bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enfoque basado en competencias en la educación jurídica en Colombia: lineamientos para su implementación efectiva
Authors: Arboleda Ramírez Paulo Bernardo , Orozco Henao Eliana Andrea
Published: December 2024

This article conducts a thorough exploration of the relevance and implications of adopting acompetency-based approach in the realm of legal education in Colombia. It highlights how thismodel has been gaining momentum and is perceived as an essential tool to address the challengesof the current educational sector. With particular attention to its advantages, challenges, andopportunities, the document emphasizes the need to continuously improve the quality andeffectiveness of Law programs. Furthermore, an integral and updated perspective of thecompetency-based model is provided, illustrating its applicability and potential with concreteexamples. Finally, specific guidelines and practical strategies for its effective implementation,both in curriculum design and pedagogical practices, are proposed, always within the specificcontext of Colombian legal education.
Efectividad de la ley 70 en el reconocimiento de derechos y la construcción de ciudadanía afrocolombiana
Authors: Pérez Caballero Alfredo , Romero González Zilath , Mejía Mercado Elfa Luz , Hidalgo Arango Sandra Lorena
Published: December 2024

This article analyzes the impact that the enactment of Law 70 of 1993 has had on the recognitionof black or Afro-Colombian communities, on the strengthening of their participation inColombian society and on the construction of new citizenships. For this purpose, we will firstdescribe the historical background of Law 70; then we will analyze the impact it has had on Afro-Colombian identity and citizenship, and finally, we will identify the challenges and obstacles thatAfro-Colombian communities still face, together with recommendations to strengthen theeffectiveness of Law 70. Such a journey will allow to evidence that the effectiveness and impactof Law 70 in the construction of new Afro-Colombian citizenship and their participation inColombian society is a subject of constant evaluation and evolution.
The present of China is the future of Latin America: South American leftists and the invention of an imagined community with China (1950-1974)
Authors: Prates Thiago Henrique Oliveira
Published: December 2024

The article delves into the portrayal of China in South American leftist publications between 1950 and 1974, following China’s post-revolution period. It explores the travelogues of Latin American visitors to China, focusing on the parallels established by the authors between those two realities. Overcoming prevalent orientalist stereotypes, these texts sought to construct a bond between the regions. Drawing on Koselleck’s notion of horizon of expectation, I propose the existence of a shift in representing the East post-World War II that contributed to the creation of narratives aligning Latin America and an idealized East. After that, I outline the intellectual operation that made possible the invention of a shared past and a common future between China and Latin America based on different leftist theoretical repertoires available at that moment.
La importancia de la responsabilidad limitada en el Ecuador
Authors: Cedeño Véliz Nathaly Sabrina , Vásconez Donoso José Luis
Published: December 2024

El principio de responsabilidad limitada, aunque esencial en el ámbito corporativo, ha sido poco estudiado dentro del derecho ecuatoriano. Desde la promulgación de la primera Ley de Compañías en 1964, este principio ha desempeñado un papel destacado en el país. Este artículo se centra en analizar la naturaleza de la responsabilidad limitada, su evolución histórica y su significado en el contexto ecuatoriano. Además, se subraya la diferencia entre este principio y la separación de la personalidad jurídica, evaluando su relevancia en la reciente reforma de la Ley de Compañías.
 
La investigación adopta un enfoque cualitativo, de carácter exploratorio y deductivo, basado en el análisis de fuentes primarias y secundarias. A nivel global, la responsabilidad limitada establece que los socios o accionistas de una entidad solo responden hasta el monto de sus aportaciones. Comprender su desarrollo histórico y su distinción respecto a la personalidad jurídica resulta fundamental para entender su rol en el mundo corporativo actual, así como su impacto en la Ley Reformatoria a la Ley de Compañías para la Optimización e Impulso Empresarial y el Fomento del Gobierno Corporativo.
Esbozo general del pensamiento de Orlando Fals Borda
Authors: Pachón Soto Damián
Published: December 2024

El propósito de este artículo es presentar la propuesta sociológica de Orlando Fals borda, su metodología, su apuesta por el socialismo raizal y su concepto de orden social. Estos asuntos son centrales en la obra de Fals, toda vez que se entretejen para derivar en una sistemática reflexión teórica en la que se operativizan los conceptos, se descubre el papel político de la ciencia y social, y se revela su apuesta por la utopía.
Construyendo movimientos ecoterritoriales en áreas de conservación privado-comunitarias
Authors: Flores-Fernandez Vera Alejandra , Van den Broeck Pieter , Hermans Elke , Parra Constanza
Published: December 2024

