bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathogenic Factors of Bacterial Vaginitis and Construction of Nomogram Prediction Model
Authors: Chen Xuqing , Li Jing , Lei Nanxiang , Liang Hui
Published: August 2023

Background: This study aims to explore the risk factors inducing bacterial vaginosis (BV) and establish a nomogram prediction model. Methods: Single-factor analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors affecting the onset of BV. The selected risk factors were incorporated into the R software to establish a nomogram prediction model. The effectiveness of the proposed model was evaluated. Results: The cleanliness of vaginal secretions above grade III accounted for 90.86% (169/186) of the cases. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the use of nursing pads during non-menstrual periods, history of miscarriage ≥1 time, self-vaginal douche, and frequency of sexual activity ≥5 time per week were identified as risk factors for the incidence of BV (p < 0.05). Using condoms as a method of contraception was identified as a protective factor for the incidence of BV (p < 0.05); A nomogram prediction model was established based on the aforementioned risk factors, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.789 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.751–0.827), indicating that the nomogram had a good degree of discrimination. The slope of the calibration curve was close to 1. Decision curve analysis (DCA) shows that it has good clinical value. Conclusions: The nomogram prediction model established based on BV risk factors has good discrimination and high degree of consistency.
Role of Parathyroid Hormone and Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein in Protein-Energy Malnutrition
Authors: Srisuwarn Praopilad , Disthabanchong Sinee
Published: August 2023

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is an endocrine peptide found exclusively in the parathyroid glands, whereas parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) is expressed in a wide range of tissues and organs and exerts endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine actions. PTH and PTHrP have a similar homology, sharing the initial 13 amino acid residues at the N-terminus and binding to the same type 1 PTH receptor (PTH1R), which regulates calcium homeostasis. An abnormal increase in PTH production can occur in primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism, whereas PTHrP can be produced in large quantities by malignant cancer cells from solid organs. In addition to increased bone resorption and hypercalcemia, recent evidence suggests that excess PTH and PTHrP can result in protein-energy wasting, malnutrition, and cachexia. Through binding to PTH1R and activation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase A in white adipose tissue, PTH and PTHrP can stimulate the expression of thermogenic genes causing adipose tissue browning. This change results in an increase in resting energy expenditure, loss of muscle and fat mass, and weight loss. These findings provide a mechanistic link for the long-established relationship between hyperparathyroidism and myopathy, as well as cancer and cachexia. The purpose of this review is to provide a summary of the emerging evidence from both experimental and clinical studies on the role of PTH and PTHrP in protein-energy malnutrition.
Fractional Modeling of Cancer with Mixed Therapies
Authors: Javeed Shumaila , Abdeen Zain Ul , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: August 2023

Background: Cancer is the biggest cause of mortality globally, with approximately 10 million fatalities expected by 2020, or about one in every six deaths. Breast, lung, colon, rectum, and prostate cancers are the most prevalent types of cancer. Methods: In this work, fractional modeling is presented which describes the dynamics of cancer treatment with mixed therapies (immunotherapy and chemotherapy). Mathematical models of cancer treatment are important to understand the dynamical behavior of the disease. Fractional models are studied considering immunotherapy and chemotherapy to control cancer growth at the level of cell populations. The models consist of the system of fractional differential equations (FDEs). Fractional term is defined by Caputo fractional derivative. The models are solved numerically by using Adams-Bashforth-Moulton method. Results: For all fractional models the reasonable range of fractional order is between β = 0.6 and β = 0.9. The equilibrium points and stability analysis are presented. Moreover, positivity and boundedness of the solution are proved. Furthermore, a graphical representation of cancerous cells, immunotherapy and chemotherapy is presented to understand the behaviour of cancer treatment. Conclusions: At the end, a curve fitting procedure is presented which may help medical practitioners to treat cancer patients.
Systemic Administration of Porphyromonas Gingivalis Lipopolysaccharide Induces Glial Activation and Depressive-Like Behavior in Rats
Authors: Mamunur Rahman , Hashioka Sadayuki , Azis Ilhamuddin A. , Jaya Muhammad A. , Jerin Sultana J.F. , Kimura-Kataoka Kaori , Fujihara Junko , Inoue Ken , Inagaki Masatoshi , Takeshita Haruo
Published: August 2023

