bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of Adelopetalum argyropus (Orchidaceae; Malaxideae) with the description of two related new species and two new combinations
Authors: JONES DAVID L. , ZIMMER HEIDI C. , CLEMENTS MARK A. , BRUHL JEREMY J. , CHRISTIAN JOEL , COPELAND LACHLAN M. , HUTTON IAN , ANDERSEN ALEXANDRA , WILSON MELINDA
Published: December 2024

The Adelopetalum argyropus species complex is distributed across eastern Australia, Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, New Caledonia and New Zealand. We undertook morphological examination of living plants and fresh flowers, dissected flowers mounted on cards, dried and spirit-preserved herbarium specimens and made images of living flowers. We characterise Adelopetalum argyropus as endemic to Norfolk Island. Two previously confused species, one from mainland Australia, A. continentale, and another from Lord Howe Island, A. howense, are described here as new. Extinction risk is preliminarily assessed for the three taxa: A. continentale was severely impacted by the 2019–2020 bushfires on mainland Australia, whereas A. argyropus and A. howense are each restricted to small oceanic islands; Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island respectively.
Effect of CrossFit Training on Cognition and Physiological Parameters According to the Competitive Level
Authors: Andrade de Brito Michele , Fernandes José Raimundo , De Carvalho Pedro Henrique Berbert , Brito Ciro José , Aedo-Muñoz Esteban , Pérez Diego I. Valenzuela , Miarka Bianca
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the acute effects of CrossFit training on cognition and physiological parameters across different performance stages. We focused on evaluating the impact of such training on both the mental and physical performance of athletes classified as Elite, Advanced, and Beginners. The objective was to explore how CrossFit, known for its high-intensity and varied functional movements, influences cognitive functions and physiological responses in athletes of varying expertise. By comparing these groups both before and after the Workout of the Day (WOD), we aimed to understand the relationship between CrossFit training intensity and cognitive and physiological changes. Methodologically, our approach involved categorizing our sample into three groups: Elite (n=7), Advanced (n=10), and Beginners (n=15). We conducted comprehensive assessments of each participant's cognitive and physiological parameters pre- and post-WOD. The results revealed notable differences in performance time, with Elite athletes showing significantly quicker times compared to Advanced and Beginners. Cognitive functions, particularly executive functions like reading, counting, choice-making, shifting, inhibition, and flexibility, also varied significantly across the groups. Physiological measurements, including lactate stages and heart rate, further highlighted these differences. Remarkably, Elite athletes exhibited a 13.1 mmol average lactate level, lower than their counterparts, and a higher average heart rate of 188.0 bpm. In terms of cognitive functions, differences were observed in various executive tasks, showcasing the nuanced impact of high-intensity exercise on cognitive abilities. In conclusion, our study provides compelling evidence that high-intensity CrossFit training positively influences executive functions. These findings are quantified through substantial variations in performance times, executive function tasks, lactate stages, and heart rates, offering critical insights into the multidimensional benefits of CrossFit training across different competitive stages.
Filial Construct States in Arabic: Exploring Metaphtonymies and Embodied Cultural Cognition
Authors: Altakhaineh Abdel Rahman M. , Zibin Aseel
Published: December 2024

This study explores a specific category of construct states in Arabic, which involves the use of filial words to form the construct head, producing what we refer to as “filial construct states”, e.g., bana:t llajl, which literally translates to “daughters of the night” meaning “dreams”. Using a manually collected specialized corpus, and adopting Conceptual Metaphor Theory as based on main meaning focus (Kövecses 2010, 2011) as a theoretical framework, we argue that the way Arabic-speaking individuals perceive family and society may influence linguistic constructs leading to the development of filial construct states. Additionally, we propose that these constructs arise from the interaction between two cognitive processes: metaphor and metonymy, and as such they are of a metaphtonymic nature. We maintain that cognition is profoundly influenced by embodiment and cultural context. Thus, in order for cognition to be considered cultural, it needs to encompass and reflect the cultural knowledge that arises and develops from interactions and communication within a specific speech community.
Reworking Spaces: A New Market in a New Town
Authors: Chakraborty Dalia
Published: December 2024

