bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Markov set-valued functions on compact metric spaces
Authors:   (1) Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Koroška 160, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia, (2) Institute of Mathematics, Physics and Mechanics, Jadranska 19, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia, (3) Andrej Marušič Institute, University of Primorska, Muzejski trg 2, SI-6000 Koper, Slovenia, c Iztok Bani ̌ , Crepnjak Matevž v ,   (1) Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Koroška 160, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia, (2) Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia, Kac Teja ,   Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Koroška 160, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia
Published: June 2024

We generalize the notion of Markov functions on closed intervals \([a,b]\) to Markov set-valued functions on compact metric spaces. We also introduce when two such Markov set-valued functions follow the same pattern and show that if the Markov set-valued functions \(F:X\multimap X\) and \(G:Y\multimap Y\) follow the same pattern, then the inverse limits \(\lim_{{\multimap}}(X,F)\) and \(\lim_{\multimap}(Y,G)\) are homeomorphic.
Pengaruh Variasi Persentase Pakan Ampas Tahu dan Kotoran Sapi terhadap Pertumbuhan Cacing Tanah (Lumbricus rubellus)
Authors: Heryensi Elza , Ruyani Aceng , Wardana Rendy Wikrama , Karyadi Bhakti , Sutarno M.
Published: June 2024

This research was carried out from November to December 2023, at the Ruyani Life Sciences Learning Resources (SBIH). The aim of this research was to determine the effect of feeding tofu dregs and cow dung on the growth of earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus). The method used in this research was an experimental method, namely a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 6 feed treatments + 3 repetitions for continuation of undergraduate student research and 6 feed treatments + 3 repetitions for initiation. Data analysis used the Kruskall-Wallis nonparametric statistical test with Asymp. Sig. values. ≤ 0.05, and continued with the Mann-Whitney test. The research results show that the value of Asymp. Sig. parent biomass, offspring biomass, number of parent individuals, and number of Lumbricus rubellus offspring in sequence, in the 1st to 4th week of follow-up research Asymp. Sig. values. namely 0.086; 0.036; 0.140; and 0.064. In the 5th to 8th week of further research, the Asymp. Sig. value. namely 0.168; 0.047; 0.176; and 0.095. And in the 5th to 8th weeks of the research, the Asymp. Sig. value was initiated. namely 0.062; 0.010; 0.434; and 0.013. The conclusion was that feeding tofu dregs and cow dung had no real effect on parent biomass and number of parent individuals, and there was a real difference in offspring biomass and number of Lumbricus rubellus offspring in the initial study.
Analysis of Women’s Empowerment through Microcredit: Case Study of Samurdhi Program in Sri Lanka
Authors: Dissanayake Mudiyanselage Buddika Dissanayake
Published: June 2024

Does microcredit have the potential to empower women? Many factors facilitate female empowerment through microcredit. The Department of Samurdhi Development in Sri Lanka provides microcredit programs to enhance the business environment of unemployed women. The Samurdhu microcredit program is designed with training facilities, market facilities, loan cycles, group lending, exposure to credit, and business support facilities. This study will determine the factors for women's empowerment through microcredit facilities in Samurdhi banks for self-employment activities. In this study, women's empowerment at the household level through the microcredit facility of Samurai Bank has been taken into account to analyze the problem identified in this research. This paper illustrates the most significant factors of the microcredit facility granted by the Samurdhi community-based banks for empowering women. The method used to select women beneficiaries is a simple random sampling from the lists of loan applicants in the bank based on 13 Grama Niladhari Divisions, Madame divisional secretariat, Puttalam District, Sri Lanka.241 cross-sectional data was gathered by the questionnaire survey in the Madampe divisional secretariat, Puttalam District in Sri Lanka. The data analysis in this paper revealed that training facilities and market access are the two most significant factors, followed by group lending and exposure to credit components to facilitate women’s empowerment in rural areas. Finally, this paper proposed policy recommendations for policymakers to improve their microcredit policies with several different components.
‘Make A Change’: A Comprehensive Synthesis of School-Based Interventions for Teaching Environmental Adaptiveness, Conceptual Comprehension, and Collaborative Learning to Elementary School Children with Visual Impairments
Authors: Ganetsou Evanthia , Papadakou Christiana , Chatzaki Vasiliki , Tsalera Eleni , Leeson Lillian
Published: June 2024

