bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
تأثير استراتيجية (لنتعلم معا") التعاونية في تعليم بعض المهارات الكشفية للطلبة المبتدئين
Authors: Teacher .Dr. Mahmoud Wadi Hussein
Published: May 2024

الملخص
تجلت اهمية البحث للارتقاء بمستوى تعلم مهارات الكشافة نتيجة استخدام الامثل لأسلوب التعلم وهو التعلم التعاوني والاستراتيجية المناسبة وهي (لنتعلم معا") التي تساعد في رفع مستوى التعليم وتشجع المتعلم على تعلم كل مهارة بصورة منفردة وتساعد على التقويم المستمرة للمهارة وهنا يمكن تعلم المهارات في الكشافة للمبتدئين بصورة أفضل. وتعلم المهارات في الكشافة تحتاج الى تعاون وتبادل الآراء والافكار بين المتعلمين لغرض تعلمها، ولهذا فان استراتيجية (لنتعلم معا") من الاستراتيجيات المهمة في التعلم التعاوني التي حققت نتائج في الكثير من الالعاب الرياضية والمهارات الاخرى الغير رياضية كونها تعمل بمجموعات متعاونة في تعلم مهارات منفصلة وهذا مطلب في المهارات بالكشافة لغرض اتقانها . وكانت أهداف البحث: التعرف على: - تأثير استراتيجية (لنتعلم معا") التعاونية في تعليم بعض المهارات الكشفية للطلبة المبتدئين
Container technology for transporting rock masses in quarries
Authors: Sładkowski A , Kuzmin S , Utegenova A , Stolpovskikh I , Kramsakov D
Published: May 2024

Purpose. To justify and develop the theoretical bases of the formation and operation of the container technology for moving mining mass from quarries, which ensures a reduction of economic and energy costs, as well as damage to the environment during the extraction of mineral resources. Methodology. The work used complex research methods, including analysis and scientific synthesis of scientific and technical information; theoretical research; methods of mathematical and computer modeling, and design developments. Findings. The analysis of existing technologies for open-pit mining and the current state of mining indicates an urgent need to develop new resource-saving technology and environmentally friendly technologies for moving rock mass for open-pit mining. A new technology for container transportation of rock mass in containers is proposed without the construction of additional transport communications in the quarry and has technological and energy-saving advantages. Originality. The scientific novelty of the research consists of an integrated and systematic approach to assessing the energy efficiency and environmental safety of the proposed set of equipment for container technology for transporting rock mass. Practical value. In this work, special attention is paid to the problem of the formation and effective use of a new resource-saving and environmentally friendly container technology for moving rock mass from deep quarries. These advantages are simultaneous excavation of rocks, transportation of rocks over the shortest distance, low container packing ratio, and mobility of a complex of lifting machines, which will reduce energy consumption and the cost of transporting rock mass. A transport complex has been developed to ensure the reliable operation of lifting and transport machines.
Management of innovative development of enterprises in the conditions of digitalization: strategy modeling
Authors: Iastremska O , Rudych A , Bumane I , Hazukin A , Zdolnyk V , Kukhta P
Published: May 2024

Purpose. To determine the essence of managing innovation development of a company in the context of digitalization. Methodology. In the process of studying the management of innovative development of enterprises, additional approaches to analysis were applied. Among them, the following can be highlighted: expert assessment (involving experts from various fields of economic activity), scenario modeling (developing various scenarios of strategic management of innovative development allowed for the analysis of possible consequences and outcomes of each), and systemic analysis (considering the interconnections between various aspects of innovative development of enterprises in the context of digitalization and their impact on the economy as a whole). Findings. The authors have examined the fundamentals of managing the innovative development of the enterprise, with particular emphasis on considering innovative development in a strategic context and comprehensively. It was found that enterprises do not pay due attention to the formation of a strategic set of management of innovative development and do not make appropriate forecasts. The authors proposed a strategic set that affects the innovative potential of the enterprise, changing its direction, and, if necessary, may be very time-consuming, require resources and effort to return to the previous state of management. The characteristic of the implementation of the management strategy of innovative development of the enterprise, which, unlike the existing characteristics, includes a digital process, is considered. A complex of factors that determine the further intensification of innovative development of enterprises is analyzed, namely diversification of activities, multi-channel financial support, improvement of information and analytical support, use of public-private partnership and clustering tools, development of new types of technologies and communications, implementation of risk protection methods, development of modern network communications and organizational design and others. Originality. For the first time, the work has comprehensively explored the management of innovative development of the enterprise in the context of digitization and identified new regularities in the innovative development. Practical value. The research results can be utilized for the formulation of an effective innovation policy within enterprises in the context of the digitization of the state. They can also be applied in the development of measures to support innovative activities within businesses.
TRUTH REVELATION INSTRUMENTS IN POST-COMMUNIST ALBANIA: TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE NON-FEASANCE IN INVESTIGATING COMMUNIST CRIMES AND THE FATE OF MISSING PERSONS
Authors: Abdurrahmani Bledar , Abdurrahmani Tidita
Published: May 2024

