bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La naturaleza del poder triunviral en Macedonia: el proconsulado de Lucio Calpurnio Pisón.
Authors: Heredia Chimeno Carlos
Published: March 2022

El proconsulado de Lucio Cornelio Pisón, ejercido en la provincia romana de Macedonia durante los años 57 y 55 a.C., nos es conocido a partir del testimonio de Cicerón. Este artículo quiere averiguar hasta qué punto la actuación de Pisón es reflejo de la naturaleza del poder triunviral, en el marco del mos maiorum del nuevo régimen, buscando esquivar la narrativa del declive y la perspectiva distorsionada del relato ciceroniano.
Historiografía y arqueología greco-bactrianas: Una breve guía
Authors: Mendoza Sanahuja Marc
Published: March 2022

Este artículo busca ser una primera aproximación en castellano a la investigación sobre el helenismo en Asia Central e India. Dada la inexistencia de una tradición historiográfica de este campo en lengua castellana, el presente artículo resume los más de doscientos años de investigación hasta el momento con una voluntad divulgativa. El artículo, además, proporciona una amplia bibliografía con el objeto de facilitar toda nueva investigación, tanto general como sobre algún tema o yacimiento específico.
Review: Antonio Ignacio Molina Marín, Alejandro Magno (1916-2015). Un siglo de estudios sobre Macedonia antigua, Zaragoza, Pórtico, 2018, 772 pp. [ISBN 9788479561758]
Authors: Antela-Bernárdez Borja
Published: March 2022

Review of Antonio Ignacio Molina Marín, Alejandro Magno (1916-2015). Un siglo de estudios sobre Macedonia antigua, Zaragoza, Pórtico, 2018, 772 pp. [ISBN 9788479561758].
Reseña: John Boardman, Alexander the Great: From his Death to the Present Day, Princeton, Princeton University Press, 2019, 171 pp [ISBN 9780691181752]
Authors: Molina Ignacio
Published: March 2022

Reseña de John Boardman, Alexander the Great: From his Death to the Present Day, Princeton, Princeton University Press, 2019, 171 pp [ISBN 9780691181752]
Philippe II et les dieux
Authors: Le Bohec Sylvie
Published: March 2022

Macedonian kings kept close bonds with the divine sphere. They considered themselves as Heraklids (and, in consequence, they traced back their lineage to Zeus himself) and the kingship kept noteworthy religious functions. Philip II made wide use of this religious side and it became a key element of his public image and propaganda, both inside and outside the kingdom of Macedonia. It was especially important the relation Philip established with Panhellenic shrines, like Delphi and Olympia, in close connection with his aspiration for hegemony all over Greece. Philip also regarded his coinage as useful political tools and the religious motives engraved are very telling about the king's claims and objectives. Originally published in Ancient Macedonia / Archaia Makedonia VI (Papers Read at the Sixth International Symposium held in Thessaloniki by the Institute of Balkan Studies (Greece): Le Bohec 2002a. Published in Karanos by kind permission of the author and the Institute for Balkan Studies.
Review of von Reden [in collaboration with Mamta Dwivedi, Lara Fabian,Kathrin Leese-Messing,Lauren Morrisand, Eli J. S. Weaverdyck], Handbook of Ancient Afro-Eurasian Economies. Volume 1: Contexts, Berlin–New York, De Gruyter, 2020, xv-758 pp. [ISBN 978311060451-1].
Authors: Ferrario Marco
Published: March 2022

Review of von Reden [in collaboration with Mamta Dwivedi, Lara Fabian,Kathrin Leese-Messing,Lauren Morrisand, Eli J. S. Weaverdyck], Handbook of Ancient Afro-Eurasian Economies. Volume 1: Contexts, Berlin–New York, De Gruyter, 2020, xv-758 pp. [ISBN 978311060451-1].
Review of Manning, Armed Force in the Teispid-Achaemenid Empire. Past Approaches, Future Prospects, Stuttgart, Steiner Verlag, 2021, 437 pp. [ISBN 9783515127752].
Authors: Ferrario Marco
Published: March 2022

Review of Manning, Armed Force in the Teispid-Achaemenid Empire. Past Approaches, Future Prospects, Stuttgart, Steiner Verlag, 2021, 437 pp. [ISBN 9783515127752].
Reseña de Hatzopoulos, Ancient Macedonia, Berlin–Boston, De Gruyter, 2020, 241 pp. [ISBN 9783110718645].
Authors: Molina Ignacio
Published: March 2022

Reseña de Miltiades B. Hatzopoulos, Ancient Macedonia, Berlin–Boston, De Gruyter, 2020, 241 pp. [ISBN 9783110718645].
Alexander and the Ocean
Authors: Gómez Espelosín Francisco Javier
Published: March 2022

The aim of Alexander to come to the edges of the world and find the Ocean was a main feature with a key impact in Ancient Greek Geography.The travel to find the edges of the world is clearly linked with cultural perceptions of space that defined the geographical perspective of the campaign and its whole description.
William Greenwalt
Authors: Agudo Mario , Molina Ignacio
Published: March 2022

