bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le travail forcé au Congo (1960–2001): entre décolonisation du droit et vestiges du joug du droit colonial belge
Authors: Via Balole Christian
Published: December 2024

This article examines the enduring influence of Belgian colonial law on forced labour in the Congo, particularly in the context of the process of decolonising Congolese law. It demonstrates two key points: first, that remnants of colonial law persisted beyond colonisation, and second, that these remnants shaped the development of new legal frameworks by an independent Congo to perpetuate the exploitations of the Congolese population. The analyses reveal a stark contrast between the pro-independence rhetoric advocating freedom of labour by repealing colonial law and the post-colonial law that continues the subjugation of the Congolese people. Ultimately, the article highlights the damaging influence of the former coloniser, which impeded the new Congolese state’s ability to implement a truly sovereign policy. Conversely, this enduring influence provided a pathway for President Mobutu to seize power and further advance the exploitative economic of the Congo and its people rooted in Belgian colonial law.
Hartmut Rosa and the Megachurch Ministry of Robert H. Schuller
Authors: Martí Gerardo , Mulder Mark T.
Published: December 2024

Ecclesiologists are increasingly turning to the theory of sociologist Hartmut Rosa to resource their analysis of congregations about broader social change. Rosa’s concepts of ‘acceleration’ and ‘resonance’ are especially noteworthy, in addition to his call for the ‘dynamic stabilization’ of organizations, acknowledging greater effort required to maintain the status quo. In our narrative, Rosa’s theorizing is applied to understanding the ecclesial practices of Robert H. Schuller (b.1926 – d.2015), a Dutch Reformed megachurch pastor located in Southern California widely known for his global television program Hour of Power and the church building he named the Crystal Cathedral. Our reading of Rosa applies his theory to analytically describe Schuller’s aggressive and innovative approach to church management and public preaching. Rosa’s theoretical framework articulates Schuller’s ministry philosophy as both shaped by and responding to core elements of modernity, which may be helpful to ecclesially concerned theologians.
Al-Fārābī’s Cosmopolitical Imaginaries
Authors: Hayes Josh
Published: December 2024

The power of the imagination (al-khayāl) is decisive to the constitution of Abū Naṣr al-Fārābī’s virtuous city. The imagination enables the citizens of the virtuous city to effectively distinguish between certain images as a necessary means to attaining happiness. The imagination is cultivated through a regimen of civic education which prepares citizens to engage in political deliberation. The realization of the virtuous city is determined by the exercise of the imagination beginning with the philosopher-ruler-imām who receives and translates intelligibles (ma‘qūlāt) from the Active Intellect into images (muḥākāt) communicated to the political community. In what follows, we shall seek to demonstrate how the power of the imagination contributes to al-Fārābī’s cosmopolitical imaginary and the inception of his cosmopolitanism.
“Lviv Interactive” and Exploring Artists’ Spaces on a Digital Map
Authors: Shumylovych Bohdan , Nazaruk Taras
Published: December 2024

The paper discusses the utilization of digital maps and an encyclopedia platform, hosted by the Center for Urban History in Lviv, to delve into the history of artistic milieus and practices within the spatial context of Lviv during the late 1980s. The digital project’s objective was to present the lives and artistic practices of alternative artists in Lviv through various mediums such as video walks, stories, digitized collections, analytical texts, and a digital map. By combining visual anthropology, art history, urban studies, and oral history through the Lviv Interactive platform and digital storytelling tools like ArcGIS and Storymaps, the project addressed the question: How did the city shape contemporary art in Lviv? The authors argue that integrating digital tools, web interfaces, and established academic concepts in our daily lives represents the emergence of digital history, a convergence that scholars employ to interpret our surroundings. However, the concept of a purely digital history may only materialize when our cognitive abilities are digitized, potentially merging with the domain of artificial intelligence rather than traditional analog historians. The experiences and uncertainties encountered during the City and Art on the Edge project further reinforced the notion of digital hermeneutics as an intermediary state, emphasizing the inherent tensions between the tangible analog world and the digital realm.
Selling their vote expensively: The effects of information, apathy and age
Authors: Gherghina Sergiu , Tap Paul
Published: December 2024

People’s attitudes towards vote buying have often been studied through the lenses of its acceptability as a norm in society or the drivers behind the decision to accept money if offered. However, we know little about the financial value that voters attach to their vote. To fill this gap in the literature, this research note analyzes what makes people accept different sums of money in exchange for their votes. It uses a survey conducted in Romania after the 2020 legislative elections and shows that most respondents reject any sum of money. Among those willing to accept money, the voters who have limited information, who rarely participate politically and those who are young are inclined to ask higher sums for their vote. Partisanship has mild effects, but poverty and trust in parties do not make a difference.
From Angels to Fighters: Indian Nurses in Germany from the 1960s Till Today
Authors: Wichterich Christa
Published: December 2024

The article introduces global care chains as migrant labour regimes that represent transnational axes of social reproduction and supply chains in the wake of globalisation. Since the 1960s, attempts have been made to solve the nursing shortage in German hospitals with a spatial fix, the transnational commodification and extraction of care in a cross-border market. In addition to the push and pull factors for this international division of reproductive labour framed by global structures of inequality, the autonomy of migration and the agency of the subjects are also taken into account.

