bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importância prognóstica da disfunção gastrintestinal em pacientes graves com COVID-19
Authors: Lima Ricardo Antônio Correia , Blaser Annika Reintam , Ramalho Júlia Falconiere Paredes , Lacerda Barbara Cristina de Almeida Campos , Sadigurschi Gabriela , Aarestrup Paula Fonseca , Sales Rafael Aguilar , Mansur Filho João , Ferreira Roberto Muniz
Published: November 2024

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a morbidade e a mortalidade intra-hospitalar e em 1 ano associadas à disfunção gastrintestinal aguda em pacientes graves com COVID-19 por meio de um sistema de pontuação predefinido. Métodos: Entre março e julho de 2020, pacientes consecutivos hospitalizados com COVID-19 de uma única instituição foram analisados retrospectivamente por meio de revisão de prontuários médicos. Foram incluídos somente aqueles que permaneceram na unidade de terapia intensiva por mais de 24 horas. A disfunção gastrintestinal foi avaliada segundo um sistema predefinido de pontuação de lesão gastrintestinal progressiva de cinco pontos, considerando os primeiros 7 dias de hospitalização. Também se registraram os dados laboratoriais, as comorbidades, a necessidade de ventilação mecânica, a duração da internação na unidade de terapia intensiva e as taxas de mortalidade intra-hospitalar e em 1 ano. Resultados: Do total de 230 pacientes examinados, 215 foram incluídos na análise. A idade mediana foi de 68 anos (54 - 82), e 57,7% eram do sexo masculino. Os escores totais de disfunção gastrintestinal foram zero (79,1%), I (15,3%), II (4,7%), III (0,9%) e IV (0%). Qualquer manifestação de disfunção gastrintestinal estava presente em 20,9% de todos os pacientes e foi associada à maior duração da internação (20 dias [11 - 33] versus 7 dias [4 - 16]; p < 0,001) e a níveis mais altos de proteína C-reativa na admissão (12,8mg/mL [6,4 - 18,4] versus 5,7mg/mL [3,2 - 13,4]; p < 0,001). O escore de disfunção gastrintestinal foi significativamente associado à mortalidade (RC 2,8; IC95% 1,7 - 4,8; p < 0,001) e à necessidade de ventilação mecânica (RC 2,8; IC95% 1,7 - 4,6; p < 0,001). As taxas de mortalidade hospitalar e em 1 ano aumentaram progressivamente com o aumento dos escores de disfunção gastrintestinal. Conclusão: Na série atual de pacientes de unidades de terapia intensiva com COVID-19, a gravidade da disfunção gastrintestinal, conforme definida por um sistema de pontuação predefinido, foi preditiva de resultados adversos no hospital e em 1 ano.
What Are the Challenges and Opportunities of Integrating AI Into Existing Healthcare Infrastructure?
Authors: Ustabaşı Kayra Naz
Published: November 2024

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare is revolutionizing diagnostics, offering important opportunities while emerging challenges. This essay explores the potential and obstacles of AI-based diagnostics. Key problems include technological and ethical issues such as data privacy, compatibility of devices , and regulatory issues. Ethical considerations also arise around patient privacy, accountability for AI errors, legal frameworks, and algorithm transparency. Despite these challenges, AI showcases substantial opportunities for the improvement of diagnostics and treatment techniques. Its capabilities include earlier disease detection, personalized treatment pathways, and healthcare professional support, particularly in radiology, pathology, and genomics. Additionally, AI can help and reduce the cost of healthcare access by streamlining resources, optimizing staff deployment, and facilitating remote monitoring and telemedicine, especially for developing countries. With the analysis of data from wearable devices and enabling remote consultations, AI helps us in the proactive management of chronic conditions. AI-based diagnostics can help overcome long term healthcare challenges, enhancing precision and treatment efficiency. A balanced approach is essential, addressing ethical, privacy, and legal considerations while emphasizing AI’s role as a support for healthcare professionals. Future research should focus on AI algorithm transparency, ethics, and the expansion of telemedicine, especially in underserved areas.
Vitamin D, Gamma-glutamyl Transferase, Total Protein, Albumin/Globulin Ratio, Urea and Creatinine Levels in Relation to Severity of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Patients in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Raheem Toyosi Yekeen , Osuolale Kazeem Adewale , Akindele Samuel Kayode , Fasela Emmanuel Olusesan , Aniedobe Maureen N , Salako Babatunde Lawal
Published: November 2024