Interview with William Greenwalt (Santa Clara University)In this first issue, Karanos’ Editorial Board wants to pay a well-merited tribute to one of the main promoters of the Ancient Macedonian Studies: William (Bill) Steven Greenwalt (University of Santa Clara). His name is most that well known in our fieldwork, but maybe he has not enjoyed the deserved authority as far as he does not finalize his research achievements with a typical monography or a History of Macedon. Nevertheless, Greenwalt is one of the researchers who had contributed mostly in the return of the interest on Ancient Macedonia beyond the figure of Alexander the Great, concretly attending to the Argead dynasty. Thanks to his work and efforts, questions like the royal charisma of the Argeads or his polygamy are now discussed in full and accepted in the academic sphere. Likewise, he is also a researcher who has popularized in the academia the name of Karanos, legendary monarch who gives name to our journal. It was, then, almost mandatory to begin with him our section of interviews to the Main Voices in Ancient Macedonian Studies.Disciple of Harry Del and E. Gruen, Greenwalt has developed a research line focused in religious topics, with a strong influence from the anthropological perspective. Some of his theories can be put in question and discussed by researchers who does not agree with him, but as far as we think that almost anything in the Ancient (Macedonian) World can be subject to question, we are sure that Greenwalt’s contribution to the knowledge of Ancient Macedonia and the force and weight of his ideas along the last decades is beyond any doubt, and helped to the brilliant progress and renovation of our fieldwork.
The Sustainable Cat: Making Better Choices for the Environment
Authors: Miller Tiro
Published: March 2022

Plastic toys, strip-mined litter, and greenhouse gas intensive food – our pets are a surprisingly large contributor to the climate crisis. A look at the research can give us the numbers, but how can we make more sustainable choices for us and our pets? This article gives practical suggestions for simple switches you can help your clients make. Finally, there’s a discussion of the ethics around individual environmental responsibility, and whether it’s fair or meaningful to expect us to do our bit when corporations are not being held accountable for doing theirs.
COVID-sniffing Dogs One Year Later: New Studies Show Promise
Authors: Fratt Kayla
Published: March 2022

The canine nose is the most sophisticated tool we have for detecting odors in real-life environments. As soon as the pandemic hit, researchers started looking at whether dogs could be trained to detect if a person is infected with the COVID-19 virus. One year after these initial studies, where are we at with the science and implementation now? This article discusses some recent research that suggests dogs could become a valuable assistance in our continuing fight against the coronavirus.
Everyone Is on the Behavior Team: How ASPCA’s eLearning Platform Broadens and Deepens Behavior Knowledge for Shelter Personnel
Authors: Dunaway Renee , Duskiewicz Amy
Published: March 2022

The ASPCA is committed to the evolution and expansion of behavioral care for homeless animals. The organization disseminates knowledge and research through its Learning Lab, an educational program focused on integrating science-based behavioral care into all aspects of animal sheltering. As the Learning Lab program has evolved, the ASPCA has developed free eLearning resources to reach even more shelter professionals and continues to develop a national network of partner organizations that share learnings and best practices. The coursework centers around a core idea: Everyone Is on the Behavior Team. According to the ASPCA, this means that all staff and volunteers should feel responsible and empowered to support animals’ behavioral health in straightforward, actionable ways. More than 10,000 participants across more than 600 animal welfare organizations nationwide have sought the ASPCA’s expertise through in-person workshops, live panel discussions, and online courses focusing on animal behavioral health.
Engineering Properties of Palm Oil Clinker Fine-Modified Asphaltic Concrete Mixtures
Authors: Aliyu Yaro Nura Shehu , Napiah Madzlan , Sutanto Muslich Hartadi , Usman Aliyu , Mizwar Intan Kumalasari , Umar Aliyu Mani
Published: March 2022

Palm oil clinker (POC) is a non-biodegradable palm mill by-product typically discarded in dumpsites. This study analyzed the performance of POC powder (POCF) as bitumen modifier in terms of conventional and engineering properties of bitumen and asphalt mixture. For the study, base bitumen of 60/70 penetration grade was utilized and different POCF dosages (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8% by weight of bitumen) were added. The base bitumen was effectively modified with POCF and then characterized. The conventional and engineering properties of the modified bitumen and asphalt mixtures were assessed. From the characterization results, the formation of Si-O crystalline structure and a new Si-OH functional group was identified. Furthermore, a meandering pattern was observed due to the modification of the base bitumen with POCF. Based on the conventional test results it was revealed that the addition of POCF to the base bitumen resulted in a stiffer blend compared to unmodified bitumen. The addition of POCF improved the modified mixtures’ Marshall stability relative to the unmodified mixtures. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression modeling showed the influence and significance of POCF-MB, with R2 values of (95-99%). Finally, the 4-6% POCF dosage was found to be the optimum dosage, yielding the best performance in terms of the engineering properties evaluated.
Bus Superstructure Reinforcement for Safety Improvement against Rollover Accidents
Authors: Mihradi Sandro , Dhaniswara Andhika , Wicaksono Satrio , Mahyuddin Andi Isra
Published: March 2022

