bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cuidados de Enfermagem de Reabilitação à pessoa submetida a prótese parcial da anca: estudo de caso
Authors: Lobo Alexandra , Vítor João
Published: February 2025

Introdução: A fratura do fémur é uma das lesões traumáticas mais frequentes na população idosa. A estabilização cirúrgica destas fraturas é o tratamento de eleição, permitindo a mobilização e carga precoces, sendo o processo de reabilitação essencial para a restituição da função e melhoria da qualidade de vida. O Enfermeiro Especialista em Enfermagem de Reabilitação é o profissional que apresenta competências para conceber, implementar e monitorizar planos de Enfermagem de Reabilitação diferenciados que permitem ajudar as pessoas a maximizar o seu potencial funcional, a sua autonomia e a sua independência.
Objetivo: Identificar os benefícios de um programa de Reabilitação Motora Funcional e Treino de Atividades de Vida Diária, à pessoa submetida a Prótese Parcial da Anca.
Método: Estudo de Caso descritivo único que respeita as guidelines CARE (CAse REport). Após a avaliação inicial, foi implementado um programa de Enfermagem de Reabilitação dirigido aos diagnósticos identificados e consoante os objetivos previstos no período pós-operatório decorrente do procedimento cirúrgico.
Resultados: Verificaram-se ganhos de força muscular e na amplitude articular dos segmentos musculoarticulares do membro inferior intervencionado. Houve melhoria do equilíbrio estático e dinâmico e da capacidade funcional para a realização das Atividades de Vida Diárias e de Autocuidado sendo que, de um ponto de vista global, foram obtidos ganhos mais evidentes nos autocuidados “Higiene”, “Transferir-se” e “Andar com auxiliar de marcha”.
Conclusão: O programa de Enfermagem de Reabilitação implementado contribuiu para a melhoria da funcionalidade da pessoa submetida a Prótese Parcial da Anca.
DELIRIUM AND RELATED FACTORS IN PATIENTS HOSPITALIZED IN THE INTERNAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT
Authors: Aksin Melik , Zengin Aydın Leyla
Published: February 2025

This study was conducted to examine delirium and its associated factors in patients hospitalized in the internal intensive care unit. The study was conducted in the internal medicine intensive care unit of the University of Health Sciences, Gazi Yaşargil Training and Research Hospital between July 2022 and February 2023. The sample consisted of 103 patients admitted to the internal intensive care unit. Data were collected using the Patient Information Form, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU), the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale (Nu-DESC), and the Standardized Mini-Mental Test (SMMT). There were statistically significant differences found in SMMT scores across age groups (F=4.376; p
STRATEGIES FOR TEACHING ARABIC THROUGH DRAMA AND THEATER
Authors: Moh. Tohiri Habib  , Hanifansyah Nur
Published: February 2025

ABSTRAK
Memperkuat insting bahasa Arab (dzauq) merupakan aspek penting dalam pembelajaran bahasa yang efektif. Pengajaran bahasa Arab sering menghadapi tantangan dalam mendorong kompetensi linguistik yang holistik pada peserta didik. Salah satu pendekatan inovatif adalah integrasi drama dan teater sebagai strategi pedagogis. Studi ini mengeksplorasi penerapan drama dan teater dalam pembelajaran bahasa Arab di Pondok Pesantren Darullughah Wadda’wah (DALWA). Dengan menggunakan desain penelitian kualitatif, data dikumpulkan melalui observasi, wawancara semi-terstruktur, dan diskusi kelompok terarah. Temuan menunjukkan bahwa aktivitas drama secara efektif mengintegrasikan keterampilan bahasa (kitabah, qira’ah, istima’, dan kalam) sambil membangun kepercayaan diri, kesadaran budaya, dan kreativitas siswa. Teknik mnemonik yang terintegrasi dalam drama meningkatkan retensi kosakata melalui pengalaman emosional dan visual. Penelitian ini menegaskan bahwa drama dan teater tidak hanya memfasilitasi pembelajaran bahasa, tetapi juga menciptakan kenangan emosional yang mendalam, memperkuat dzauq siswa terhadap bahasa Arab, dan memperkaya apresiasi budaya. Rekomendasi meliputi pelatihan lanjutan bagi guru, pengembangan naskah dengan alat teknologi, dan studi longitudinal untuk mengevaluasi dampak jangka panjang pendekatan ini.
STRATEGI TRACER STUDY DALAM MENYONGSONG SISTEM PENJAMINAN MUTU EKSTERNAL PADA PROGRAM STUDI PENDIDIKAN BAHASA ARAB ZONA TAPAL KUDA JAWA TIMUR
Authors: Rihlasyita Wilda
Published: February 2025