Resumen La conservación medioambiental es un tema urgente a nivel mundial, en particular en cuanto a su integración con el desarrollo socioeconómico sostenible. En Latinoamérica, países como Perú enfrentan crecientes tensiones entre la conservación ambiental y modelos neoextractivistas. El giro ecoterritorial de los movimientos socioambientales en la región refleja una crítica a esta economía y busca una gobernanza colectiva del territorio. En este contexto, las Áreas de Conservación Privada (ACP) han proliferado en las últimas décadas, y la Reserva Ecológica de Chaparrí es pionera al ser liderada por una comunidad campesina. El caso de Chaparrí ilustra esta lucha entre conservacionistas locales y defensores del desarrollo extractivista. En este artículo se explora el movimiento ecoterritorial generado en Chaparrí desde una investigación activista que congregó este esfuerzo con académicos y estudiantes belgas y peruanos. El movimiento ecoterritorial de Chaparrí no solo ha catalizado transformaciones en las dinámicas comunitarias, sino también en colaboraciones con una gran variedad de actores. Los investigadores lograron integrarse al paisaje de actores e instituciones que gravitan en torno a Chaparrí, abriendo nuevas e innovadoras oportunidades de colaboración.
Transformaciones del paisaje y modos de vida: una perspectiva geohistórica en Dalcahue, Chiloé, Chile
Authors: Henríquez Olmedo Valentina , Barton Jonathan R.
Published: December 2024

Este artículo explora las transformaciones del paisaje en la comuna de Dalcahue, Chiloé, y cómo estas son influenciadas a su vez por los cambios en los modos de vida o livelihoods de los chilotes desde el terremoto de 1960 hasta fines de la década 2010. Se aplica una metodología cualitativa basada en el análisis de entrevistas a adultos mayores que vivieron el período de tiempo del caso de estudio, quienes fueron testigos del abandono y aislamiento geográfico del archipiélago en la década de los 60 (y anteriores), así como de la irrupción de las actividades acuícolas, las cuales provocaron la expansión urbana y el abandono del campo. El artículo concluye que las modificaciones del paisaje se dan por los cambios de modos de vida de la sociedad chilota, así como también por agentes externos propios de la globalización, como la llegada de la industria salmonera y de miticultura.
Tandha’ Dance in Sumenep: Dynamics and Shifting Islamic Values in Local Cultural Representation
Authors: Yusro Lailatul , Khairul Umam
Published: December 2024

Tandha’ is a local art in Madura, not least in the Sumenep district, which was once used as a medium for da'wah, so there are many Islamic values in it. However, over time, the Islamic value is replaced by the materialistic value in the practice of tandha' itself, so much so that its existence even causes controversy in the community. This shift has also changed the characteristics of tandha' as a local art in Sumenep. This study aims to look at tandha’ in its original form, which is full of Islamic values and is very distinctive, and how the shift occurred and what aspects have changed in tandha.' Looking at all of this, we may find a middle ground for the controversy over tandha' itself in the community. As a local art form, it must be preserved and kept pure. This research attempts to answer this question using a descriptive qualitative method with data from field studies and previous research literature studies. The results of this research find a shift in tandha’ occurred since the space for tandha’ began to expand from the palace to the lives of the general public and also cannot be separated from the dark history of tandha’, which later became an economic support so that the underlying Islamic value changed to materialistic values and it also slowly changed the composition in tandha’ itself to threaten Islamic values and threaten Madurese art in it. Therefore, instead of arguing pros and cons, the government, artists, and religionists should start working together to restore tandha’ to its authenticity.
Behavioral repertoire of Arapaima gigas (Schinz, 1822) reared in captivity and its implication for welfare protocols
Authors: Escurra-Alegre Alessandra , Francisco Fritz A. , Schäfer Fabian , Wuertz Sven , Kloas Werner , Bierbach David
Published: December 2024

The well-being of farmed fish has gained considerable attention in the last few decades, and finding suitable indicators of fish welfare is particularly challenging assumed the diversity of species, each with unique biological needs and requirements. Understanding the behavioral patterns of farmed fish species is crucial in developing behavior-based measures to maintain their welfare and production. However, there is limited scientific documentation on the behavioral repertoire of Arapaima gigas, a commercially valuable and widely farmed species in South America. We provide an ethogram of A. gigas when reared in captivity within a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) indoors. Observations were conducted on a group of adult individuals (one male, two females) kept at the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries in Berlin, Germany. The ethogram describes five main behavioral categories: locomotion, feeding, social interactions, agonistic interactions, and breathing. Notably, Arapaima displayed a strong preference for resting motionless, often near a gravel bed area provided inside the rearing tank. Agonistic interactions were rare and mostly initiated solely by the male during feeding sessions. During feeding, pellet food was often picked from the ground, while whole fish feed (dead Tilapia) was mostly swallowed immediately from the surface. The male consistently occupied the provided gravel area as its territory, spending most of its time there. With this ethogram, we aim to contribute to the limited behavioral knowledge about A. gigas, especially when in captivity. Our findings offer valuable insights into species-specific welfare evaluations and enhancement measures with potential applications in healthy aquaculture practices.
Efecto de Saccharomyces cerevisiae en el desempeño de crecimiento y parámetros hematológicos en un cultivo comercial de tilapia
Authors: Melgar-Valdes Carolina , Urquilla-Ortiz Lidia Noemi , Castillo-Domínguez Alfonso
Published: December 2024