Bus rollover is considered the most dangerous road accident. To ensure bus safety against rollover accidents, the bus superstructure must conform to safety standards, one of which is UNR66. Unfortunately, in Indonesia, the increase in the number of buses has not been followed by bus safety improvement. In this paper, a numerical study on superstructure reinforcement to improve bus safety against rollover is presented. To reduce computational time, a simplified bus superstructure model comprising only three middle bays was used instead of a full bus model. Several superstructure reinforcements were implemented and their effectiveness in improving bus safety against rollover accidents was investigated. Among all reinforcements that were investigated, the most effective one was enhanced reinforcement by adding a connection between the seat structures and the side pillars. This modification yielded excellent results, as the modified superstructure showed a very significant improvement over a superstructure without reinforcement and it met the UNR66 residual space safety criterion.
Review of "You’re Doing It Wrong!: Mothering, Media, and Medical Expertise"
Authors: Lussos Rachael
Published: March 2022

Review of: You’re Doing It Wrong!: Mothering, Media, and Medical Expertise. Bethany L. Johnson & Margaret M. Quinlan. New Brunswick, NJ: Rutgers University Press, 2019. 259 pages, $29.95 paperback, $99.95 cloth, $29.95 PDF, $29.95 EPUB. Publisher webpage: https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/youre-doing-it-wrong/9780813593784
Ruminations on the Long Haul
Authors: Molloy Cathryn , Scott J. Blake , Melonçon Lisa
Published: March 2022

Introduction to Volume 4, Number 1
AS TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS DA INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO: UMA ANÁLISE DOCUMENTAL NA BASE NACIONAL COMUM CURRICULAR DO ENSINO MÉDIO
Authors: Pacitti Mirella Horvatte , Tardin Heitor Perrud , Romero Luiz Rogério
Published: March 2022

The aim of this article is to identify in the National Common Curricular Base (BNCC) of High School how the Digital Information and Communication Technologies (TDIC) are being mentioned and to discuss whether these mentions are sufficient to contemplate critical media education for Teaching Average. Digital language is present in society and should be explored as a means of communication, information, interactivity and especially as a way of conceiving new devices. Therefore, it is expected that High School will offer subsidies to use and reflect on these technologies since they are increasingly present in the daily lives of young people. As a methodology, the document analysis of the BNCC was applied using the Adobe Acrobat Reader DC software, using the Word Search command “Ctrl + F”. The search resulted in only eleven mentions in the part destined to High School, and most of these mentions are located in the Area of Languages and its Technologies. Based on the evidence provided by the literature, the importance of the document and the relevance of TIDC's in today's society, it is concluded that the chosen theme needs qualitative and quantitative expansion in the BNCC. Technologies are important parts of contemporary reality and their value is increasingly proven, whether scientifically or in everyday use, but this study is limited to the documentary field, since no observational research was carried out.
Keywords: Information and communication technology; High school; Media Education; Education Contents.
Die Choralmelodie „Herzlich tut mich verlangen“ im geistlichen Werk Johann Sebastian Bachs
Authors: Wersin Michael
Published: March 2022

An enriching read for all those who would like to take a closer look at Johann Sebastian Bach’s fascinating compositional workshop: Bach used the song melody, which for us today is primarily connoted with the text “O Haupt voll Blut und Wunden”, in his cantatas and oratorios many times and in many different ways. This study examines Bach’s compositional creativity using the above example and sheds light on his astonishing musical-theological mediation skills. Supported by numerous historical documents, it can be shown how deeply and elementally Bach felt connected to the German Protestant hymnody of his time.
Pathological Conditons Related to Bisphenols and It’s Compounds
Authors: Palanisamy Geethamani , Palanisamy Divya
Published: March 2022

Bisphenols (BP) is one of the most important and highest volumes of chemicals produced in the universe. Each year, around 100 tons of bisphenol compounds are released into the atmosphere. In general, bisphenol is most widely used for production of polycarbonate (making plastic bottles like baby bottles and nursing products, dental sealants, CDs, DVDs, eye glasses, medical equipment’s, plasticizers etc.) and polymeric resins (epoxy resins, impact resistant safety materials like sports goods etc.). Due to these unavoidable chemicals, human beings are affected by human chronic diseases like obesity, toxicity, neuro disorder, reproductivity disorders, diabetes, cardio related issues, birth defects, metabolic syndrome, breathing issues, digestive related issues, cancer, genetic mutation etc., Children are easily affecting due to the multi dose consumption of packed food containing BP (canned foods) than adults. Women are affecting polycystic ovaries due to the high-level deposition of BP.
Micro and Nano Structuring as Method to Enhance the Functional Properties of Starch-Based Polymeric Materials
Authors: Dimonie Doina , Filipescu Mircea , Dragne Mihai , Mustatea Alina , Dragomir Nicoleta
Published: March 2022