Background:
During 45 years of dictatorship in Albania, many people were accused, convicted, imprisoned, exiled, or persecuted for “offences” of a political nature (under the communist law), thereby violating basic human rights. A series of legal measures have been enacted during the 30 years of democratic developments to deal with the bitter past and, especially, the crimes of the communist period.
Methods:
This study contributes to making a normative evaluation of the status of the right to the truth in international law. The paper focuses on the most important state obligations for giving effect to this right, such as the prosecution of serious violations of fundamental rights and the issue of missing persons. The study uses a qualitative interpretation of the Albanian legislation model built to unveil the truth regarding the violations that occurred during the communist regime, including criminal prosecution and trials and the issue of missing persons. The study is conducted based on a methodology that analyses four variables in each of these policies, specifically: the policies contributing to revelation, the legal and empirical challenges encountered, the constitutional and legal basis of these measures, and the results achieved in practice.
Results:
The measures set up along the democratic developments in Albania to investigate serious violations of fundamental rights committed by ex-communist officials did not contribute to achieving transitional justice goals.
Conclusions:
The crimes committed by ex-communist officials during the communist regime in Albania were never punished, and the truth about past atrocities while using the criminal law in Albania was never revealed. In Albania’s recent years, regardless of the change of trajectory in dealing with the issue of 6000 missing persons’ remains from the communist period, no tangible results are found, leaving the truth about their fate buried, turning it into a serious concern in the framework of guaranteeing human rights. Failure to account for the whereabouts and fate of the missing persons in Albania gives rise to a continuing situation in breach of the right to life.
Uma revisão de escopo assistida por inteligência artificial (IA) sobre usos emergentes de ia na pesquisa qualitativa e suas considerações éticas
Authors: Cardoso Sampaio Rafael , Chagas Viktor , Sinimbu Sanchez Cristiane , Gonçalves Júlia , Borges Tiago , Brum Alison Murilo , Schiavon Tigrinho Camila , Ribeiro de Souza Josiane , Schwarzer Paz Felipe
Published: May 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo conduzir uma revisão de escopo de materiais acadêmicos que   discutem a aplicação de inteligência artificial (IA) baseada em grandes modelos de linguagem para auxiliar a pesquisa qualitativa assim como considerações éticas envolvidas em tais usos.  Para tanto, foi feita uma revisão de escopo de 31 artigos publicados em periódicos e congressos indexados na SCOPUS e Web of Science e presentes em servidores de preprint, devido à novidade do tema, de 2018 a 2023, com base em termos associados. Como forma de demonstrar tal potencial, optamos por realizar uma experimentação com o ChatPDF, uma ferramenta de IA baseada no processamento de linguagem natural, para assistir na revisão.  Os resultados da revisão indicam usos mais consolidados de IA para resumos, sumários e geração de códigos, porém há indicativos de empregos para geração de temas, análises de sentimentos, além de extração e tratamento de dados. A discussão ética assume uma dimensão mais normativa e cautelosa no uso de IA para pesquisa qualitativa.
Perspectivas teórico-filosóficas sobre a inteligência artificial à luz de Pierre Lévy
Authors: Silva Sonia Souza e , Kalinke Marco Aurélio
Published: May 2024

O presente artigo traz o relato de uma pesquisa realizada que tem por objetivo apresentar as perspectivas teórico-filosóficas sobre a Inteligência Artificial à luz de Pierre Lévy desde a ontologia, desenvolvimento e possibilidades em processos educacionais. Para tanto, o trabalho teve como um dos principais objetos de análise as noções de Lévy, que propõe reflexões de ordem teórica deste campo a partir das perspectivas educacionais e teórico-filosóficas. Essas perspectivas, em linhas gerais, apontam as condições de possibilidade em que a utilização da Inteligência Artificial pode causar impacto. Como considerações finais sobre o assunto pesquisado procurou-se estabelecer relações com sua obra, apontando as compreensões e conexões entre os aspectos ontológicos, epistemológicos e axiológicos na trajetória da IA como forma de apresentar as considerações sobre as possibilidades de suas implicações na esfera pública, que também é digital e que se relaciona com as transformações e implicações nos processos educacionais.
Prevalência de sintomas depressivos e associação com fatores sociodemográficos, autopercepção de saúde, uso de álcool e violência: Estudo transversal na Atenção Primária à Saúde, Município de Belo Horizonte, Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil
Authors: Simões Rafael Ferreira , Oliveira Helian Nunes de , Machado Carla Jorge , Tavares Ricardo , Melo Elza Machado de
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre sintomas depressivos e os fatores sociodemográficos, autopercepção de saúde, uso de álcool e violência em amostra de usuários da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS), do Município de Belo Horizonte, Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Métodos: Entrevistou-se 1125 pacientes e filtrou-se 1105 pacientes maiores. Avaliou-se sintomas de depressão (baseado no DSM IV) e fatores sociodemográficos, autopercepção de saúde, uso de álcool e exposição à violência. Aplicou-se análises univariada, bivariada e regressão logística. Resultados: A prevalência de depressão foi de 31,0% - dentre as mulheres foi de 35,1% e dentre os homens foi de 19,7% (p <0,0001). Os fatores associados foram sexo feminino, OR 3,3 (1,7 - 6,5); Renda baixa, OR 2,6 (1,1 - 6,3); Não trabalhar em atividade remunerada, OR 1,9 (1,1 - 3,7); Autopercepção de Saúde negativa, OR 2,3 (1,2 - 4,2); CAGE positivo, OR 3,3 (1,5 - 7,1); Beber em binge, OR 2,2 (1,2 - 4,3); Amnésia Alcoólica, OR 2,2 (1,0 - 4,9) e ter tido familiar assassinado, OR 2,2 (1,1 - 4,2). Conclusão: A prevalência de sintomas depressivos converge com estudos e identificou-se os fatores associados sexo feminino, baixa renda, não trabalhar em atividade remunerada, autopercepção de saúde negativa, uso abusivo de álcool e ter tido familiar assassinado.
The normative paradigm of procedure protection of possession in Brazilian Law: comparisons with possession protection models in foreign Law
Authors: Simões Eduardo Figueiredo
Published: May 2024