Background
Serum vitamin D has gained attention due to its potential role in immunity. The global impact of SARS-CoV-2 infections underscored the need to explore factors influencing disease severity especially vitamin D status and markers of liver and kidney functions. This study investigated relationship between serum vitamin D, liver and kidney function markers, and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections among participants in Lagos, Nigeria. 
Methods
This was a cross-sectional, case-control study on a cohort of 236 patients with varying COVID-19 statuses and 44 COVID-19 negative participants. Structured questionnaire was administered to collect socio-demographic and clinical data. Venous blood samples were collected and vitamin D measured using architect 1000 Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immuno Assay (CMIA). Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), total protein, albumin/globulin ratio, urea and creatinine were determined using TC-Matrix Chemistry Analyzer (Teco Diagnostics USA). Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. 
Results
SARS-CoV-2-positive participants in the study had higher vitamin D levels compared to negative participants.
Overall, the analysis indicates that while there are some significant correlations (between vitamin D levels and albumin/globulin ratio in asymptomatic (r = 0.23, p = 0.009) and mild cases (r = -0.20, p = 0.05), and total protein in asymptomatic (r = 0.17, p = 0.05) and mild cases (r = 0.22, p = 0.03)), most correlations are weak and not statistically significant.
Conclusions
The study showed that while there are some significant correlations between vitamin D levels and albumin/globulin ratio in asymptomatic and mild cases and total protein in asymptomatic and mild cases, most correlations are weak and not statistically significant. This suggests that the relationship between vitamin D levels and these clinical parameters in COVID-19 participants may be limited or influenced by other factors not captured in this study. Further research with larger sample sizes and additional variables may help to clarify these relationships.
Dynamic Simulation and Modeling of Water Tube Boiler Systems: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Borde Seema Borde , .Nikalje A.M
Published: November 2024

Water tube boilers (WTBs) are well renowned for their great efficiency, quick steam production, and capacity to withstand high pressures and temperatures. They are widely employed in a variety of industrial applications as well as in power production. The ongoing review considered the situation of bubbling intensity move to immersed, normal liquids in convective stream with expectations of laying out a system for gauging heat move coefficients. The goal of this examination is to make a coordinated intensity move and hydrodynamic model for concentrating on kettle elements under shifting burden circumstances. To calculate water surface heat transfer, a model for transient heat transfer has been created and connects directly with the hydrodynamic simulation. Heat transmission is ordered into a few strategies, including heat conduction, convection, warm radiation, and energy move through stage shifts. The transient intensity move model decides by and large intensity move from the gas side, the gas temperature profile, and intensity move from the water side in the heater water wall (FWW) and a convection tube bank (CTB) by determining the heat transfer and water wall temperature in various locations. Using the expected worth of waterside heat move from the transient force move model, mass energy and energy protection conditions are determined for both normal course circuits. It enhanced to include boiler control characteristics such as load management and water flow control. In the future, examine real-time monitoring technologies that are able to anticipate and avoid possible problems, increasing the boiler's overall safety.
Propagación in vitro de Annona deceptrix (westra) H. Rainer (Annonaceae) una especie en peligro de extinción en Ecuador
Authors: Nevárez Loor María Auxiliadora , Macías Ponce Fátima Consuelo , Pico-Mendoza José
Published: November 2024

El presente trabajo como objetivo desarrollar un protocolo de propagación in vitro de Annona deceptrix (westra) H. Rainer. Además, medir la sobrevivencia en condiciones ex vitro. Como explantes, se usaron segmentos nodales de brotes, que fueron desinfectados con diferentes concentraciones de NaClO y tiempo de exposición, luego fueron precultivados en el medio de cultivo basal de Murashige y Skoog (MS). Para la fase de multiplicación y enraizamiento, se utilizó el medio Woody Plant Medium (WPM), con diferen-tes tipos y concentraciones de fitorreguladores. En la fase de establecimiento, los explantes tuvieron mejor respuesta con el tratamiento al 1% de NaClO durante 15 minutos, donde se observó el mayor porcentaje de sobrevivencia con el 72,04%. Para la variable número de brotes y diámetro de tallo, el tratamiento con BAP (1 mgL-1) + (GA3 0,25 gL-1) + (WPM) alcanzó el mejor promedio con un valor de 2,00 y 2,35 mm, respectivamente. Para la inducción de raíces, la mejor respuesta se obtuvo cuando se adicionó al medio de cultivo 3mgL-1 IBA (T3) alcanzando una longitud promedio de raíces de 5,75 cm a los 60 días de cultivo en el medio. Las vitroplantas enraizadas de una altura aproximada de 5 cm, fueron llevados a casa malla, para su aclimatación, en esta fase se evaluó la tasa de sobrevivencia durante la primera semana de aclima-tación y el crecimiento de la planta a los quince días después de la siembra en bandejas conteniendo un sustrato a base de turba, donde la cual el T3 tuvo promedio de supervivencia del 70% y mayor altura de la planta a los 60 días, lo que indica que este tratamiento promovió un desarrollo más rápido de las plántulas en condiciones ex vitro.

