making and Role-Playing Activities in Bandung
Authors: Nurhayati Sri , Millenia Dian
Published: January 2025

This study examines the integration of entrepreneurial values in early childhood education through craft-making activities and role-playing as sellers and buyers in a market-like setting at an early childhood education center in Bandung. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research combines observation, interviews, and document analysis. The findings reveal that key entrepreneurial values fostered through these activities include creativity, independence, perseverance, social interaction, honesty, and curiosity. Additionally, significant behavioral changes were observed in the children, such as increased self-confidence, enthusiasm, and active engagement, highlighting the program’s success in cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset. The study also underscores the critical role of educators as facilitators and the importance of parental involvement in ensuring the program’s effectiveness. Challenges identified during the study involved managing children’s frustration during the craft-making process and sustaining parental engagement. Consistent with prior research on entrepreneurship education, this study emphasizes the value of experiential, hands-on learning in early childhood. The findings have important implications, suggesting that child-centered, practical activities can be pivotal in nurturing the next generation of innovative and resilient entrepreneurs. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of such programs and investigate their effectiveness across diverse educational settings to contribute to the broader discourse on entrepreneurship education in early childhood.
Strengthening The Character Trait of Peacefulness through Habitual Communication Practice of ‘3S’ (Smiling, Greeting, Saying Hello) at Early Childhood Education and Care
Authors: Haq Muhammad Dhiyaul , Muslimin Khoirul , Subaidi Subaidi , Kalupae Abdulaziz
Published: January 2025

Abstract: This study aims to describe the reinforcement of the character trait of peacefulness in students through the habitual communication practice of the "3S" approach ("senyum," "salam," and "sapa") or smiling, greeting, saying hello at Taman Todda Qur'ani Early Childhood Education (PAUD) School in Jepara. The research employs a qualitative approach, with the study conducted at Taman Todda Qur'ani PAUD School in Jepara. The primary data sources for this research include the principal and teachers within the school environment. Data collection techniques involve interviews, observations, and documentation related to reinforcing the character of peacefulness through the habitual communication practice of the "3S" approach. The data analysis process involves data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The findings indicate that the habitual communication practice of "3S" effectively strengthens the students' character of peacefulness in the early childhood education environment of Taman Todda Qur'ani PAUD. Indicators of peaceful character include speaking politely to others when resolving conflicts, avoiding physical force, and demonstrating mutual love and care. The character of peacefulness is an attitude that fosters a sense of calm, safety, and comfort within society.
Implementing The Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) Method to Enhance English Proficiency in Early Childhood: A Study in Indonesian and Malaysian Kindergartens
Authors: Yulianti Enny , Nuha Ulin , Ab Wahab Nursyuhada’ , Ramalingam Sangeeth
Published: January 2025

This study explores the application of the Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) method in teaching English to children aged 5–7 years in kindergartens across Indonesia and Malaysia. A qualitative approach was adopted, incorporating observation, interviews, and document analysis to investigate how the CTL method enhances children’s English language proficiency. Teachers implemented hands on activities, including conversations, daily instructions, and engaging tasks such as singing, shared reading, and project-based activities. The approach involved providing children with English storybooks and videos, delivering materials engagingly and enjoyably, and emphasizing a student-centered learning environment. Key strategies employed by teachers included establishing interconnected meanings, promoting conceptual understanding through real-life relevance, fostering group collaboration, and facilitating knowledge transfer to new contexts. Results revealed that 50 children were proficient in English speaking before using the CTL method, while 75 exhibited limited proficiency. After implementing the CTL method, the number of proficient children increased to 95, while those with limited proficiency decreased to 30. These findings highlight the effectiveness of the CTL method in improving children’s English-speaking skills. The study concludes that employing the CTL method through a qualitative approach significantly enhances early childhood English proficiency by incorporating contextual, enjoyable, and relevant learning experiences aligned with young learners’ daily lives.
Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 11 по 17 января 2025 г.
Authors: Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Краснов Ярослав , Осина Наталья , Зимирова Анастасия , Иванова Александра , Карнаухов Игорь , Караваева Татьяна , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: January 2025

В обзоре представлена информация по циркулирующим в настоящее время вариантам вируса SARS-COV-2 Omicron вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), геномные последовательности которых размещены в международной базе данных GISAID за неделю с 11 по 17 января 2025 г.
Results of 331 Two-Stage Exchanges for PJI Following THA
Authors: Terhune E. Bailey , Carstens Mason F. , Fruth Kristin M. , Hannon Charles P. , Bedard Nicholas A. , Berry Daniel J. , Abdel Matthew P.
Published: January 2025

Background:

The relative advantages and disadvantages of 2-stage versus 1-stage management of infection following total hip arthroplasty (THA) are the current subject of intense debate. To understand the merits of each approach, detailed information on the short and, importantly, longer-term outcomes of each must be known. The purpose of the present study was to assess the long-term results of 2-stage exchange arthroplasty following THA in one of the largest series to date.

Methods:

We identified 331 periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) that had been treated with a 2-stage exchange arthroplasty between 1993 and 2021 at a single institution. Patients were excluded if they had had prior treatment for infection. The mean age at the time of reimplantation was 66 years, 38% of the patients were female, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 30 kg/m2. The diagnosis of PJI was based on the 2011 Musculoskeletal Infection Society criteria. A competing-risk model accounting for death was utilized. The mean duration of follow-up was 8 years.

Results:

The cumulative incidence of reinfection was 7% at 1 year and 11% at 5 and 10 years. Factors predictive of reinfection included BMI ≥30 kg/m2 (hazard ratio [HR] = 2; p = 0.049) and the need for a spacer exchange (HR = 3.2; p = 0.006). The cumulative incidence of any revision was 13% at 5 and 10 years. The cumulative incidence of aseptic revision was 3% at 1 year, 7% at 5 years, and 8% at 10 years. Dislocation occurred in 33 hips (11% at 10 years); 15 (45%) required revision. Factors predictive of dislocation were female sex (HR = 2; p = 0.047) and BMI <30 kg/m2 (HR = 3; p = 0.02). The mean Harris hip score (HHS) improved from 54 to 75 at 10 years.

Conclusions:

In this series of 331 two-stage exchange arthroplasties that were performed for the treatment of infection, we found a low rate of aseptic revision (8%) and a low rate of reinfection (11%) at 10 years. These long-term mechanical and infection data must be kept in mind when considering a paradigm shift to 1-stage exchanges.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.