“The judicial protection of possession in the Brazilian legal system reveals itself as an adoption of the absolute normative model of possession protection, in contrast to most European national legal systems, and establishes an independent possessory procedural protection in relation to the right to property” is the hypothesis that is proposed by the present article and validated with the investigation developed with the following objectives: investigate the historical development of the possessory and petitory actions in Roman Law; examine the level of independence and binding between the possessory judgment and the petitory judgment in the national legal systems; and identify particularities of the legal treatment of possession in Brazilian law, as well as the limits of its protection. The methodology used was based on a review of different doctrinal and normative sources with an analytical approach and on the exegesis of the current norms. As results, it was possible to identify and systematize the rules related to the judicial protection of possession that demonstrate that Brazil adopts a more independent and "guarantee" system of possessory protection (normative model of absolute protection of possession), as well as defining some of the singularities of the legal treatment of possession in Brazilian Law. With this, a propositional thesis is presented regarding the functioning and limits of the system of judicial protection of possession in Brazilian Law.
Edukasi Preventif Kekerasan Seksual dan Bullying di Lingkungan Sekolah
Authors: Mardhalena Azrita , Riwayati Anny , Handayani Dwi Nur , Mutmainnah Mutmainnah
Published: May 2024

Sexual violence and bullying were projected to increase significantly in 2023, particularly within school environments. This PKM initiative was conducted at SDN 28 Sungai Kakap, Sungai Kakap District, Kubu Raya Regency. The aim of this activity is to educate students about bullying behavior and sexual violence, as well as the psychological impacts caused by these behaviors. The activity utilized a lecture method accompanied by video and song media to facilitate understanding for children. The results of this PKM activity have shown a positive impact on students' knowledge about bullying behavior and sexual violence. Students were becoming increasingly aware of the negative impacts of these behaviors, aided by the media presented by the resource person in the form of videos and songs. Additionally, to motivate students and spread awareness to stop bullying behavior and sexual violence, the committee provided several prize packages.
Optimalisasi Ekonomi Kreatif Warisan Sunan Sendang: Pemberdayaan Pengrajin Batik Berbasis Transformasi Tepat Guna
Authors: Rif'ah Sifwatir , Amin Moh. Nasrul
Published: May 2024

Batik Sendang Lamongan is one of the potentials of Sendangagung village inherited from the legacy of Sunan Sendang that needs to be developed and preserved. The majority of its batik artisans are aged 50 and above. Meanwhile, the population in Sendangagung village is predominantly represented by millennials, totaling 1,281 individuals or 18.74 percent of the population. This means that Sendangagung is predominantly inhabited by the younger generation. The lack of involvement of the younger generation in batik making becomes a problem if not handled properly. On the other hand, Sendangagung village has many entrepreneurs and batik craftsmen. Considering the vast potential of the batik village, which is not matched by high interest or motivation from the younger generation, it deserves better attention from the village government and researchers to be continuously developed and preserved. This activity aims to optimize the creative economic potential of the younger generation. This dedication utilizes the Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) method, an asset-based approach owned by the Sendangagung village community. The results of this activity show that not only are the youth of the village enthusiastic about participating in the mentoring from start to finish, but also their batik skills are extraordinary. This is evidenced by the remarkable batik works they produced during the mentoring process. Furthermore, post-mentoring, the younger generation of the village feels a great responsibility to continue participating in preserving the village's culture.
Basic Introduction to Pegon Writing at MTs Walisongo 2 students Krandegan Hamlet, Sukomakmur Village, Kajoran District, Magelang Regency
Authors: Nafi' Abdun , Rosowulan Titis , Puspitasari Dakusta
Published: May 2024