Background: Periodontitis is one of the most common chronic inflammatory disorders in adults. Although clinical studies have suggested a causal relationship between periodontitis and major depression (MD), the biological mechanisms by which periodontitis instigates MD are unknown. We investigated whether a systemic administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), a major Gram-negative pathogen of periodontitis, causes depressive-like behavior and glial activation in the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which are MD-related brain regions. Materials and Methods: Eight-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into a behavioral test group and an immunohistochemistry group. The rats in each group were further assigned to the sham injection (saline) and Porphyromonas gingivalis-lipopolysaccharide (Pg-LPS) injection protocols. The rats received an intraperitoneal injection of saline or Pg-LPS with gradually increasing doses (day 1: 0.5, day 2: 0.5, day 3: 0.75, day 4: 0.75, day 5: 1.0, day 6: 1.0, and day 7: 1.0 mg/kg of body weight) for seven consecutive days. After the systemic administration, the behavior test group underwent the forced swimming test (FST) and Y-maze test. For the immunohistochemistry group, we quantified the immunoreactivity for microglial Iba-1 (ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1) and astrocytic glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the hippocampus (dentate gyrus [DG], cornu ammonis [CA1 and CA3]) and PFC (prelimbic [PrL] and the infralimbic [IL]) areas. Results: The FST immobility time in the Pg-LPS group was significantly longer than that in the sham group. In the Y-maze test, a significant decline in spontaneous alternation behavior was observed in the Pg-LPS group compared to the sham group. The peripheral administration of Pg-LPS significantly increased the immunoreactivity for Iba-1 in the CA3 and PrL. Pg-LPS injection significantly increased the immunoreactivity for GFAP in the DG, CA1, and CA3. Conclusions: The major result of this study is that a repeated systemic administration of Pg-LPS caused depressive-like behavior and both microglial and astrocytic activation in rats. This finding may comprise biological evidence of a causal relationship between periodontitis and MD.
Cerebellar Peduncle Injuries in Patients with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Jang Sung Ho , Kwon Hyeok Gyu
Published: August 2023

Background: The cerebellum is connected to the brain stem by three pairs of cerebellar peduncles (CPs)—superior (SCP), middle (MCP), and inferior (ICP)—which carry proprioceptive information to regulate movement and maintain balance and posture. Injury or damage to the CPs caused by tumors, infarcts, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) results in poor coordination and balance problems. Current data on CP-related injuries and their effect on balance control are sparse and restricted to a few case studies. There have been no studies to date that have investigated CP injuries in a large sample of patients with balance problems following a mild TBI. Hence, we investigated CP-related injuries in patients with balance problems following mild TBI using diffusion tensor tractography (DTT). Methods: Twenty-one patients with TBI and 21 normal subjects were recruited for this study. Balance was evaluated using the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS). Three DTT-related parameters—fractional anisotropy (FA), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and fiber number (FN) of the CPs—were measured. Results: The FN values of the SCP and ICP in the patient group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.05). No significant differences in the FA, ADC, and FN values of the MCP were observed between the patient and control groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Using DTT, we demonstrated injuries to the SCP and ICP in mild TBI patients with balance problems. Our results suggest that DTT could be a useful tool for detecting injuries to the CPs that may not be identified on conventional brain magnetic resonance imaging in mild TBI patients.
EEF1A1 is Involved the Regulating Neuroinflammatory Processes in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Aisha Zaolaguli , Lei Jing , Zhang Yan , Ma Jianhua
Published: August 2023

Background: Studies have reported that the RNA-binding protein Eukaryotic Elongation Factor 1A1 (EEF1A1) is low expressed in the hippocampal region of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In addition, it is related to PARK2 activity in cells, predicting its importance in neurodegenerative diseases. However, the function of EEF1A1 in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is unclear. Our study’s primary objective was to knock down EEF1A1 in U251 cells and preliminarily explore the role of EEF1A1 in PD neuroinflammation. Methods: To inhibit EEF1A1 from being expressed in U251 cells, siRNA was transfected into those cells. Then, RNA-seq sequencing was used to determine the Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) resulting from the EEF1A1 knockdown. Additionally, gene ontology (GO) and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed to find the biological processes and signaling pathways engaged in the DEGs, as well as to screen for genes associated with neuroinflammatory processes that influence the development of PD. Further Real Time - quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) validation experiments were performed to confirm the reliability of the sequencing results. Finally, combined with the support of related literature, the molecular mechanism of EEF1A1 in regulating the neuroinflammatory process of PD was initially explored. Results: Analysis using the RNA-seq technique showed that EEF1A1 knockdown could significantly upregulate the expression of IL-6, GDF15, STC1, MT1E, GPNMB, CCL5, MT1X, A2M, and VIP genes at the transcriptional level. These nine highly elevated genes were enriched to signaling pathways linked to inflammatory processes, according to an analysis of GO and KEGG enrichment. Conclusions: EEF1A1 is involved in the regulating of IL-6, GDF15, STC1, MT1E, GPNMB, CCL5, MT1X, A2M, and VIP genes associated with the neuroinflammatory process of PD. Among them, we found that GDF15, STC1, MT1E, MT1X, GPNMB, VIP, and A2M genes were involved in delaying the neuroinflammatory process of PD, while IL-6 and CCL5 were involved in exacerbating the neuroinflammatory process, implicating that EEF1A1 may participate in the regulation of the PD neuroinflammation.
Hprt Serves as an Ideal Reference Gene for qRT-PCR Normalization in Rat DRG Neurons
Authors: Liu Fenglan , Miao Yang , Wang Yaxian , Shan Qianqian
Published: August 2023