In Mexico, fish farming is moving towards a trend towards sustainability, which means that production and the products obtained increase in quality and quantity, reducing the environmental impact. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (commercial probiotic Blue Booster®) through two treatments under a completely randomised design; 36 broodstock/m3 were stocked in 69 m3 geomembrane ponds, which were supplied with Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast for 150 days at a concentration of 1x109 CFU mL-1 and a Control treatment (CT) without the addition of the yeast. Growth and haematological variables were determined in the fish, and water quality parameters were determined. Water quality remained within the ranges considered normal for the species' culture, showing that the Blue Booster® (BB) treatment had better growth performance and water quality. Yeast-treated fish showed an average weight of 499.0 g (± 59.6), with an average length of 26.1cm (± 1.36), being significantly different from the Control treatment (p< 0.05). It was observed that the hematocrit percentage was higher for the BB treatment, at 44.3%, and survival was 94.0%. The results showed that with the application of this probiotic technology, the water quality is maintained in optimal conditions and the productive parameters are improved, in addition to reducing the frequency of water replacement in the culture ponds, which is a direct benefit for the producer.
Crowdfunding Conspiracists: Grassroots Giving to January 6 Participants
Authors: Visser Rebecca
Published: December 2024

This policy brief explores the online ecosystem of crowdfunding for those charged with
crimes related to the storming of the US Capitol on 6 January 2021. It sketches this ongoing
phenomenon, highlighting key nodes, patterns, and narratives. Specifically, this policy brief
confirms that the platform GiveSendGo is central to the crowdfunding of participation in such
extremist-led mass protest events, being the host of 95.7 percent of the 255 distinct fundraising
pages collected. This article also confirms that January 6-participants continue to raise millions in donations from grassroots supporters. Since 2021, those charged with January 6-related crimes
have collected over 5.3 million US dollars from over eighty thousand donors. Making a case
study out of the Proud Boy figures convicted for their ringleading roles, this policy brief further
highlights key narratives within the fundraising ecosystem. Core elements of the fundraising
appeals encountered in this research are continued revisionism as to the events of 6 January,
continued loyalty to the ‘Make America Great Again’ (MAGA) movement and its leader, claims
of legal persecution, and invitations to donors to identify with their struggles. Finally, this piece makes policy recommendations on strengthening the governance around crowdfunding while
respecting important legal protections and avoiding a chilling effect on legitimate crowdfunding.
An Investigation of Three Novel Applications for RDF-based Knowledge Graphs : Unveiling Opportunities, Challenges, and Recommendations
Authors:   , Martin Leon
Published: December 2024

Various sources suggest that Knowledge Graphs (KGs) despite being built upon decades-old foundations, are currently in the midst of a hype. The reason for this is rooted in the variety of applications, for which KGs can be used. While KGs have been employed successfully in many application domains such as information retrieval and recommender systems, recent research in machine learning and artificial intelligence highlights the opportunities that KGs provide in these domains. However, like any other hyped technology, KGs have been subject to inflated expectations, which has led a certain disillusionment in the recent years. To contribute to the further maturation of KGs towards a state with a deep and realistic understanding of the technology, this cumulative doctoral thesis investigates three novel applications of RDF-based KGs.

The first application leverages the large open-domain KG Wikidata to identify semantically useful paths between entities. These paths are then used as the basis for generating entity relationship explanations, which are to be displayed in the knowledge panels on the result pages of web search engines with the goal of satisfying the users' information need more quickly. The second application establishes a bidirectional knowledge exchange between (LaTeX-based) research publications and Scientific Knowledge Graphs (SKGs), one category of domain-specific KGs, through custom import and export commands. This technology is intended to narrow the gap between research publications and SKGs to facilitate the shift towards the envisaged KG augmented research. The third application leverages the reasoning capabilities of the RDF ecosystem to validate software repositories, represented as KG fragments, against quality criteria that they should meet according to the type of the respective project. In light of the still ongoing reproducibility crisis, the validation of software repositories against the FAIR principles is examined in particular.

Based on the insights obtained from the investigation of the three applications, opportunities, challenges, and recommendations for the utilization of KGs are derived. Some of the addressed aspects elaborate on topics discussed in previous work while others add novel points to this line of research. To give some examples, the aspects include remarks on the ability of KGs to integrate and interconnect heterogeneous data, the complexity of the RDF ecosystem, and data access facilities and interfaces.
Authenticity of architecture, place attachment, identity and support for sustainable tourism in world heritage cities
Authors: ORGAZ-AGÜERA Francisco , PUIG-CABRERA Miguel , MORAL-CUADRA Salvador , DOMÍNGUEZ-VALERIO Cándida María
Published: December 2024