Keywords: Annona deceptrix, propagación, enraizamiento in vitro, aclimatación ex vitro, reguladores de crecimiento.
Microorganisms associated with bacterial wilt disease in Dendrocalamus asper (Giant Bamboo) from Ecuador
Authors: Morante-Carriel Jaime , Vera-Carranza Marlon , Belezaca-Pinargote Carlos , Carranza-Patiño Mercedes , Herrera-Feijoo Robinson J.
Published: November 2024

Dendrocalamus asper (Bamboo) is an essential component of forest ecosystems, whose health and survival
are intrinsically linked to complex interactions with its microbiome. This study focuses on the pathogenic
dynamics between the fungi Arthrinium spp. and Erwinia spp. Bacteria and their impact in the shoots wilting
and culm rot in bamboo. Through humid chamber induction methods and selective cultivation techniques,
pathogenic strains that significantly affect the regeneration and propagation of bamboo were identified and
isolated. The investigation revealed a pathogenic synergy resulting in a high prevalence of diseases, 97% of
the shoots evaluated showed signs of deterioration. Morphological identification challenged conventional
techniques due to the variability of Arthrinium spp—conidia, suggesting the need for more specific identification methods. The findings suggest that regulating soil pH and using beneficial biofilms could be promising
strategies to mitigate bacterial infection. This study highlights the importance of sustainable management and
in-depth knowledge of microbial ecology for integrated disease management in bamboo ecosystems. Understanding these microbial interactions is crucial for developing effective control strategies and long-term conservation of these vital ecosystems.
Keywords: Dendrocalamus asper, Arthrinium spp., Erwinia spp., bacterial wilt, disease management
Souffrance et creation
Authors: Derouiche El Kamel Salma
Published: November 2024

Aborder la question de la création n’est pas chose aisée, tant ce sujet est substantiellement évanescent. Malgré cela, et mis à part la sensibilité des uns et des autres à l’artistique qui émeut, transporte et subjugue, qu’est ce qui amène le chercheur à engager encore et toujours la réflexion sur la créativité, sur l’art et sur la création? Dans un contexte politique, social et de santé qui requiert un substrat créatif pour un développement personnel et collectif, la question de la créativité intéresse de plus en plus les sciences humaines et sociales. L’évocation réitérée dans les débats actuels de nos sociétés modernes, voire «hypermodemes», d’une crise de créativité qui s’étend sur plusieurs niveaux et dans différents domaines, nous invite à réfléchir et à en comprendre tant les mécanismes qui la régissent que les effets psychiques. Crise politique, sociale et économique, problématiques identitaires, phénomènes de radicalisation, que peut l’acte créateur face à ce malaise sociétal? Quand la psychologie s’intéresse à la créativité et à la création plus précisément, ces deux concepts étant fondamentalement distincts, c’est dans un objectif de compréhension des phénomènes psychiques qui y sont impliqués mais aussi dans l’objectif de saisir la part de l’interpersonnel, de l’interlocutif et de l’intersubjectif dans la création. Les écrits sur la création, et plus spécifiquement sur la création artistique, foisonnent mais restent toutefois limités quant à la compréhension du génie créateur. Nous désirons, dans le cadre de cet ouvrage, ré-observer le phénomène de la création, qu’elle soit artistique ou scientifique, à travers le prisme de la souffrance. Ainsi, nous comptons engager la réflexion sur le sujet tout en diversifiant les angles de vues et les regards portés sur cette question à la fois passionnante et épineuse. La question princeps à laquelle cet ouvrage tentera d’apporter un éclairage est la suivante: la création est-elle inextricablement liée à la souffrance?
Immunotherapy: should we worry about immunosenescence?
Authors: Özkan Asli , de Glas Nienke A. , Portielje Johanneke E. A.
Published: November 2024

The global aging population is expected to experience a nofigure increase in cancer incidence, particularly among individuals aged 70 and older. At the same time, the extensive use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in cancer treatment raises questions about the influence of immunosenescence, the age-related decline in immune function, on treatment efficacy in older patients. Despite promising outcomes, resistance to immunotherapies and the occurrence of severe immune-related adverse events (irAEs) remain challenges. Limited research has explored the correlation between immunosenescence markers in peripheral blood and the tumour microenvironment (TME), frailty, and ICI response, and irAEs in older patients. This commentary explores the interrelationship between immunosenescence and immunotherapy in older and frail patients with cancer undergoing ICI therapy. Understanding the impact of immunosenescence on treatment response and irAEs, and identifying reliable biomarkers, is crucial for future research in geriatric oncology, as this will possibly facilitate patient stratification and personalized treatment approaches, ultimately improving patient outcomes while minimizing irAE-related risks.
A decision support system for internal logistics operations management
Authors: Akbiyik Denizay , Özen Sinem , Ulusoy Tuna , Dagsuyu Eren , Akpinar Ece , Burak Ucak Yasin , Uyduran Sefa , Demir Damla , Fescioglu-Unver Nilgun
Published: November 2024

Continuous improvement in industrial processes has made efficient internal material transportation critical. This study presents a decision support system for tracking internal transportation vehicles and providing effective inner logistics management. The proposed model includes a barcoding based transportation vehicle tracking system, a forecasting model for daily transportation demands of different buildings and presents a predictive demand-vehicle assignment mathematical model. Results show that the model reduces the operational costs due to vehicle search and vehicle transportation, and material damage costs due to vehicle-material mismatch at a great extent.
Understanding the fundamental barriers to environmental management system implementation in developing countries
Authors: Ojo Lekan Damilola , Oladinrin Olugbenga Timo , Chan Albert P. C. , Owusu Emmanuel Kingsford
Published: November 2024