Objective: To identify suitable reference genes for gene expression studies in rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. Methods: The raw cycle threshold (Ct) values of 12 selected reference genes were obtained via quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in neurons at different developmental stages or under different treatments. Two strategies were employed to screen the most stable reference genes: the genes were ranked according to the coefficient of biological variation and further validated using geNorm and NormFinder programs. The stable and unstable reference genes were subsequently used as internal controls to assess their effects on target gene expression. Results: All reference genes showed varying degrees of fluctuation in Ct values during the growth process of neurons or after different treatments. 18S ribosomal RNA (Rn18s) and β-actin (Actb) exhibited the most significant changes, while ubiquitin C (Ubc), hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase (Hprt), and mitochondrial ribosomal protein L10 (Mrpl10) showed relatively minor changes. The most stable and unstable genes obtained by different evaluation methods varied slightly. Overall, Actb was found to be the most unstable reference gene, while Hprt was the relatively most stable reference gene. The use of unstable reference genes Actb and ankyrin repeat domain 27 (Ankrd27) as internal controls led to high variability within the control group, ultimately affecting the determination of target gene expression. In contrast, the stable reference gene Hprt had small inter-assay variation and high stability. Conclusions: Our observations indicate that Hprt is a proper endogenous reference gene for qRT-PCR analysis in rat DRG neurons and thus provides a critical molecular basis for the genetic characterization in neurological disorders.
Nattokinase Supplementation and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Xinmin , Long Junzi , Gao Qian , Pan Mengyang , Wang Jing , Yang Fangjie , Zhang Yasu
Published: August 2023

Background: As a fibrinolytic enzyme from fermented soybean, nattokinase has been shown to be potentially beneficial for cardiovascular health, but current clinical evidences regarding the nattokinase supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors are various. This study aims to evaluate the cardiovascular efficacy of nattokinase. Methods: Four electronic databases were systematically searched to collect eligible randomized controlled trials. Data were extracted and summarized in a pre-designed form by two independent reviewers. Review Manager 5.4 software (Cochrane Library Software, Oxford, U.K.) was used for meta-analysis and bias risk assessment. Results: Six studies were eligible for quantitative analysis with 546 participants. The overall methodological quality of included studies was high. Relatively low total dosage of nattokinase had a negative effect on blood total cholesterol (MD [mean difference] = 5.27, 95% CI [confidence intervals]: 3.74 to 6.81, p < 0.00001), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD = –2.76, 95% CI: –3.88 to –1.64, p < 0.00001), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD = 6.49, 95% CI: 0.83 to 12.15, p = 0.02). Nattokinase supplementation significantly reduced systolic blood pressure (MD = –3.45, 95% CI: –4.37 to –2.18, p < 0.00001) and diastolic blood pressure (MD = –2.32, 95% CI: –2.72 to –1.92, p < 0.00001), and led a slight increase in blood glucose (MD = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.20 to 0.60, p < 0.0001) as compared to placebo. Nattokinase group with relatively high total dosage also had a higher total cholesterol (MD = 3.18, 95% CI: 2.29 to 4.06, p < 0.00001) than control interventions, but no significant differences were found in levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. No significant correlation was found between nattokinase supplementation and triglyceride (p = 0.71). No notable adverse events were reported in all studies due to intake of nattokinase. Conclusions: This study further supports that nattokinase can be used as an effective adjunctive therapy for hypertension, but relatively low-dose supplementation of nattokinase may have no significant lipid-lowering effect. More work will need to be done to determine whether the positive efficacy of nattokinase on cardiovascular risk factors is dose-dependent. Systematic Review Registration: This work has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022315020).
The Use of Cutting Balloons in Published Cases of Acute Coronary Syndrome Caused by Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Apostolovic Svetlana , Maricic Bojan , Bozinovic Nenad , Kostic Tomislav , Perisic Zoran , Djokovic Aleksandra , Bojanovic Mihajlo , Petrovic Milovan , Stankovic Goran
Published: August 2023

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a non-traumatic, non-atherosclerotic layering of the coronary artery wall due to the presence of a subintimal hematoma or an intimal tear with the creation of a false lumen that compresses the true lumen and restricts or obstructs the flow. Patients with SCAD and preserved coronary flow are treated conservatively according to the general recommendations. However, percutaneous coronary intervention should be considered in patients with artery occlusion and/or refractory ischemia. Stenting is associated with increased risks comprising stenting in the false lumen, in-stent thrombosis, and/or stent malappositon as well as antegrade or retrograde propagation of the intramural hematoma. Intracoronary imaging is of great value both for the diagnosis and treatment of SCAD. There is rising scrutiny on the use of cutting balloons in acute coronary syndrome caused by SCAD. The idea of using cutting balloons is to fenestrate the intima and drain the intramural hematoma. Our review presents an analysis of 17 published cases of cutting balloon (CB) use in SCAD. What is encouraging is that of the 12 published cases, in 11 Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) 3 flow was established with this technique, and TIMI 2 flow in one, without subsequent stent implantation. Four patients received a stent after the CB use, while one patient underwent CB angioplasty after hematoma propagation caused by stent implantation. In all cases, patients were asymptomatic at follow-up, with TIMI 3 flow.
Study of the evolution of legal norms in the context of historical events: analysis of the interaction of state power and public institutions from the Middle Ages to the present
Authors: Tashtamirov Magomed , Tonkikh Alexander , Gachaev Ahmed , Chumakova Ol’ga
Published: August 2023