The use of starch, the second most abundant natural resource in the word, as polymer is unprofitable and limited by certain functional properties. The structuring of multiphase polymeric materials represents the process of diminishing the dispersed phases till micro-and/or nano-dimensions and the positioning of the resulted fields in an order through which the properties of interest are achieved as far as possible. The structuring is reached by controlling the interface properties for achieving physical, chemical, biological or rheological compatibilization, mainly by melt compounding procedure. The chapter proves that the structuring of starch-based multiphases polymeric systems by reactive compatibilization is a good possibility to guarantee the functional properties, required by sustainable applications, of interest even in 2050 perspective. The chapter underlines also that the structuring by reactive compatibilization is connected with the formulation designing and choosing of the melt-compounding conditions in such a manner for the chemical bonding of the minority phases with the main polymeric matrix and therefore increasing the component miscibility and the functional properties of the resulted materials till the requirements of the sustainable applications.
Novel Diagnostic Approach and Safe Blood Transfusion Practices for Thalassemia: A Vital Role of a Blood Centre in Western India
Authors: Shah Avani , Bharadva Sumit , Patel Parizad , Mishra Kanchan
Published: March 2022

β-Thalassemia carrier’s frequency is uneven in different districts in Gujarat (0–9.5%). Surat Raktadan Kendra & Research Centre (SRKRC), NABH accredited and regional blood Centre in Surat (Gujarat, India) running since 1976, provides free blood units to more than 350 Thalassemia Major Patients every year. Our DSIR (Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology, Govt. of India) approved Research department has developed Multiplex ARMS-PCR including 4 common mutations which is a fast, reliable, and cost-effective method. Safe blood transfusion is a priority for these patients because of having transfusion-associated infections, formation of alloantibodies against donor’s antigens, developing different grades of Blood Transfusion Reactions (BTR’s), etc. Therefore, different approaches have been implemented as routine practice by our Blood Centre, like the use of saline washed and/or leuco-reduced Red Cell Concentrate for transfusion (reduces the risk of BTR’s), NAT testing for Transfusion Transmitted Infections (reduces window period of TTI’s), antibody screening of patient (if develop in patient) and molecular genotyping of clinically important blood group antigens (Difficult to type these patients serologically due to presence of donors’ red cells). Despite being Blood Centre, contributing to developing novel diagnostic techniques and strictly following all possible transfusion practices, SRKRC greatly helps in ensuring proper diagnosis, lengthening the transfusion period and providing the safest blood to these patients.
The ABO Blood Group System and Plasmodium falciparum (Pf ) Infection in Three Ethnic Groups Living in the Stable and Seasonal Malaria Transmission Areas of Burkina Faso (BF)
Authors: Christiane Bougouma Edith , Ouedraogo Alphonse , Bienvenu Sirima Sodiomon
Published: March 2022

Genetic factors, including red blood cell polymorphisms, influence the severity of disease due to infection with Plasmodium falciparum (Pf). Studies show that these genetic factors associated with malaria susceptibility or resistance vary geographically, ethnically, and racially. We performed cross-sectional surveys in population living in rural villages from three ethnic groups. The blood group (BG) was determined genetically using two polymorphisms (rs8176719 and rs8176746). Out of 548 participants, 29.7% were Mossi, 38.2% were Fulani, and 32.1% were Rimaibe. The distribution of BG was, respectively, A: 25.5%, B: 26.6%, AB: 7.3%, and O: 40.5%. BG O was not only the common blood type overall, but was higher in Fulani (52.6%) than others. Fulani was associated with a reduced risk of infection and lower parasite densities than sympatric populations. The subjects with non-O blood were less susceptible to malaria infection. An association between ethnicity and malaria infection during the high transmission season as well as an association between the non-O blood group and malaria infections according to ethnicity was found. This was also true when ethnic groups were considered separately. Our results have demonstrated that the Fulani are not only less susceptible to Pf malaria infection, but when infected have lower parasite densities. Individuals with non-O blood are at lower risk of infection.
Effects of a Saharan Dust Episode on Emergency Attendances for Respiratory Diseases in İstanbul
Authors: Çapraz Özkan , Deniz Ali
Published: March 2022

Saharan dust events have an important effect on the air quality of Turkey due to their significant contribution to particulate matter concentrations. These events likely impact public health in urban areas. However, there is no available information on the health effects of Saharan dust in Turkey. On Sunday 1 February 2015, İstanbul experienced an episode of extreme Sahara dust event, which increased the particulate matter concentrations greatly compared to the average values of the city. In this study, we examined the relationship between particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) concentrations and emergency attendances for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acute bronchitis on the episode day to better understand the association between an extreme dust event and emergency attendances for respiratory health in the city. Analyses showed that there was no significant effect of the Saharan dust event on emergency attendances for asthma and COPD in İstanbul compared to average emergency attendance numbers of the city. However, emergency attendances for acute bronchitis significantly increased on the episode day. This study revealed, extreme Saharan dust events can considerably increase the risk of visiting hospital for acute bronchitis in İstanbul during a severe dust episode.
Advances and Prospects in Distributed Generation Sources Digital Twins Design
Authors: Todorović Ivan , Isakov Ivana
Published: March 2022