Tracer study merupakan alat penting dalam mengukur keberhasilan lulusan serta memastikan relevansi pendidikan dengan kebutuhan dunia kerja. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis strategi pelaksanaan tracer study dalam mendukung sistem penjaminan mutu eksternal pada Program Studi Pendidikan Bahasa Arab (PBA) di Zona Tapal Kuda, Jawa Timur. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah studi deskriptif kualitatif dengan pengumpulan data melalui studi literatur, wawancara dengan pengelola prodi, dan analisis dokumen tracer study. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa strategi yang efektif melibatkan digitalisasi tracer study, kolaborasi dengan stakeholder, optimalisasi komunitas alumni, dan evaluasi berkelanjutan terhadap instrumen tracer study. Dengan implementasi strategi ini, Prodi PBA mampu meningkatkan akreditasi program dan relevansi lulusan di dunia kerja, khususnya dalam bidang pendidikan dan pembelajaran Bahasa Arab.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BGH PUPR AND GREENSHIP ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ON SGLC BUILDING UGM
Authors: Dewi, S.T., M.T. , M.Sc. Cynthia Permata , Kusumawanto Arif
Published: February 2025

The use of green building concepts is growing in response to global climate change and the impact of CO2 emissions. Green building assessment systems have emerged in various countries around the world as a basis for assessing the green level of buildings. Indonesia has two green building assessment systems, namely BGH assessment based on PUPR minister's regulation no 21 of 2021 and Greenship. This research aims to find out the similarities and differences between the two systems and how they are applied to green buildings at SGLC UGM as a case study. This research uses a comparative descriptive method through BGH and Greenship documents. The results showed that both assessment systems have some similarities in terms of energy efficiency, water, waste management and support for the use of renewable energy. The differences between the two systems include certification bodies, document requirements, assessment stages and standard references used. The application of the assessment system to the UGM SGLC building through the BGH candy checklist approach resulted in a score of 66% and a score of 52 on the Greenship assessment. demonstrating that achieving middle-level BGH and Greenship performance is attainable through integrated sustainable design, which serves as a benchmark for future projects aiming to balance environmental performance with local conditions, thereby advancing Indonesia green building agenda and supporting national sustainability goals.
 Keywords: BGH; Greenship; Green Building Assessment.
Machine Learning Meets Provenance Research: Recognising and Transcribing Handwritten Annotations in Auction Catalogues
Authors: Lang Sabine
Published: February 2025

Provenance research studies the origin and ownership history of objects including the conditions under which a change in ownership took place. In order to reconstruct the provenance of objects, provenance researchers utilise sources such as archival records, literature and online databases as well as examining the object itself. One essential online database for researchers is German Sales, which contains digitised auction catalogues from mostly German-speaking countries in the period from 1901 to 1945. Several catalogues contain handwritten annotations recording buyers, consignors and prices. However, in contrast to the printed text, the handwritten annotations are currently not searchable. To aid provenance researchers, it is imperative that the annotations be made machine-readable and searchable, which requires transcription, standardisation and enrichment of the handwritten notes. This article tests whether existing platforms, namely Transkribus, eScriptorium and ChatGPT, can be facilitated for the recognition and transcription of handwritten notes. While the experiments show the great potential of these methods, they also emphasise the need to train new models on these auction catalogues’ data.
Are the TenTen Corpora really a Corpus Family? On Linguistic Tagging and Corpora Members’ Kinship Degrees
Authors: Bordonaba-Plou David , Jreis-Navarro Laila M.
Published: February 2025

Corpus linguistics is an essential tool in digital humanities, and multilingual corpora are valuable resources in cross-linguistic studies. In this article we address the multilingual layout of the TenTen corpus family, questioning the rationale to call it a family, and advancing the idea of different degrees of kinship for its language members. The analysis focuses on the performance of the Sketch Engine Word Sketch tool in the English Web 2020 corpus (enTenTen20) in comparison with the latest release of the arTenTen, Arabic Web 2018 corpus (arTenTen18), which has been processed by CAMeL tools, an Arabic-specific software, and its previous version, the arTenTen12, tagged with Stanford CoreNLP. The study shows the challenges posed by the platform tools and the tagged corpora regarding the dissimilarities between the available data and the reliability of the results of these tools for both languages, as well as the efforts made to tackle the challenges. The concluding remarks point to the need for a better definition of multilingualism in the TenTen corpora and, by extension, in the digital humanities as a whole, based on the structural design of the resources and tools meant for such theoretical aspirations.
Perspectives of the Dawan Tribe on Disaster Communication Campaigns Using Natoni
Authors: Andung Petrus Ana , Messakh Jokobis Johanis , Doko Meryana Micselen
Published: February 2025