The study of the evolution of legal norms in the context of historical events is an important task for understanding the formation of the legal system and the interaction of state power and public institutions. In this article, the authors will focus on the evolution of legal norms in Russia in the period from the Middle Ages to the present.
Whole-being Framework
Authors: Saldarriaga Marea
Published: August 2023

The Whole-being © framework was developed as a starting point for a holistic coaching approach, devised in the pursuit of a meaningful way to thrive both in our personal and professional lives. It is only when people are whole that a world based on integrity, freedom, kindness and compassion can materialize. This paper is aligned to the perspective of!experiences, specifically addressing the role design has in helping organisations understand what really drives their employees, while bringing attention to the “whole-being ecosystem” which influences people’s motivation and performance. A whole-system approach is necessary so that executives can thrive without running the risk of burning out. Policies must align themselves in the direction of this purpose, to create the right conditions for “whole-beings” to thrive, but in the midst of all of this self-awareness remains essential for the system to work. The training focuses on optimizing the participant’s energy as well as on developing certain attributes to feel and be whole.
Climate Change as a Problem for Businesses and How to Manage It
Authors: Panda Ivy
Published: August 2023

Further on, suggestions are provided for them to implement to enhance the reduction of their carbon footprint.
NIKAH DIBAWAH TANGAN: SEBAB DAN AKIBAT
Authors: Berutu Ali Geno
Published: August 2023

Istilah nikah di bawah tangan mengemuka setelah Undang-Undang No.1 Tahun 1974 tentangPerkawinan berlaku secara efektif tanggal 1 Oktober 1975. Nikah seperti ini pada dasarnya adalahkebalikan dari nikah yang dilakukan menurut hukum. Sedangkan nikah menurut hukum adalahyang diatur dalam UU Perkawinan. Oleh karena itu dapat dirumuskan bahwa nikah di bawahtangan adalah nikah yang dilakukan tidak menurut hukum. Nikah yang dilakukan tidak menuruthukum dianggap nikah liar, sehingga tidak mempunyai akibat hukum, berupa pengakuan danperlindungan hukum.
Next Generation Mathematics: The Universal Number System (V3)
Authors: Shah Balram A
Published: August 2023

The universal number system is the newly discovered largest and extended number system that includes a complex number system within it and also increases logical and numerical accuracy exponentially. The way imaginary numbers are not required unless we deal with negative roots and want to standardize the process. Similarly, this system is only required if we want to deal with zeroes or infinities as such unit’s definitions have been mathematically standardized along with a standardizing operational approach that gives the precise balanced output for any operations with zeros and infinities. Surprisingly, while dealing with standardized zero and infinity, some more hidden dimensions and mathematical logical statements are discovered that increase the direct applications of mathematics beyond mathematics. With this domain addon, the system is able to express all the major properties of quantum physics & quantum computing, able to prove the conservation of energy mathematically, and a few more natural and scientific phenomena without creating any new definitions or including any physical quantities. And so, indicating logical properties behind many such physical phenomena in the universe are inherited properties of the mathematics. So, in this article, its fundamentals, basic principles, and rules are established to support the smooth and balanced operation of the universal number system. Also, many application problems are solved in a standardized operational approach that may not be possible or may take R&D in real or complex number systems to get such results. Such as logical explanation for 1-1+1-1+1…=1/2, general solution for all indeterminate forms including any division by zero, newly discovered working formula for negative factorials, and direct connection of imaginary numbers with real number plain. Also, it enhances the understanding of zero, unity, infinity, i, π, e, x! as expressed below. \[LaTeX formula]\ Many more new equations are expressed in this article along with its unique applications indicating the consideration of this extended domain beneficial in mathematics. And not to mention, this is a new domain that may have a lot more pending discoveries within it as discussed in the “future research” section and many more.
Exploring the Role of Goal-Dependent Processes in Action Slips under Time Pressure
Authors: Van Dessel Pieter , Boddez Yannick , De Houwer Jan , Buabang Eike Kofi , Moors Agnes , Köster Massimo
Published: August 2023