This article explores a local market in a new smart city. It recognises the agency of diverse players like the government that constructed and still maintains the market, or the customers, primarily the affluent residents of the city. But the case in point here is the vendors. The market is a programmed place of everyday exchange and consumption for the local residents. Research reveals the continuous recodification and reworking of market space by the vendors, driven by their everyday business and other necessities. By reinventing the structure/s and purpose/s, the vendors add new meanings to the market as a space of cordiality and collaboration, of contention and conflict and of discontent and fear. This may be taken as the assertion of vendors’ right to the market. This assertion is definitely political.
Caste, Neoliberalism and Entrepreneurship in India: A Sociological Mapping
Authors: Kumar D. N. Kiran , Santhosh R.
Published: December 2024

The article presents a comprehensive mapping of the recent sociological literature on neoliberalism in the Indian context. It contends that the conceptualisation of neoliberalism demands a serious acknowledgement of the resilience and persistence of the social and its intertwining with the neoliberal economy. In this direction, the article critically reviews the scholarly works on caste, gender and neoliberalism in contemporary India to explicate the mutually constitutive nature of the social and neoliberal economy. The article also maps the recent studies on entrepreneurship and illustrates how caste and gender relations continue to be significant factors in facilitating entrepreneurship among different communities and social groups. The article calls for more sociologically informed conceptual frameworks to understand the unravelling of the neoliberal economy in the diverse socio-economic context of Indian society.
Impact of Supervisory Support on Turnover Intention: Self-efficacy and Work Engagement
Authors: Jameel Kiran , Ul Haq Naveed
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on reducing attrition intention by enhancing employee engagement with work, with self-efficacy acting as a moderating factor. The study investigates the role of self-efficacy, a personal resource, as a moderator between job resources and turnover intention through the mediating role of work engagement. Using the convenience sampling technique, data were collected from 307 employees working in different private and public sector banks in Lahore, Pakistan. The moderated mediation model with the bootstrap method was used to test the hypotheses. The study’s empirical results have revealed that self-efficacy moderates the path of mediating the relationship of work engagement between supervisory support and turnover intention. This study is the first attempt to empirically investigate the moderated mediation model of self-efficacy between supervisory support and work engagement with the purpose of decreasing turnover intention among banking sector employees in Lahore, Pakistan.
Sheikh Abdullah of Kashmir: Revisiting his Politics and Their Lessons for the new Leadership of J&K
Authors: Yousuf Muneeb
Published: December 2024

The prominence of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah as a political leader, closely intertwined with the history of modern Kashmir, continues to inspire new writings on Abdullah. This article places him into the larger sociopolitical canvas of the region and examines his political trajectory as a leader figure caught between multiple exigencies. Abdullah’s paradoxical and self-centred personality, and his use of the ‘Pakistan card’, which he may have thought benefitted the region, failed to stabilise both his political career as well as the internal affairs of J&K. Thereafter, New Delhi’s unilateral abrogation of the special status of J&K in 2019 added a further trust deficit between the political representatives of J&K and the Centre. The recent assembly elections in J&K gave an overwhelming majority to the National Conference party headed by Omar Abdullah, but also throw interesting challenges akin to those which his grandfather faced in his times. Examining the new political developments in the post-election Union Territory of J&K, this article interrogates what opportunities and challenges the junior Abdullah now faces to take both Jammu and the valley along the road to peace and inclusive development. Clearly now, the challenge is to understand how to navigate the manifestly continuing trust deficit between the people of J&K, their leaders and the Indian central government.
Customary Indian Practices and Neotraditionalism: The Missing Link of Difference
Authors: Jammulamadaka Nimruji , Gupta Ashish
Published: December 2024

Like knowledge systems of ancient civilizations everywhere, ancient Indian knowledge systems have been recognized for their emphasis on sustainable living practices. There is renewed interest in ‘going back to these roots’, a return to and a rediscovery of traditional knowledge and lifestyles, which we identify as neotraditionalism. Neotraditionalism has emerged in the encounter of the customary with the metropolitan colonial West and is influenced by Western Enlightenment’s liberal ethic of equality. It suffers from a blindness to diversity and difference. In this article, we argue that equality as universal feature of neotraditionalism makes it closer to Western consumer capitalism than it does to customary knowledge and practices. We suggest that modern western capitalism combined with Western Enlightenment’s liberal ethic of equality has eroded our appreciation for the link between difference, diversity and sustainability. Western capitalism is not only about changing modes of production but also about changing modes of consumption: the emergence of mass consumption practices with their emphasis on civic equality was a necessary step in the dismantling of aristocratic hierarchy. Restrictions in social structures hinder the emergence of bigger markets for capitalists and manufacturers. We therefore argue that the preoccupation of neotraditionalism with a universalization of tradition that is blind to jati-based differences and diversities undermines the implicit demand– supply balances that were historically at work within the framework of traditional sacred cultural beliefs and practices. Because of this, neotraditionalism errs on the side of promoting consumer capitalism and thereby eroding its ability to further the achievement of sustainability based on tradition. As such, neotraditionalism needs to delink from the liberal myth of equality and embrace diversity of consumption practices in order to truly enable sustainable lifestyles anchored in ancient Indian knowledge systems.
Preserving India’s Underwater Cultural Heritage: Navigating the Need, Challenges, and Strategies in Dwarka, Gujarat
Authors: Pandya Vikrant B. , Sanghani Parag
Published: December 2024