Power electronics devices are highly dynamic and nonlinear systems governed by complex control algorithms. In addition, power electronics converters must demonstrate high reliability and must be safe to operate, although in some applications they condition dangerously high power levels. Therefore, the development, evaluation and deployment of these systems traditionally had to be meticulously conducted, using specialized tools and approaches. With the proliferation of power electronics devices into the domain of power systems, in form of distributed generation sources, the mentioned tools and approaches had to evolve further. Consequently, a wide range of representations of the addressed systems within various digital platforms is nowadays at disposal of researchers and engineers. These representations, designated as digital twins, facilitate, and sometimes simply make possible, expeditious development and comprehensive evaluation of increasingly complex power electronics-based systems. This chapter catalogues the most important digital twin types, explicates their advantages and disadvantages and addresses their applicability. Hence, it could be regarded as a set of guidelines on how to choose appropriate digital twin type and digital twinning platform for some particular research and engineering problem. Also, details on how digital twins of distributed generation sources will be created and utilized in near future are provided.
Drought Stress: Manifestation and Mechanisms of Alleviation in Plants
Authors: Atta Kousik , Pratap Singh Aditya , Adhikary Saju , Mondal Subhasis , Dewanjee Sujaya
Published: March 2022

Drought can be referred to as a meteorological period without significant rainfall and it is one of such major abiotic stresses that contributes to a huge reduction in crop yield throughout the world. Plant shows a broad range of physiological, morphological, and biochemical changes such as reduced photosynthetic accumulation, altered gene expression, etc. Under the drought stress which ultimately causes reduced growth as well as poor grain yield. Drought stressconditions trigger production of ROS, which disrupts the dynamic balance between ROS production and ROS scavenging systems and its accumulation depends on the intensity as well as duration of water stress, and it varies among species. A plant species that has a better inherited genetic response allowing it to rapidly deploy its antioxidant enzymatic and non-enzymatic defense system, can tolerate drought better than a plant species with a poor antioxidant defense system. Furthermore, enzyme and protein encoding drought specific genes have the ability to enhance drought tolerance. These two enzymatic and genetic engineering strategies are unique and vital tools, which can be used to help alleviate the world’s future problems related to energy, food, and environmental stresses, particularly drought. This chapter attempts to discuss developments in understanding effects of drought stress and underlying mechanisms in plants for its alleviation.
Soil-Transmissible Helminths Infections; Diagnosis, Transmission Dynamics, and Disease Management Strategies in Low-and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Kretchy James-Paul
Published: March 2022

Soil-transmissible helminths (STHs) infections are the most common sanitation-related public health problems among people living in poor settlements of tropical and sub-tropical regions in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Though available data suggest the occurrence of disease in adults, children of school-going age bear the greatest burden, affecting their cognitive development and physical growth. The characteristic high levels of poverty, poor environmental hygiene, open defecation practices, and inadequate sanitation and waste management systems, expose residents to the risks of STH infections. Walking bare-footed, inappropriate hand hygiene behaviour, and the unavailability/improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can impact transmission risks in endemic communities and among occupational risk groups. These have to be properly investigated, managed, and appropriate interventions communicated to decision-makers.
Venture Leadership under Uncertainty: An Emerging Country Perspective
Authors: Khalid Bilal , Samim Al Azad Md , Ed-dafali Slimane , Mohiuddin Muhammad
Published: March 2022

Strategic planning and entrepreneurial leadership are needed for effective navigation into the volatile business environment in an era of the knowledge intensive and fast-changing business eco-system. The growing volatile and competitive business climate demands a new sort of “leadership” different from the conventional form of leadership. As a result, having either management or entrepreneurial traits in venture leaders is insufficient for business success. Leaders must be capable of both entrepreneurship and management skills to excel. This study emphasizes the notion of venture leadership that refers to entrepreneurial leadership combining leadership characteristics with an entrepreneurial mindset. In addition, venture leadership involves developing new business processes, new products and prospects for growth in established businesses, collaborating with other social institutions to combat neglected social issues, engaging in political and social movements, and contributing to the modification of prevailing policies and schemes executed by the government and civil organizations. Venture leadership is an emerging concept in business management that challenges the status quo. As a result, the relevance of venture leadership is addressed in this paper by investigating the idea of venture leadership, leadership skills, and ethics in the emerging country context of Thailand.
High-Throughput Screening for Drug Discovery toward Infectious Diseases: Options and Challenges
Authors: Gupta Ankur , Kumar Swatantra , K. Maurya Vimal , Puri Bipin , K. Saxena Shailendra
Published: March 2022