People sometimes emit frequently practiced responses that were previously effective in achieving desired outcomes but are no longer appropriate in the current context. While dual-process theories attribute these action slips to goal-independent, associative processes, we propose that errors in the expectancies about action outcomes contribute to their occurrence. To investigate this, we first replicated an influential study by Hardwick et al. (2019), demonstrating the occurrence of action slips following extensive stimulus-response training when individuals are required to respond rapidly. Building on this foundation, we conducted two additional experiments using a similar procedure, incorporating a measure of outcome expectancies under time pressure. Our findings provide compelling evidence for errors in outcome expectancies, particularly in early time intervals. These results highlight the possible role of goal-directed processes in action slips under time pressure, advancing our understanding of the cognitive mechanisms underlying suboptimal behavior.
Kingfisher as a source of encouragement
Authors: Nguyen Minh-Hoang
Published: August 2023

Recently, we have been trying to find out how to innovate our research method. For an analytical approach like BMF, it is even more difficult as BMF is the product of a many-year process of deliberate designing and optimizing. Fortunately, such innovation has appeared through the fictional details of The Kingfisher Story Collection, which gave birth to a subsequent series of innovations in working cultures, philosophies, principles, theories, methodology, and practices of the AISDL team.However, one important question remained:What is the true meaning of Kingfisher? Why do we have so deep a connection to it?At first, we thought the Collection’s embedded humor and freedom of thought were the reasons. However, we have found the true answer today: its natural bond with the environment, the origin of human life.
People optimally and flexibly process emotional information across multiple modalities
Authors: Ong Desmond C. , Jospe Karine , Reddan Marianne , Wu Zhengxuan , Kahhale Isabella , Chen Patricia , Perry Anat , zaki jamil
Published: August 2023

People infer others’ emotions based on an immense array of information, including facial expressions, prosody, and content of speech. How do people perform this complex inferential feat using naturalistic, dynamic, and multimodal input? We propose that such affective cognition is not only structured and rational, but also optimal and flexible. We tested this hypothesis across four behavioral experiments, in two different cultures and with machine learning modeling, to investigate how accurately people are able to identify a target’s affect as they describe emotional life events, when given different combinations of modalities. Comparisons with state-of-the-art deep learning models suggest that human emotional reasoning is optimal given the available perceptual information; and it is flexible in that people tend to rely on linguistic information, but adapt to rely more on facial expressions when the former is unavailable. Our results support a complex view of human affective cognition in everyday social interactions.
The Influence of Altruism and Empathy on the Endowment Effect
Authors: Hsu Robert , Preston Stephanie Delphine
Published: August 2023

We are social, empathetic beings who, for the right reasons, can be incredibly generous if we believe our help can improve the welfare of others. Yet at the same time, we are egoistic, self-centered, and heavily self-biased in our thoughts and actions. In many cases, both human urges of greed and generosity come into play. While examples of each individual effect have been researched in detail, there is a lack of research intersecting the topics. Our main goal is to illuminate the intersection of the endowment effect and people’s willingness to help others when they feel empathy or sympathy. Specifically, we aimed to determine which factors affect decisions about altruistic responses and to measure the relative effects of different mechanisms against each other. It is predicted that there are different relative strengths of each mechanism on the altruistic response, measured by willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) in an endowment task. There were three different types of mechanisms tested, empathy, the endowment effect, and care for the good. These results will open up new avenues for future research; by upending the widely cited endowment effect, which essentially casts people as possessive and reluctant to give up their items, we can unveil a more humanistic approach, because people can be extremely giving and willing to give up something when they are properly inspired by the need of another.
Spatial and Verbal Performance relates to the Duration of Combined Oral Contraceptive Use, but does not change during the Pill-free Interval?
Authors: Noachtar Isabel Asar , Pletzer Belinda
Published: August 2023

Background: Sex hormones have been related to verbal and spatial processing. Oral contraceptives are taken by approximately 150 million women worldwide often for extended time periods during their reproductive years. To date, the literature on long-term effects of COCs on cognition is sparse and results and methodology are inconsistent.Objectives: In the current manuscript we examined whether verbal and spatial performance changed during short-term hormonal withdrawal as during the monthly pill pause and related to the duration of COC-use. We assessed the moderating effects of progestin type (androgenicity) and task complexity. Methods: 180 participants (60 androgenic COC-users, 60 anti-androgenic COC-users and 60 non-users with a menstrual cycle) were tested once during their active pill phase/luteal phase and once during their pill pause/menses. We compared mental rotation, navigation and verbal fluency performance between the pill pause and active intake phase in COC users and assess how the differences compare to fluctuations along the menstrual cycle in naturally cycling women.Results: No differences between active pill intake and pill pause were found in mental rotation, navigation or verbal fluency performance in long-term users. Irrespective of COC phase, androgenic COC-users demonstrated faster navigation speed and higher orientation accuracy compared to anti- androgenic COC-users and non-users. Longer pill duration was associated with better orientation accuracy and decreased phonemic switching production in COC-users independent of the pill’s androgenicity.Conclusion: The accumulative effects of COC use duration in the absence of short-term changes during the pill-free interval may hint at organizational effects of long-term COC-use on spatial and verbal processing.
Criteria of Research Quality in Sociology: An Analytical-Empirical Perspective
Authors: Otte Gunnar , Sawert Tim , Brüderl Josef , Kley Stefanie , Kroneberg Clemens , Rohlfing Ingo
Published: August 2023