Purpose - This study analyses the relationships between perceived architectural authenticity,
localised identity, place attachment and support for sustainable tourism at a World Heritage Site.
Methodology/Design/Approach - A quantitative methodology is developed through
questionnaires applied to residents in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, in the Dominican
Republic. 509 valid responses were obtained and the analysis used structural equation models
(PLS-SEM).
Findings - The results show that perceived architectural authenticity significantly influences the
residents’ place attachment and localised identity. These, in turn, impact their support for the
creation of sustainable tourism initiatives at heritage sites. Specifically, architectural authenticity
enhances the residents’ connection to their community and cultural identity, fostering a
supportive attitude toward the sustainable tourism practices that preserve cultural heritage.
Originality of the research - The findings suggest that architectural authenticity is relevant
when it comes to strengthening the community ties and cultural identity among the residents
of World Heritage Sites. A model is presented where architectural authenticity is analyzed and
variables are integrated that analyze how it influences support for sustainable tourism. This
model, unlike similar models, offers updated data after the pandemic
A APLICAÇÃO DA TEORIA SÓCIO-HISTÓRICA DE VYGOTSKY E A ZONA DE DESENVOLVIMENTO PROXIMAL (ZPD): uma análise sobre a abordagem pedagógica ao ensino superior em direito
Authors: Barros Alex Cavalcante
Published: December 2024

Este artigo explora as diversas abordagens pedagógicas no ensino jurídico, destacando a aplicação da Teoria Sócio-Histórica de Vygotsky, especialmente a Zona de Desenvolvimento Proximal (ZDP). Contrastando com métodos tradicionais, a ZDP transforma a dinâmica professor-aluno, promovendo a aprendizagem colaborativa. O texto examina a origem das ideias de Vygotsky e sua influência na educação jurídica, enfocando como a ZDP pode potencializar o desenvolvimento intelectual dos estudantes, preparando-os não apenas para compreender, mas para analisar criticamente o direito.
DIREITO ANTITRUSTE SANCIONADOR SOB A PERSPECTIVA DA LÓGICA DEÔNTICO-JURÍDICA
Authors: Carvalho Eleutério de Lima Felipe
Published: December 2024

O artigo analisa a estrutura lógica do Direito Antitruste Sancionador, visando apresentar e discutir a sua regra de incidência, conforme estudo teórico-normativo. Preliminarmente, são apresentadas considerações sobre a Lógica e a Lógica Deôntico-Jurídica. A Lógica é inerente ao conhecimento humano e o seu entendimento contribui para o estudo dos mais variados temas, enquanto a Lógica Deôntico-Jurídica trata do “dever ser” do Direito, contribuindo para a análise acertada da estrutura proposicional das normas jurídicas. Sequencialmente, o Direito Antitruste Sancionador é introduzido e analisado sob a perspectiva da Lógica Deôntico-Jurídica, verificando-se a sua estrutura e as suas condições de incidência. Como resultado, pondera-se sobre como a análise da Lógica Deôntico-Jurídica referente ao Direito Antitruste Sancionador possibilita a melhor compreensão de sua complexa estrutura e incidência na realidade, haja vista a precisa delimitação do antecedente e do consequente da norma jurídica.
JUSTIÇA CLIMÁTICA E SENSIBILIDADE INTERSECCIONAL NOS REGISTROS DE DESASTRE AMBIENTAL EM PERNAMBUCO
Authors: Bezerra Guimarães Verônica Maria , Lopes de Albuquerque Damares , Montenegro Silva Leão Maria Sandra
Published: December 2024

O artigo tem como objeto investigar se nos registros oficiais sobre o desastre ambiental ocorrido em Pernambuco, em maio de 2022, em especial, nos municípios de Recife e Jaboatão dos Guararapes, está presente a ferramenta da interseccionalidade sob a ótica da justiça climática. A pesquisa teve como objetivo geral verificar se há a presença de recortes interseccionais nos documentos oficiais analisados, assim como na mídia investigada. E, como objetivo específico, discutir sobre a importância da interseccionalidade na construção de dados oficiais e nas informações divulgadas pela mídia, nos casos de desastres ambientais, na composição da justiça climática para as pessoas e áreas afetadas. A pesquisa que resultou no presente artigo apresenta um estudo exploratório e descritivo, caracterizado como pesquisa bibliográfica e, com abordagem qualititativa, através de análise de dados secundários e análise de conteúdo, com base em textos jornalísticos. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, não há o registro dos marcadores interseccionais, em relação às pessoas atingidas pelo desastre ambiental de maio de 2022, referente aos municípios afetados.
A EVOLUÇÃO DO PERFIL DA MULHER DELINQUENTE: UMA ANÁLISE DOGMÁTICA E ZETÉTICA
Authors: Oliveira Ana Caroline Soares de
Published: December 2024