The increase in the number of antibiotic-resistant microbial strains makes it evident to discover and develop newer efficacious anti-infective drugs. High-throughput screening (HTS) is a robust technology that plays a crucial role in identifying novel anti-infective lead compounds. This chapter briefly explains the role of virtual HTS (vHTS) and HTS technologies in lead identification using various categories of chemical libraries through structure-based drug design, ligand-based drug design, in vitro cell-based assay, and biochemical assay approaches involved in the process of drug design and discovery. The chapter also gives an insightful survey of the technologies such as fluorescence, luminescence, and atomic absorbance used for the detection of biological responses in the HTS bioassays. Applications of HTS, reverse pharmacology, current challenges, and future perspectives of HTS in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry are discussed in the context of anti-infective drug design, discovery, and development.
Effect of Cross-Linking Agent on Mechanical and Permeation Properties of Criolla Orange Pectin
Authors: Guadalupe García María , Alberto Masuelli Martin
Published: March 2022

Pectin from orange peel was extracted and cross-linked, applying different cross-linking agents to visualize any effect on its mechanical and permeation properties. Calcium chloride (II) and iron chloride (III) were the cross-linking agents. Besides, commercial pectin was also used to compare its properties with neat orange pectin. Tensile testing showed mechanical stiffness of the orange pectin matrix in the presence of cross-linking agents. Calcium ions better cross-linked the polymer matrix as shown by their highest tensile strength and elastic modulus, with moderate elongation at break. Iron ions showed a weaker cross-linking effect on the pectin matrix, improving the elastic modulus but retaining almost the same tension strength. Lower elongation at break concerning neat orange pectin was observed for cross-linked samples. Water uptake (WU) and water vapor permeation (WVP) of cross-linked samples had lower values than those of neat orange pectin. However, these results are still high compared with synthetic polymers. Finally, gas permeation assays were performed using N2, O2 and CO2 gases, according to exchangeable gases in fresh fruits and vegetable packaging. Results showed a conveniently modified atmosphere effect by avoiding CO2 permeation and stabilizing N2 and O2 selectivity.
Recent Advances in Nano-Enabled Fertilizers towards Sustainable Agriculture and Environment: A Mini Review
Authors: Gangu Naidu Challa , Srinivasa Rao Yarraguntla , Vasudha Dadi , Vara Prasada Rao Kollabathula
Published: March 2022

Food creation be directed expand uniquely to take care of the developing human populace; however, this should be accomplished while at the same time decreasing unfriendly natural effects. In such manner, there is expanding interest in the utilization of nanomaterials as composts for further developing plant mineral sustenances that are crippling Indian agriculture. To address these problems, there is a need to explore one of the frontier technologies like nano-technology to precisely detect and deliver correct quantity of nutrients that promote the productivity. Nano-technology uses synthesized materials that are 10–9 nm in size to improve the productivity, yield and crop quality. Research has proved beyond doubt that the nano-fertilizers that contain readily available nutrients in nano-scale have increased uptake, absorption and improved bioavailability in the plant body compared to the conventional bulk equivalents. This audit assesses the current writing on ENMs utilized as pesticides and manures, and features basic information holes that should be addressed to guarantee maintainable use of nanotechnology in horticulture to accomplish worldwide food security. Designing nanoparticles-based nanofertilizers offer advantages in crop nourishment of the board by upgrading abiotic stress resilience and improving farming efficiency towards the advancement of brilliant and supportable future horticulture.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Liver Disease
Authors: Darmadi Darmadi , Habriel Ruslie Riska , Pakpahan Cennikon
Published: March 2022

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most potent stimulating factor for angiogenesis. Its expression is related to inflammation and hypoxia. In normal conditions, VEGF is important in the wound healing process. The binding of VEGF with its receptors triggers angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis and increases vascular permeability. Liver diseases comprise acute and chronic ones. Liver diseases cause inflammation and hypoxia, which increase VEGF level. If they occur chronically, persistent high VEGF levels will promote the risk of chronic liver diseases, including hepatic viral infections, alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases, liver cirrhosis, and finally hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). High VEGF level is also associated with progressive disease course and poorer outcomes. Tissue remodeling by replacement of normal liver tissue with fibrous tissue occurs. Due to the importance of VEGF in angiogenesis and liver diseases, therapeutic agents targeting VEGF have been developed. Drugs that neutralize VEGF and modulate VEGF receptors have been approved for treating various disorders, including liver disease. Additionally, VEGF is a promising modality for diagnosing liver cirrhosis and HCC. VEGF may also be utilized to predict the outcome of the liver and to monitor the therapeutic response of patients.
Hypoglycemia Detection in Diabetes
Authors: M. Richardson James , Shaginian Rimma
Published: March 2022

Hypoglycemia, once detected in a timely manner, is commonly treated by administration of glucose or glucagon in accordance with HCP advice, however, identifying the hypoglycemic event or need to treat is of initial paramount importance. The definition of hypoglycemia is provided, together with the implications of such an event on clinical and economic outcomes. The current accuracy standards are discussed and how they are applied to the low blood glucose range and current technologies.
Changes in Quality and Risk Management in Logistics
Authors: Stefanova Marieta
Published: March 2022