Learning to read and write in Arabic Pegon is not just a skill reserved for students in Islamic boarding schools, but it can also be an additional insight for students who have never learned it or are unfamiliar with it. The purpose of introducing the basics of Pegon writing is to facilitate students in understanding the yellow books (traditional Islamic texts). Additionally, this activity aims to cultivate students' enthusiasm for embracing the traditions of scholars and Islamic boarding schools, so they are not easily influenced by foreign cultures with their Latin language instruments. This community service adopted the ABCD approach, which consists of five main stages: Discovery, Dream, Design, Define, and Destiny. As a result of the learning activities provided with the ABCD approach, students were able to master the patterns of Pegon Arabic writing and apply them in understanding the texts according to the existing rules, as well as read them correctly. Thus, the introduction to basic Pegon writing at Walisongo 2 Junior High School served as an initial foundation for seventh-grade students to master the skills of reading and writing Arabic Pegon, enabling them to be prepared to study yellow books such as Fiqh, Tajwid, and Tauhid. Consequently, in the following grades, seventh-grade students will find it easier to understand yellow books both in reading and writing
UNRWA and the Historical Evolution of Palestinian Refugee Camps in Jordan: Policy Mobilities and the Role of Refugees in Home-Making on the Scale of the Camp
Authors: Alqub Heba , Matar Osaid
Published: May 2024

This article examines UNRWA policy's on-the-ground translation and its connection to the evolution of three Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan, with a focus on refugees' role in shaping these policies and their physical manifestation. Thus, this manuscript connects both literatures’ policy mobilities and refugee camps to explore how policy mobility can provide an instructive lens to analyse the divergent forms of refugee camp evolution. This study argues that the same policy can produce different outcomes that are, in some ways, similar. Building on assemblage theory (Deleuze & Guattari 1987) through ethnographic fieldwork, this article focuses the study of the different actors involved in the refugee camps’ construction processes and layouts since their establishment and how they have evolved distinctively over time.
Quantum dark energy in a seven-dimensional universe
Authors: Kesanasetty Sasidhar
Published: May 2024

This paper explains the dark energy and acceleration of the universe by quantizing the space in hidden dimensions, which provides the basis and background for the gravitational force. Space-time is considered to be made of a four-dimensional elastic grid in a seven-dimensional universe in which matter also expands along with the universe. Each cube of the grid is considered a quantum of hidden three-dimensional space of Planck volume containing Planck charge, which makes the universe seven dimensional. The dark energy is explained by the electrostatic repulsion between Planck charges in each quantum of the hidden space. Mathematically, this electrostatic repulsion is related to the Hubble parameter H(z) to explain the accelerated expansion of the universe, and the increase in the relative cosmological potential energy/inertial mass of matter. Expansion of space-time is considered not due to the creation of the new space but due to the stretching of the existing space-time itself like an elastic ruler where the proper length and volume remain constant. The relative values of the Planck constant, gravitational constant, permittivity of free space, and Boltzmann constant are shown to vary owing to the expansion or contraction of space but are compensated for by the proportional change in the relative inertial mass. This theory also builds a preliminary framework for the relativistic Newtonian theory of gravity and relativistic MONDian (Modified Newtonian dynamics) gravity, identifies a valid reason for the transition of Newtonian gravity to MOND at a0, and explains the dynamics of galaxy clusters without dark matter.
Tribological properties of MAO ceramic coatings with annulus array texture on disposable surgical gloves
Authors: Ji Jing , Bai Zhenbo , Wang Jinfeng , Yang Huiyun , Lu Hailin , Fang Jing
Published: May 2024

Introduction: In recent research, the expansion in the use of Mg alloys for biomedical applications has been approached by modifying their surfaces in conjunction with micro-arc oxidation (MAO) techniques which enhance their abrasion and corrosion resistance.

Methods: In this study, combining laser texturing and MAO techniques to produce the dense ceramic coatings with microstructures. On the surface of the AZ31 Mg alloy, a micro-raised annulus array texture has been designed in order to increase the surface friction under liquid lubrication and to improve the operator’s grip when holding the tool. For this work, the micro-morphology of the coatings was characterised, and the friction properties of the commonly used scalpel shank material 316 L, the untextured surface and the textured surface were comparatively analysed against disposable surgical gloves.

Results and discussion: The results show that the Laser-MAO ceramic coating grows homogenous, the porosity decreases from 14.3% to 7.8%, and the morphology after friction indicates that the coating has good wear resistance. More specifically, the average coefficient of friction (COF) of the three types of gloves coated with Laser-MAO ceramic was higher than that of the 316 L and MAO ceramic coatings under the action of the annulus-integrated texture under the lubrication conditions of physiological saline and defatted sheep blood, which achieved the goal of increasing friction for the purpose of helping to prevent the problem of tool slippage from the hand.
Association of serum creatinine to cystatin C to waist circumference ratios and hypertension: evidence from China health and retirement longitudinal study
Authors: Yang Yang , Sun Qi , Ma Shuang , Li Xiaodan , Lang Xinmiao , Zhang Qi
Published: May 2024

Background

The objective of this study was to explore the association between the ratio of serum creatinine to cystatin C to waist circumference (CCR/WC) and hypertension.

Methods

The study utilized data extracted from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. In the cross-sectional analysis, logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the association between the CCR/WC ratio and hypertension. By utilizing restricted cubic splines, potential non-linear associations between the CCR/WC ratio and hypertension were explored. In the longitudinal analysis, the association between CCR/WC quartiles (Q1–Q4) and the risk of new-onset hypertension was evaluated by Cox proportional-hazards models.