A pesquisa tem o objetivo de analisar as características da mulher delinquente, para isso foram utilizados os estudos antropológicos de Lombroso publicados no final do século XIX e de pesquisadores do século XXI e, assim, compará-los para verificar a evolução do perfil da mulher delinquente sob a ótica dogmática e zetética. A metodologia é básica, qualitativa, exploratória, bibliográfica e documental; quanto aos métodos é dialética, histórica e comparativa. No corpo do artigo há o raciocínio referente as pesquisas de Lombroso e Ferrero, Raine e de juristas feministas: a primeira é determinista ancorada na teoria da evolução de Darwin influenciada pela visão androcêntrica da época; já a segunda é biossocial e neurobiológica, com suas origens na teoria de Lombroso, de modo que trata a violência como um problema complexo e primitivo, mas difere do seu ancestral no que tange a interpretação dos dados; por último a de juristas feministas criticam o androcentrismo e o patriarcado sob o ponto de vista do direito penal e processual penal. Assim, pôde-se chegar ao resultado de que há resquícios positivistas quanto: a pesquisa antropológica, porque ela foi a base para desenvolver outros estudos; a interpretação da lei, pois o estigma prevalece.
Gravity and Riemann Hypothesis
Authors: Shi Jun Ze
Published: December 2024

Based on the understanding of relativity and quantum mechanics, this paper demonstrates that gravity is the result of spatial shape and dimension changes. The concept of space as dimension is expounded, and the difference between gravitational field space and material space is distinguished. The reason why the photon moves in space at a constant speed of c is explained. The concept of positive and negative energy is discussed, and the microscopic performance of positive energy as compression space and negative energy as stretching space is explained. Trying to understand increases the understanding of micro-uncertainty in dimensions. It explains how matter generates new dimensions in the process of collision, especially through elastic collision to generate different dimensions and energy forms. The hierarchical control of dimension formation and how to achieve dimension balance are mentioned. The influence of dimension on life is discussed, especially how the change of dimension affects the basic properties of matter. proposed four forces that are most easily observed in any dimensional matter and explained their relationship to dimensional change. Through the mapping phenomenon of memory and reality, the role of residual energy is discussed. The concepts of π and e in mathematics are used to explain the process of dimension formation and energy transmission. The application of Riemann hypothesis and in understanding physical phenomena is mentioned. The imbalance between positive energy and negative energy is emphasized. It explains why quantum is both a particle and a wave, and how this characteristic is related to the change of dimension. The only possibility to explain the universe before the change from the vibration. Explain the reason of path integral, so as to judge whether there is superposition state. Explain why there is a minimum unit of radiation energy and it shows a multiple relationship. It is proposed that the time in quantum motion is only a parameter, which further strengthens the relationship between gravity and spatial shape. Explain how gravity causes the universe to expand. By combining mathematics, physics and philosophical thinking, the article reveals the complex and subtle mechanisms hidden behind nature.
Recasting Chemical Engineering to Welcome AI
Authors: Samid Gideon
Published: December 2024

Chemical Engineering, in particular fluid-handling technology, is governed by transport phenomena which for practical purposes present analytically intractable mathematical equations. Optimization then is best served through the emerging tool of artificial intelligence, AI. AI is using neural network to optimize fluid control parameters in order to get a mixture of fluids to behave as wished. In order for AI to be effective, we propose to implement a complete process as a series of steps wherein each step is taken by the same type unit processor -- a universal unit processor, UUP -- over a quantum of fluid. This quantum of fluid, QoF undergoes a step-wise processing and then is moved to the next UUP for the next processing step. Each of these UUP is AI-optimized with increasing process experience. The UUP is constructed as a multi-mode piston, MMP, moving laterally, and freely rotating within an encapsulating cylinder. The multi-mode piston is drilled with holes that open and close. The combined motion of lateral movement, rotation, and hole-dynamics offers comprehensive motion management over the processed quantum of fluid. Each UUP is AI-programmed to pump fluid, mix fluid, serve as a reactor and a separator. The UUP are strung in series and in parallel to move the raw material to the final products. Eventually the UUP will be AI-threaded to complete the process. Once the power of AI is fully harnessed, the scope, efficiency and outreach of chemical engineering will be way ahead.
Discretization of Dynamical Systems Based on Observations
Authors: Kagan Eugene , Novoselsky Alexander
Published: December 2024

Based on the observations of dynamical system, we define partition ξ_ε, which represents dynamical system as good as possible in the sense of its entropy. The suggested method utilizes ε-entropy, ε-capacity, and the introduced ε-information. The resulting algorithm is also useful for defining bin lengths of histograms, especially for multimodal distributions.
Computer Vision-Based Gait Recognition on the Edge: A Survey on Feature Representations, Models, and Architectures
Authors: Salcedo Edwin
Published: December 2024

Computer vision-based gait recognition (CVGR) is a technology that has gained considerable attention in recent years due to its non-invasive, unobtrusive, and difficult-to-conceal nature. Beyond its applications in biometrics, CVGR holds significant potential for healthcare and human-computer interaction. Current CVGR systems often transmit collected data to a cloud server for machine-learning-based gait pattern recognition. While effective, this cloud-centric approach can result in increased system response times. Alternatively, the emerging paradigm of edge computing, which involves moving computational processes to local devices, offers the potential to reduce latency, enable real-time surveillance, and eliminate reliance on internet connectivity. Furthermore, recent advancements in low-cost, compact microcomputers capable of handling complex inference tasks (e.g., Jetson Nano Orin, Jetson Xavier NX, and Khadas VIM4) have created exciting opportunities for deploying CVGR systems at the edge. This paper reports the state of the art in gait data acquisition modalities, feature representations, models, and architectures for CVGR systems suitable for edge computing. Additionally, this paper addresses the general limitations and highlights new avenues for future research in the promising intersection of CVGR and edge computing.
Set Duplicability and Schröder-Bernstein Theorem
Authors: Manca Vincenzo
Published: December 2024