For organizations providing logistics services, dynamic changes in the external environment impact process performance risk and threaten effective integration of resources, coordinated management of operations and consequently, negatively impact customer satisfaction and loyalty. These processes call for an improvement of logistics service management and an integrated management concept combining the integration of satisfaction analysis processes and the risks that can negatively impact the delivery of a satisfying logistics service. The study focuses on the integration of quality and risk management in the supply chain to examine the theoretical and practical guidelines and address the main risks of non-compliance with the customer and legislative requirements that arise in a constantly changing external environment. The research approach is to look for the synergistic effect of quality and risk management by applying appropriate tools for their integration based on the definition of the applicable conditional variables in the specific existing situation. The analysis conducted to give us reason to believe that the development of a systematic approach, including both satisfaction analysis and risk factor analysis, may be sufficient grounds for initiating improvements in customer service.
In Vivo Study of DNA Adduct (8-OHdG) Formation of Rattus novergicus Using Bisphenol a through Fenton-Like Reaction and Nickel (II) as Cancer Risk Biomarker
Authors: Budiawan  , Cahaya Dani Intan , Fransisca Olivyana Rugian Chrissy , Handayani Sri
Published: March 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been used in many consumer products including plastics, and food packaging. There is the evidence that Bisphenol A have potential to cause oxidative stress by disturbing the redox status in cells. We have conducted the in vivo study of BPA and Ni(II) exposure to Rattus novergicus and confirmed the formation of DNA adduct 8-OHdG as biomarker of oxidative stress and cancer risk. Subacute dose of BPA (2 mg/kg BW) and Ni (II) metals (0.1 μg/kg BW) have been exposed to animal test for 28 days. We collected the urine sample of animal samples every week. The formation of 8-OHdG found in urine of animal samples monitored by Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The result of this study indicates that levels of 8-OHdG in animal samples exposed to BPA and BPA-Ni (II) increase every week. However, levels of 8-OHdG in animal samples exposed by BPA-Ni (II) is less than levels of 8-OHdG in animal samples exposed by BPA only. This can be happened because Ni (II) given to animal samples are not in the excessed levels, therefore the synergic effect of BPA and Ni (II) has not already been seen. The hydroxyl radical can cause oxidative DNA damage and interact with DNA guanine base by producing DNA adduct 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). This book aimed to obtain information regarding in vivo study of BPA and metal ions exposure can generate hydroxyl radical as a dominant form of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) that can interact with macromolecules such as DNA and form DNA adduct as biomarker of oxidative stress and cancer risk.
Měkkýši přírodní rezervace U Nového hradu a přilehlé zříceniny (Česká republika) [Molluscs of the U Nového hradu Nature Reserve and the nearby castle ruins (Czech Republic)]
Authors: Chytrý Matěj , Horsák Michal
Published: March 2022

This study deals with the land snails in the U Nového hradu Nature Reserve and the nearby castle ruins. The main goal was to make an inventory of the snail fauna and to determine factors affecting species diversity and snail abundance. Further, species richness and composition of the assemblages in the Nature Reserve and the castle ruins were analysed and compared. Snails were collected in summer 2015 by hand picking and litter sampling at 14 quadrats; 10 in the Nature Reserve and four in the castle ruins. In each quadrat plant cover, amount of coarse trees and stones were recorded. Soil pH and conductivity values were measured at each plot. In total, 50 species and 675 individuals of snails were found in all quadrats combined. In the Nature Reserve, 43 species and 406 individuals were recorded. In the castle ruins, there were 33 species and 264 individuals found. On average, higher number of species and individuals per plot were found in the castle ruins than in the reserve. Soil pH was the only variable significantly and positive correlating with the number of snail species recorded. This variable also predicted higher local species richness in the castle ruins than that of the reserve. Based on MDS ordination there was no clear segregation of snail assemblages recorded in the reserve and the castle ruins, though sites from the ruins were more similar to each other that those from the reserve.
Změny malakocenóz vybraných labských ramen u Pardubic [Changes of mollusc assemblages of the selected oxbows near the town of Pardubice]
Authors: Beran Luboš
Published: March 2022

This paper presents the results of a malacological survey of the selected oxbows of the Elbe River in Eastern Bohemia (Czech Republic) near the town of Pardubice in 2016. The changes in molluscan assemblages observed based on the comparison with the previous research, conducted more than 10 years ago, are described. Altogether 23 species of freshwater molluscs (20 gastropods, 3 bivalves) were found at 7 sites in five protected areas. Investigated sites were divided into three groups according to the changes of mollusc assemblages: (1) without any significant changes; (2) changes promoted by succession; (3) changes hard to explain. High fish stock, shading and succession are considered to be the main factors driving the variation of the studied mollusc assemblages.
Vodní měkkýši rybníka Baroch a jejich změny po revitalizaci [Aquatic molluscs of the Baroch Pond and their changes after a restoration]
Authors: Beran Luboš
Published: March 2022