Based on biographical interviews, the empirical part compares the first generation of Indian nurses who came to Germany in the 1960s/1970s with those who have immigrated in the last 10 years. The categories analysed are their motivation, recognition, work and workplace, respect and discrimination, transnational family and, finally, their life perspective. The biographical narratives reflect ambivalences and contradictions, 50-year continuities, but also a growing autonomy. Despite massive constraints and marginalisation, they document great achievements in life, work and emancipation.
Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a single home-based fall prevention program: a prospective observational study based on questionnaires and claims data
Authors: Niedermann Karin , Meichtry André , Zindel Barbara , Ernst Markus J. , Krafft Valérie , Mattli Renato , Nast Irina , Wieser Simon , Wirz Markus , Brunner Beatrice
Published: December 2024

Background

Fall prevention programmes are essential interventions in societies with aging populations. This study assessed the fall rate and other health outcomes, as well as the cost-effectiveness of a home-based fall prevention programme for community-dwelling older people. In a single home visit, trained physical or occupational therapists performed fall risk assessments, eliminated environmental risk factors, and provided tailored exercises.

Methods

A prospective, longitudinal observational study was performed with participants of a fall prevention programme who agreed to be followed-up over one year. Baseline data included self-reported falls one month and one year before the intervention. Participants were monitored through bi-monthly telephone calls, assessing their number of falls, fear of falling (using the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), quality of life (using the EuroQuol-5 Dimensions-5 Levels, EQ-5D-5L), and physical activity (in minutes per week). Statistical analysis of the data used a Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) Poisson-Modell for number of falls and a Linear Mixed Model (LMM) for fear of falling, quality of life and physical activity. In addition, health insurance claims data were used to compare the number of medically treated falls in the year before and after the intervention, as well as the related healthcare spending. Cost-effectiveness of the programme versus usual care was estimated as cost per prevented medically treated fall.

Results

Overall, 639 person-years of observation time were analyzed. Participants had a mean age of 81.8 years (+/- 5.2) and 59% were female. On average, the fall rate decreased from 1.35 to 1.02 per person-year, or -23.9% (95%CI from -35.92 to -9.67), fear of falling decreased by -1.27 points (95%CI from −1.50 to -1.05), quality of life improved by -0.88 points (95%CI from −1.09 to -0.68), and physical activity increased by 9.87 min per day (95%CI from 5.65 to 14.09). Analysis of claims data showed a 48.0% reduction (95%CI from 30.5% to 61.0%) in medically treated falls. The average cost per prevented medically treated fall was estimated at approximately 1,353 USD, with a 50% probability of the intervention being cost saving.

Conclusions

This fall prevention programme with a single home visit was found to be effective and cost effective. Health policies should establish such a model as a reimbursed standard care to assist in combatting the increasing burden of falls on individuals and societies.
Patient satisfaction and safety in the administration of sedation by nursing staff in the digestive endoscopy service: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hidalgo-Cabanillas Miriam , Laredo-Aguilera José Alberto , Cobo-Cuenca Ana Isabel , Molina-Madueño Rosa María , Santacruz-Salas Esmeralda , Rodriguez-Muñoz Pedro Manuel , Carmona-Torres Juan Manuel
Published: December 2024

Background

The satisfaction of patients with sedation by nursing staff is an issue of interest for the quality of health care, influencing the recovery and well-being of patients as well as their confidence in and adherence to treatment. One of the most frequently performed diagnostic and therapeutic tests requiring sedation are digestive endoscopies, so it would be interesting to study satisfaction in these services.

Aim

To determine the level of patient satisfaction and safety with sedation via digestive endoscopies by nurses.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study in the Digestive Endoscopy Service at the University Hospital of Toledo, Spain. The sample consisted of 660 adult patients from the digestive endoscopy service who were sedated between June–September 2023. The degree of satisfaction with the service was measured by the questionnaire: Survey of patient satisfaction with the digestive endoscopy service. The study was approved by the ethics committee.

Results

Patients who reported satisfaction with the treatment were very satisfied with the sedation provided by the nurses. The most valued item was the attention of the nursing professionals. The least valued items were the waiting time for the appointment and the time spent in the waiting room on the same day. The incidence of complications recorded during the test were minimal (2% of all patients).