The spectrum of visual impairment is broad, ranging from low vision that may require glasses to total blindness. The present intervention (‘Make a Change’) is a unique synthesis of existing activities and adaptations designed to help children with visual impairments (VI) in their learning experience in mainstream schools. The program’s aim is to address and serve a diverse range of VI students’ motor, cognitive, and psychosocial needs and capacities, ranging from environmental adaptiveness, to conceptual comprehension, and peer collaboration. Activities targeted to enhance environmental adaptiveness focus on strengthening VI children’s orientation and mobility, including their ability to navigate safely through the school environment as well as to respond to emergency procedure practices successfully. Spatial awareness expands through the heightening of the other senses and via blindfold activities including auditory stimuli. Sports activities also aid VI children’s motor skills, reflexes, and confidence with health-related fitness. Conceptual understanding of quantity, quality, and physics is enriched by 3-D interventions using basic perceptual skills such as touching, tracking, and discriminating between symbols. Lastly, collaborative learning with the use of computer technology increases coordination as well as communication among students. Activities like treasure hunt and interacting with an audio-based computer program help VI children practice their collaborative problem-solving abilities, computational thinking skills, and basic programming abilities; positive outcomes include improved academic achievement and productivity, as well as social related enhancements, such as supportive and committed relationships, social competence, and the development of a sense of caring. Recommendations for teachers follow the strengths of the intervention.
ANALISIS FUNGSI KOMUNIKATIF TEKS KELONG GANRANG BULO MAKASSAR
Authors: Nursalam -
Published: June 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan fungsi komunikatif kelong. Jenis data ini ialah teks  dan tuturan verbal. Sumber data penelitian ini ialah pakelong ganrang bulo Makassar. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kontekstual performatif karena menekankan pada konteks pertunjukan. Pada dasarnya ada 3 teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan yakni tahap observasi (pencatatan lapangan, perekaman, dan pemotretan), wawancara mendalam, dan studi dokumentasi. Teori analisis data peneltian ini menggunakan teori fungsi Roman Jacobson. Teknik analisis data penelitian ini melipti proses (1) reduksi, (2) penyajian, dan (3) penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian ini ditemukan bahwa ada enam fungsi komunikatif kelong ganrang bulo Makassar, yaitu fungsi referensial, fungsi emotif, fungsi puitis, fungsi fatis, fungsi konatif, fungsi metalingual.Kata Kunci: fungsi komunikatif, Kelong ganrang bulo, sastra lisan
GAYA BAHASA SARKASME DALAM LIRIK LAGU VIRAL BERJUDUL ALAY (ANAK LAYANGAN)
Authors: Syafika Ismi , Tusa'diah Risma , Hermandra Hermandra
Published: June 2024

Studi semantik berusaha untuk menerangkan tentang kata atau struktur bahasa yang lebih merujuk kepada konsep makna dan bagaimana makna dapat dipahami melalui konteks. Salah satu objek kajian dari semantik adalah sarkasme, sarkasme adalah jenis gaya bahasa yang didalamnya menggunakan gaya bahasa dengan sindiran untuk mengomentari atau mengkritik seseorang atau sesuatu hal dengan menggunakan kata-kata yang kasar serta mengolok-olok. Pada penelitian ini mengkaji makna dari gaya bahasa sarkasme pada lirik lagu “Alay”. Lagu tersebut banyak digunakan anak-anak remaja untuk menyindir dalam kontennya. Tujuan adanya penelitian ini untuk dapat membuka pemikiran dan pemahaman pembaca akan pentingnya pemilihan kata yang tepat dalam menciptakan sebuah lagu. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif dengan jenis penelitian kualitatif Sumber data dalam penelitian ini berasal dari musik video Youtube “Alay” yang dinyanyikan oleh Lolita. Setelah dianalisis diketahui bahwa didalam lagu tersebut terdapat 3 bait lirik yang didalmnya terdapat gaya bahasa sarkasme.Kata-kata kunci: Semantik, Sarkasme, Lagu
MEME POLITIK SEBAGAI KRITIK WACANA DALAM AKUN FACEBOOK KOMIKKITA: ANALISIS WACANA KRITIS NORMAN FAIRCLOUGH
Authors: Ismail Asri , Saleh Muhammad , Malik Agung Rinaldy , Salam Salam , Rahim Abd
Published: June 2024

Meme politik  Komikkita.com  mengkonstruksi  wacana  ideologis  sebagai  sebuah  bentukmanifestasi demokrasi dalam era digitalisasi. Keberanian Komikkita.com mengkritisi elit politik lintas parta dengan tegas menjadi daya tarik tersendiri untuk dikaji lebih dalam. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif. Data diperoleh dari akun Komikita.com melalui Facebook dan Instagram. Teori yang diterapkan adalah analisis wacana kritis Fairclough yang terdiri dari analisis teks, praktik diskursif dan sosiokultural. Penelitian ini mengkaji bagaimana meme media sosial mengkonstruksi wacana yang berkembang di Indonesia saat ini, ideologi apa yang ingin disampaikan dan untuk siapa ideologi tersebut dibuat. Di samping itu, kajian ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis konteks sosial dan budaya yang menjadi latar belakang meme politik tersebut. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa meme Komikkita.com mengkonstruksi citra dan wacana negatif tentang politisi yang mengkir dalam penyelidikian KPK serta orang-orang yang terlibat dalam kasus korupsi serta kasus pelanggaran HAM di Indonesia. Pada analisis praktik diskursif, ideologi yang disampaikan melalui meme-meme tersebut ditujukan kepada elit politik dan pihak-pihak yang terkait dengan kasus-kasus yang dibahas. Respons masyarakat menunjukkan bahwa ideologi yang disampaikan melalui meme diterima dan didukung oleh pembaca. Pada analisis sosiokultural dapat dipahami bahwa praktik korupsi dan pelanggaran HAM saat ini masih menjamur di Indonesia yang mengakibatkan rendahnya kepercayaan masyarakat terhadap elit politisi. Hadirnya meme ini sebagai bentuk kritik wacana terhadap isu yang berkembang saat ini.
Multifocal motor neuropathy
Authors:   , Bos Jeroen Wessel
Published: June 2024

Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) is a very rare inflammatory neuropathy that leads to muscle weakness in mainly the hands and feet. IgM antibodies directed against the ganglioside GM1 can be found in at least 50% of patients with MMN, which upon binding to neurons activate the classical pathway of the complement cascade, leading to motor neuron damage. MMN is treatable with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg), but its efficacy is usually partial, and many patients will follow a steadily progressive disease course. Therefore, identifying new and more effective treatment strategies for patients with MMN remains important. To achieve this, we need to improve our detailed understanding of the immunopathology underlying MMN.
In this thesis, we performed clinical, genetic, and immunological studies in MMN. We showed that despite treatment with IVIg, deterioration of muscle weakness over time is the rule rather than the exception, and identified factors associated with worse disease outcome. Next, we found that MMN is associated with two HLA class II genotypes, and with a polymorphism in the promotor region of the complement regulator CD55, demonstrating genetic susceptibility underlying MMN. We demonstrated that, next to anti-GM1 IgM antibodies, anti-GM2 IgM antibodies are found in a subgroup of patients, extending the repertoire of antibodies associated with MMN. These antibodies specifically bind to Schwann cells, also activate complement, and are associated with an earlier onset of muscle weakness. Finally, we found that MMN is associated with an altered composition of bacteria that constitute the gut microbiome, and found certain alterations to be specifically associated with anti-GM1 IgM antibodies.
Together, the studies in this thesis significantly improve our understanding of the immunopathogenesis of MMN, which may hopefully form a basis for the development of novel treatment strategies.
Public Employee Stereotypes
Authors:   , Neo Shee Ling
Published: June 2024

Public Employee Stereotypes: What are they? Do they matter?
This dissertation delves into the complex world of citizen perceptions
regarding public employees. Across four thought-provoking chapters,
Sheeling Neo navigates through cultural nuances and societal
influences to uncover the truths behind commonly held beliefs.

Unveiling Citizen Expectations and Stereotypes
This dissertation embarks on a journey to discern the expectations
citizens associate with public employees and the stereotypes they harbor.
Through qualitative studies and large-scale surveys spanning multiple
countries, intriguing insights emerge, challenging conventional wisdom
and revealing the multifaceted nature of public perception.

Exploring Impact on Behavior and Integrity
This dissertation further delves into the effects of stereotypes on
public employees’ task performance and ethical conduct. Contrary to
expectations, the research unveils surprising findings, shedding light on
the resilience of public servants amidst societal scrutiny and challenging
prior assumptions about the influence of stereotypes on behavior.

From debunking prevalent stereotypes to highlighting the influence of
social and cultural contexts, this dissertation offers insights that reshape our
understanding of public employees and their interactions with society. Through
meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, this dissertation provides valuable
insights that resonate both within academia and in practical applications.
A Case of Purulent Pericarditis in the Setting of Streptococcal Pneumonia
Authors: Adelkhanova Alla , Shtembari Jurgen , Huh Alexander
Published: June 2024

Purulent pericarditis was a prevalent complication of streptococcal pneumonia prior to the antibiotic era. In this article, we report a 68-year-old male presenting with dyspnea, chest pain, left knee pain, diagnosed with S. pneumoniae bacteremia and septic arthritis with isolation of same pathogen from synovial fluid.

ECG showed diffuse ST elevations, TTE showed small pericardial effusion along RV free wall. A subsequent TTE showed a pericardial effusion with signs of tamponade. Patient underwent a pericardiocentesis with drainage of purulent fluid. Repeat TTE showed a 2.7 mm vegetation on mitral valve. CT surgery recommended only antibiotics.

Purulent pericarditis is a life-threatening disease, so timely diagnosis and treatment are essential.
A Case of Ruptured Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm
Authors: Adelkhanova Alla , Ahmed Bushra Urooj , Valencia Stephanie Andrea
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) is an abnormal dilation of one or more aortic sinuses located between the aortic valve annulus and the sinotubular junction. SVA rupture can cause shunting into cardiac chambers creating hemodynamic compromise and has a high morbidity and mortality requiring prompt recognition and treatment.

Case presentation: A 62-year-old male with past medical history of heart failure, COPD, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, schizophrenia, and dementia, presented with a two-day onset of shortness of breath. BNP was elevated and chest X-ray showed bilateral pleural effusions and volume overload. The patient had a TTE (transthoracic echocardiogram) performed on May 2023 which showed normal ejection fraction, diastolic flattening of ventricular septum consistent with RV volume and pressure overload; atrial shunt, moderate TR, moderate free-flowing pericardial effusion; systolic pulmonary artery pressure of 77 mmHg. TEE (transesophageal echocardiogram) was performed and showed a small right-to-left atrial level shunt, a ruptured non-coronary sinus of Valsalva aneurysm into the right atrium with continuous systolic and diastolic left to right shunt on spectral and color Doppler interrogation. During the hospitalization TTE was obtained which re-demonstrated the aneurysmal dilation of the noncoronary sinus of Valsalva with protrusion into the right atrium, associated with rupture and shunting into the right atrium. Patient underwent repair of sinus of Valsalva aneurysm with fistula to right atrium using bovine pericardium patch, repair of atrial septal defect as well as coronary artery bypass grafting and was ultimately discharged.