Construction organizations in developing nations constantly lag in embracing changes in innovation, environmental sustainability, and safety, amongst others. Their contributions to environmental degradation, resulting in health-related consequences for construction stakeholders, are also alarming. Implementing environmental management tools such as environmental management systems (EMS) is often advocated to address the negative environmental impacts of construction organizations. Construction firms in developed nations have embraced EMS and implemented it to enhance construction business, environmental performance, and construction workers' health, while similar evidence is not recorded in developing nations. Therefore, this study investigated the barriers to EMS implementation through a survey of construction professionals in the Nigerian construction industry. 106 valid data were analyzed using factor analysis, Cronbach's alpha test, and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE). The results of the factor analysis revealed four groups of barriers to EMS implementation, which are prioritized in the order of knowledge-related, stakeholders-related, process-related, and cultural-related barriers with FSE. The relationships between the four classes of barriers were determined using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) in which "knowledge-related barriers" are indicated as the core barrier to EMS implementation. To address the barriers to EMS implementation, organizing training, providing the needed resources for environmental education, collaborating with construction stakeholders, providing a reward system, and others were recommended. This study contributes theoretically and practically to environmental-related discourses in the construction industry. Theoretically, utilizing FSE provides an interesting insight that acknowledges the unique challenges of developing nations in the domain. Practically, this study gives an actionable focus for construction stakeholders to domesticate EMS within the local construction environment, thereby improving knowledge of the importance of environmental sustainability and pro-environmental behaviors.
Benchmarking green technologies: a survey of non-domestic buildings in Sri Lanka
Authors: Sachchithananthan Mathanky , Ramachandra Thanuja , Thayananth Maheswaran , Rotimi James Olabode Bamidele
Published: November 2024

The escalating demand for energy and resources in the construction industry, together with poor energy performance of existing buildings, pose challenges for sustainability. Despite the incorporation of advanced technologies in modern construction to reduce energy consumption, a significant number of buildings are yet to adopt sustainable practices, owing to lack of awareness about potential technologies, and the considerations for selection. To this end, the current study aims to survey commercial buildings to explore the technologies implemented together with the basis that influenced the implementation. A detailed survey including semi-structured interviews with professionals engaged in the selected non-domestic buildings were conducted. The selected buildings comprise three (3) certified retrofit, eight (8) certified new and seven (7) non-certified green. The findings show that the buildings have incorporated 54 different technologies under the main sustainability criteria of water efficiency, lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable site. Advanced technologies, such as free cooling appliances, on-site wastewater treatments, and water-efficient climate-tolerant plantings, were predominantly found in green-certified buildings, while non-certified buildings tend to adopt more universally applicable and accessible technologies, like LED lighting, compact fluorescent lamps, and low-flow plumbing fixtures. The paper presents a detailed analysis on use of technologies with different building function, green rating levels, and challenges faced. Hence, the study findings would facilitate technology adaptation for a given context by providing insights into the availability and adaptability of green retrofit technologies in the Sri Lankan context for non-domestic buildings.
TARGETED DELIVERY OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCES: SMART NANOCARRIERS IN COSMETOLOGY AND DERMATOLOGY (Overview)
Authors:   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, Kaliyeva A.M. , Zhakypbekova S.S. ,   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, Altyn E. ,   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, Erdzhanova S.S. ,   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, Omirzakova K.K. ,   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, Baybulova M.S. ,   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, Kirgizbaeva A.A. ,   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, Mukhamadieva E.O. ,   Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov
Published: November 2024

The article provides a review of the literature on the main groups of nanoscale systems – nanocarriers of medicinal substances. The use of nanoparticles to create safe and highly effective drugs in the field of cosmetology and pharmacology is considered. The features of the properties of drugs and nanocosmetics depending on the structural features of nanocomposites are indicated. Examples of possible toxicological actions of nanoparticles on the human body are given.
ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION STUDY IN MEN WITH INFERTILITY: PREVALENCE AND FACTORS
Authors:   First St. Petersburg State Medical University named after Academician I.P. Pavlova, Babaev I.R.
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED), psychoemotional disorders and sexual activity in men with primary and secondary infertility. Materials and methods. The study was conducted from May 2023 to March 2024 at the Republican Urology Center in Makhachkala and included 57 eligible men divided into primary (n = 38) and secondary (n = 19) infertility groups. Participants completed anonymous questionnaires that included a fertility score, the International Erectile Function Index (IIEF-5), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Results. It was found that men with secondary infertility were more likely to show erectile dysfunction and had lower sexual satisfaction compared to men in the primary group, although no significant differences in the frequency of sexual acts were observed. The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores also showed comparable results for both groups. Conclusions. The study identified a need for a comprehensive approach in the treatment of men with infertility that takes into account both physical and psychological aspects. This may include medication and emotional support to improve quality of life and successful conception in couples facing this problem.
SAÚDE BASEADA EM EVIDÊNCIA E A PRÁTICA DA FARMÁCIA
Authors: Lima Valasques Júnior Gildomar
Published: November 2024