The utilization of various local wisdoms in disaster mitigation efforts has been widely implemented, including in South Central Timor Regency. However, the effectiveness of these methods in delivering disaster communication messages—specifically in terms of practicality, reliability, and message strength—has not been thoroughly examined. This study aims to explore the perceptions of the people of West Timor, particularly those living in disaster-prone areas, regarding the effectiveness of Natoni as a medium for disaster communication campaigns. This study employs a qualitative research design, specifically a case study method. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews and participant observation. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman interactive analysis model. The findings show that the Dawan community has a positive perspective on the use of Natoni as a folk medium for disaster communication campaigns. Natoni can be utilized as a platform to embed disaster education messages within its performances. The Dawan people of West Timor view Natoni as an effective folk medium for conveying disaster education messages. Natoni is considered powerful in delivering messages due to its integral role in sacred traditional rituals, making the messages more trusted and adhered to by the community. Academically, this study emphasizes the importance of researching traditional media as an effective tool for disseminating development information, particularly in rural areas with limited technological access. Practically, the study reinforces previous research that local wisdom-based folk media possesses the reliability to convey development messages in rural communities.
On Green Swans and Catastrophic Futures: Climate change as risk and uncertainty in central banking
Authors: Engen Stine
Published: February 2025

This article analyses how central banks understand the financial risks thought to arise from climate change as uncertainty within complex systems rather than risk as something statistically measurable. In line with pragmatic sociology, I investigate what this uncertainty enables, instead of taking it to be an epistemological limit to knowledge. Analysing a 2020 publication by the Bank for International Settlements and Banque de France called ‘The green swan’, I show how ‘climate risk’ is framed as a ‘black swan’, a conceptualization taken from the field of complexity theory, meaning unlikely, extreme events that cannot be predicted, implying a critique of economic expertise. In the figure of the green swan, however, the statistically improbable climate crisis is additionally framed as a certainty. I argue that ‘the green swan’ through this tension works to include critique and value financial climate risk as a ‘good’ in order to provoke a precautionary response on this risk instead of proposing more explicit political measures on climate change. This demonstrates that while uncertainty challenges economic expertise, it also enables the linking together of the ‘good’ of the climate and the ‘good’ of the financial system, bringing them together in the politics of climate change.
Serum A20 level is associated with bone mineral density in male patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Han Dongxu , Liu Jingnan , Wang Yu , Wang Hongxia , Yuan Lingdan , Jin Wei , Song Lige
Published: February 2025

Background

A20, also known as TNF-α-induced protein 3 (TNFAIP3), is a crucial negative regulator of inflammation and immune responses. Emerging evidence suggests that A20 is involved in the regulation of glucose metabolism and plays a significant role in bone metabolic diseases by inhibiting nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation. However, the potential relationship between serum A20 level and bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has not been explored. This study aims to investigate the association between serum A20 level with BMD and bone turnover markers (BTMs) in patients with T2DM.

Method

A total of 189 patients with T2DM and 183 non-diabetic individuals were included in the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants were categorized into normal BMD and low BMD groups. Baseline clinical histories were collected through face-to-face questionnaires. Participants underwent measurements of blood biochemistry and anthropometric, hand grip strength records and short physical performance battery (SPPB) assessment. Serum A20 level was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Areal BMD was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). A T-score of less than -1.0 at the lumbar spine 1-4, femoral neck and/or total hip was classified as low BMD.

Results

Serum A20 level was lower in patients with T2DM compared to controls [41.30 (29.91, 61.87) vs 76.01 (54.90, 109.64) pg/mL, P<0.001]. Bivariate correlation analysis revealed that A20 level was not associated with SPPB but negatively correlated with waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Pearson correlation analysis showed A20 level was positively correlated with lumbar spine 1-4 BMD in male diabetic patients (r=0.253, P=0.032). Multivariate regression analysis showed a positive association between serum A20 level and lumbar spine 1-4 BMD (Beta=0.047; 95% CI: 0.007-0.086; P=0.024) after multivariate adjustment. Logistic regression analysis showed that lower serum A20 level predicted low BMD in male patients with T2DM (OR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.09-0.59; P=0.002).

Conclusions

Type 2 diabetic patients exhibited lower serum A20 level compared to non-diabetic individuals. In male patients with T2DM, serum A20 level showed a significant positive correlation with lumbar spine 1-4 BMD and could serve as an independent negative predictor for low BMD.
Significant association between systemic inflammation response index and prognosis in patients with urological malignancies
Authors: Ma Wangbin , Liu Rongqiang , Li Xinyi , Yu Jia , Wang Weixing
Published: February 2025

Background

The systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) as an immune marker, is associated with prognosis of urological malignancies(UM). However, the conclusion remains controversial. Therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate the predictive value of SIRI in patients with UM.

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases was performed for articles investigating the association between SIRI and UM. The search deadline was August 28, 2024. Survival outcome such as overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were analyzed.