This article analyses the lost city of Dwarka, which is believed to be the ancient city of Dwarka, mentioned in ancient Indian texts such as the Mahabharata, Harivansh Purana and the Vishnu Purana. The underwater remains at Dwarka are considered an important source of information about the history and culture of ancient India. This article focuses on preserving India’s underwater cultural heritage (UCH) in Dwarka, Gujarat. The scope of UCH management at Dwarka, the challenges that arise, and strategies to overcome them are discussed. Alternative approaches for UCH protection, including the UNESCO 2001 Convention, are also considered. The article concludes by proposing a comprehensive management plan to protect the UCH site at Dwarka. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of the need and importance of preserving UCH and suggest practical steps towards its protection and preservation.
Advancing Topological Interlocking Structures: Recent Developments, Applications, and Challenges in Civil Engineering
Authors: Tavoosi Gazkoh Maliheh , Lin Xiaoshan , Zhou Annan
Published: December 2024

Topological interlocking structures have garnered significant attention for their distinctive properties, including robust resistance to crack propagation, outstanding energy absorption, adaptable flexibility, high resistance to missing elements and easy assembly and disassembly. Moreover, integrating various materials into a single structure enables versatile design possibilities. This paper comprehensively reviews recent research on topological interlocking elements and structures, encompassing element designs, manufacturing techniques and engineering applications. Furthermore, it explores the performance of topological interlocking structures, covering aspects such as fracture resistance, structural integrity, bending flexibility, ease of assembly and disassembly and energy absorption. While topological interlocking elements offer various benefits, challenges remain in their broader implementation, particularly as structural members in civil engineering structures. This paper engages in a critical discussion of existing research gaps and outlines directions for future research.
Adequate post-ischemic reperfusion of the mouse brain requires endothelial NFAT5
Authors: Kunze Reiner , Wacker Paul , Breuer Paula , Nasyrov Emil , Kur Ivan M. , Weigert Andreas , Wagner Andreas H. , Marti Hugo H. , Korff Thomas
Published: December 2024

Severity and outcome of strokes following cerebral hypoperfusion are significantly influenced by stress responses of the blood vessels. In this context, brain endothelial cells (BEC) regulate inflammation, angiogenesis and the vascular resistance to rapidly restore perfusion. Despite the relevance of these responses for infarct volume and tissue recovery, their transcriptional control in BEC is not well characterized. We revealed that oxygen and nutrient-deprived BEC activate nuclear factor of activated T-cells 5 (NFAT5)—a transcription factor that adjusts the cellular transcriptome to cope with environmental stressors. We hypothesized that NFAT5 controls the expression of genes regulating the response of BEC in the ischemic brain. The functional relevance of NFAT5 was assessed in mice, allowing the conditional EC-specific knock-out of Nfat5 (Nfat5(EC)−/−). Cerebral ischemia was induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) followed reperfusion up to 28 days. While loss of endothelial Nfat5 did not evoke any phenotypic abnormalities in mice under control conditions, infarct volumes, neurological deficits and the degree of brain atrophy were significantly pronounced following MCAO as compared to control animals (Nfat5fl/fl). In contrast, MCAO-induced edema formation, inflammatory processes and angiogenesis were not altered in Nfat5(EC)−/− mice. RNAseq analyses of cultured BEC suggested that loss of NFAT5 impairs the expression of Kcnj2 encoding a potassium channel that may affect reperfusion. In fact, lower levels of KCNJ2 were detected in arterial endothelial cells of Nfat5(EC)−/− versus Nfat5fl/fl mice. Laser speckle contrast imaging of the brain revealed an impaired perfusion recovery in Nfat5(EC)−/− versus Nfat5fl/fl mice after MCAO.Collectively, NFAT5 in arterial BEC is required for an adequate reperfusion response after brain ischemia that is presumably dependent on the maintenance of Kcnj2 expression. Consequently, impairment of the protective role of endothelial NFAT5 results in enlarged infarct sizes and more severe functional deficits of brain functions.
FPGA design and implementation for montgomery multiplication algorithm using MATLAB HDL coder
Authors: Elsayed Ghada , Abass Eman S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Modular multiplication for large numbers is especially important in cryptography algorithms such as RSA and elliptic curves. The Montgomery algorithm is the most famous and efficient one for calculating it. Hardware implementation for cryptography co-processors is better than software implementation in terms of speed and security. Many FPGA designs for the Montgomery multiplication algorithm was published based on hardware description languages like VERILOG and VHDL. This paper proposes the FPGA design and implementation using MATLAB HDL Coder.