Na atualidade, e em especial no cenário pós pandemia, vivenciamos um excesso de informações, algumas precisas e outras não, que tornam difícil encontrar fontes idôneas e orientações confiáveis quando se precisa, denominado infodemia. Adicionalmente, na era da informação, esse fenômeno é amplificado pelas redes sociais e se alastra mais rapidamente, como um vírus. Diante dessa situação é de fundamental importância a obtenção de informações a partir de fontes confiáveis, que possam servir de embasamento para as condutas clínicas no dia a dia do profissional farmacêutico e de outros profissionais da saúde. Neste sentido, a Revista Científica Eletrônica do Conselho Regional de Farmácia do Estado da Bahia (RCE/CRF-BA) tem cumprido seu papel de oferecere fomentar a publicação de informações de qualidade para figurar como referência e fonte de conhecimento técnico-científico embasado em evidências para os leitores. Em adição, servir de veículo de comunicação para que os autores possam publicar seus resultados, alcançando os profissionais que tenham interesse em ter acesso aos estudos de importância nas áreas das Ciências Farmacêuticas e afins. Neste contexto, é com grande satisfação que convidamos a todos para submeter seus manuscritos, como também, acessar os conteúdos a serem publicados ao longo do volume 3, número 1 de 2024 que ficará disponível, na modalidade de fluxo contínuo, até 30 de junho de 2024.
Birthplace effect on Brazilian elite runners
Authors: Thuany Mabliny , Vieira Douglas , Gomes Thayse Natacha , Villiger Elias , Weiss Katja , Nikolaidis Pantelis T , Knechtle Beat
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the birthplace effect on Brazilian elite runners. Methods: Information about Brazilian elite runners (5 km, 10 km, half-marathon, and marathon) competing between 2002 and 2022 was obtained using the official webpage of the Brazilian Track and Field federation. The downloaded information includes the athlete’s name, date of birth, sex, race time, state of birth, date of the competition, and competition venue. To investigate the birthplace effect, we presented data considering Brazilian regions/states for both sexes and all race distances. Results: The sample was composed of 2,558 athletes (women: 47.1%; men: 52.9%). Most of the athletes were from the Southeast and South regions. The highest number of athletes in the Mid-west and Southeast participated in a half-marathon, while in the Northeast, North, and South, the majority of the athletes participated in full marathon race events. Conclusion: The Southeast region, especially the São Paulo state presented the highest frequency of Brazilian elite runners. Future studies should consider exploring the geographic and genetic factors that can be associated with this highest frequency of elite runners.
Issues to ponder on as we navigate the translation of academic texts from English into isiZulu
Authors: Mpanza Choice D , Dladla Celimpilo P
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this paper is to report on the experiences learnt from a translation project which involved the translation of academic study material from English into IsiZulu. The study material was commissioned for translation as part of a multilingual project being undertaken by one of the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in South Africa and came from different disciplines of study. The translator who had been assigned the project assembled a team of three qualified and experienced translators to collaborate on the project. Each translator was assigned to translate materials from the same discipline to avoid inconsistencies that could arise if different translators were assigned to handle texts from the same discipline. Computer Assisted Translation (CAT) tools were used during the translation process and different English-IsiZulu/IsiZulu-English lexicographic resources and various dictionaries were used as references when needed. Feedback received from the translators indicated that translating academic texts from English into isiZulu is quite challenging due to lack of equivalent terminology in isiZulu for most of the concepts used in academic English. However, it was found that it was possible to circumvent equivalence related challenges by using various translation strategies that are recommended by renowned translation scholars. Using qualitative data sourced from the translated texts and analysed using the theory of equivalence, this paper is a synopsis of the different translators’ experiences (challenges, hurdles and how they were resolved) and makes suggestions of what needs to be done to improve the translation of academic texts into indigenous African languages in the future.
The Effectiveness of “Dialogic Reading Method” in Increasing Prosocial Behavior in Preschool Children
Authors: Razak Alifah indalika mulyadi
Published: November 2024

This study aims to stimulate prosocial communication through active two-way communication in dialogic reading speech method. Prosocial behavior reflected in this study consisted of: (1) Helping; (2) Sharingand (3) Comforting. Prosocial behavior is important for children to be accepted and make friends. It supports the process of teaching and learning activities. One intervention that is considered effective in improving prosocial communication is through active two-way communication. This study involved preschool children (n = 100) spread across two early childhood institutions in Bandung Regency using the-before-after-experimental study method consisting of a control group and an experimental group. The result of this study showed that Dialogic reading effectiveness test in the experimental group through dialogic reading method had a significant influence on the prosocial behavior of preschool children (Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) = 0 <α = 0.05).
How Does Domino Card Help Children to Insight Numbering
Authors: Saroinsong Wulan , Anggraeni Novi , Mulia Putri Iqlima
Published: November 2024