Set duplicability is considered by showing that it provides an easy proof of Schröder-Bernstein Theorem, a fundamental result in the theory of cardinal numbers, usually based on arguments that are not very intuitive.
Exploring the Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors and Endothelial Dysfunction in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Madariaga Traconis Ana Paula , Uribe-Esquivel Misael , Barbero Becerra Varenka Julieta
Published: December 2024

The endothelium is a well-known regulator of vascular homeostasis. Several factors can influence the balance of bioavailability of active substances. This imbalance can lead to inflammation and, consequently, endothelial dysfunction, which is an underlying pathology in cardiovascular disease that commonly coexists with metabolic and chronic diseases such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). In MASLD, a reduction in nitric oxide availability is observed, and as a result, hepatic stellate cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells are activated. Considering the extensive research dedicated to finding several targets with diagnostic and therapeutic effects, nuclear hormone receptors such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors have been highlighted as being highly influential in the gut–liver–adipose axis and are considered potential regulators of metabolism and inflammation in several pathologies. Currently, PPAR agonists are widely explored in clinical trials and experimental studies. Agents such as lanifibranor, elafibranor, daidzein, and Icariin have shown promise in improving the metabolic, hepatic, and cardiovascular health of patients with MASLD. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in endothelial dysfunction and MASLD, exploring their mechanisms in disease progression and potential pharmacological targeting.
Resveratrol in Grapevine Components, Products and By-products - A Review
Authors: Capruciu Ramona
Published: December 2024

Resveratrol, a valuable compound found in grapevines, is found in significant amounts in grapes and wine, but also in other parts of the plant (leaves, roots, shoots) and derived products (juice, raisins, powders, grape pomace). Synthesis factors considerably influence the resveratrol content, and research aims to optimise these factors to maximise yield, with applications in agriculture, food, cosmetics, and medicine. This literature survey aims to review and synthesise existing knowledge on aspects of resveratrol chemical structure and isomers, biological properties and factors influencing resveratrol synthesis and content in grapevine, sources of resveratrol in grapevine components, products, and by-products. Current research is focusing on methods to stabilise resveratrol to in-crease the functionality of food products and the bioavailability of the compound in the colon, thereby contributing to human health, which reflects the interdisciplinary interest in the use of resveratrol as an ingredient with nutraceutical properties.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of Linear and Cyclic Peptides Containing Arginine, Tryptophan, and Diphenylalanine
Authors: Salehi David , Mohammed Eman H.M. , Helmy Naiera Mohamed , Parang Keykavous
Published: December 2024

We have previously reported peptides containing subsequent arginine (R) residues followed by tryptophan (W) or 3,3-diphenyl-L-alanine residues (Dip), such as cyclic peptides [R4W4] and [R4(Dip)3], as antibacterial agents. Herein, we report antibacterial and antifungal activities of ten linear peptides, ((DipR)4(WR)), ((DipR)3(WR)2), ((DipR)2(WR)3), ((DipR)(WR)4), (DipR)4R, and cy-clic peptides [(DipR)4(WR)], [(DipR)3(WR)2], [(DipR)2(WR)3], [(DipR)(WR)4], and [DipR]5 con-taining alternate positively charged R and hydrophobic W and Dip residues against fungal, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of all peptides were determined by the micro-broth dilution method against Methicil-lin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Bacillus subtilis. Fungal organisms were Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Aspergillus fumigatus. [DipR]5 and ((DipR)2(WR)3) showed MIC values of 0.39-6.3 µM and 3.1-25 µM against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains, respectively. The highest activity was ob-served against S. pneumoniae with MIC values of 0.39-0.78 µM among tested compounds. [DipR]5 demonstrated MIC values of 6.6 µM against C. parapsilosis and 1.6 µM against A. fumigatus, whereas fluconazole showed MIC values of 3.3 µM and >209 µM, respectively.
Oral Maintenance Therapy in Early Breast Cancer – How Many Patients Are Potential Candidates?
Authors: Tauber Nikolas , Hilmer Lisbeth , Dannehl Dominik , Fick Franziska , Hemptenmacher Franziska , Krawczyk Natalia , Meyer-Lehnert Thomas , Milewski Kay , Princk Henriette , Hartkopf Andreas Daniel , Rody Achim , Banys-Paluchowski Maggie
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: This single-center analysis evaluated the number of potential candidates for endocrine based oral maintenance therapy in a real-world setting, focusing on three therapeutic agents: olaparib, abemaciclib and ribociclib for patients with hormone receptor positive HER2-negative early breast cancer. Methods: All breast cancer cases from the past 10 years (n= 3,230) that underwent treatment at the certified Breast Cancer Center of the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck Campus, were analyzed. Results: A total of 685 patients (33.6%) qualified for one or more of the three agents—olaparib, abemaciclib, and ribociclib. Of these, 523 patients (76.4%) had node-positive disease. All of these patients met the criteria for ribociclib based on the NATALEE trial and 368 (18.1%) were eligible exclusively for ribociclib, including all node-negative patients. 141 patients (6.9%) met the criteria for all three agents. In contrast, 1,353 patients (66.4%) had no indication for combined endocrine therapy. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the largest analysis addressing all three therapeutic strategies for combined endocrine therapy. The broad indication criteria of the NATALEE study may increase clinic workloads due to more frequent physician-patient interactions. It also remains unclear how therapy recommendations will influence actual treatment, as increased visits and potential side effects could affect patient compliance and adherence.
Challenges in Humoral Immune Response to Adeno-Associated Viruses Determination
Authors: Naumova Daria A , Krokunova Tatyana , Maksimov Denis , Mityaeva Olga N , Astakhova Ekaterina A , Volchkov Pavel Yu
Published: December 2024

Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are non-pathogenic, replication-deficient viruses that have gained widespread attention for their application as gene therapy vectors. While these vectors offer high transduction efficiency and long-term gene expression, the host immune response poses a significant challenge to their clinical success. This review focuses on the obstacles of evaluating humoral response to AAVs. We discuss the problems with the validation of in vitro tests, and the possible approaches to overcome them. Using published data of neutralizing titers of AAV serotypes, we built the first antigenic maps of AAV in order to visualize the antigenic relationships between varying serotypes.
Basilar Artery Trauma
Authors: Lacerda-Gallardo Angel , Abreu-Pérez Daisy , Mazorra Pazos Miguel
Published: December 2024

For this article, a review of the literature on the presence of injury to the basilar artery, its main and perforating branches in head trauma was carried out. In addition, the author's experience in the treatment of this type of patients was considered. The bibliographic search shows that there are few references on the subject, which is why we are probably treating many more traumatic lesions of the basilar artery than those we diagnose.
Acute Respiratory Failure as the First Sign of Non-Fibrotic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis – Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges
Authors: Lewandowska Katarzyna B. , Opoka Lucyna , Bartoszuk Iwona , Jędrych Małgorzata E. , Radwan-Rohrenschef Piotr , Deutsch Kamila , Roży Adriana , Jakubowska Lilia , Tomkowski Witold Z. , Sobiecka Małgorzata , Szturmowicz Monika
Published: December 2024

Background. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an increasingly recognized interstitial lung disease, developing as a result of exposition to inhaled, mostly organic, antigens. Two types of the disease are presently distinguished based on HRCT pattern and/or lung biopsy: fibrotic and non-fibrotic (non-fHP). Complete antigen avoidance is the principle of non-fHP treatment. The indications for steroids use in non-fHP depend on the clinical course of the disease. Case presentations. We present three patients in whom acute respiratory failure was diagnosed as the first sign of non-fHP. Intravenous prednisolone, followed by oral therapy with prednisone in diminishing doses, resulted in marked clinical improvement. Respiratory failure subsided within a few days, but regression of lung opacities lasted from 3 to 7 months. In one patient, the discrete reticular opacities, suggestive of the early phase of lung fibrosis, were present on HRCT, but complete regression of lung disease was achieved in the course of treatment. The patients were instructed to avoid antigens exposure; nevertheless, in one of them, a relapse of the disease, requiring a temporal increase of prednisone dose, was observed. Conclusions. Non-fHP may present as sudden-onset hypoxemic respiratory failure. In such patients, the diagnosis is based on medical history concerning the exposition to inciting antigens and characteristic HRCT pattern. Intravenous therapy with prednisolone results in quick resolution of respiratory failure, and BAL performed with a few days of delay may still be of diagnostic value. Ground glass opacities and air trapping may persist for months from exposure.
Sodium Thiosulfate: An Innovative Multi-Target Repurposed Treatment Strategy for Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hayden Melvin R , Tyagi Neetu
Published: December 2024

Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) is a chronic, multifactorial, and progressive neurodegenerative disease that associates with aging and is highly prevalent in our older population (≥ 65 years of age). This hypothesis generating narrative review will examine the important role for the use of sodium thiosulfate (STS) as a possible multi-targeting treatment option for LOAD. Sulfur is widely available in our environment and is responsible for forming organosulfur compounds that are known to be associated with a wide range of biological activities in the brain. STS is known to have i) antioxidant and ii) anti-inflammatory properties; iii) chelation properties for calcium and the pro-oxidative cation metals such as iron and copper; iv) donor properties for hydrogen sulfide production; v) possible restorative properties for brain endothelial cell-derived bioavailable nitric oxide. Thus, it becomes apparent that STS has the potential for neuroprotection and neuromodulation and may allow for an attenuation of the progressive nature of neurodegeneration and impaired cognition in LOAD. STS has been successfully used to prevent cisplatin oxidative stress-induced ototoxicity in the treatment of head and neck, and solid cancers, cyanide and arsenic poisoning, and fungal skin diseases. Most recently, intravenous STS has become part of the treatment plan for calciphylaxis globally, due to vascular calcification and ischemia-induced skin necrosis and ulceration. While STS does not readily penetrate intact blood-brain barrier(s) (BBBs), it could readily penetrate BBBs that are dysfunctional and disrupted to deliver its neuroprotective and neuromodulating effects in addition to its ability to penetrate the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier of the choroid plexus.
Pig and Cow Blood During Cold Storage in CPDA‐1 Solution: Hematology and Fluid Behavior
Authors: Windberger Ursula , Sparer Andreas
Published: December 2024