Results

The algorithm is modified such that it can fit any small/large FPGA by introducing scaling factor. The design is configurable in both modulus length and the scaling factor. This paper performs a comparison between the synthesizing results for different scales and for different modulus lengths. The synthesizing is performed up to 8K bit modulus length, and it can be increased easily. In this paper, implementation of different modulus lengths with different frequencies and with different area utilization can be easily achieved. The design utilizes different area resources for each configuration. The target is xc7vx330t-2ffg1157 Virtex-7 Xilinx FPGA. The maximum frequency is 80.81 MHz for 4096-bit modulus length with 8-bit data width and 2 for serialization factor. The minimum area utilization is achieved for minimum configurations, i.e., 1024-bit modulus length with 8-bit data width and for unity serialization factor.

Conclusions

This paper proposes a scalable and configurable FPGA design for Montgomery multiplication co-processor-based HDL coder design.
Therapeutic Effects of Superinductive Magnetic Filed on Low Back Pain
Authors: Drăgoi Răzvan Gabriel , Popescu Marius Nicolae , Popa Daniel , Andriș Ramona , Blendea Dan Corneliu
Published: December 2024

Low back pain is one of the major public health problems, with approximately 1 in 3 adults experiencing an episode of low back pain during their lifetime. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on pain and physical function of a therapeutic protocol including analgesic electrotherapy, lumbar deconstrictor manual therapy and kinetic therapy and the superinductive magnetic field therapy. Patients were divided into two groups of 20 and 20 respectively. Group 1 was treated with the conventional protocol, while the second group received in adition the superinductive magnetic field therapy. Pain was assessed by VAS scale at admission and every 2 days, and functional deficit was assessed by the Fingertips to floor (FTF) test at admission, at 6 days and at discharge at 12 days. The Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale was also used to assess physical function at admission and discharge. 40 patients (24 female, 16 male), average age 61 years ( ± 5.7), average BMI of 32.11± 7.38 SD, kg participated and their data were analyzed. An average percentage decrease in VAS was noticed after the 12 days of treatment of 67% for group1 and of 88% for group 2. The deficit in FTF was also better in group 2 (FTF= 16+5cm ) compared to FTF=22+3 in the control group. On ADL assessment, no significant differences were noted. Superinductive magnetic field therapy is effective in the treatment of low back pain relieving pain syndrome and improving physical function.
Pes Planus Level and Foot Pain Affect Selected Performance Parameters: A Study on Team Sport Athletes
Authors: Febriyanti Irma , Setijono Hari , Marhaendra Fransisca Januarumi , Muhammad Heryanto Nur , Kafrawi Fatkhur Rohman , Nurhayati Faridha , Yulfadinata Afifan , Dwi Khory Fifukha , Kurtoğlu Ahmet , Tannoubi Amayra , Govindasamy Karuppasamy , Setiawan Edi
Published: December 2024