Results

15 studies from 13 articles involving 4985 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that increased SIRI was associated with poorer OS (HR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.61-2.89) and DFS/PFS/RFS (HR: 3.56, 95% CI: 1.41-8.99). Subgroup analysis further confirmed the prognostic value of SIRI in urinary system cancer.
Marine microbial biofilms on diverse abiotic surfaces
Authors: Yu Shan , Lu Xindi , Lu Hailong
Published: February 2025

Marine biofilms are globally ubiquitous surface-associated microbial communities that have gained increasing attention due to their distinctive structure and functions. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current scientific understanding, with a specific focus on naturally occurring biofilms that develop on diverse marine abiotic surfaces, including microplastics, seafloor sediments, subsurface particles, and submerged artificial structures susceptible to biocorrosion and biofouling induced by marine biofilms. This article presents recent advancements and discoveries concerning the diversity, structure, function, and dynamics of these surface-associated microbial communities in the marine environment, highlighting their ecological and biogeochemical dimensions, while also serving as an inspiration for further investigations into marine biofilms.
Visual performance, light distortion and patient reported outcomes with a new bi-aspheric non-diffractive extended depth of focus intraocular lens
Authors: Tañá-Sanz Santiago , Tañá-Sanz Pedro , Elvira-Giner Belén , Orts-Vila Paz , Tañá-Rivero Pedro
Published: February 2025

Background

To evaluate refractive, visual, and patient-reported outcomes three months after bilateral implantation of a novel bi-aspheric, non-diffractive extended depth of focus (EDOF) intraocular lens (IOL) using PhaseRing technology to achieve good vision across distances with reduced dysphotopsia.

Methods

Twenty-two patients received bilateral Asqelio EDOF IOLs (AST VisionCare Inc.) and were evaluated 3 months post-surgery. The main outcomes assessed were refractive error, monocular and binocular visual acuities at distance, intermediate (67 cm) and near (40 cm), low contrast visual acuity, defocus curves, contrast sensitivity, and patient questionnaires.

Results

The average postoperative spherical equivalent was −0.31 ± 0.30 D. Astigmatism of ≤ 1.00 D was present in all eyes (100%, n = 44), with 75% (n = 33) showing astigmatism of ≤ 0.50 D. Every patient attained a corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) of 20/25 or better and a distance-corrected intermediate visual acuity (DCIVA) of 20/32 or better. Contrast sensitivity met or exceeded normal levels under both photopic and mesopic conditions, with and without glare, except at 12 cycles per degree under mesopic conditions with glare. Light distortion index was comparable to published reports on monofocal IOLs and other non-diffractive EDOF IOLs, and lower than diffractive multifocal IOLs. Post-surgery, 90.9% (n = 20) of patients reported being satisfied with their vision. No significant visual symptoms were reported.

Conclusion

Asqelio™ EDOF IOL offers an efficient design, providing good clinical outcomes for distance and intermediate vision, while some patients reach functional levels of near vision. Its non-diffractive design minimizes dysphotopsia and reduces light distortion compared to other presbyopia-correcting IOLs.
Impact of oat grain supplementation on growth performance, rumen microbiota, and fatty acid profiles in Hu sheep
Authors: Ren Xiaoqi , Wang Liwei , Yu Chuanzong , An Jianghong , Fu Shaoyin , Sun Hua , Zhao Mengran , Te Rigele , Bai Xiaobo , Yuan Jingda , Liu Yongbin , He Jiangfeng
Published: February 2025

The intestinal microbiota plays a vital role in animal growth and development. In this study, we explored the impact of oat grain dietary supplementation on growth performance, intestinal microbiota, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and fatty acids (FAs) in Hu sheep. Thirty-two Hu lambs were randomly assigned to a control group (RC) or an oat grain-supplemented group (RO). After 90 days on their respective diets, rumen digesta were collected from six randomly selected Hu lambs per group to assess microbial diversity, SCFAs, and FAs. The RO diet significantly enhanced growth in Hu sheep (p < 0.01) and increased α-diversity, as indicated by Chao1 and Shannon indices. Core phyla in both groups were Firmicutes and Bacteroidota, with predominant genera including Prevotella, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, and F082. Oat grain supplementation led to significant shifts in microbial composition, increasing the abundance of Acidobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Actinobacteriota, and Subgroup_2, while decreasing Bacteroidota and Oscillospiraceae (p < 0.05). The RO group also exhibited lower levels of isobutyric and citraconic acids but higher levels of azelaic acid (p < 0.05). These results indicate that oat grain supplementation enhances beneficial rumen microbes and optimizes FAs and SCFAs composition, thereby promoting weight gain in Hu sheep.
Enhancing drought tolerance in Pisum sativum and Vicia faba through interspecific interactions with a mixed inoculum of Rhizobium laguerreae and non-host beneficial rhizobacteria
Authors: Hami Asma , El Attar Imane , Mghazli Najoua , Ennajeh Salah , Ait-Ouakrim El Houcine , Bennis Meryeme , Oulghazi Said , Badaoui Bouabid , Aurag Jamal , Sbabou Laila , Taha Kaoutar
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Harnessing plant growth-promoting rhizobia presents a sustainable and cost-effective method to enhance crop performance, particularly under drought stress. This study evaluates the variability of plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits among three strains of Rhizobium laguerreae LMR575, LMR571, and LMR655, and two native PGP strains Bacillus LMR698 and Enterobacter aerogenes LMR696. The primary objective was to assess the host range specificity of these strains and their effectiveness in improving drought tolerance in three legume species: Pisum sativum, Vicia faba, and Phaseolus vulgaris.