Results

In total, 7,253 participants were enrolled. The study unveiled an inverse association with hypertension, demonstrating an odds ratio (OR) of 0.29 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23–0.37, P < 0.001). Among males, an OR of 0.38 (95% CI: 0.25–0.58, P < 0.001) was observed, while among females, an OR of 0.41 (95% CI: 0.28–0.60, P < 0.001) was noted. There was an absence of a nonlinear association between the CCR/WC ratio and hypertension. Cox regression analysis unveiled a reduced risk of hypertension in Q3 (Hazard ratios [HR]: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.58–0.82, P < 0.001) and Q4: (HR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.59–0.83, P < 0.001) in compared to the Q1 of the CCR/WC ratio, and sex-specific analysis yielded consistent results.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the potential association between an elevated CCR/WC ratio and a reduced risk of hypertension.
Gestational hypothyroxinemia induces ASD-like phenotypes in behavior, proinflammatory markers, and glutamatergic protein expression in mouse offspring of both sexes
Authors: González-Madrid Enrique , Rangel-Ramírez Ma. Andreina , Opazo María C. , Méndez Luis , Bohmwald Karen , Bueno Susan M. , González Pablo A. , Kalergis Alexis M. , Riedel Claudia A.
Published: May 2024

Background

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has significantly risen in the past three decades, prompting researchers to explore the potential contributions of environmental factors during pregnancy to ASD development. One such factor of interest is gestational hypothyroxinemia (HTX), a frequent condition in pregnancy associated with cognitive impairments in the offspring. While retrospective human studies have linked gestational HTX to autistic traits, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the development of ASD-like phenotypes remain poorly understood. This study used a mouse model of gestational HTX to evaluate ASD-like phenotypes in the offspring.

Methods

To induce gestational HTX, pregnant mice were treated with 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole (MMI), a thyroid hormones synthesis inhibitor, in the tap-drinking water from embryonic days (E) 10 to E14. A separate group received MMI along with a daily subcutaneous injection of T4, while the control group received regular tap water during the entire pregnancy. Female and male offspring underwent assessments for repetitive, anxious, and social behaviors from postnatal day (P) 55 to P64. On P65, mice were euthanized for the evaluation of ASD-related inflammatory markers in blood, spleen, and specific brain regions. Additionally, the expression of glutamatergic proteins (NLGN3 and HOMER1) was analyzed in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.

Results

The HTX-offspring exhibited anxious-like behavior, a subordinate state, and impaired social interactions. Subsequently, both female and male HTX-offspring displayed elevated proinflammatory cytokines in blood, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and TNF-α, while only males showed reduced levels of IL-10. The spleen of HTX-offspring of both sexes showed increased Th17/Treg ratio and M1-like macrophages. In the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of male HTX-offspring, elevated levels of IL-17A and reduced IL-10 were observed, accompanied by increased expression of hippocampal NLGN3 and HOMER1. All these observations were compared to those observed in the Control-offspring. Notably, the supplementation with T4 during the MMI treatment prevents the development of the observed phenotypes. Correlation analysis revealed an association between maternal T4 levels and specific ASD-like outcomes.

Discussion

This study validates human observations, demonstrating for the first time that gestational HTX induces ASD-like phenotypes in the offspring, highlighting the need of monitoring thyroid function during pregnancy.
Efficacy and safety of ultrasound-assisted wound debridement in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Erhao , Hu Xiaojie , Zhang Wenke , Xiao Wen , Shen Yiting , Luo Yu , Zheng Zeyu , Zhou Pengfei , He Youcheng , Que Huafa
Published: May 2024

Objective

Research data suggests that ultrasound-assisted wound debridement (UAWD) can effectively promote the healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). However, existing research is not consistent with this viewpoint. Therefore, we conducted this study to investigate the effect of UAWD on the healing of diabetic foot ulcers.

Methods

From the establishment of the database to January 2024, we searched 8 databases to study the effectiveness and safety of UAWD in the treatment of DFU. Two authors independently screened the qualifications of the articles, while two authors extracted relevant data. Statistical analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 and STATA 18.0 software.

Results

A total of 11 randomized controlled studies were included, with 6 countries and 696 participants participating. Our findings showed that UAWD was associated with a significant benefit in healing rate (OR = 2.60, 95% CI: [1.67, 4.03], P < 0.0001, I2 = 25%), wound healing time (MD = -11.94, 95% CI: [-23.65, -0.23], P = 0.05, I2 = 99%), percentage reduction in wound size (MD = 14.2, 95% CI: [10.8, 17.6], P = 0.47, I2 = 32%), effectiveness of treatment (OR = 10.3, 95% CI: [4.68, 22.66], P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%). Moreover, UAWD did not cause any significant adverse reactions. However, there was no obvious difference in wound blood perfusion (MD = 0.25, 95% CI: [-0.01, 0.52], P = 0.06, I2 = 90%), transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure (MD = 14.34, 95% CI: [-10.03, 38.71], P = 0.25, I2 = 98%).