Aims to investigate the relationship between pes planus (PP) with foot pain (FP) and performance in team sport athletes. Correlational research was adopted to reveal the relationship between PP with FP and performance. There were 84 athletes were involved in this research. Measurement of PP with footprint test (FT), FP with knee pain intensity-visual analogue scale (KPI-VAS) and performance with items 30m sprint (30ms), modified agility t-test (MATT), counter movement jump (CMJ), standing stock balance test (SSBT). We observed that FT-PP variable has a moderate negative correlation with FP-KPI-VAS (p = 0.003), which shows that PP significantly causes foot pain. In CMJ (p = 0.035) and SSBT (p = 0.004) there is a moderate negative correlation, which shows that the PP level reduced the level of power and balance. Meanwhile, there is a moderate positive correlation with 30mS (p < .001), and MATT (p < .001), which shows that the level of PP will reduce the level of running speed and agility. At the same time, FP-KPI-VAS had a small negative correlation with 30mS (p = 0.017), MATT (p = 0.017) and CMJ (p = 0.048). Finally, FP-KPI-VAS was found to have a large positive correlation with SSBT (p < .001). Thus, we confirm that PP is significantly correlated with FP and performance related to 30ms, MATT, CMJ, SSBT in team sports athletes.
Calcium and vitamin D: roles, interactions and nutritional programming for bone development
Authors: Zastulka Ana , Clichici Simona , Culic Bogdan Culic , Pop Nadina-Liana , Olteanu Cristian-Doru , Delcea Cristian , Sabău Lavinia Ioana , Mocan Teodora
Published: December 2024

The contributions of calcium and vitamin D in optimal bone development have been widely studied in the biomedical field, including in rodent models, utilizing reference diets. Additionally, studies have emphasized the interrelation between calcium, vitamin D and other hormones as it pertains to osseous tissue function, as well as the role that signaling pathways play in bone synthesis and resorption. Recently, it has been reported in literature that rodent diets consisting of lower amounts of either calcium or vitamin D than the reference diets may lead to favorable bone growth. This review will describe the properties of calcium and vitamin D, their roles on bone formation, their interactions with parathyroid hormone, osteocalcin and the function of bone signaling pathways. Additionally, this review will outline the components of rodent reference diets and suggest possible dietary modifications that ensure healthy bone development.
Integrating Clinimetric and Psychometric Approaches in Enhancing Osteoarthritis Care
Authors: Pavel Roxana Maria Sânziana , Radu Andrei-Flavius , Nistor-Cseppento Carmen Delia , Vesa Cosmin-Mihai , Purza Anamaria Lavinia , Tit Delia Mirela , Radu Ada , Bungau Simona Gabriela
Published: December 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that is typically associated with weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees, and is defined by the progressive deterioration of cartilage. The effective treatment of OA is contingent upon the accurate assessment of its clinical and psychological effects. In the present work, we aim to compile the most recent evidence regarding the clinimetric and psychometric evaluations of OA, with a particular emphasis on the hip and knee, a topic still insufficient approached. The WOMAC and KOOS are among the clinimetric instruments that offer valuable insights into physical function, stiffness, and pain. By integrating clinimetric and psychometric tools, a comprehensive approach to managing OA is provided, which identifies both physical and mental health need. The significance of these combined evaluations in enhancing treatment adherence and improving patient outcomes is underscored by the present review. Moreover, treatment and recovery options still have limitations that need to be addressed. Additional research is required to elucidate the psychometric properties of quality-of-life measures and postural control assessments. Future research should concentrate on the development of more comprehensive and robust tools that assess all facets of OA, thereby facilitating personalized interventions that address the multifaceted character of this debilitating disease.
Narrative Review of the Morphofunctional Underpinnings and Comprehensive Rehabilitation Strategies for Smartphone-addicted University Students
Authors: Anghelescu Lucia Ana-Maria , Anghelescu Aurelian , Onose Gelu
Published: December 2024