This paper presents the results of a malacological survey of the Baroch Nature Reserve in Eastern Bohemia (Czech Republic) near the town of Pardubice in 2016. Altogether 16 species of freshwater molluscs (14 gastropods, 2 bivalves) were found at 12 sampling sites in 2016, while 11 species were recorded during previous research, which were all recorded also in 2016. This shows that the 2000 restoration had a positive effect on species richness and successional changes after this management did not cause disappearance of any species.
Malakofauna navrhované NPR Obírka-Kopánky a okolí [Mollusc fauna of the proposed Obírka-Kopánky National Nature Reserve and its surroundings]
Authors: Myšák Jan
Published: March 2022

Altogether, 77 mollusc species were recorded in the proposed Obírka-Kopánky National Nature Reserve (North Moravia, Czech Republic) during 2010–2016. Mollusc species diversity in forest habitats was equal to that reported from the study area 85 years ago. The assemblages include endangered species of primeval forests as Macrogastra latestriata, Vestia ranojevici moravica, Bulgarica cana, and Daudebardia brevipes, being of prime conservation importance. The study area is also one of the westernmost locations of fully developed mollusc assemblages of Carpathian primeval forests.
Rozšírenie, ekológia a ochrana kotúľky štíhlej (Anisus vorticulus) na Slovensku [Distribution, ecology and conservation of the Little whirlpool ramshorn snail (Anisus vorticulus) in Slovakia]
Authors: Čejka Tomáš , Černecký Ján , Ďuricová Viktória
Published: March 2022

The main aim of this article is to summarise data on the biology and conservation of the Western Palaearctic planorbid gastropod Anisus vorticulus (Troschel, 1834). This aquatic gastropod is a threatened species at European level and endangered species in Slovakia according to IUCN red list classification. This paper also deals with comprehensive data on the species distribution in Slovakia between 1953 and 2019. According to the Habitat Directive, Slovakia realised regular monitoring of the species at 10 permanent monitoring plots and established 11 sites of community interest (SCI) within the NATURA 2000 network exclusively for its protection. In results, there are monitoring assessments available as well as the overall assessment of the species conservation status. In the last twenty years, Anisus vorticulus has been confirmed in Slovakia at 23 sites. The most recent research shows that the species prefers small and old drainage ditches (36% out of all its sites) and plesiopotamal channels, flooded by surface water only at a high water table levels (25% of sites). To a lesser extent, the species also inhabits stagnant water bodies which are not in contact with surface floods (i.e. paleopotamal; 16% of sites).
Talents and innovations: Case of Serbia
Authors: Lazarević Jelisaveta , Savić Nebojša , Vjetrov Ana , Marinković Ema
Published: March 2022

This research focuses on talents and skills needed for companies' leap towards a higher level of innovativeness and competitiveness in the new digital era. We analyzed data collected through the online survey conducted among 84 companies that operate in Serbia. We did two correlation analyses. The first one observed determinant of innovation and digital transformation among surveyed companies. The results showed that R&D investments and management skills are correlated and significant for all observed digital transformation and innovativeness indicators. The analysis also showed that companies in Serbia are developing more sustaining than disruptive and radical innovations. The second correlation analysis presented the correlation between the indicator of future innovation and digital-driven growth and determinants of current skill gaps, skills in demand and an obstacle for talent development. We confirmed the correlation between the indicator and the skills gap in HR and Marketing business functions, both crucial for knowledge based-development and future business innovation-driven growth. Additionally, we confirmed correlation with analytical skills in demand and explained it through the fact that in the world where data presents new oil, skills that enable the company to transform data into useful business development information are crucial. Our results confirmed that investment in talents is important for future innovation development. We explained the lack of correlation with some skills in demand through the fact that companies in Serbia need more practical skills instead of soft skills for innovation and digital growth.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the performance and costs of hospital health care in Serbia
Authors: Vuković Simo , Topalović Marina , Lazović Draško , Lončar Dragan
Published: March 2022

Since its appearance at the end of 2019, the disease of the COVID-19 virus has grown from the local level into a global pandemic that has not bypassed the Republic of Serbia. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the health system, the economy and the general condition of the population. Depending on the available hospital and staff capacities, each of the countries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic has established measures to struggle and treat citizens affected by the pandemic. In the newly created conditions, state-owned health care institutions and the Republic of Serbia focused their capacities on treatment and rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients, which had an impact on the management, organization of work and efficiency of health care institutions as well as additional costs for the overall health care system in the period from March 2020 to January 2022. This study shows the effects of the pandemic on the performance and costs of state-owned health facilities with a special focus on acute inpatient facilities in the Republic of Serbia. Medical analysis consists of: differences in the total number of patients, outpatients, changes in the number of visits in the private sector, the value of the case-mix index, the number of operations in acute hospitals, day hospital procedures, and consumption of reserve antibiotics. The financial analysis consists of: allocations for health in the budget of the Republic of Serbia, investments in public health, additional allocations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, analysis of the budget of the Health Insurance Fund (HIF), expenditures on salaries, drugs and medical supplies, cost per day, and average cost per patient. The result of the COVID-19 pandemic is a decline in elective operations and the number of outpatient visits and, on the other hand, an increase in spending in the health sector, as a result of significant growth in investment in tertiary institutions and in new hospitals, wages and overall current spending.