Conclusion

UAWD can significantly improve wound healing rate, shorten wound healing time, accelerate wound area reduction, and improve clinical treatment effectiveness without significant adverse reactions. Although there is no significant difference in transcutaneous oxygen pressure and wound blood flow perfusion between UAWD and SWC. So we look forward to more scientifically blinded, placebo-controlled, high-quality studies in the future, to enable researchers to obtain more complete and accurate analytical data, in order to improve the scientific and credibility of the evidence.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024501198.
Predicting and evaluating seasonal water turbidity in Lake Balkhash, Kazakhstan, using remote sensing and GIS
Authors: Mishra Kanchan , Choudhary Bharat , Fitzsimmons Kathryn E.
Published: May 2024

Lake Balkhash is Asia’s third-largest lake and an endorheic basin. The lake and its contributing tributaries provide essential water and ecosystem services to the surrounding population, particularly in the Kazakh region. With approximately 2.5 million people living in the areas such as Almaty oblast, Zhetisu oblast, several districts of Karagandy oblast, and Abay province, monitoring and maintaining the lake’s health and water quality is essential for the sustainable management of water resources. The hydrology of Lake Balkhash has been significantly impacted in recent decades by a warming climate, landuse landcover changes, and water-consuming economic activities, the latter of which are driven by population growth and expansion. Turbidity—the measurement of water clarity—serves as a major indicator of water health. Here, we analyze spatial and temporal variability in turbidity across Lake Balkhash by mapping the normalized difference turbidity index (NDTI) based on Landsat data for 1991–2022. We consider major exploratory variables such as precipitation, near-surface temperature, wind speed and direction, water level, and landuse landcover (LULC) within the catchment. We find an overall decrease in turbidity over interannual and seasonal timescales. We observe significant negative correlations between NDTI, near-surface temperature, and water level at both scales but no clear relationship between turbidity and precipitation or wind variables. Among the LULC variables, grassland and bareland near Lake Balkhash showed a positive correlation with NDTI but have spatially decreased over time. Conversely, shrubland and wetland exhibit a negative correlation with NDTI; however, this has spatially increased with time. Our results highlight the significant impact of rising temperatures, anthropogenically influenced water levels, and the LULC variables on turbidity. The turbidity dynamics, in turn, influence the circulation, oxidation, and overall health of Lake Balkhash’s water. Therefore, the study emphasizes that the warming climate and alterations in the lake’s hydrology have a considerable impact on water quality. This suggests that monitoring water health alone may not suffice to mitigate the impacts of climate change and human activities. However, a more comprehensive approach is needed to sustainably manage and conserve dryland water resources.
Neuronal basis and diverse mechanisms of pathogen avoidance in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lei Ming , Tan Yanheng , Tu Haijun , Tan Weihong
Published: May 2024

Pathogen avoidance behaviour has been observed across animal taxa as a vital host-microbe interaction mechanism. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has evolved multiple diverse mechanisms for pathogen avoidance under natural selection pressure. We summarise the current knowledge of the stimuli that trigger pathogen avoidance, including alterations in aerotaxis, intestinal bloating, and metabolites. We then survey the neural circuits involved in pathogen avoidance, transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of pathogen avoidance, signalling crosstalk between pathogen avoidance and innate immunity, and C. elegans avoidance of non-Pseudomonas bacteria. In this review, we highlight the latest advances in understanding host-microbe interactions and the gut-brain axis.
Creating machine learning models that interpretably link systemic inflammatory index, sex steroid hormones, and dietary antioxidants to identify gout using the SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) method
Authors: Cao Shunshun , Hu Yangyang
Published: May 2024

Background

The relationship between systemic inflammatory index (SII), sex steroid hormones, dietary antioxidants (DA), and gout has not been determined. We aim to develop a reliable and interpretable machine learning (ML) model that links SII, sex steroid hormones, and DA to gout identification.

Methods

The dataset we used to study the relationship between SII, sex steroid hormones, DA, and gout was from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Six ML models were developed to identify gout by SII, sex steroid hormones, and DA. The seven performance discriminative features of each model were summarized, and the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model with the best overall performance was selected to identify gout. We used the SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) method to explain the XGBoost model and its decision-making process.

Results

An initial survey of 20,146 participants resulted in 8,550 being included in the study. Selecting the best performing XGBoost model associated with SII, sex steroid hormones, and DA to identify gout (male: AUC: 0.795, 95% CI: 0.746- 0.843, accuracy: 98.7%; female: AUC: 0.822, 95% CI: 0.754- 0.883, accuracy: 99.2%). In the male group, The SHAP values showed that the lower feature values of lutein + zeaxanthin (LZ), vitamin C (VitC), lycopene, zinc, total testosterone (TT), vitamin E (VitE), and vitamin A (VitA), the greater the positive effect on the model output. In the female group, SHAP values showed that lower feature values of E2, zinc, lycopene, LZ, TT, and selenium had a greater positive effect on model output.