The article develops a catalog of eleven scientific quality criteria for sociological research papers from an analytical-empirical perspective. The criteria catalog includes quality requirements for theory development and empirical social research. A distinction is made between two basic criteria that address the entire research process, nine core criteria that address individual stages of this process, and a series of sub-criteria that serve to specify the core criteria. The criteria are developed along a stylized research process as it is typical in quantitative social research. Nonetheless, an attempt is made to formulate the criteria in a way that makes them applicable to qualitative social research. The paper aims to provide the scientific community with a frame of reference grounded in an analytical-empirical perspective that guides the development of high-quality research and supports the assessment of research performance in a criterion-guided manner.
A Study on Profitability Performance of Selected Private Sector Banks in India
Authors: Varma Sunita R.
Published: August 2023

The objective of this research was to investigate the profitability of a few Indian banks that operate in the private sector. based on the results of profitability ratios such the EPS ratio, net profit ratio, dividend per share ratio, ROA ratio, and ROE ratio. Profitability is a metric for efficiency and control; it represents the effectiveness or efficiency with which a company's operations are carried out. The most crucial indicator of a company's success is its ability to generate profits, whether that means tracking past profits or predicting future ones. A non-profitable company cannot survive. On the other hand, a very lucrative company might provide its owners with a significant return on their investment. One of the most essential functions of business managers is boosting profitability. Managers are always looking for ways to boost profitability within the company. Income statements and balance sheets can be used to analyse these prospective changes.
Women Empowerment in India: Emerging Dimensions
Authors: Kaur Manpreet
Published: August 2023

Women empowerment is the most talked about work of the present time. Through this, not only the prevalent evils are ending, but also the social and economic development of women is taking place at a rapid pace. Governments have developed various schemes for the all-round development of women. Along with this, laws have also been made to provide security to them. In order to stop the rapidly increasing crimes against women, the work of providing protection to them by making various types of laws has been done by the governments. Although the government is giving priority to education to raise the social, economic and political status of women. Women empowerment is actually enhancing the abilities of women and developing them as a useful resource. By eliminating the problem like gender-discrimination, it is possible to make all-round development of women by giving them more preference than men in every type of service. In this research paper, an attempt has been made to know the status of social, economic, political and cultural problems faced by women at present and to suggest measures for their redressal.

Abstract in Hindi Language:

महिला सशक्तिकरण वर्तमान समय का सबसे चर्चित कार्य है। इसके माध्यम से न केवल व्यापत कुरीतियों का अन्त हो रहा है बल्कि महिलाओं का सामाजिक व आर्थिक विकास तीव्र गति से हो रहा है। महिलाओँ  के सर्वागीण विकास के लिए सरकारो ने विभिन्न प्रकार की योजनाऐं विकसित की है। इसके साथ उन्हे सुरक्षा प्रदान करने हेतु कानूनो का निमार्ण भी किया गया है। महिलाओं के साथ तीव्र गति से बढ़ते अपराध को रोकने के लिए विभिन्न प्रकार के कानून बनाकर उनको सरक्षंण प्रदान करने का कार्य सरकारों द्वारा किया गया है। यद्यपि सरकार ने महिलओं का सामाजिक, आर्थिक तथा राजनीतिक स्तर उच्च करने हेतु शिक्षा को वरीयता दी जा रही है। महिला सशक्तिकरण वास्तव में महिलाओं की योग्यता को निखारकर उन्हे एक उपयोगी संसाधन के रूप में विकसित करना है। लिंग-भेद जैसी समस्या को समाप्त करके प्रत्येक प्रकार की सेवा में महिलाओं की पुरूषो से ज्यादा वरीयता प्रदान करके महिलाओं का सर्वागीण विकास किया जाना संभव है। मैं अपने इस शोध पत्र में वर्तमान में महिलाओं के सामने सामाजिक, आर्थिक, राजनीतिक तथा सांस्कृतिक समस्याओं की स्थिति जानेन तथा उनके निवारण हेतु उपायो का बताने का प्रयास किया गया है।

Keywords: महिला सशिक्तरण, शिक्षा, रोजगार, स्वास्थ्य, सामाजिक, आर्थिक, विकास
The Failure of the European Union to Address the Threat of Ethnic Cleansing of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh
Authors: Avedissian Karena
Published: August 2023

The ceasefire that ended the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War paused the fighting but also precipitated major challenges to human rights and humanitarian issues. Nagorno-Karabakh's status remained unresolved, even as Azerbaijan gained control of large parts of the region. Since then, Azerbaijan’s impunity and ethnic animus against Armenians has created fears of ethnic cleansing. Azerbaijan's 2022-2023 blockade of Nagorno-Karabakh in particular which has deprived the Armenian population of food and medicine, directly contravenes its obligations under the ceasefire. The European Union is striving to negotiate a settlement between Armenia and Azerbaijan but has faced criticism for not substantively addressing these human rights and humanitarian issues. Despite having the political and legal tools, the EU's lack of engagement on these concerns threatens regional stability and undermines its credibility as an ethical international actor. If a mass atrocity occurs while the EU actively seeks a settlement but fails to intervene, it would bear responsibility for the outcome.
Mysterian Social Trinitarianism: Responding to Charges of Projection, Anthropomorphism, and Apophasis
Authors: Bray Dennis
Published: August 2023