Conclusions

Most patients are satisfied with the sedation administered by nurses via digestive endoscopies, and complications were rare, supporting the efficacy and acceptance of this practice. Clinical practice guidelines and consensus documents in Spain guarantee that nurses have autonomy to administer sedation in digestive endoscopy services, but there is a lack of national regulations to support this technique. The current consensus in Spain is that specific training is necessary for such nurses.
Compensating elastic faults in a torque-assisted knee exoskeleton: functional evaluation and user perception study
Authors: Velasco-Guillen Rodrigo J. , Bliek Adna , Font-Llagunes Josep M. , Vanderborght Bram , Beckerle Philipp
Published: December 2024

Wearable robots are often powered by elastic actuators, which can mimic the intrinsic compliance observed in human joints, contributing to safe and seamless interaction. However, due to their increased complexity, when compared to direct drives, elastic actuators are susceptible to faults, which pose significant challenges, potentially compromising user experience and safety during interaction. In this article, we developed a fault-tolerant control strategy for torque assistance in a knee exoskeleton and investigated user experience during a walking task while emulating faults. We implemented and evaluated the torque control scheme, based on impedance control, for a mechanically adjustable compliance actuator with nonlinear torque-deflection characteristics. Conducted functional evaluation experiments showed that the control strategy is capable of providing support during gait based on a torque profile. A user study was conducted to evaluate the impact of fault severity and compensation on the perception of support, stiffness, comfort, and trust while walking with the exoskeleton. Results from the user study revealed significant differences in participants’ responses when comparing support and stiffness levels without fault compensation. In contrast, no significant differences were found when faults were compensated, indicating that fault tolerance can be achieved in practice. Meanwhile, comfort and trust measurements do not seem to depend directly on torque support levels, pointing to other influencing factors that could be considered in future research.
FAIR Data Cube, a FAIR data infrastructure for integrated multi-omics data analysis
Authors: Liao Xiaofeng , Ederveen Thomas H.A. , Niehues Anna , de Visser Casper , Huang Junda , Badmus Firdaws , Doornbos Cenna , Orlova Yuliia , Kulkarni Purva , van der Velde K. Joeri , Swertz Morris A. , Brandt Martin , van Gool Alain J. , ’t Hoen Peter A. C.
Published: December 2024

Motivation

We are witnessing an enormous growth in the amount of molecular profiling (-omics) data. The integration of multi-omics data is challenging. Moreover, human multi-omics data may be privacy-sensitive and can be misused to de-anonymize and (re-)identify individuals. Hence, most biomedical data is kept in secure and protected silos. Therefore, it remains a challenge to re-use these data without infringing the privacy of the individuals from which the data were derived. Federated analysis of Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) data is a privacy-preserving solution to make optimal use of these multi-omics data and transform them into actionable knowledge.

Results

The Netherlands X-omics Initiative is a National Roadmap Large-Scale Research Infrastructure aiming for efficient integration of data generated within X-omics and external datasets. To facilitate this, we developed the FAIR Data Cube (FDCube), which adopts and applies the FAIR principles and helps researchers to create FAIR data and metadata, to facilitate re-use of their data, and to make their data analysis workflows transparent, and in the meantime ensure data security and privacy.
BACE1 inhibitory potential: screening of medicinal plants collected from Nepal high altitude regions
Authors: Pandey Bishnu Prasad , Oh Jong Min , Shin Woong-Hee , Subedi Abhimat , Dahal Ankita , Bhattarai Sumit , Kim Hoon
Published: December 2024

Fifty-four plant extracts from thirty-two medicinal plants collected in Nepal were evaluated for their inhibitory potential against the enzyme beta-secretase-1 (BACE1), to identify potential therapeutic agents for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Of the studied extracts, rhizome extract of Rheum australe D. Don showed the highest inhibitory potential, with an IC50 value of 0.872 ± 0.006 µg/mL. After BACE1 inhibitory activity check using 9 fractions collected from Prep-HPLC, further profiling of the metabolites of the best fraction 7 was performed using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Results revealed the presence of diverse secondary metabolites, including aloe-emodin-8-O-β-D-glucoside, rhein-8-O-glucoside, piceatannol-3’-O-β-D-glucoside, emodin-8-glucoside, physcion 8-O-β-D-glucoside, desoxyrhaponticin, chrysophanol-8-O-glucoside, rhapontigenin, rhein, desoxyrhapontigenin, piceatannol, chrysophanol, physcion, and aloe-emodin. In-silico docking simulations were performed to identify potent compounds with high binding efficiencies to BACE1. Compound picetannol-3’-O-β-D-glucoside showed the best binding energy (-53.494 kcal/mol) and inhibitory potential with an IC50 value of 1.270 ± 0.130 µM for BACE1. These results suggested that the R. australe D. Don extract is a promising agent for the treatment of AD.
Knockdown of IGF2BP2 overcomes cisplatin-resistance in lung cancer through downregulating Spon2 gene
Authors: Zhang Shilei , Dou Ting , Li Hong , Yu Hongfang , Zhang Wei , Sun Liping , Yang Jingwen , Wang Zhenfei , Yang Hao
Published: December 2024

Background

Cisplatin (DDP) resistance has long posed a challenge in the clinical treatment of lung cancer (LC). Insulin-like growth factor 2 binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) has been identified as an oncogenic factor in LC, whereas its specific role in DDP resistance in LC remains unclear.