Nature provides red blood cell types (RBCs) with diverse mechanical properties, making possible to examine native blood in the presence of different RBC properties (size, shape, aggregability, deformability) without chemically changing the cell membranes, and without modifying the surrounding plasma. We investigated whether the shelf life of cow blood (stiff RBCs, low aggregability) is longer compared to pig blood (deformability/aggregability comparable to human) during cold storage due to a delay in RBC clustering and decomposition. Blood was drawn from conscious pigs and cows (CPDA-1) in their familiar environment to reduce stress, and stored 30 days at +7°C. RBCs remained intact in cow samples whereas pig samples became hemolytic after day 20. White blood cells and platelets decreased with similar percentage in both species. Hematocrit (HCT) decreased due to RBC shrinking in bovine, and due to RBC decay in porcine samples. Blood viscosity increased in both species although HCT decreased. In porcine samples shear-thinning decreased progressively, indicating gradual loss of sample cohesion with storage time. Also, yield stress and storage modulus decreased with hemolysis. In cow samples shear-thinning, yield stress, and storage modulus showed high intraindividual variability, but the mean values did not change over the time course.
Effect of Synbiotic and Postbiotic Supplements on Dental Caries and Periodontal Diseases – A Narrative Review
Authors: Twetman Svante , Belstrøm Daniel
Published: December 2024

Caries and periodontitis affect a significant part of the global population. Regular oral hygiene, sugar restriction and fluoride exposure are the main avenues for the maintenance of oral health, but the adjunctive use of use of prebiotics and probiotic bacteria has gained attention over the past decades. The microbial and clinical effects of these biological interventions have been thoroughly covered in systematic reviews. However, the combination of pre- and probiotics (synbiotics) may boost the clinical benefits, and postbiotics, being inanimate microorganisms, can when added to oral hygiene products offer a sustainable option. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize clinical trials on the adjunctive use of synbiotics and postbiotics in the prevention and management of dental caries, gingivitis and periodontitis. We searched two databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) for relevant literature, and we identified 17 relevant papers, five on dental caries and 12 with periodontal endpoints. We found emerging evidence of low certainty that lozenges/tablets containing synbiotics or postbiotics could reduce caries incidence in preschool and schoolchildren in comparison with standard preventive care. The effect on adult patients with plaque-induced gingivitis was less consistent. For adults with periodontitis, the adjunctive use of syn- and postbiotic products seemed to enhance the outcome of conventional scaling and root planning. In conclusion, both dental caries and periodontitis are non-communicable diseases, closely associated with an unbalanced oral biofilm and the application of microbial modulators, including synbiotics and postbiotics, display promising beneficial effects and warrant further research.
Knowledge and Attitudes about Preconception Health: A Cross-Sectional Study of UAE Medical Students
Authors: Maki Sara , Al Awar Shamsa , Alhosani Sara , Alshamsi Latifa , Alzaabi Shamma , Ali Alsaadi Mohammad , Alhammadi Mahra , Alhosani Hamad , Salam Gehan Sayed , Wójtowicz Stanisław , Zaręba Kornelia
Published: December 2024

Background: Preconception health is critical for improving maternal and child health. Medical students appear to be the best group of medical practitioners for introducing appropriate habits to patients from the early stages of their professional careers. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study between March 15, 2023, and May 31, 2024, among medical students at United Arab Emirates University. To determine awareness and knowledge of pre-conception health, we administered a survey consisting of an author’s questionnaire with 35 questions covering sociodemographic characteristics and general knowledge of preconception health, as well as the WHO Quality of Life Scale-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: The participants were mainly young (98.5% were under 25 years old), Emirati (91.1%), single (92.6%), and female (95.8%); only 3.3% had been pregnant before. Regarding health awareness and behaviors, a significant number (59.8%) had never visited a gynecologist, but 72.4% participated in sports activities. The overall level of knowledge was low, with a median level of 7.5 (SD = 6.36) out of 24. The Internet (64.5%) was the major source of knowledge regarding healthcare information, followed by social media (57.5%), books (48.6%), and family members (57.0%). There was a statistically significant correlation between knowledge levels and the Internet (p < 0.004) or family (p < 0.001) as a source of knowledge. Additionally, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between knowledge and quality of life across all four WHOQOL domains. Conclusion: Medical knowledge might positively affect general well-being. Fostering stronger social networks and support systems could benefit preconceptional awareness and knowledge.