Conclusion: A ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm is a rare condition which can cause heart failure with volume overload as well hemodynamic compromise. This condition has high morbidity and mortality, therefore must be promptly identified, and treated surgically.
Ergen Bireylerin Fiziksel Aktifliğe Bakışları İle Yaşam Doyumları Arasındaki İlişki: Sultangazi Örneği
Authors: Kurtkapan Hamza , Ertürk Uzunoğlu Gamze , Dağ Mehmet
Published: June 2024

Bu çalışmada İstanbul ili Sultangazi ilçesinde eğitim gören ergenlerin fiziksel aktif olmaya ilişkin düşünceleri ile yaşam doyumları arasındaki ilişkiyi değerlendirilme amaçlanmaktadır. Ayrıca çalışmada öğrencilerin cinsiyet, sınıf düzeyi ve akademik başarıları ile yaşam doyumu arasındaki ilişkiye de bakılmıştır. Yaşam doyumu her kuşakta önemli bir konudur. Ancak gençlik öncesi geçiş döneminde ayrıca önem arz etmektedir. Ergenlik çağı hem çocukluktan hem de yetişkinlikten ayrılabilen, belirli zorluklar ve fırsatlar sunan ayrı bir gelişim aşamasıdır. Ergenlik bir sağlık ve refah dönemi olabilse de kendini keşfetme ve bağımsızlığın ortaya çıkmasıyla ilgili özel hassasiyetlerin başlamasıyla bu dönemde zihinsel sağlık bozuklukları ve riskli davranışlarla ilişkili yüksek oranlarda hastalık ve ölüm oranlarının arttığı bilinmektedir. Son yıllarda ergenlerin problemleri önemli bir çalışma alanı haline gelmiştir. Bu çalışmada ergenlerin psikolojik iyi oluşları üzerinde etkili olan bazı faktörler çalışılmıştır. Bu çerçevede belirlenen okullardan 473 öğrenci çalışmaya dahil edilmiştir. Araştırma verileri, demografik özellikler, öğrencilerin fiziksel aktifliğe ilişkin görüşlerini soran üç soru ve yaşam doyumu ölçeğinden oluşan anket kullanılarak tarama yöntemiyle elde edilmiştir. Araştırmada katılımcıların yaşam doyumları ortanın biraz altında tespit edilmiştir. Öğrencilerin fiziksel aktiviteye ilişkin görüşleri ile yaşam doyumları arasında anlamlı bir ilişki bulunamamıştır. Öğrencilerin cinsiyet, akademik başarı ve sınıf düzeyleri ile yaşam doyumu arasında anlamlı bir ilişki bulunmuştur. Akademik başarı ve yaşam memnuniyeti arasında pozitif ve anlamlı bir korelasyon saptanmıştır. Araştırma sonucuna göre katılımcıların ders başarıları arttıkça yaşam doyumları da arttığı tespit edilmiştir.
Звездный календарь киргизов / Kyrgyz Star Calendar
Authors: Дубова Н.А. , Кадырбекова Т.К. , Никифоров М.Г.
Published: June 2024

Помимо хорошо известных лунных и лунно-солнечных календарей, которые широко распространены на Востоке, теоретически возможны лунно-звездные календари, длительность месяца в которых определяется посредством соединения Луны с какой-нибудь звездой, расположенной вблизи плоскости эклиптики. Один из подобных календарей, описанный Б. А. Куфтиным (1916), основывался на соединениях Луны и Плеяд. В представленной статье анализируются полевые материалы, полученные в результате работ 2023 г. в Нарынском районе Кыргызстана. Они включают четыре календаря местного звездочета (эсепчи) Ш. Черекчиева за 2017, 2019–2021 гг., выпущенные им для своего селения, в основе которых лежат тогоолы — соединения Луны и Плеяд. Наличие календарей позволяет сделать сравнение табличных дат тогоолов с расчетными значениями, определить их точность и проанализировать принцип работы. Проведенный анализ подтверждает предложенную нами ранее теоретическую модель лунно-звездного календаря, в котором точкой отсчета является гелиакальный восход Плеяд, а счет месяцев ведется по соединениям Луны и Плеяд. Так же проверка показала, что реальным наблюдениям могут соответствует только даты тогоолов за первую половину 2017 г., а за остальной период отклонение расчетных и календарных дат составляет от 2 до 4 дней. Это означает, что со второй половины 2017 г. календарь перестал корректироваться с реальным движением Луны.
Along with the well-known lunar and lunar-solar calendars, widespread in the Orient, lunar-star calendars are also theoretically possible. In such calendars, the duration of the month is determined by conjunction of the Moon with some star located near the ecliptic plane. One of such calendars, described by Boris A. Kuftin (1916), was based on the conjunction of the Moon and the Pleiades. The present article analyzes the field materials obtained in 2023 in the Naryn district of Kyrgyzstan. They include four calendars of the local stargazer (esepchi) Sh. Cherekchiev for 2017, 2019–2021, created by him for his village, which are based on togools — conjunctions of the Moon and the Pleiades. The presence of calendars allows us to compare the tabular dates of togools with the calculated values, determine their accuracy and analyze their functioning. Analysis of Cherikchiev’s calendars confirms the theoretical model of the lunar-star calendar we proposed earlier, in which the heliacal sunrise of the Pleiades is the starting point, and the months are counted according to the conjunctions of the Moon and the Pleiades. The verification also showed that only the dates for the first half of 2017 can correspond to real observations, and the deviation of the calculated and calendar dates for the rest of the period varies from 2 to 4 days. This means that the calendar has ceased to be adjusted with the actual movement of the Moon since the second half of 2017.
Expansion of the tetracycline resistome in Aeromonas salmonicida with a tet(D) gene found in plasmids pAsa-2900 and pAsa-2900b
Authors: Girard Sarah B. , Marcoux Pierre-Étienne , Paquet Valérie E. , Zoubaï Sahra , Can Thuy Nhu Vy , Attéré Sabrina A. , Vincent Antony T. , Charette Steve J.
Published: June 2024