This study explores the differences in the effectiveness of conventional educational domino media and contemporary digital educational domino media on the cognition of children aged 4-6 years. This research was conducted using R&D (research Research and Development) using the ASSURE model. 34 children aged 4-6 years and their parents were involved in the small socialization stage using a questionnaire conducted by Google Form. In this test, the researcher used SPSS 23 to test the feasibility of the media. The first test is the Validity Test of parents' perceptions and the results of children's cognitive abilities related to the ability to match number symbols with numbers for children aged 4-6 with a sig level of 0.05 with the results of r above (0.17) on each item being declared valid because r table > r count. The second test is the Validity Test of parental feedback on conventional educational domino media and contemporary digital education domino media with the results of r above (0.17) for each item being declared valid because r table > r count. The third test is the Cronbach's Alpha Reliability Test which results in the effectiveness of conventional domino media being 0.631, while the effectiveness of contemporary domino media is 0.516. The results of the cognitive abilities of children who use conventional media are 0.740, while the cognitive abilities of children who use contemporary media are 0.635. The fourth test is the Classical Assumption Test with the Normality Test, the sig value is above 0.05, the data is normally distributed, the homogeneity test is the sig value above 0.05, then the data is said to have the same variance (homogeneous). The fifth test is the Correlation Test with results less than 0.05 which means it has a significant strong relationship for conventional domino media 0.671 while for digital domino media 0.922. The sixth test is the Sample T-test with the results of the same contemporary media significance, which is less than sig 0.05. The result of the average score is that there is a difference in scores between conventional and contemporary domino media. Where the average score of contemporary digital domino media (27.76) is greater than conventional domino media (25.47). In this test, it can be decided if conventional and contemporary digital domino media are very effective in the ability to match number symbols with numbers in children aged 4-6 years. Recent research confirms that the conventional and contemporary design domino media model has contributed to the improvement of children's cognition so that it is feasible and effective to use. Furthermore, this research has implications for the term positive benefits of digital media, where children's cognitive development is formed through game stimulation. However, gamification learning will be effectively implemented in fostering children's cognitive development.
Multimedia-Based Hypercontent Module Development for Early Childhood Education during Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hasfat Hamsar
Published: November 2024

Implementation of early childhood education during Covid-19 pandemic is a new challenge for teachers and parents. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a hypercontent module for early childhood education because the module does not only contain material in text form that can be read or viewed by students but also contains learning videos that contain direct explanations from the teachers regarding certain materials and animations that possible to increase students' interest. This hypercontent module for early childhood education research will be developed using ADDIE development model consists of 5 steps, Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The Hypercontent module is developed based on the results of studies and analysis of learning needs, after that product development is carried out in the form of a multimedia-based hypercontent module that will be validated by experts, the module is then tested by teachers and students (parents) to produce a valid Hypercontent Module for PAUD, practical or easy to use by teachers and students as well as parents who accompany students to study from home. The multimedia-based hypercontent module entitled "Aku Anak Sehat, Pencegahan Stunting pada Anak" which was developed using the ADDIE model, has met the criteria through the process and validation results by material and media experts as well as trials through assessments by teachers and students at PAUD Masjid Al-Muslimun Makassar City. As for the result, the multimedia-based hypercontent module entitled "Aku Anak Sehat, Pencegahan Stunting pada Anak" was declared valid/feasible and practical/easy to use for learning with a material validation score of 4.8 (very valid), a media validation score of 4.6 (very valid), a teacher assessment score of 4.4 (good) and a student assessment score of 4.7 (very good).
Ethnographic Study of Parenting Patterna for Prental Period to 3 Years on Sundanese Communities in Kampung Pasir Kaler, Cigugur, Kuningan
Authors: Andrisyah Andrisyah , Asih Nur Ismiatun  , Anita Rakhman  , Rita Nurunnisa
Published: November 2024

Indonesia is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage that influences its people's lifestyles, including parenting practices. However, it appears that modern parenting influences the bulk of parenting styles in Indonesia. The purpose of this study is to investigate the practice of prenatal care up to the age of 3 in the Sundanese community of Kampung Pasir Kaler in Kuningan, West Java. An ethnographic study was employed to reveal the facts pertaining to the aforementioned emphasis. Four pregnant women and three children aged 0 to 3 years old were involved in this study. They were selected by using the purposive sampling technique. Observation, interviews, and documentation were exerted to solicit the required data. The data analysis technique used data display, data reduction and conclusions from Milles and Huberman’s interactive model of data analysis. The findings revealed that cultural based parenting was still performed in the Sundanese community of Kampung Pasir Kaler and that there was considerable cooperation among father, mother, and the community. Penance honing, silih asah, silih asih, and silih asuh are essential values in culture-based parenting that provide distinctiveness and a clearer perspective of parenting practices that exist among Sundanese people in Indonesia. This study adds ethnoparenting data for future studies, especially parenting culture in Indonesia.
“Dancing with Preschoolers Makes My Day”: A Male Educator’s Perspective on His Profession
Authors: Nurcahaya Anti Wulan , Yulindrasari Hani , Dahlan Tina Hayati
Published: November 2024