Conclusion

The interpretable XGBoost model demonstrated accuracy, efficiency, and robustness in identifying associations between SII, sex steroid hormones, DA, and gout in participants. Decreased TT in males and decreased E2 in females may be associated with gout, and increased DA intake and decreased SII may reduce the potential risk of gout.
Antibodies to Aedes aegypti D7L salivary proteins as a new serological tool to estimate human exposure to Aedes mosquitoes
Authors: Chea Sophana , Willen Laura , Nhek Sreynik , Ly Piseth , Tang Kristina , Oristian James , Salas-Carrillo Roberto , Ponce Aiyana , Leon Paola Carolina Valenzuela , Kong Dara , Ly Sokna , Sath Ratanak , Lon Chanthap , Leang Rithea , Huy Rekol , Yek Christina , Valenzuela Jesus G. , Calvo Eric , Manning Jessica E. , Oliveira Fabiano
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Aedes spp. are the most prolific mosquito vectors in the world. Found on every continent, they can effectively transmit various arboviruses, including the dengue virus which continues to cause outbreaks worldwide and is spreading into previously non-endemic areas. The lack of widely available dengue vaccines accentuates the importance of targeted vector control strategies to reduce the dengue burden. High-throughput tools to estimate human-mosquito contact and evaluate vector control interventions are lacking. We propose a novel serological tool that allows rapid screening of human cohorts for exposure to potentially infectious mosquitoes.

Methods

We tested 563 serum samples from a longitudinal pediatric cohort study previously conducted in Cambodia. Children enrolled in the study were dengue-naive at baseline and were followed biannually for dengue incidence for two years. We used Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to identify immunogenic Aedes aegypti salivary proteins and measure total anti-Ae. aegypti IgG.

Results

We found a correlation (rs=0.86) between IgG responses against AeD7L1 and AeD7L2 recombinant proteins and those to whole salivary gland homogenate. We observed seasonal fluctuations of AeD7L1+2 IgG responses and no cross-reactivity with Culex quinquefasciatus and Anopheles dirus mosquitoes. The baseline median AeD7L1+2 IgG responses for young children were higher in those who developed asymptomatic versus symptomatic dengue.

Discussion

The IgG response against AeD7L1+2 recombinant proteins is a highly sensitive and Aedes specific marker of human exposure to Aedes bites that can facilitate standardization of future serosurveys and epidemiological studies by its ability to provide a robust estimation of human-mosquito contact in a high-throughput fashion.
Enhancing breast cancer outcomes with machine learning-driven glutamine metabolic reprogramming signature
Authors: Li Xukui , Li Xue , Yang Bin , Sun Songyang , Wang Shu , Yu Fuxun , Wang Tao
Published: May 2024

Background

This study aims to identify precise biomarkers for breast cancer to improve patient outcomes, addressing the limitations of traditional staging in predicting treatment responses.

Methods

Our analysis encompassed data from over 7,000 breast cancer patients across 14 datasets, which included in-house clinical data and single-cell data from 8 patients (totaling 43,766 cells). We utilized an integrative approach, applying 10 machine learning algorithms in 54 unique combinations to analyze 100 existing breast cancer signatures. Immunohistochemistry assays were performed for empirical validation. The study also investigated potential immunotherapies and chemotherapies.

Results

Our research identified five consistent glutamine metabolic reprogramming (GMR)-related genes from multi-center cohorts, forming the foundation of a novel GMR-model. This model demonstrated superior accuracy in predicting recurrence and mortality risks compared to existing clinical and molecular features. Patients classified as high-risk by the model exhibited poorer outcomes. IHC validation in 30 patients reinforced these findings, suggesting the model’s broad applicability. Intriguingly, the model indicates a differential therapeutic response: low-risk patients may benefit more from immunotherapy, whereas high-risk patients showed sensitivity to specific chemotherapies like BI-2536 and ispinesib.

Conclusions

The GMR-model marks a significant leap forward in breast cancer prognosis and the personalization of treatment strategies, offering vital insights for the effective management of diverse breast cancer patient populations.
Seabird-vectored pelagic nutrients integrated into temperate intertidal rocky shores
Authors: Healing Samuel , Benkwitt Cassandra E. , Dunn Ruth E. , Graham Nicholas A. J.
Published: May 2024

Seabirds provide inter-habitat connectivity by transporting vast quantities of nutrients from their pelagic feeding grounds to terrestrial and marine ecosystems via their nitrogen and phosphorous rich guano. However, it remains unclear whether seabird nutrients are cycling through many nearshore, temperate systems, such as United Kingdom (UK) rocky shores. Furthermore, it also remains unknown how seabird nutrient subsidies impact biodiversity, productivity, and recolonisation rates in UK rocky intertidal systems. Here, the impact of seabird nutrient subsidies to the Farne Islands, Northumberland, areas of high seabird densities during their breeding seasons, was compared to nearby low seabird density areas on the Northumberland coast. Estimated seabird derived nitrogen inputs and seabird densities were 420-1,025 and 949-2,279 times higher, respectively, on seabird islands than on the mainland. Seabird derived nutrient inputs led to substantially enriched nitrogen stable isotope (δ15N) values and total nitrogen content in terrestrial soil, plants, and lichen, and intertidal barnacles, and limpets, and higher δ15N values in macroalgae and turf algae. The seabird islands contained marginally greater algal species richness and higher densities of intertidal predators. However, other drivers could not be ruled out, such as nutrient inputs from mainland sources and marginally higher wave exposure at the mainland sites. No difference in limpet size, biomass, or abundance existed between the seabird islands and the mainland. On plots artificially cleared to simulate a disturbance event, barnacles recolonised faster on mainland sites. These findings provide evidence that seabird vectored pelagic nutrients are incorporated into terrestrial and intertidal ecosystems of UK islands, and therefore play an important role in facilitating ecosystem connectivity.
The causal relationship between COVID-19 and ten esophageal diseases: a study utilizing Mendelian randomization
Authors: He Xu , Li Yue , Liu Jun , Yan Guanqiang , Gao Xiang , Li Guosheng , Wei Longqian , Feng Guiyu , Li Jingxiao , Zhou Huafu
Published: May 2024