Plasmids carrying antibiotic resistance genes occur frequently in Aeromonas salmonicida subsp. salmonicida, an aquatic pathogen. In this study, we describe three new plasmids found in strains of A. salmonicida subsp. salmonicida from Québec, Canada: pAsa-2358, pAsa-2900, and pAsa-2900b. The last two plasmids have a tet(D) resistance gene against tetracycline, which has not been previously found in A. salmonicida. The only difference between these two plasmids is the presence of a florfenicol resistance gene (floR) surrounded by two copies of the same insertion sequence, indicating that pAsa-2900 and pAsa-2900b are plasmid variants. All three plasmids represent an issue for aquaculture because they bear resistance genes against antibiotics used to treat infected fish: floR and tet(A) for pAsa-2358; floR, sul2, and tet(D) for pAsa-2900; and sul2 and tet(D) for pAsa-2900b. Conjugation assays confirmed that the three plasmids are capable of conjugation with one A. salmonicida mesophilic strain, one A. hydrophila strain, and Escherichia coli DH5α; except for pAsa-2358 that is not able to conjugate into E. coli DH5α. Based on the results of antibiotic resistance assays, the tet(D) gene provides a greater resistance to tetracycline than the tet(A) gene found in many A. salmonicida subsp. salmonicida plasmids. This is the case whether the plasmids are in their parental A. salmonicida subsp. salmonicida strains or in Aeromonas sp. transconjugates. The presence of these three plasmids in A. salmonicida subsp. salmonicida strengthens the role of this bacterium as a reservoir for antibiotic resistance genes.
Domination and power domination in a one-pentagonal carbon nanocone structure
Authors: Pandian Shoba , N. Mohana
Published: June 2024

Domination is an important factor in determining the robustness of a graph structure. A thorough examination of the graph’s topological structure is necessary for analyzing and examining it for various aspects. Understanding the stability of a chemical compound is a significant criterion in chemistry, which necessitates conducting numerous experimental tests. The domination number and power domination number are pivotal in defining a wide range of physical properties, which include physiochemical properties, thermodynamic properties, chemical activities, and biological activities. The one-pentagonal carbon nanocone (1-PCNC) is a member of the carbon nanocone family and has a structure similar to that of honeycomb networks, which are renowned for their robustness. In this paper, we find the domination number and power domination number of 1-PCNC by considering it as an (m-1)-layered infinite graph.
Prevalence, socio-economic, and associated risk factors of oral cavity parasites in children with intellectual disability from Lorestan province, Iran
Authors: Selahbarzin Behnoush , Mahmoudvand Hossein , Khalaf Amal Khudair , Kooshki Fahimeh , Farhadi Fatemeh , Baharvand Parastoo
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Children with intellectual disability (ID) often face challenges in maintaining proper oral hygiene due to their motor, sensory, and intellectual impairments, which can lead to compromised oral health; therefore, there is a need to enhance the oral health status of these populations and establish an effective system for administering preventive interventions. Here, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax among children with ID in Lorestan province, in Western Iran through parasitological and molecular methods.

Methods

The current descriptive investigation involved 215 in children with ID and 215 healthy children (non-ID) who were referred to health facilities in Lorestan province, Iran between October 2022 and March 2024. The prevalence of protozoa in the oral cavity was found through the utilization of both microscopic analysis and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques.

Results

The total prevalence of the E. gingivalis and T. tenax in children with ID was found to be 87 (40.5%) and 92 (42.8%) through microscopic and PCR methods, respectively. Among the positive samples, 57 (61.9%) and 35 (38.1%) children tested positive for E. gingivalis and T. tenax, respectively. In contrast, among the 215 non-ID children in the control group, 39 (18.1%) and 42 (19.5%) tested positive by microscopic and PCR methods, respectively. Among positive samples in non-ID children, 23 (54.7%) and 19 (45.3%) children were positive for E. gingivalis and T. tenax, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that residing in urban areas, parental education, monthly family income, and tooth brushing p<0.001) were identified as independent risk factors for oral cavity parasites.

Conclusion

This study identified a notable prevalence of oral cavity parasites in children with ID in Lorestan province, Western Iran. It is imperative to recognize the primary risk factors associated with these parasites, particularly inadequate teeth brushing, in order to enhance public and oral health strategies for children with ID. Therefore, pediatric dental professionals should remain vigilant regarding these risk factors to effectively recognize and address oral health issues in this population, thereby mitigating the occurrence of oral diseases and infections.
Color-coded parametric imaging support display of vessel hemorrhage—an in vitro experiment and clinical validation study
Authors: Chen Yi , Xu Wenji , Liu Jiaxin , Zhao Chao , Cao Xiaojing , Wang Rong , Feng Duiping , Zhang Ruiping , Zhou Xiang
Published: June 2024

Background

Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) is currently the most effective diagnostic method for vascular diseases, but it is still subject to various factors, resulting in uncertain diagnosis. Therefore, a new technology is needed to help clinical doctors improve diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.

Purpose

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of utilizing color-coded parametric imaging techniques on the accuracy of identifying active bleeding through DSA, the widely accepted standard for diagnosing vascular disorders.

Methods

Several variables can delay the diagnosis and treatment of active bleeding with DSA. To resolve this, we carried out an in vitro simulation experiment to simulate vascular hemorrhage and utilized five color-coded parameters (area under curve, time to peak, time-of-arrival, transit time, and flow rate of contrast agent) to determine the optimal color coding parameters. We then verified it in a clinical study.