The widespread availability of mobile phones has contributed to a high prevalence of digital addiction worldwide. Smartphone addiction or problematic smartphone use (SA/PSU) has become a widespread issue, especially among university students. Due to concerns about SA/PSU and cyber addiction in young people, research has focused on the structural and functional effects on the brain and the behavioral consequences of spending too much time on mobile phones. This review investigates the impact of excessive smartphone use on this demographic group's physical and mental health. An advanced search on PubMed based on primary keywords, clustered in syntactic associations looked for academic work focusing on: ((((smartphone addiction) and (problematic smartphone use)) and (students) and (Physical exercises)) and (Physical Activity). The relationship (((smartphone addiction) and (problematic smartphone use) and (systematic review) identified 22 papers, published between 2016 and 2024, 16 of which were during the Covid era and post-pandemic periods (2020-2024). Smartphone overuse-induced alterations in cerebral gray matter were observed in four trials. The beneficial influence of physical activity on smartphone addiction was emphasized in 11 publications (selected 9) identified by the advanced search with the syntactic relationship. The narrative review offers a comprehensive overview of effective strategies for addressing SA/PSU. This includes utilizing exercise and psychological interventions to combat digital addiction. Furthermore, studies have looked into the potential benefits of physical exercise and specific strategies addressing these issues. Engaging in physical activity may help offset the negative effects of SA/PSU, and targeted strategies are necessary for preventing and treating these problems in young people. Political and educational decision factors must implement targeted strategies and integrated social education policies to prevent smartphone overuse and pejorative consequences in adolescents and young people.
Preliminary analysis of patient assessment within a study on the impact of hydrokinetotherapy on body composition and metabolic disease risk in an adult population segment
Authors: Cobuz Claudiu , Silișteanu Sînziana Călina , Cobuz Maricela , Costea Andrei-Ioan , Lakhdari Elena Vizitiu
Published: December 2024

In clinical and research settings, the accurate and reliable evaluation of body composition is necessary. Existing methods present various challenges, either in measurement meth-odology or in the assumptions they rely on.The purpose of this study is to conduct a preliminary analysis of patient assessment within a study concerning the impact of hydroki-netotherapy on body composition and metabolic disease risk in an adult population seg-ment. Methods: The research was carried out at the Diabetes Ambulatory Clinic of the Suceava County Hospital in January 2024. An essential component of this investigation involves evaluating body composition parameters measured using the Tanita 738 device and assessing metabolic risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. In parallel with this research, a hydrokinetotherapy model adapted to this population is proposed for development. Results: The interpretation of BMI data for wom-en aged 40-60 revealed significant variability in this group’s body composition, as was al-so observed in women aged 61-80. Among women aged 61-80, there was a significant proportion of participants with morbid obesity (BMI ≥ 40). Similarly, the BMI data for men aged 40-60 indicated notable variability in body composition, consistent with the findings for men aged 61-80. Both age groups in men exhibited significant overweight and obesity, highlighting the need for increased attention to weight management and metabolic health among men. Conclusions: The study on body composition and metabolic disease risk among adults aged 40 to 80, participants at the Diabetes Ambulatory Clinic of the Suceava County Hospital, demonstrated significant findings in both women and men. Implement-ing a 4-month hydrokinetotherapy program indicates an approach aimed at optimizing participants’ health. A personalized approach and careful management of hydrokineto-therapy exercises are necessary. Weight loss through diet and physical exercise is proven to be the most effective treatment strategy for obese and overweight elderly subjects, facili-tating the maintenance of muscle mass and promoting functional recovery.
Body Composition and Cardiorespiratory Fitness Characteristics Among Female University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Coman Mădălina-Gabriela , Adam Andreea Maria , Gheorghe Carmen , Mocanu Mircea Dan , Stoica Leonard , Iordan Daniel-Andrei , Onu Ilie , Teodor Dragoș Florin
Published: December 2024

Obesity and body composition are crucial indicators of health, especially among young adults whose lifestyle changes during university years can impact physical well-being. This study examines obesity levels and body composition parameters in female university students, hypothesizing that they exhibit elevated body fat percentages compared to health standards, likely due to a sedentary lifestyle. A secondary hypothesis posits a correlation between physical activity levels and body composition, anticipating higher fat mass in students with low physical activity levels. The study included 258 female students, aged 18-23, from seven faculties at the University "Dunărea de Jos" of Galați. Body composition metrics, such as total body water, protein, minerals, body fat mass, skeletal muscle mass, and BMI, were assessed using the InBody 720 (Biospace, Korea). Cardiovascular fitness was evaluated through the Ruffier Test, a widely accepted measure in Europe. SPSS 26 software was used for statistical analysis, applying Skewness and Kurtosis to assess data distribution, while Pearson correlation evaluated relationships between physical activity and body composition. The analysis revealed a significant trend toward elevated fat mass and obesity indicators. The average body fat mass was 32.3%, substantially above the healthy standard of 23%, and 52.3% of participants were classified as having excessive body fat. BMI showed 38% of students in the overweight or obese range. Waist-to-hip ratios highlighted prevalent central adiposity, with a mean of 0.918, exceeding recommended limits for women. A positive correlation was found between lower physical activity and increased fat mass, supporting Hypothesis 2. Findings indicate a high prevalence of obesity-related parameters among female university students, likely linked to lifestyle changes. These results emphasize the importance of health promotion efforts to encourage physical activity and healthy habits in this population, suggesting a role for bioelectrical impedance analysis as a valuable tool in university health assessmentsy.
Evolution of Functional and Paraclinical Markers as Predictive Factors in Pediatric Late-Onset SMA Under Nusinersen Treatment: The Role of CSF pNF-H
Authors: Badina Mihaela , Bejan Gabriel Cristian , Sporea Corina , Mirea Andrada
Published: December 2024