The landscape of current trinitarian theology seems to be settling into three chief domains: Latin (or classical) trinitarianism, social trinitarianism, and apophatic (or mysterian) trinitarianism. In this article I look at three main objections to social trinitarianism. The first objection, voiced most forcefully by Karen Kilby, is that the social view follows a vicious pattern of projection. The second objection, related to the first, is raised on grounds of anthropomorphism. According to this objection, social trinitarians employ the notion of mutual love, a notion which raises big concerns among cotemporary Thomists. The third objection is grounded in the inability of humans to know much about the divine being, or for our language to make true statements about God. If we do not know about God’s essence, then social trinitarians do not know most (or all) of what they claim to know. This line of thinking is very recently proposed by Katherine Sonderegger. I detail the main contours of each of the three objections and argue that none of them are strong enough to warrant the rejection of social trinitarianism. However, if apophaticism ultimately forces trinitarians to reject the social theory, there is still some room for a mysterian social trinitarianism. I outline the contours of such a view and explain its motivations and limits.
Effect of Rhizobium Inoculation and Phosphate Fertilizer on The Growth of Soybean (Glycine max L) Grobogan Variety
Authors: Nasir Muhamad , Endang Tadjudin  , Dwi Purnomo  , Amran Jaenudin  , Maryuliyanna
Published: August 2023

Various strategic efforts to increase food production continue to be made in an effort to achieve self-sufficiency and food security. Soybean is a national strategic commodity to support government programs in an effort to increase production with the aim of achieving self-sufficiency. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the combination of phosphate fertilizer and rhizobium biofertilizer on the growth of soybean (Glycine max L) Grobogan variety. The research was conducted from June to September 2022 at the Ma'had Al Zaytun Agricultural Complex, Indramayu Regency. The method used is the method of randomized block design with a combination pattern. There were 9 treatment combinations of SP-36 phosphate fertilizer and rhizobium inoculation. SP-36 Fertilizer consists of 3 levels, namely 100, 150 and 200 kg/ha and Rhizobium with 3 levels, namely 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15 g/planting hole. Each combination was repeated three times so that there were 27 trial plots. Each experimental plot is 6 m2. The observed data were processed using analysis of variance and the Scott-Knott test. The results showed.that the combination-of SP-36 Phosphate fertilizer-and Rhizobium inoculation had-a significant effect on all observations both plant height, number of trifoliate leaves, number of branches, root volume.
Characterization of Cellulose Acetate Membrane from Nutmeg Shells
Authors: Bhernama Bhayu Gita , Nurhayati  , Saputra Surya Adi , Jihan Amalia
Published: August 2023

The membrane is a semipermeable selective thin layer that is used as a barrier between two phases, the feed phase and the permeate phase. Several studies have been carried out on the synthesis of cellulose acetate membranes, but research on cellulose acetate membranes from nutmeg shell waste is still rare. Therefore, the characterization of cellulose acetate membrane from a nutmeg shell was conducted. This study aims to characterize cellulose acetate membranes from nutmeg shells using the phase inversion method with variations in the weight of cellulose acetate 0.1 and 0.2 grams. The plasticizers used are polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and dope solution. Characterization was carried out in thickness, tensile strength, morphology by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), functional groups, membrane permeability, rejection value, degree of swelling, and membrane standards. The results obtained for good morphological characterization were found in membranes number 2 and 4, the value of rejection and flux on membrane number 2 (t = 1 minute) was 31.1%, and the flux value was 4.6 L/m2.h for membrane number 3 (t) (t = 3 minutes) 31.6% and the flux value was 0.3 L/m2 per hour. The good thickness and strength of the membrane are found in the number 1 membrane, with a thickness of 0.11 mm and tensile strength of 3.06 MPa. Swelling degree and suitable membranes are found in membrane number 1, 59.52%, and 32.2%, respectively. The functional groups contained in the FTIR spectrum include the C – H group, which is located in the wave number range of 2959.79 cm-1, C = O is located at 1722.06 cm-1, C –O acetyl is located at 1271.04 cm-1 and C – O stretching is located at 1072.13 cm-1, and the presence of a PVC group is located at 742.12 cm-1. The conclusion is that membrane number 1 is good for further application.
Enhanced mechanic properties of calcium phosphate cements via mussel-inspired adhesive as bone substitute: Highlights of their interactions
Authors: Yuan Rupan , Zhou Sijie , Xiong Xiong , Yang Dan , Lin Donghu , Li Taiyi , He Bin , Wei Guihua , Qu Shuxin
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND: Inspired by natural bones, many organic components were added to Calcium Phosphate Cements (CPCs) to improve their mechanical strength. However, the strength of these composite CPCs is limited by the low strength of organic components itself and the weak interaction between organic components and CPCs. OBJECTIVE: Firstly, a composite CPC containing mussel-inspired adhesive, Poly-(Dopamine Methacrylamide-co-2-methoxy Ethylacrylate) (pDM) was developed. Secondly, the interactions between pDM and CPC and their effect on mechanical properties were investigated. METHODS: The interactions between pDM and CPC were performed by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Laser Raman, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction Analysis. RESULTS: The toughness and compressive strength of pDM-CPC scaffold were both significantly enhanced, because of the enhanced interface binding strength among CPC and pDM due to their interaction and the improved mechanical strength of pDM owing to its self-oxidation cross-linking. The toughness of pDM-CPC scaffolds increased with the increased contents of pDM, while pDM-CPC scaffold containing 35 wt.% pDM had the highest compressive strength of all, which the latter was more than five times compared to that of CPC. CONCLUSION: The mechanically strong pDM-CPC scaffolds has potential application in bone regeneration as well as in craniofacial and orthopedic repair.
Effects of muscle specific as compared to movement specific muscle energy technique in mechanical neck pain: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Osama Muhammad
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Muscle energy technique (MET) is found to be effective for the management of neck pain and in addition to the muscle specific approach, clinicians may also adopt movement specific approach for METs. However, the literature is deficient in terms of comparison of muscle specific and movement specific METs in the management of mechanical neck pain.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the effects of muscle specific and movement specific METs in the management of mechanical neck pain.