Results

In this study, we investigated the role of IGF2BP2 on DDP resistance in DDP-resistant A549 cells (A549/DDP) in vitro and in a DDP-resistant lung tumor-bearing mouse model in vivo. Additionally, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) was conducted to identify the potential mRNAs regulated by IGF2BP2, an N6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulator, in the tumor tissues of mice. Compared to normal tissues, IGF2BP2 levels were increased in LC tissues and in relapsed/resistant LC tissues. Most importantly, IGF2BP2 levels were significantly higher in relapsed/resistant LC tissues than in LC tissues. Significantly, knockdown of IGF2BP2 or DDP treatment inhibited A549 cell viability, migration, and cell cycle progression. Consistently, DDP treatment suppressed the viability and migration and triggered cell cycle arrest in A549/DDP cells in vitro, as well as reduced tumor volume and weight of A549/DDP tumor-bearing mice; meanwhile, the combination of DDP and IGF2BP2 siRNA further significantly inhibited A549/DDP cell growth in vitro and in vivo compared to DDP treatment alone. Furthermore, MeRIP-seq data showed that IGF2BP2 downregulation remarkably elevated m6A levels of spondin 2 (Spon2) and reduced mRNA levels of Spon2 in tumor tissues from A549 tumor-bearing mice. Meanwhile, the combination of DDP and IGF2BP2 siRNA notably reduced Spon2 levels, as well as inhibited the viability and induced apoptosis in A549/DDP cells; however, these effects were reversed by Spon2 overexpression.

Conclusion

Collectively, downregulation of IGF2BP2 could overcome DDP resistance in LC through declining the Spon2 gene expression in an m6A-dependent manner. These results may provide a new strategy for overcoming DDP resistance in LC.
On the Problem of Hidden Meanings in Written Communication
Authors: Papusha I.
Published: December 2024

The article considers one of the tools for working with hidden meanings — hermes of the field of linguistic tension of a complex syntactic whole as elements of its internal structure. Due to the fact that an artistic text as a "particularly aesthetic reality" provides the possibility of its relativly unlimited interpretation, hidden meanings can be extracted both from the multi-level linguistic units themselves and from the positional conditions in which they fall in the linear structure of the highest syntactic unit. Special attention is paid to the actualization of the meaning / content and production / perception relationships in the literary text, as well as to the actualization of the "out–of-text" load of the linguistic sign in the text.
Communicative Strategies of Metadiscourse in Modern English Fiction
Authors: Fedotova Oksana
Published: December 2024

The paper studies a very important issue of modern communicative science dialogue between the author and the reader. On the material of modern English narrative four communicative strategies of metadiscourse are revealed: the strategy of imitation of direct communication between the author and the reader, the strategy of appeal to general knowledge of the reader, temporal strategy and the strategy of generalization. Each strategy has its own system of markers. The first strategy is realized by personal pronouns we, you, social expressions and clichés, introduction words and phrases, rhetorical questions to the reader and modal verbs. The markers of the second strategy are lexical means and rhetorical questions. The temporal strategy is marked by the grammar tenses and adverbs of frequency. The strategy of generalization is realized by indefinite pronouns and abstract nouns. The study shows that these strategies are often combined in one context, which emphasizes the communication between the author and the reader.
Methods of Diplomatic Relations: A Cognitive and Communicative Approach (Based on Modern English)
Authors: Tuarmenskiy A.
Published: December 2024

e linguistic study of diplomatic relations is a complex problem, which is considered by representatives of different scientific schools, with their own research perspectives. The databases of scientific literature contain materials on communicative linguistics, language theory, cognitive linguistics and other disciplines that form the basis for modern research in this field.

The purpose of the work is to consider the methods of diplomatic relations from the standpoint of a cognitive-communicative approach in modern English. The stated approach involves studying the structures of knowledge about diplomatic relations in correlation with the means of their representation in communication processes.

Based on an extensive selection of scientific literature and dictionaries, a conceptual and definitional analysis has been carried out to determine the structure of the DIPLOMACY concept. There have been singled out both central (SKILL, RELATIONS, CONDUCT) and non-central characteristics (NEGOTIATION, MANAGE, TACT, etc.)