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare neurodegenerative disease caused by insufficient synthesis of SMN protein, characterized by progressive muscle weakness, atrophy, and complications affecting the respiratory and digestive systems. Disease severity tends to be greater when symptoms manifest at an earlier age. Since 2016, the FDA-approved drug nusinersen has provided a disease-modifying treatment option. Identifying predictive factors for patient outcomes over time remains essential. This retrospective study analyzed clinical and biological parameters in 42 patients (ages 13–215 months) with SMA types 2 and 3 over the first three years of nusinersen treatment. We assessed pNF-H levels in CSF and serum—neuronal proteins associated with neurodegeneration—as well as serum creatinine levels, a marker of muscle activity, and motor skill scores to evaluate pNF-H’s potential as a predictor of motor development. Elevated pNF-H levels were associated with a lower SMN2 gene copy number and more recent disease onset. Following nusinersen treatment, pNF-H levels stabilized at low values, likely due to basal metabolic activity. In SMA types 2 and 3, higher baseline CSF pNF-H levels correlated with improved performance over time. Additionally, higher serum creatinine levels and smaller changes in pNF-H during the loading phase or various periods of maintenance treatment were associated with better motor development outcomes at two and three years of treatment.
Comparative analysis of paraclinical parameters in the as-sessment of osteoporosis: an integrative approach
Authors: Antonescu Oana Raluca , Silisteanu Sinziana Calina , Venter Alina Cristiana , Racheriu Mihaela , Antonescu Irina Elena , Nemes-Nagy Enikő
Published: December 2024

Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease with serious physical, psychosocial and economic consequences. It is a chronic, asymptomatic, progressive disease with multifactorial aetiology, characterized by reduced bone mineral density and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue; A retrospective study was conducted, which included an initial cohort of 243 patients hospitalized between January 2023 and December 2023 at the County Emergency Hospital of Sibiu, Clinical Endocrinology Department ; Study results suggest that assessment of bone mineral density (BMD) remains a primary standard in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, as measured by T and Z scores from DXA densitometry. However, biomarkers such as total calcium, ionic calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, PTH and bone degradation markers (e.g. Beta Crosslaps) play a significant role in assessing bone metabolism and identifying fracture risk; The study highlights the importance of screening in postmenopausal women and the need for calcium and vitamin D supplementation in patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia.
Assessment of frailty, performance and functional independence in patients with periprosthetic fractures associated with total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Niculescu Victor , Ene Razvan , Dimitriu Alexandru Lisias , Tirla Sebastian , Marge Cristian , Pop Mircea Gheorghe , Necula Radu Dan
Published: December 2024

Periprosthetic fractures (PFs) associated with total hip arthroplasty are significant postoperative complications after hip prosthesis implantation surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the fragility, performance and functional independence of patients with PFs associated with total hip arthroplasty. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and October 2024. The 101 patients evaluated were divided into 3 groups: the group consisting of hip arthroplasty patients - named ATS group (n=36), the group consisting of periprosthetic fractures patients - named PF group (n=11), the group consisting of stage III and IV coxarthrosis patients - named OAH group (n=42). Mean scores fall in the range of pre-fragility - mild frailty for ATS and OAH groups (7.098 ± 2.289 vs. 6.939 ± 1.405), with no significant differences between them, while the mean score of PF group falls in the range of moderate-severe frailty (11.727 ± 3.289). Our data analysis suggests a marked impairment of functional independence in more than 90% of PF patients versus 32% of patients in the ATS group and about 20% of patients in the OAH group; about 75% of patients in the PF group have a significant impairment of functional perfomance. Periprosthetic hip fractures are associated with advancing age and increased fragility. Functional performance and independence of patients with periprosthetic fractures, more than 3 months after fracture, is significantly impaired and is associated with frailty status and advanced age.
How do physicians estimate cardiovascular risk in the elderly using E-health - a pilot study
Authors: Aurelian Sorina Maria , Aurelian Justin , Stoica Simona Isabelle , Vlădulescu-Trandafir Andreea Iulia , Zamfirescu Andreea , Onose Gelu
Published: December 2024