Methods

In-vitro experiments were conducted to assess the PGP traits of the selected strains, including phosphate solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, and siderophore production. Greenhouse trials were also performed using a mixed inoculum of performing strains to evaluate their effects on plant physiological and biochemical traits under drought conditions.

Results

Significant variability in PGP traits was observed among the strains. R. laguerreae LMR655 exhibited the highest phosphate solubilization (113.85 mg mL-1 PO42-), while R. laguerreae LMR571 produced the highest IAA concentration (25.37 mg mL-1). E. aerogenes LMR696 demonstrated 82% siderophore production. Symbiotic interactions varied, with R. laguerreae LMR571 and LMR655 forming associations with P. sativum and V. faba, but none establishing compatibility with P. vulgaris. Greenhouse experiments showed that a mixed inoculum of R. laguerreae LMR571, LMR655, and E. aerogenes LMR696 significantly improved proline, total soluble sugars, proteins, and chlorophyll content under drought stress, with V. faba showing the strongest response.

Discussion

These findings highlight the importance of strain selection based on host specificity and PGP potential. The enhanced drought tolerance observed suggests that tailored microbial inoculants can improve legume resilience in water-limited environments. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing bioinoculant formulations to enhance crop performance under drought stress.
Emotion-related theories in classroom language learning: the conceptualization and causation of emotions
Authors: Wu Wenjie , Kabilan Muhammad Kamarul
Published: February 2025

Language classrooms are embedded with a wide range of emotions. Emotions play a significant role in affecting learners' language learning and academic performance. Yet, while the role of emotions in L2 classrooms has been recognized, very scant studies have investigated the underlying theoretical frameworks in great depth with regard to the conceptualization and causation of emotions. Moreover, very few review studies have paid sufficient attention to the antecedents or causes of emotions underpinned by certain theories in the field of SLA. Therefore, to offer a complementary review of emotion-related theories and provide fresh insights into the emotional research in SLA, the present study first explains the theoretical approaches of the conceptualization and causation of emotions, elucidates how these theories are applied into the emotional research in language learning, and identifies the effect of the interplay between cognitive, psychological, social, and contextual factors on the emotional development in the language learning. Finally, practical implications, like emotional regulation strategies for both language teachers and learners and future directions, like the integration with AI tools for L2 researchers, language teachers, and teacher educators who are interested in emotional research are also discussed.
Sleep quality and duration and frailty in older adults: a systematic review
Authors: Souza Ângela Maria Natal de , Fernandes Dalila Pinto de Souza , Castro Isabella Silva , Gróla Fernanda Gaspar , Ribeiro Andréia Queiroz
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Sleep problems and frailty are associated with adverse health outcomes in older adults, including mortality, and constitute a major public health challenge.

Objective

This study investigated the association between sleep quality and duration and frailty in older adults, with emphasis on methods of evaluation.

Methods

This systematic review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and MetaAnalyses (PRISMA). The Embase, Medline (Pubmed) and Cochrane libraries were searched, with no time restrictions for publications.

Results and discussion

Of the 17 studies included in this review, all published between 2009 and 2024, 13 were cross-sectional and only four were longitudinal. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Fried phenotype were widely used as methods to assess, respectively, sleep and frailty. Studies evaluating insomnia and frailty by the Fried phenotype all found an independent association. Poor sleep quality was independently associated with pre-frailty and frailty. Sleep onset insomnia, but not sleep maintenance insomnia, was associated with frailty. Short (5 h) and long (9 h) sleep duration were also associated with frailty. Poor sleep quality was associated with pre-frailty and frailty in older adults. The results show a wide diversity of methods for assessing both exposure (sleep quality) and outcome (frailty) and point to a need for further – especially longitudinal – research on the relationship between sleep and frailty.
Strengthening household resilience for enhanced food security in northwestern Ethiopia: insights from resilience pillars
Authors: Abebe Mekonen Getachew
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Ethiopia has faced significant food insecurity challenges, impacting households from the district to the national level. To strengthen household resilience to food security, it is essential to assess their current resilience levels accurately. The main objective of the study was to assess rural household resilience to food insecurity in Libo Kemkem, a district in northwest Ethiopia, which is particularly susceptible to food insecurity, and identify the contributions of the key pillars that enhance households' capacity to cope with food insecurity.

Methodology

The research used a cross-sectional survey with 216 households, drawn using a multi-stage stratified sampling technique to ensure representation across different subgroups. The Food and Agricultural Organization's Resilience Index Measurement and Analysis II framework was applied to assess the levels of resilience. Factor analysis was used as the main analytical tool to estimate the household resilience index.