The classification criteria have been identified with the sources of factual material reflecting 30 ways of diplomatic relations. The data on the types of diplomacy have been presented in accordance with the highlighted conceptual characteristics.

In the future, the results of the study will be used to describe the interpretation of diplomatic relations in the context of various conceptual areas. It is also promising to study the cognitive models underlying the structures of knowledge about the methods of diplomatic relations, as well as to determine the cognitive and linguistic mechanisms of secondary interpretation of diplomatic relations in English. The applied aspect is the systematization of linguistic means of representation of diplomatic relations in communication.
Dynamic Changes of the Concept ‘Love’ in Modern Communicative Genres (On the Material of Internet Communication)
Authors: Su Heqing , Milovanova M.
Published: December 2024

Abstract This article is devoted to studying the changes in concept ‘love’ and the specifics of its functioning in the modern Russian communicative environment. The Aim of the paper is to study the conceptual use dynamics in new contexts (Internet communication) and the main usage features of the concept ‘love’ in different genres. Met¬ho¬do¬logy and re¬se¬arch met¬hods: analyses the semantic filling, semantic volume, and linguistic explication, approved in the PhD theses conducted by the Nizhny Novgorod scientific school in cognitive linguistics; linguistic observation and discourse analysis methods; comparison, description; Internet monitoring. Results. As a result of the research, it was established that changes in the usage value for concept ‘love’ are connected with the family relations structure development and new connections between the concepts ‘love’ and ‘sex’; we listed the forms of concept ‘love’ manifestation, traced dynamics in word ‘love’ usage at lexico-semantic and lexico-phraseological levels both in the Soviet period and in modern times. Scientific novelty. In addition to new concept manifestations in a vibrant online network discourse environment, attention is paid to and texts including creolised forms are analysed. The practical significance of the study consists mainly of the fact that the obtained results can be used as reference material for various current studies in communicative and discourse analysis.
Evaluative Priorities in the Linguistic Consciousness of Modern Russian Students
Authors: Karasik Vladimir , Kitanina E.
Published: December 2024

The article deals with the value preferences of modern Russian students on the material of surveys in several Russian universities. 250 people were interviewed. The informants were asked the following questions: Which behavioral flaw do your friends consider to be the most forgivable and the most unforgivable? What do they see as the main virtue in behavior of their peers? What in the behavior of the older generation in your friends’ view seems strange and unpleasant? It is found that students' evaluative priorities generally correspond to the communicative values of Russian linguoculture (openness, sincerity, benevolence) and the priorities of youth worldview (emotionality, spontaneity, independence). At the same time, we can see the peculiarities of modern attitudes to communication in the respondents' answers: acute rejection of communicative pressure and orientation to the expressed approval of one's attitude to the world by other people. To a certain extent, these features are conditioned by the norms and usus of network communication, which is the leading type of personal interactions of modern youth and in which the expression of mutual sympathy in the form of signs of approval dominates. The value picture of the world promoted by network discourse is a reduced worldview of people living in a constructed comfortable reality. Regrettably, many informants regard the usage of obscene words in friendly talk as acceptable mode of communication. The emphasis on tactfulness in communication as a necessary condition of communication can be explained by the norms of behavior in higher education, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, by the gender specificity of informants (girls are known to predominate among the surveyed students of philology).
‘Ethnophaulism as a Means of Speech Aggression (Based on Counter-Text for News Reports)
Authors: Sosnina L. , Demchenko Natal'ya
Published: December 2024

A brief theoretical analysis of general understanding of the mechanism of "hate speech" and the concept of "ethnophaulism" have been presented. Ethnophaulism is considered as a tool for inciting ethnic intolerance.

The material for the study was the comments of readers of the online publication RIA News (RIA Novosti). The collected factual material has been observed within the framework of two classifications on different grounds. A quantitative analysis of the dependence of the c use of ethnophaulisms by site population on the information flow is proposed.

The relevance of the study is due to the occurrence of new means of speech aggression and the changes in existing ones, including those that contribute to inciting communicative conflicts of an interpersonal and group nature in the Internet environment.