METHODS:

A single blind parallel design randomized controlled trial was conducted on 66 participants with mechanical neck pain ranging from 40–80 mm on visual analogue scale (VAS), aged between 19–44 years with pain and limitation on cervical motion. Once included, the participants were randomly allocated to two groups, namely the muscle specific MET group and the movement specific MET group. Outcome measures included VAS, Neck Disability Index (NDI) and cervical range of motion (ROM).

RESULTS:

No significant differences ([Formula: see text] 0.05) were observed, neither immediately nor after 5 days, between muscle specific and movement specific MET in terms of VAS, NDI and ROM. However, a significant difference ([Formula: see text] 0.05) was observed in both groups in terms of pre- and post-analysis for all outcome variables.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both muscle specific and movement specific METs are effective in the management of mechanical neck pain, with no significant differences between the two treatment techniques.
Sublingual microcirculation in healthy pediatric population using the sidestream dark-field imaging method
Authors: Krausova Vlasta , Neumann David , Kraus Jaroslav , Dostalova Vlasta , Dostal Pavel
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND: The sidestream dark-field imaging method is used to study microcirculation. Normal values of sublingual microcirculation parameters in healthy children of different age and gender categories are unknown. OBJECTIVE: The study’s main goal was to determine normal values of selected parameters of sublingual microcirculation in healthy children of different age and gender categories. METHODS: 40 healthy children were measured, ten aged 3-5.9 years, ten aged 6-10.9 years, ten aged 11-14.9 years, and ten aged 15-18.9 years. After recording the basic anthropometric parameters and vital functions, each volunteer had their microcirculation measured using an SDF probe placed sublingually. Three video clips were recorded and processed offline, and the three best and most stable parts of each were analyzed. RESULTS: Total vascular density, small vessel density, proportion of perfused small vessels, perfused vessel density, perfused small vessel density, and DeBacker’s score were significantly higher in females than in males. There were no differences between age groups in microcirculation parameters except MFI. CONCLUSIONS: Age does not influence normal values of microcirculatory parameters. Female gender was associated with higher vessel density, perfused vessel density, and DeBacker’s score. A suggestion of the normal range of microcirculatory parameters in healthy children is provided.
Refractory immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) after accessory splenectomy: A case report and literature review
Authors: Riaz Asad , Ali Hossam Tharwat , Ali Fawad , Ali Jawad
Published: August 2023

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by a platelet count of less than 100 x 109 /L, resulting from antibody-mediated platelet destruction. Treatment for ITP typically involves steroids, and intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) can be added. Splenectomy is performed in cases with refractory ITP. Rituximab can suppress immunity but has limited efficacy in ITP cases. Herein, we present a rare case of a 30-year-old female who was first diagnosed with ITP and underwent a splenectomy two years later. However, seven years after surgery, she was presented with symptoms of ITP. A splenic scan showed an accessory spleen in the spleen bed, for which she underwent accessory spleen removal surgery. Her laboratory tests three days post-operation showed a rise in platelet count and hence was discharged a few days later. The patient had recurrent attacks of ITP even after the removal of the normal and accessory spleen, suggesting that accessory spleen removal may not always be an effective treatment for ITP. The patient eventually died. While splenectomy is a common treatment for ITP, it may not always be effective in all cases, and other treatments such as bone marrow transplantation may be necessary.