Result and discussion

The result indicated that asset, adaptive capacity, and access to basic services are highly contributed to resilience with positive scores of scores of 0.85, 0.82, and 0.81 respectively. All the aforementioned scores of resilience pillars are highly significant since it is greater than 0.37 which is recommended for a sample size of 200 and above. Nevertheless, the social safety net is negatively associated with resilience, with a score of 0.68. The average household resilience capacity index was 0.56, showing that 63% of households are less resilient. The overall results of the study showed that households with better assets, adaptive capacity, and better access to basic services, are likely to be more resilient. Consequently, this study recommends applying targeted resilience-oriented strategies programs, packages, and projects that improve these positively contributing pillars of resilience to enhance food security in the area.
Supplementation of DHA enhances the cryopreservation of yak semen via alleviating oxidative stress and inhibiting apoptosis
Authors: Zhu Yanjin , Yu Jun , Li Xupeng , Chen Zhuo , Li Yuan , Xiong Yan , He Honghong , Yin Shi , Lan Daoliang , Li Jian , Yang Lixue , Xiong Xianrong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Semen cryopreservation is a crucial method for preserving genetic resources and accelerating the breeding process in domestic animals. However, the frozen-thawed process often leads to physical and chemical damage in semen, resulting in oxidative stress that diminishes sperm vitality and fertilization potential. This study aimed to explore the effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on the quality of frozen-thawed yak semen.

Methods

Semen samples were collected from six healthy adult Maiwa yaks and cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen using extenders with varying DHA concentrations: 0, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 ng/mL. After thawing, we assessed indices, antioxidant capacity, mitochondrial activity, and apoptosis status to identify the optimal DHA concentration.

Results and discussion

Our findings indicate that the addition of DHA significantly improved the total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), velocity of straight line (VSL), curvilinear velocity (VCL), and average path velocity (VAP) of cryopreserved spermatozoa, as well as the integrity of membrane and acrosome (P < 0.05). Additionally, DHA supplementation markedly reduced the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in frozen-thawed yak spermatozoa (P < 0.05) and enhanced the antioxidant enzyme activities (T-AOC, SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, P < 0.05). It also improved the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and ATP levels (P < 0.05). Notably, the group treated with 10 ng/mL DHA showed significantly better outcomes than the other treatment groups (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the addition of 10 ng/mL DHA to the semen cryopreservation dilution effectively decreased the apoptotic ratio of frozen-thawed yak spermatozoa (P < 0.05), and notably upregulated the expression level of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 (P < 0.05), while downregulating the expression of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax and Caspase3 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the incorporation of 10 ng/mL DHA into semen extenders enhances the quality and viability of yak sperm after cryopreservation by alleviating the oxidative stress, bolstering antioxidant defenses, and preserving mitochondria function, as well as inhibiting the apoptotic pathway activation.
Design of Automatic Landing System for Carrier-Based Aircraft Based on Adaptive Fuzzy Sliding-Mode Control
Authors: Zhang Haotian , Ma Ruoheng , Xing Zhenlin , Ai Jianliang
Published: February 2025

Carrier-based aircraft (CBA) landing involves complex system engineering characterized by strong non-linearity, significant coupling and susceptibility to environmental disturbances. To address uncertainties in parameters, carrier air-wake disturbances and other challenges inherent to CBA landing, this paper presents a longitudinal automatic landing system based on adaptive fuzzy sliding-mode control. This system was developed to improve control accuracy and stability during the critical landing phase. Furthermore, this paper analyzes components of carrier air-wake and motion conditions for ideal landing points on the carrier deck, and designs a sliding-mode surface with the integral term. An adaptive fuzzy sliding-mode controller based on equivalent and switching controls is constructed, which exhibits stability under the Lyapunov stability condition. Moreover, a Monte Carlo simulation method is employed to verify the simulation of the automatic landing control system. Owing to its impressive dynamic performance and robustness, the proposed control method can track expected values with high accuracy in a complex environment, thereby satisfying the CBA landing requirements.
Results from the ATS-Level Assessment of the Clean Sky 2 Technology Evaluator
Authors: Gelhausen Marc C. , Junior Alf , Leipold Alexandra , Berster Peter , Pabst Holger , Lois Christos , Baier Fabian
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we present the main results from the Second ATS-Level Assessment of the Clean Sky 2 Technology Evaluator. We first present the models employed and then move to the passenger and fleet forecast results up to 2050. Based upon these traffic forecasts, we show the environmental effect of Clean Sky 2 technology in terms of CO2 emissions. The main benefit of the forecast method employed is its high resolution in terms of each flight route between airports being modelled. Consequently, we can consider effects such as airport capacity constraints which will have a substantial impact on future passenger volume and fleet development.
Test Results for a Novel 20 kW Two-Phase Pumped Cooling System for Aerospace Applications
Authors: van Gerner Henk Jan , Luten Tim , Scholten Sigurd , Mühlthaler Georg , Buntz Marcus-Benedict
Published: February 2025

In the EU-funded BRAVA project, technologies for a fuel cell-based power generation system for aviation are being developed. In this paper, the test results for a demonstrator of a novel two-phase pumped cooling system with 20 kW cooling capacity are presented. This system uses the evaporation of a liquid to remove waste heat from the heat sources. Several concepts have been tested with this demonstrator, including the ‘no accumulator’ concept, which offers a large mass reduction compared to conventional cooling systems. Additionally, the system can be rotated, and the influence of the orientation has been tested.
Soil Nutrient Dynamics and Farming Sustainability Under Different Plum Orchard Management Practices in the Pedoclimatical Conditions of Moldavian Plateau
Authors: Rusu Mariana , Filip Manuela , Cara Irina Gabriela , Țopa Denis , Jităreanu Gerard
Published: February 2025