The novelty of the work lies in the fact that for the first time an attempt is being made to study the use of ethnophaulisms in the context of a special military operation based on the material of a single news source RIA News (RIA Novosti).
The anticarcinogenic properties of manuka honey - a literature review
Authors: Muciek Adrianna , Mocarska Martyna , Orłowska Anna , Strakowska Katarzyna , Opalska Laura , Maryńczak Anna , Mencel Jan , Nitschke Nicole
Published: December 2024

Background: Since antiquity, honey has been recognised for its healing and antibacterial properties. Recently, Manuka honey (MH) has been identified as possessing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and anticarcinogenic effects.
Objective: This review examines the potential benefits of manuka honey, its bioactive components, and their effects on cancerogenesis, cancer growth, and development.
Methods: The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched, and 46 studies were identified as most relevant to the research objective.
Results: The accompanying papers posit that MH may impede carcinogenesis by regulating various molecular pathways and cancer cell progression. A substantial body of scientific evidence indicates that a range of honey types, including MH, can facilitate the release of reactive oxygen species and cytokines (predominantly IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) by innate immune system cells. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that honey can stimulate T lymphocytes and macrophages' proliferation and functions while also inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in cancer cells.
Conclusion: The body of evidence attesting to the anticarcinogenic properties of MH continues to grow. Several studies have demonstrated the significant role of manuka honey and its properties in promoting innate and adaptive immunity, which is essential for eliminating cancer cells. Nevertheless, further research is required to provide comprehensive data regarding the active constituents of Manuka honey and their potential efficacy in cancer therapy.
Advancements in Early Alzheimer’s Treatment: Narrative Review about Lecanemab (Leqembi ®)
Authors: Muciek Adrianna , Mocarska Martyna , Orłowska Anna , Strakowska Katarzyna , Opalska Laura , Maryńczak Anna , Mencel Jan , Nitschke Nicole
Published: December 2024

Alzheimer's disease represents one of the most significant challenges in the field of neurology, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. In pursuing efficacious treatments, lecanemab has emerged as a promising therapeutic option. This pioneering monoclonal antibody targets and reduces amyloid-beta plaques in the brain, a defining feature of Alzheimer's disease. By addressing one of the fundamental causes of the disease, lecanemab represents a novel approach to slowing its progression. 
On 14th November 2024, the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted a positive opinion, recommending granting marketing authorisation for Leqembi® (whose active substance is lecanemab). This recommendation is specifically directed towards patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease who are non-carriers or heterozygotes for the apolipoprotein E ε4 (ApoE ε4) allele, thereby underscoring the drug's efficacy tailored to specific genetic profiles (Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use, 2024).
The CHMP's approval is a testament to the extensive research and clinical trials that have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Leqembi® (Lecanemab). This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive examination of these aspects and offer a detailed understanding of the potential impact of this treatment on the management of early Alzheimer's disease.
Physical activity in kidney transplant recipients: benefits, barriers, interventions
Authors: Skweres Martyna , Nieczyporuk Mateusz , Pucyło Szymon , Piotrowska Gabriela , Ceglarz Katarzyna , Pielaciński Jan , Rudnik Aleksander , Sikora Kinga , Sikora Aleksandra
Published: December 2024

Kidney transplant recipients are reported to have low levels of physical activity compared to the general population. This population is burdened by high prevalence of both traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Physical activity has multiple known health benefits, including reduction of cardiovascular disease risk factors, which are the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in this group. Sedentary lifestyle has been associated with poorer long-term graft outcomes and inferior quality of life. Lack of specific guidelines regarding exercise post-transplantation has been cited as one of the barriers to physical activity, alongside comorbidities and immunosuppressive drugs’ side effects. Exercise interventions, leading to improved physical functioning both pre- and post-transplant, have been demonstrated to lead to improved muscle strength, overall physical functioning, as well as cardiorespiratory performance. Currently available data on physical activity in kidney transplant recipients and its role in long term management of these patients remains limited, but promising results regarding its impact on long-term outcomes highlight the need for further research and development of more precise guidelines and educational programmes for both healthcare professionals and kidney transplant recipients.
Effect of Blood Flow Restriction Resistance Training on Elbow Joint Muscle Strength
Authors: Xu Xiongzhuang , Liu Qian , Peng Li
Published: December 2024

Blood flow restriction training combined with low-intensity resistance training is associated with increases in muscle strength and size. The effect of blood flow restriction resistance training on muscle strength at the elbow joint is unknown. The purpose of this systematic review was to explore the effects of blood flow restriction resistance training compared with traditional low or high-intensity resistance training on muscle strength at the elbow. Relevant literature from 3 databases was searched. Risk of bias was assessed using the PEDro scale. Eventually, 1502 literatures were retrieved, and 11 of these high-quality literatures were included in the review after screening out. blood flow restriction resistance training significantly increased elbow flexor and extensor muscle strength and muscle size. Blood flow restriction training combined with low-intensity resistance training was superior to low-intensity resistance training alone in terms of muscle strength and size during long-term training and achieved a similar level of traditional high-intensity resistance training, which was applicable during both isometric and isotonic training. It can be carried out in healthy adults or patients who are significantly weakened and unable to perform conventional strength training.
Dynamic Mechanism of High Quality Development of National Fitness Public Service: An Analysis Based on Interpretative Structural Model
Authors: Deng Liang , Yang ZongQian , Shi LiZhen , Huang XiaoLing
Published: December 2024