Results

Five different color-coded parametric imaging methods were compared and the time-of-arrival color coding was the most efficient technique for diagnosing active hemorrhage, with a statistically significant advantage (P < 0.001). In clinical study, 135 patients (101 with confirmed bleeding and 34 with confirmed no bleeding) were collected. For patients whose bleeding could not be determined using DSA alone (55/101) and whose no bleeding could not be diagnosed by DSA alone (35/55), the combination of time-of-arrival color parametric imaging was helpful for diagnosis, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.01 and P = 0.01).

Conclusions

The time-of-arrival color coding imaging method is a valuable tool for detecting active bleeding. When combined with DSA, it improves the visual representation of active hemorrhage and improves the efficiency of diagnosis.
The ABCs of writing motivation: a systematic review of factors emerging from K–5 students’ self-reports as influencing their motivation to write
Authors: Alves-Wold Aline , Walgermo Bente Rigmor , McTigue Erin , Uppstad Per Henning
Published: June 2024

Motivation is essential for writing success. However, investigations of writing motivation in younger students often overlook the students’ voices, basing instead—insufficiently—findings solely on teachers’ and/or researchers’ observations. The present systematic literature review highlights the importance of also listening to students’ own perspectives. It synthesizes findings from empirical studies (1996–2020) in K–5 classrooms. Of 5,795 studies initially identified, 56 met the inclusion criteria and were qualitatively analyzed. The analysis yielded nine factors that influence writing motivation. They are presented as the ABCs of Writing Motivation, organized according to the first nine letters of the alphabet: (A) Appeal, (B) Beliefs, (C) Choice, (D) Difficulty, (E) Environment, (F) Feedback, (G) Goals, (H) Help, and (I) Instructor. We suggest that this can be a useful tool both for researchers and for teachers, as a checklist or source of ideas when planning writing lessons or interventions.
Restricted linear association between night sleep duration and diabetes risk in middle-aged and older adults: a 7-year follow-up analysis from the China health and retirement longitudinal study
Authors: Chen Mutong , Li Baizhi , Fan Guanhua , Zhou Yuqiu
Published: June 2024

Background

A rapid increase in the prevalence of diabetes is an urgent public health concern among older adults, especially in developing countries such as China. Despite several studies on lifestyle factors causing diabetes, sleep, a key contributor, is understudied. Our study investigates the association between night sleep duration and diabetes onset over a 7-year follow-up to fill information gaps.

Method

A population-based cohort study with 5437 respondents used 2011–2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study data. Using self-reported night sleep duration from the 2011 baseline survey, information on new-onset diabetes was collected in follow-up surveys. Baseline characteristics of participants with vs. without new-onset diabetes were compared using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests. Multivariable Cox regression models estimated the independent relationship between night sleep and new-onset diabetes. The addictive Cox regression model approach and piece-wise regression described the nonlinear relationship between night sleep and new-onset diabetes. Subgroup analysis was also performed by age, gender, body measurement index, dyslipidemia, drinking status, smoking, hypertension, and afternoon napping duration.

Result

549 respondents acquired diabetes during a median follow-up of 84 months. After controlling for confounders, night sleep duration was substantially linked with new-onset diabetes in the multivariable Cox regression model. The risk of diabetes is lower for respondents who sleep longer than 5 hours, except for those who sleep over 8 hours [5.1–6h Hazard ratios (HR) [95% confidence intervals (CI)] = 0.71 (0.55, 0.91); 6.1–7h HR = 0.69 (0.53, 0.89); 7.1–8h HR = 0.58 (0.45, 0.76)]. Nonlinear connections were delineated by significant inflection points at 3.5 and 7.5 hours, with a negative correlation observed only between these thresholds. With one hour more night sleep, the risk of diabetes drops 15%. BMI and dyslipidemia were identified as modifiers when only consider the stand linear effect of sleep duration on diabetes.

Conclusion

This study establishes a robust association between night sleep and new-onset diabetes in middle-aged and older Chinese individuals within the 3.5–7.5-hour range, offering a foundation for early glycemic management interventions in this demographic. The findings also underscore the pivotal role of moderate night sleep in preventing diabetes, marking a crucial juncture in community medical research.
Association of blood glucose change with postoperative delirium after coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with diabetes mellitus: a study of the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Wang Fujun , Mei Xue
Published: June 2024

Aim

Study results on blood glucose and the risk of delirium in patients receiving cardiac surgery are inconsistent, and there is also a gap in how to manage blood glucose after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). This study focused on patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) undergoing CABG and explored the associations of different blood glucose-related indexes and blood glucose change trajectory with postoperative delirium (POD), with the aim of providing some information for the management of blood glucose in this population.