Internationally, the profession of preschool educators is more dominated by females than males. Male educators in early childhood education (ECE) are very rare, however, the presence of male and female educators in ECE will be very meaningful in the balance of gender construction in early childhood. This study aims to explore the perceptions of a male teacher at ECE regarding his profession as an ECE teacher as well as a dance teacher. This research used a narrative qualitative approach, conducted in a kindergarten in Bandung that has a male teacher who also teaches dancing extracurriculars. Through the experiences and chronology of the teacher's career journey, the researcher tried to understand the reasons and factors that make the teacher in love and comfortable with his current profession, despite the fact about gender stereotypes in society. The teacher even preferred to continue his career at ECE even though he had been accepted by PPPK (Government Employee with Employment Agreement) at another educational unit (Junior High School). The results of this study indicate that from the male teacher's perspective: (1) working in an ECE environment with preschoolers is more dynamic that encourages creativity, (2) in line with his passion which increases his work engagement and well-being, and (3) there are opportunities for his self-development. Experiences and a supportive environment made a male teacher finally found his passion and chose to work at ECE.
Investigation of the load bearing capacity of precast manhole covers to be embedded in road pavements
Authors: Bebłacz Danuta , Glinicki Michał A. , Sobczak Maciej , Wołowicz Jolanta
Published: November 2024

Concrete manhole covers of underground cable networks, placed into pavements of roadways and footways, are often subjected to premature damage posing a threat to traffic safety. That is why the investigation was undertaken to increase the durability of precast concrete covers. New concrete mixtures for precast elements as well as the structure of elements (the type of a chassis, the number and arrangement of reinforcement bars) were designed. Experimental research into the load bearing capacity of concrete elements manufactured in multiple precast plants according to the assumed mix design was carried out. The impact of the type of cement, chemical admixtures and fibre reinforcement on the load capacity of precast concrete elements was assessed. The high effectiveness of fibre reinforcement enhancing the load bearing capacity of concrete covers was found.
Influence of laser induced sintering on contact performance of TOPCon solar cells
Authors: Xie Yi-Bo , Fang Chao-Yan , Chen De-Shuang , He Yue , Huang Shi-Hua ,   College of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, China,   Hengdian Group DMEGC Magnetics Co., Ltd., Jinhua 322118, China
Published: November 2024

Laser induced sintering, also known as laser enhanced contact optimization (LECO), can significantly reduce the contact resistance between metal electrodes and silicon in TOPCon solar cells, thereby improving its efficiency. In this work, the effects of LECO process parameters such as reverse bias and laser intensity on the performance of TOPCon solar cells are investigated and their influencing mechanisms are analyzed in detail. In the LECO process, as the reverse bias voltage increases, the efficiency of the solar cell first increases and then decreases, while the contact resistivity first decreases and then increases. When the reverse bias voltage is high, the solar cell may experience reverse breakdown. Once the solar cell experiences reverse breakdown, both the illuminated and non-illuminated areas become conducting. Due to the current diversion effect, the local conducting current density in the illuminated area is much lower than the current density without reverse breakdown of the solar cell, Therefore, the Joule heating caused by this is also much smaller, and the contact resistance between the metal and silicon increases, resulting in a decrease in the efficiency of the solar cell.

Secondly, the influence of secondary high-temperature sintering and secondary LECO on the performance of TOPCon is studied. When the secondary sintering temperature increases from 280 ℃ to 680 ℃, the efficiency of TOPCon sharply decreases from 26.35% to 1.3%. However, by subjecting the solar cells that have undergone secondary high-temperature sintering to secondary LECO treatment, the efficiency can be restored to the level before the secondary high-temperature sintering. Thirdly, TOPCon solar cells prepared using improved pure silver paste does not form effective metal-semiconductor contact between the silver electrode and silicon before LECO treatment, resulting in an average efficiency of only 0.02%. However, after LECO treatment, the efficiency of solar cells using pure silver paste increases to 26.35%, which is 0.41% higher than the reference solar cells using traditional silver aluminum paste. Fourthly, a physical model of LECO induced silver-silicon contact formation is proposed, providing a reasonable explanation for how secondary high-temperature sintering and secondary LECO treatment affect the performance of TOPCon. This is of great significance for further understanding and optimizing the application of LECO technology in TOPCon solar cells.
A conformational fingerprint for amyloidogenic light chains
Authors: Paissoni Cristina , Puri Sarita , Broggini Luca , Sriramoju Manoj K , Maritan Martina , Russo Rosaria , Speranzini Valentina , Ballabio Federico , Nuvolone Mario , Merlini Giampaolo , Palladini Giovanni , Hsu Shang-Te Danny , Ricagno Stefano , Camilloni Carlo
Published: November 2024

Immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis (AL) shares with multiple myeloma (MM) the overproduction of one clonal light chain (LC), but whereas in MM patients LC molecules remain soluble in circulation, AL LCs misfold into toxic soluble species and amyloid fibrils that accumulate in internal organs, leading to completely different clinical manifestations. The large sequence variability of LCs has hampered our understanding of the mechanism leading to LC aggregation. Nevertheless, some biochemical properties associated with AL-LC are emerging. The stability of the dimeric LCs seems to play a role, but conformational dynamics and susceptibility to proteolysis have been identified as biophysical parameters that, under native conditions, can better distinguish AL-LCs from LCs found in MM. In this study, our goal was to delineate a conformational fingerprint that could discriminate AL from MM LCs. By subjecting four AL and two MM LCs to in vitro analysis under native conditions using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), we observed that the AL LCs exhibited a slightly larger radius of gyration and greater deviation from the experimentally determined structure, indicating enhanced conformational dynamics. Integrating SAXS with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to generate a conformational ensemble revealed that LCs can adopt multiple states, with VL and CL domains either bent or straight. AL-LCs favored a distinct state in which both domains were in a straight conformation, maximizing solvent accessibility at their relative interfaces. This unique conformation was experimentally validated by hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS). Such findings reconcile a wealth of experimental observations and provide a precise structural target for drug design investigations.
Early menarche and childbirth accelerate aging-related outcomes and age-related diseases: Evidence for antagonistic pleiotropy in humans
Authors: Xiang Yifan , Tanwar Vineeta , Singh Parminder , Follette Lizellen La , Kapahi Pankaj
Published: November 2024

Aging can be understood as a consequence of the declining force of natural selection with age. Consistent with this the antagonistic pleiotropic theory of aging suggests that aging results from the trade-offs that promote early growth and reproduction. However, evidence for antagonistic pleiotropy in humans is largely lacking. Using Mendelian Randomization (MR), we demonstrated that later ages of menarche or first childbirth were genetically associated with longer parental lifespan, decreased frailty index, slower epigenetic aging, later menopause, and reduced facial aging. Moreover, later menarche or first childbirth were also genetically associated with a lower risk of several age-related diseases, including late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD), type 2 diabetes, heart disease, essential hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We validated the associations between the age of menarche, childbirth, and the number of childbirths with several age-related outcomes in the UK Biobank by conducting regression analysis of nearly 200,000 subjects. Our results demonstrated that menarche before the age 11 and childbirth before 21 significantly accelerated the risk of several diseases, and almost doubled the risk for diabetes, heart failure, and quadrupled the risk of obesity, supporting the antagonistic pleiotropy theory. We identified 128 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that influenced age-related outcomes, some of which were involved in known longevity pathways, including IGF1, growth hormone, AMPK, and mTOR signaling. Our study also identified higher BMI as a mediating factor in causing the increased risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and heart failure, in women with early menarche or early pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of the thrifty gene hypothesis in explaining in part the mechanisms behind antagonistic pleiotropy. Our study highlights the complex relationship between genetic legacies and modern diseases, emphasizing the need for gender-sensitive healthcare strategies that consider the unique connections between female reproductive health and aging.
Bacillus velezensis HBXN2020 alleviates Salmonella Typhimurium infection in mice by improving intestinal barrier integrity and reducing inflammation
Authors: Wang Linkang , Wang Haiyan , Li Xinxin , Zhu Mengyuan , Gao Dongyang , Hu Dayue , Xiong Zhixuan , Li Xiangmin , Qian Ping
Published: November 2024

Bacillus velezensis is a species of Bacillus that has been widely investigated because of its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, most studies on B. velezensis have focused on the biocontrol of plant diseases, with few reports on antagonizing Salmonella Typhimurium infections. In this investigation, it was discovered that B. velezensis HBXN2020, which was isolated from healthy black pigs, possessed strong anti-stress and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Importantly, B. velezensis HBXN2020 did not cause any adverse side effects in mice when administered at various doses (1×107, 1×108, and 1×109 CFU) for 14 days. Supplementing B. velezensis HBXN2020 spores, either as a curative or preventive measure, dramatically reduced the levels of S. Typhimurium ATCC14028 in the mice’s feces, ileum, cecum, and colon, as well as the disease activity index (DAI), in a model of infection caused by this pathogen in mice. Additionally, supplementing B. velezensis HBXN2020 spores significantly regulated cytokine levels (Tnfa, Il1b, Il6, and Il10) and maintained the expression of tight junction proteins and mucin protein. Most importantly, adding B. velezensis HBXN2020 spores to the colonic microbiota improved its stability and increased the amount of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus and Akkermansia). All together, B. velezensis HBXN2020 can improve intestinal microbiota stability and barrier integrity and reduce inflammation to help treat infection by S. Typhimurium.