National Fitness Public Service is integral to people's livelihoods and connects with public sentiment. Promoting the high-quality development of National Fitness Public Service is not only a necessary response to the overall high-quality development of China's economy and society but also an essential measure to meet the public's expectations for a high-quality life. The "14th Five-Year Plan" period represents a new journey in the construction of National Fitness Public Service in China and a critical period for establishing a high-quality development and high-quality life paradigm. Under these new circumstances, it is crucial to clarify the driving forces behind the high-quality development of National Fitness Public Service. This clarification is significant for local governments to advance National Fitness Public Service and enhance service levels.This study, based on the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), systematically constructs the driving mechanism of high-quality development for National Fitness Public Service. The final model is structured as "1-3-9-19," where "1" represents the goal layer, "3" the superficial direct driving factors, "9" the intermediate driving factors, and "19" the foundational driving factors. This model aids in strengthening the theoretical understanding of the high-quality development of National Fitness Public Service and provides theoretical support for local governments in formulating regional policies.
Suicidal risk in patients diagnosed with central nervous system tumors – current state of knowledge: Comprehensive review
Authors: Skalska-Dziobek Nina , Naruszewicz Maria , Midro Aleksandra , Cetnarowski Przemysław , Zagórski Karol , Kozik Mateusz , Małagocka Weronika , Chybowska Karolina
Published: December 2024

Introduction and objective: Central nervous system (CNS) tumors, particularly brain tumors, significantly impact mental health, leading to conditions like depression, anxiety, and suicidality. This study examines the prevalence and risk factors for these disorders in CNS tumor patients, focusing on brain tumors.
Material and methods: A comprehensive review was conducted to assess suicidality and prevalence of various mental diseases in patients with CNS tumors, focusing on brain tumors. Studies were identified through PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, including research on CNS tumors and associated mental health conditions. Key outcomes examined included depression, anxiety, and suicidality.
State of knowledge: Gliomas and glioblastomas are strongly linked to mental health challenges, with depression and anxiety being most common. Suicidality is notably higher in CNS tumor patients, influenced by tumor-related neurological and functional impairments. Despite this, mental health care integration into neuro-oncology remains inadequate.
Conclusions: CNS tumor patients are at high risk for mental health disorders and suicidality, highlighting the need for early intervention and multidisciplinary care. Better integration of mental health support can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
The potential of cold plasma technology for weed control in the pre-growth and post-growth phases
Authors: BUKHORI ANWAR , GUNTORO DWI , SUDRADJAT SUDRADJAT , SUGIARTO ANTO TRI
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Bukhori A, Guntoro D, Sudradjat, Sugiarto AT. 2024. The potential of cold plasma technology for weed control in the pre-growth and post-growth phases. Biodiversitas 25: 3628-3636. Efforts to reduce the use of herbicides can be made by using cold plasma technology. This technology produces heat energy through the emission of UV plasma light, generated by electrical energy. This research investigates the potential of various cold plasma treatments to inhibit germination, inhibit the growth of weed seeds in soil media, and suppress weed growth. The study was conducted at the Ecotoxicology Laboratory and Seed Propagation Laboratory, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Bogor, Indonesia, from March to September 2023. Three types of weeds used were Asystasia gangetica (L.) T.Anderson, Cyperus rotundus L., and Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. Three experiments were designed for this study. The first experiment tested cold plasma on weed seeds, the analysis was conducted using a single-factor completely randomized designed with varying doses of cold plasma and four replications. The second experiment tested cold plasma technology in soil media, the analysis was conducted using a single-factor completely randomized designed with various doses of cold plasma and seven replications. The third experiment tested cold plasma on the growth of each weed, the analysis was conducted using a single-factor randomized block design with various doses of cold plasma and four replications. The research shows that the application of cold plasma at a dose of 14 kV for 85 seconds can inhibit germination and weed growth in soil media of each type of weed A. gangetica, C. rotundus, and E. indica.
Nietzsche –Avrupa ve Kültür
Authors: Bandeoğlu Zeyyat
Published: December 2024