Background

Clinical signs of dysphagia, pancreatic achalasia, and esophagitis have been reported in patients with COVID-19. However, the causal relationship between COVID-19 and esophageal diseases is not clear. Therefore, we utilized Mendelian randomization to explore the potential association between COVID-19 and esophageal diseases.

Methods

The summary statistics for a Genome-wide association study (GWAS) were obtained from The COVID-19 Host Genetics Initiative, encompassing four types of COVID-19 as exposure: severe COVID-19, hospitalized COVID-19 versus ambulatory COVID-19, hospitalized COVID-19 versus uninfected, and confirmed COVID-19. Additionally, summary statistics for ten esophageal diseases as outcomes were sourced from the GWAS Catalog and FinnGen databases. Univariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was utilized to thoroughly investigate and validate the potential causal association between COVID-19 and various esophageal conditions, including esophageal varices, Barrett’s esophagus, esophagitis, esophageal obstruction, esophageal ulcer, esophageal perforation, gastroesophageal reflux, congenital esophageal malformations, benign esophageal tumors, and esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Results

An inverse variance-weighted (IVW) model was utilized for univariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, which revealed that genetic liability in patients with confirmed COVID-19 was associated with esophageal obstruction (OR [95% CI]: 0.5275458 [0.2822400–0.9860563]; p-value = 0.0450699). Furthermore, a suggestive causal association was found between genetic liability and a reduced risk of benign esophageal tumors (OR [95% CI]: 0.2715453 [0.09368493–0.7870724]; p-value = 0.0163510), but with a suggestively increased risk of congenital esophageal malformations (OR [95% CI]: 6.959561 [1.1955828–40.51204]; p-value = 0.03086835). Additionally, genetic liability in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, compared to non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients, was suggestively associated with an increased risk of esophagitis (OR [95% CI]: 1.443859 [1.0890568–1.914252]; p-value = 0.01068201). The reliability of these causal findings is supported by Cochran’s Q statistic and the MR-Egger intercept test.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest the existence of a causal relationship between COVID-19 and esophageal diseases, highlighting differing risk effects of COVID-19 on distinct esophageal conditions.
Differential analysis of serum immunology and gut microbiota in patients with gastrointestinal diseases
Authors: Chen Huan Zhu , Zeng Yu Yang , Cai Guo Xiong , Gu Wei Dan , Yang YaLi
Published: May 2024

Objective

Gastric and intestinal diseases possess distinct characteristics although they are interconnected. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal diseases through different analyses of clinical characteristics, serum immunology, and gut microbiota in patients with gastrointestinal diseases.

Methods

We collected serum samples from 89 patients with gastrointestinal diseases and 9 healthy controls for immunological assessment, stool samples for DNA extraction, library construction, sequencing, as well as clinical data for subsequent analysis.

Results

Regarding clinical characteristics, there were significant differences between the disease group and the healthy control (HC) group, particularly in terms of age, cancer antigen 125 (CA125), cancer antigen 199 (CA199), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), total bilirubin (TBIL) and indirect bilirubin (IBIL). The intestinal disease (ID) group exhibited the highest IL-6 level, which significantly differed from the stomach disease (SD) group (p < 0.05). In comparing the HC with the ID groups, significant differences in abundance were detected across 46 species. The HC group displayed a greater abundance of Clostridiales, Clostridia, Firmicutes, Bifidobacterium, Bifidobacteriaceae, Bifidobacteriales, Actinobacteria, Veillonellaceae, Longum, Copri, Megamonas and Callidus than other species. Similarly, when comparing the HC with the SD groups, significant differences in abundance were identified among 49 species, with only one species that the Lachnospiraceae in the HC group exhibited a higher abundance than others. Furthermore, certain clinical characteristics, such as CA125, CA199, glucose (Glu), creatine kinase-MB (CKMB) and interleukin-22 (IL-22), displayed positive correlations with enriched gut species in the ID and SD groups, while exhibiting a negative correlation with the HC group.

Conclusion

The disturbance in human gut microbiota is intimately associated with the development and progression of gastrointestinal diseases. Moreover, the gut microbiota in the HC group was found more diverse than that in the ID and SD groups, and there were significant differences in microbial species among the three groups at different classification levels. Notably, a correlation was identified between specific clinical characteristics (e.g., CA125, CA199, Glu, CKMB and IL-22) and gut microbiota among patients with gastrointestinal diseases.