Methods

Data of patients with DM undergoing CABG were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database in this retrospective cohort study. The blood glucose-related indexes included baseline blood glucose, mean blood glucose (MBG), mean absolute glucose (MAG), mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), glycemic lability index (GLI), and largest amplitude of glycemic excursions (LAGE). The MBG trajectory was classified using the latent growth mixture modeling (LGMM) method. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were utilized to screen covariates and explore the associations of blood glucose-related indexes and MBG trajectory with POD. These relationships were also assessed in subgroups of age, gender, race, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), international normalized ratio (INR), sepsis, mechanical ventilation use, and vasopressor use. In addition, the potential interaction effect between blood glucose and hepatorenal function on POD was investigated. The evaluation indexes were odds ratios (ORs), relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion of interaction (AP), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Among the eligible 1,951 patients, 180 had POD. After adjusting for covariates, higher levels of MBG (OR = 3.703, 95% CI: 1.743–7.870), MAG >0.77 mmol/L/h (OR = 1.754, 95% CI: 1.235–2.490), and GLI >2.6 (mmol/L)2/h/per se (OR = 1.458, 95% CI: 1.033–2.058) were associated with higher odds of POD. The positive associations of MBG, MAG, and GLI with POD were observed in patients aged <65 years old, male patients, White patients, those with eGFR <60 and INR <1.5, patients with sepsis, and those who received mechanical ventilation and vasopressors (all p < 0.05). Patients with class 3 (OR = 3.465, 95% CI: 1.122–10.696) and class 4 (OR = 3.864, 95% CI: 2.083–7.170) MBG trajectory seemed to have higher odds of POD, compared to those with a class 1 MBG trajectory. Moreover, MAG (RERI = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.14–1.27, AP = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.12–1.19) and GLI (RERI = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.19–1.39, AP = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.16–1.12) both had a potential synergistic effect with INR on POD.

Conclusion

Focusing on levels of MBG, MAG, GLI, and MBG trajectory may be more beneficial to assess the potential risk of POD than the blood glucose level upon ICU admission in patients with DM undergoing CABG.
Puberty in girls with Prader-Willi syndrome: cohort evaluation and clinical recommendations in a Latin American tertiary center
Authors: Passone Caroline Gouveia Buff , Aragão Luciana Felipe Ferrer , Franco Ruth Rocha , Leite Junia Ellen Simioni , Gonzalez Michelle Antonella Benitez , Schil Priscila Schuindt de Albuquerque , Ybarra Marina , Damiani Durval , Kerkhof Gerthe Femke , Montenegro Junior Renan Magalhães , Silva Clovis Artur
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder characterized by hypothalamic-pituitary deficiencies including hypogonadism. In girls with PWS, hypogonadism can present early in childhood, leading to genital hypoplasia, delayed puberty, incomplete pubertal development, and infertility. In contrast, girls can present with premature activation of the adrenal axis leading to early pubarche and advanced bone age. We aim to evaluate the progression of puberty and adrenarche signals in girls with PWS.

Methodology

A longitudinal retrospective cohort study included girls with PWS followed at a Pediatric Endocrinology Outpatient Clinic in a Tertiary University Hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil from 2002 to 2022. Data collected via chart review included clinical information on birth history, breast and pubic hair Tanner stages, presence of genital hypoplasia, age at menarche, regularity of menstrual cycles, body mass index (BMI) z-score, final height, age of initiation of estrogen replacement and growth hormone replacement, as well as results for PWS genetic subtype; biochemical investigation (LH, FSH, estradiol, DHEA-S); radiographic bone age and pelvic ultrasound.

Results

A total of 69 girls were included in the study and the mean age of puberty onset was 10.2 years in those who started puberty after the age of 8 years. Breast Tanner stage IV was reached by 29.1% girls at a mean age of 14.9 years. Spontaneous menarche was present in 13.8% and only one patient had regular menstrual cycles. Early adrenarche was seen in 40.4% of cases.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated in a large sample that girls with PWS often present with delayed onset of puberty despite frequent premature adrenarche. Based on our results, we suggest an estrogen replacement protocol for girls with PWS to be started at the chronological age or bone age of 12–13 years, taking into consideration the uterus size. Further prospective studies are needed.
Remote sensing inversion of soil organic matter in cropland combining topographic factors with spectral parameters
Authors: Zou Jinzhao , Wei Yanan , Zhang Yong , Liu Zheng , Gai Yuefeng , Chen Hongyan , Liu Peng , Song Qian
Published: June 2024

Remote sensing has become an effective way for regional soil organic matter (SOM) quantitative analysis. Topographic factors affect SOM content and distribution, also influence the accuracy of SOM remote sensing inversion. In large region with complex topographic conditions, characteristic topographic factors of SOM in different topographic regions are unknown, and the effect of combining characteristic topographic factors with spectral parameters on improving SOM inversion accuracy remains to be further studied. Three typical topographic regions of Shandong Province in China, namely Western plain region (WPR), Central and southern mountain region (CSMR), Eastern hilly region (EHR), were selected. Topographic factors, namely Elevation, Slope, Aspect and Relief Amplitude, were introduced. Respectively, the characteristic topographic factors and spectral parameters of SOM in each region were identified. The SOM inversion models were built separately for each region by integrating spectral parameters with topographic factors. The results revealed that as for the characteristic topographic factors of SOM, none was in the WPR, E, RA, and S were in the CSMR, E and RA were in the EHR. In combination with characteristic topographic factors, the accuracy of SOM spectral inversion models improved, the calibration R2 increased by 0.075–0.102, the RMSE (Root mean square error) decreased by 0.162–0.171 g/kg, the validation R2 increased by 0.067–0.095, the RMSE decreased by 0.236–0.238 g/kg, and RPD (Relative prediction deviation) increased by 0.129–0.169. The most significant improvement was observed in the CSMR with the calibration R2 of 0.725, the validation R2 of 0.713 and the RPD of 1.852, followed by the EHR. This study not only contributes to the advancement of soil quantitative remote sensing theory but also offers more precise data support for the development of green, low-carbon, and precision agriculture.
Yishen Tongbi decoction attenuates inflammation and bone destruction in rheumatoid arthritis by regulating JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 pathway
Authors: Xu Jia , Jiao Wei , Wu Dan-Bin , Yu Jia-Hui , Liu Li-Juan , Zhang Ming-Ying , Chen Guang-Xing
Published: June 2024

Background

Yishen-Tongbi Decoction (YSTB), a traditional Chinese prescription, has been used to improve syndromes of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for many years. Previous research has shown that YSTB has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of the anti-RA effects of YSTB remains unclear.