Friedrich Nietzsche, "The Antichrist" adlı eserinde, sadece yarın sonrasının kendisine ait olduğunu belirtir, böylece bazı bireylerin ölümlerinden sonraki etkisine vurgu yapar. Ölümünden neredeyse 120 yıl sonra, yazıları hala çağdaş okuyucular için özel bir öneme sahip. Bu makale, Nietzsche'nin Avrupa'ya yönelik eleştirisini keşfeder ve onun çağdaş Avrupa vizyonunu ortaya koyar. Bu analizi üç temel eksende yapılandırır: mevcut Avrupa'nın tanımı, Nietzsche'nin bu tanıma yönelik yargısı ve gelecekteki bir Avrupa için duyduğu arzular. Nietzsche, siyasi ve ahlaki ideallerle dolu bir Avrupa tasvir eder, politikaya ve ahlaka olan takıntı ile belirlenmiş bir Avrupa. Ona göre, bu odaklanma, temel değerleri gerileyen hastalıklı bir Avrupa'nın işaretidir. Nietzsche'ye göre, kültür ve değerler Avrupa'nın temel direkleridir ve bunların değersizleşmesi yaşamsal bir zayıflamaya ve çöküşe neden olur. Bu nedenle, Nietzsche, politik değil kültürel temeller üzerinde Avrupa birliğini düşünmenin önemine vurgu yaparak, olumlu ve üstün bir kültüre dönüşü önerir. Bu eleştiri, Avrupa Birliği'nin sorgulandığı bir dönemde özellikle önemlidir ve Nietzsche'nin Avrupa'ya yönelik vizyonunun yeniden değerlendirilmesine davet eder.
Drinking Coffee and Tea and the Prevention of Cancer
Authors:   Sunvalley Communication, LLC / Onco'Zine, Hofland Peter
Published: December 2024

Coffee and tea are widely consumed around the world and for decades researchers have attempted to investigate and analyze the protective health benefits of them. Although the association between health and coffee and tea consumption is not new, there are still no conclusive answers. What is clear is that numerous studies have shown that coffee drinking is associated with an overall lower risk of dying from all causes of death. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis found a trend towards a protective effect of coffee, linking it to a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. Parkinson's disease,[ and T2DM. However, the association with specific types of cancer remains unclear and, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the potential ways in which coffee may lower the risk of cancer are not completely understood.
Material Selection for Natural rubber–Styrene butadine rubber Composite by Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Phoempoo Phatcharee , Sangchay Weerachai , Sukrajang Kantamon , Rattanakool Tanarat
Published: December 2024

Natural Rubber (NR) has distinctive characteristics, namely, it possesses strength, reduces heat accumulation, and performs well at low temperatures, surpassing Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR). However, SBR has its own merits, such as resistance to cracking, wet road traction, and better weather resistance than NR. Consequently, in the automotive tire manufacturing industry, NR and SBR are commonly mixed in various ratios. Additionally, this blending aids in cost reduction during production. Thus, this research explores the mixing ratios between NR and SBR at 100/0, 75/25, 50/50, 25/75, and 0/100 using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique as a tool to manage values obtained from tests, including tensile strength, tear resistance, and 300% modulus. All these criteria are amalgamated into a single value to facilitate decision-making in selecting the most suitable ratios. It was found that 100/0 was the most preferable option, followed by 0/100, 75/25, 50/50, and 25/75.
Sosiofotografi Konsep, Desain, hingga Praktik: A Review Essay
Authors: Tamba Wahyu Pratama
Published: December 2024

Extract
The concept of sociophotography offers an innovative approach to sociology education, particularly at the high school level. By combining photography and sociological theories, this book enables students to connect abstract sociological concepts with real-life social phenomena. It emphasizes active student engagement, where learners document, analyze, and interpret societal issues through photography projects. This approach fosters critical thinking, social awareness, and an appreciation for sociological concepts beyond rote memorization. The book outlines the application of sociophotography through three paradigms: positivistic, interpretative, and critical, each offering distinct methodologies to examine themes such as social equality, cultural change, and urban poverty. These paradigms enrich students' understanding of sociology while developing their practical skills.
The book also underscores the pedagogical value of sociophotography in engaging students with sociological materials while stimulating interest in sociology as a discipline. By providing detailed explanations and case studies, it equips educators and students with the tools to explore sociology innovatively. The integration of this method into secondary education curricula can revitalize sociology learning and attract more students to the field. The potential of sociophotography as both an academic and practical tool ensures its relevance in addressing contemporary social challenges, making it a significant contribution to the advancement of sociology education.
Anomaly-Based Intrusion Detection System for the Internet of Medical Things
Authors: Franklin Eichie , Pranggono Bernardi
Published: December 2024

The use of the Internet of Things (IoT) in the health sector, known as the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), allows for personalized and convenient (e)-health services for patients. However, there are concerns about security and privacy as unethical hackers can compromise these network systems with malware. We proposed using hyperparameter-optimized Machine and Deep Learning models to address these concerns to build more robust security solutions. We used a representative Anomaly Intrusion Detection System (AIDS) dataset to train six state-of-the-art Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) architectures, with the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) algorithm used to handle class imbalance in the training dataset. Our hyperparameter optimization using the Random search algorithm accurately classified normal cases for all six models, with Random Forest (RF) and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) performing the best in accuracy. The attention-based Convolutional Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-LSTM) model was the second-best performer, while the hybrid CNN-LSTM model performed the worst. However, there was no single best model in classifying all attack labels, as each model performed differently in terms of different metrics.