Soil health is essential for sustainable agriculture, influencing ecosystem health and orchard productivity of plum orchards. Global challenges such as climate change and soil contamination threaten to affect fertility and food security, requiring sustainable practices. The study assessed the effect of different orchard management practices on soil quality and nutrient distribution in Prunus domestica L. orchard located on the Moldavian Plateau in northeastern Romania under temperate humid subtropical climate conditions. Two systems were analyzed: conventional (herbicide-based) and conservative (cover crop-based). Soil samples (0–20 cm and 20–40 cm) were analyzed for soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (Nt), available phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Results showed that conservative management improved soil health by increasing SOC nutrient cycling, mainly through organic matter inputs. Compared to 2022, the effectiveness of phosphorus in the conservative management system significantly increased (by 6%) in 2023, while potassium content decreased (by 30%), suggesting potential nutrient competition or insufficient replenishment under organic practices. SOC levels remained stable, supporting long-term carbon inputs. Conventional management maintained phosphorus and potassium but showed lower SOC levels and higher risks of soil fertility depletion. Strong correlations between SOC and nutrient indicators emphasize the critical role of organic inputs in nutrient mobilization. The findings indicate that cover crops are essential for sustainable soil management by enhancing carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling, thereby supporting the long-term sustainability of agricultural systems.
The Gut Microbiota of the Greater Horseshoe Bat Confers Rapidly Corresponding Immune Cells in Mice
Authors: Luo Shan , Huang Xinlei , Chen Siyu , Li Junyi , Wu Hui , He Yuhua , Zhou Lei , Liu Boyu , Feng Jiang
Published: February 2025

Background: Emerging infectious diseases threaten human and animal health, with most pathogens originating from wildlife. Bats are natural hosts for many infectious agents. Previous studies have demonstrated that changes in some specific genes in bats may contribute to resistance to viral infections, but they have mostly overlooked the immune function of the bat gut microbiota. Aims: In this study, we used fecal transplants to transfer the gut microbiota from the Greater Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) into mice treated with antibiotics. The gut microbiota changes in mice were detected using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology. Flow cytometry was used to detect changes in associated immune cells in the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes of the mice. Results: The results showed that the gut microbiota of mice showed characteristics of some bat gut microbiota. The Greater Horseshoe Bat’s gut microbiota changed some immune cells’ composition in the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes of mice and also conferred a faster and higher proportion of natural killer cell activation. Conclusion: This result provides new evidence for the regulatory immune function of bat gut microbiota and contributes to a deeper insight into the unique immune system of bats.
Phenolics of Maqui Leaf Residues Exhibit Antioxidant Properties Against Ozone-Induced Oxidation in Fish Model Systems
Authors: Varas Condori Miguel Angel , Arias-Santé María Fernanda , Bridi Raquel , Rincón-Cervera Miguel Ángel , Porras Omar , Reyes-Jara Angélica , de Camargo Adriano Costa
Published: February 2025

Growing concern about food quality and safety has driven the search for natural food additives. Furthermore, maqui leaf residue (MLR), recovered from infusions that have long been part of traditional Chilean herbal medicine, still conserves a high content of phenolic compounds. The aim of this study was to optimize the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolics from MLR and evaluate their potential effect on salmon preservation. The optimized parameters for UAE (6 min, MLR:Water = 1:30, and 70 W), obtained by using a Box–Behnken design, rendered the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, UAE showed a higher concentration of phenolic compounds compared to conventional extraction techniques, as evaluated by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. The salmon with MLR had up to four times lower levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, induced by ozonated water treatment, than the sample without this natural antioxidant. Moreover, MLR exhibited similar or superior effectiveness compared to synthetic antioxidants, such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), 3,5-Di-tert-4butylhydroxytoluene (BHT). This study highlights the use of short-time aqueous ultrasound extraction as an environmentally friendly technology that allows the recovery of phenolic compounds from MLR, with potential application as a natural preservative that may replace or decrease the use of BHA and/or BHT.
Six-Day Fasting Causes Temporary Increases in Both Antioxidant Capacity and Oxidative Stress in Healthy Young Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Brazaitis Marius , Židonienė Katerina , Eimantas Nerijus , Solianik Rima
Published: February 2025