Purpose and study design

The purpose of this research was to investigate how YSTB affected mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and RAW264.7 cells induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Results

The findings show that YSTB could significantly improve the clinical arthritic symptoms of CIA mice (mitigate paw swelling, arthritis score, thymus and spleen indices, augment body weight), downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and IL-17, while upregulated the level of anti-inflammatory like IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Meanwhile, YSTB inhibits bone erosion and reduces inflammatory cell infiltration, synovial proliferation, and joint destruction in CIA mice. In addition, we found that YSTB was able to suppress the LPS-induced inflammation of RAW264.7 cells, which was ascribed to the suppression of nitric oxide (NO) production and reactive oxygen species formation (ROS). YSTB also inhibited the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase and reduced the releases of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, the phosphorylation expression of JAK2, JAK3, STAT3, p38, ERK and p65 protein could be suppressed by YSTB, while the expression of SOCS3 could be activated.

Conclusion

Taken together, YSTB possesses anti-inflammatory and prevention bone destruction effects in RA disease by regulating the JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 signaling pathway.
The impact of cholesteryl ester transfer protein on the progression of cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Batista-Dantas Francisca Elda , Ozaki Christiane Yumi , Santana Kelly Gomes , Nunes Valéria Sutti , Uscata Bernardina Amorin , Siess-Portugal Cinthia , Reis Luiza Campos , Yamashiro-Kanashiro Edite H. , Tafuri Wagner Luiz , Duarte-Neto Amaro Nunes , Sotto Mirian Nacagami , Goto Hiro , Cazita Patrícia Miralda
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Pathogenesis of cutaneous leishmaniases involves parasite growth, persistent inflammation, and likely participation of lipoproteins (LP). The cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), involved in LP remodeling, has been shown to participate in the inflammatory response and the evolution of infectious conditions.

Methods

We evaluated the impact of the presence of CETP on infection by Leishmania (L.) amazonensis in an experimental model of cutaneous leishmaniasis using C57BL6/J mice transgenic for human CETP (CETP), having as control their littermates that do not express the protein, wild-type (WT) mice. The progression of the lesion after infection in the footpad was monitored for 12 weeks. Two groups of animals were formed to collect the plantar pad in the 4th and 12th week post-infection.

Results

The lesion increased from the 3rd week onwards, in both groups, with a gradual decrease from the 10th week onwards in the CETP group compared to the WT group, showing a reduction in parasitism and an improvement in the healing process, a reduction in CD68+ cells, and an increase in CD163+ and CD206, characterizing a population of M2 macrophages. A reduction in ARG1+ cells and an increase in INOS+ cells were observed. During infection, the LP profile showed an increase in triglycerides in the VLDL fraction in the CETP group at 12 weeks. Gene expression revealed a decrease in the CD36 receptor in the CETP group at 12 weeks, correlating with healing and parasite reduction. In vitro, macrophages derived from bone marrow cells from CETP mice showed lower parasite load at 48 h and, a reduction in arginase activity at 4 h accompanied by increased NO production at 4 and 24 h compared to WT macrophages, corroborating the in vivo findings.

Discussion

The data indicate that the presence of CETP plays an important role in resolving Leishmania (L.) amazonensis infection, reducing parasitism, and modulating the inflammatory response in controlling infection and tissue repair.
Are maldanids from deep-sea reduced habitats closely related? Implications of a new wood-fall species of Nicomache from the South China Sea
Authors: Wang Yueyun , Zhou Yadong , Zhang Dongsheng , Wang Chunsheng
Published: June 2024

A new wood-fall-associated maldanid discovered at a depth of 2,321 m in the South China Sea is here morphologically and molecularly described as Nicomache tigilli sp. nov. The new species is characterized as having 21 chaetigers, a prostomium rounded anterior, an arched cephalic keel, anterior ends of nuchal grooves curved outwards, 3–6 acicular spines on chaetigers 1–3, notopodia with simply long and narrow capillary chaetae, and an anal funnel with triangular, unequal-sized anal cirri. Our molecular analyses of the genus Nicomache, encompassing COI, 16S, 18S, and 28S genes support establishing the new species, which appear phylogenetically closely related to the other species of the genus from reduced habitats.
Central retinal vein occlusion in patients with metastatic solid tumors on tyrosine kinase inhibitors: a report of case series and literature review
Authors: Luo Mingyue , Sun Lu , Dai Rongping , Chen Youxin , Wu Chan
Published: June 2024

Background

Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is a rare adverse effect related to the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in patients with metastatic malignancies, which has only been reported in several case reports.

Case presentation

We reported the case series of three CRVO patients on regular regimens of TKIs as part of targeted therapies for metastatic malignancies, all of whom were otherwise healthy with no or well-controlled systemic conditions. All these patients received injections of intravitreal dexamethasone implant (IDI) and achieved a fluid-free macula at the end of the visit. In addition, we reviewed the existing literature on this subject and present here an updated analysis of the related TKIs, ocular presentation, treatment, and prognosis.

Conclusion

All patients diagnosed with CRVO on TKIs received dexamethasone implant treatment and obtained a fluid-free macula. We would like to raise awareness among our colleague oncologists about the possibility of CRVO related to TKI use and the necessity for patients to be screened regularly by a retinal specialist.