The impact of prolonged fasting on human oxidative stress (OS) levels and antioxidant defence mechanisms remains poorly understood. The aim of this current study was to investigate the redox response to a 6-day fast in a cohort of healthy men. Twenty-six participants were randomly allocated to a 6-day complete fasting or a control trial. Sympathetic activity, substrate oxidation, redox status, blood glucose, ketones, and testosterone concentrations were assessed. Throughout the fasting period, ketone concentration and fat oxidation increased, and carbohydrate oxidation and glucose and testosterone concentrations decreased. Heart rate increased on fasting days 2 and 4 and returned to the pre-fasting level on fasting day 6. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration increased after fasting days 4 and 6, and this increase was accompanied by an increase in the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), but the TAC/MDA ratio remained constant. Notably, all fasting-evoked changes returned to the baseline values after resumption of the regular diet. Thus, prolonged fasting activated both antioxidant defence and OS, but the redox balance was maintained. Consistent with this response, ketone concentration and sympathetic nervous system activity increased, and testosterone concentration decreased. These variables returned to the pre-fasting state after resumption of the usual eating habits.
Ultrasound-Induced Changes in Physicochemical, Microstructural, and Antioxidative Properties of Whey-Protein-Concentrate-Encapsulated 3,3′-Diindolylmethane Nanoparticles
Authors: Khan Abbas , Wang Cuina , Killpartrick Adam , Guo Mingruo
Published: February 2025

This study determined the impact of ultrasound duration on the encapsulation of 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) using whey protein concentrate (WPC) nanoparticles. Whey-protein-concentrate-based DIM nanoparticles were prepared and treated with different ultrasound times (0–20 min) with 30% amplitude at 4 °C. The results showed that ultrasound treatment significantly decreased the mean particle size (from 265 nm to 218 nm) and the Polydispersity Index (PDI) value (from 0.49 to 0.43) as well as zeta potential values were notably increased. The encapsulation efficiency (EE%) increased with increasing sonication time (0–20 min) from 76% to 88%, respectively. The ultrasound treatment had a significant effect on the apparent viscosity, and a decrease in the viscosity as a function of shear rate was observed with increasing sonication time. The transmission electronic microscopy (TEM) micrographs demonstrated that all of the formulations treated with different sonication times had a smooth and uniform spherical shape and ultrasound treatment led to the reduction of particle size, especially after 20 min of ultrasound. The thermal stability of the WPC–DIM nanoparticles was enhanced with increasing sonication time by increasing peak denaturation temperature and enthalpy. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectra analysis revealed that ultrasound treatment had a remarkable effect on the secondary structure of WPC–DIM nanoparticles; electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonds between DIM and whey protein were strengthened. Moreover, the length of ultrasound treatment exhibited a significant effect on the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity (from 56% to 62%) and ABTS(2,2′-azinobis(2 ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) scavenging activity (from 47% to 68%). In conclusion, the ultrasound treatment successfully improved the physicochemical, microstructural, and antioxidative properties of WPC–DIM nanoparticles; therefore, it is considered an effective method to develop whey-protein-concentrate-based DIM nanoparticles for medical and nutritional applications.
Exploring the Impact of Electroencephalography-Based Neurofeedback (EEG NFB) on Motor Deficits in Parkinson’s Disease: A Targeted Literature Review
Authors: Blaznik Laura , Marusic Uros
Published: February 2025

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, with pharmacological treatments predominantly focusing on dopaminergic therapies. In the early stages of PD, symptoms may also be alleviated through non-pharmacological interventions. One such non-invasive technique is electroencephalogram neurofeedback (EEG NFB), which has shown promising results in improving the cognitive and motor functions of PD patients. The aim of our study was to assess the existing evidence, identify key trends and determine potential opportunities for future research in the field of EEG NFB for PD. This analysis explores the impact of EEG NFB on motor deficits in PD and identifies key factors for the successful implementation of EEG NFB as evidenced in the literature. The synthesis includes findings from five relevant studies, including one case study, one pilot study and three randomized controlled trials. Study selection followed the PICO framework to ensure relevance and rigor. The results suggest a correlation between sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) and beta rhythms, with increases in SMR (13–15 Hz) and beta (12–15 Hz) rhythms linked to improvements in balance, mobility and stability in PD patients. However, limitations such as small sample sizes, brief intervention durations and lack of follow-up warrant a cautious interpretation. Future research should prioritize robust protocols, larger samples and extended neurofeedback training to fully assess EEG NFB’s potential for PD management.
Change Control Design in Product Supply Chain System Based on Radial Basis Function Neural Network
Authors: Liu Danhui , Li Qing-kui
Published: February 2025

Product supply chain systems are structurally complex infophysical systems that contain numerous unmodeled dynamics and uncertainties. Drastic fluctuations in user demand and sudden unexpected events—such as epidemics, trade wars, or cyber-attacks—can lead to changes in system structure or parameters or even destabilize the system. Designing changes within the product supply chain is an important strategy to meet user demand and maintain stable system operation. In this paper, we explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the analysis and control of complex product supply chain systems. We design a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) to address Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. This RBFNN is designed to predict trends in inventory changes following a system attack and to develop optimal control strategies accordingly. First, we construct a mathematical model of the product supply chain system. Second, we leverage the predictive capability of the RBFNN to handle the effects of system changes and cyber-attacks through feed-forward compensatory control. A Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) is then designed under the nominal system. Finally, we verify the effectiveness of the proposed method through simulation experiments.