Cardiovascular pathology encompasses a wide range of diseases characterized by common risk factors such as atherosclerotic disease, diabetes, and arterial hypertension. These conditions can be effectively mitigated through the adoption of a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, telemedicine, along with other forms of direct or indirect electronic interaction, may play a significant role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.In order to evaluate the perception of doctors and elderly patients from Bucharest county, as cardiovascular risk and the preventive role of telemedicine means, we created a specific questionnaire. We collected by a online questionnaire: demographic data, level of education, medical software applications used, cardiovascular parameters, telemedicine com-pliance. The obtained data were processed using Windows Office program. The surveyed doctors performed telemedicine using WhatsApp (in 55% of cases), phone short message text (in 40% of cases). and platform ASSMB (0.5%). Doctors' preferences in telemedicine were to asses the cardiovascular pathology (75%), cognitive disorders (65%), and functional (60%) evaluations. The majority of 50% of patients will resort to alternative consultations (through physical examination and telemedicine) in the future only if it is strictly necessary. Doctors and patients were predominantly women, with the majority residing in the urban environment. Telemedicine was carried out using WhatsApp for doctors and patients. Most doctors believe that telemedicine will improve the doctor-patient relationship and therapeutic compliance and monitoring and consultations will take place at the office and via telemedicine. The majority of patients will resort to alternative consultations methods (physical examination/ telemedicine) in the future when deemed necessary; a significant number of the patients would encompassing both in-person visits and telemedicine options.
Flexible analytic wavelet transform in a EEG based brain computer Interface Paradigm: a study in end users with mo-tor disabilities
Authors: Hrisca-Eva Oana-Diana
Published: December 2024

Motor imagery electroencephalogram based brain computer interface systems can help people with disabilities to communicate with an external device and to realize rehabilitation therapies. The paper proposes flexible analytic wavelet transform (FAWT) as feature extraction method. The method was tested on a dataset that contains EEG signals acquired from subjects with motor disabilities. Classifiers linear discriminant analysis (LDA), quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA), k nearest neighbors(kNN), Mahalanobis distance (MD) and support vector machine (SVM) were utilized to classsify the extracted features of right hand motor imagery and feet motor imagery (FEET). The best performance was given by QDA classifier with a classification rate of 97 %, sensitivity 99.65%, specificity 98.47%, kappa coefficient 0.97 and F1 score 0.98. The proposed method shows through the obtained results that can be used and easy to implement for assisting rehabitation on real time BCI systems.
Development of a new composite surface tensiometry parameter for quality evaluation of the maturation process of peloids by contact angle method
Authors: Rossi Davide , Realdon Nicola
Published: December 2024

With the introduction of the rheological and surface tensiometry approaches, peloids started to be viewed as a geological complex system that needed to be characterized in an integrated way. The development of the Rossi factor revealed variations in the surface free energy of Euganean thermal muds as a function of their quality, conformity, and matura-tion degree. The Rossi factor consents to measuring the contact angle of Fomblin HC/25PFPE Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether by static sessile drop method. The de-velopment of the Kinetic Contact Angle sessile drop methodology, applied to the meas-urement of Fomblin HC/25 PFPE contact angles over time, led to the determination of an integrated surface tensiometry parameter for the evaluation of the maturation process of Euganean thermal peloids, here called the Maturation Mud Index. The Mud Maturation Index is based on the contact angle measurements performed onto peloids surfaces col-lected by Osservatorio Termale Permanente of University of Padova from 2005 to 2010. The Mud Maturation Index has shown a connection to the activity of thermal spas during their pelotherapy season. As a result, this index can serve as a valuable tool for surface tensiometry in assessing the maturation process quality of a peloid based on its level of maturation within the thermal activity of the Euganean Thermal Area in Padova, Italy.
Shape the international discourse of Humanities Exchange in China's sports events within The Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Huang Jin , Wang Shaojie , Jiang Bo
Published: December 2024

This study takes the humanities exchange of sports events as the research object, uses the literature method, the historical method and the logical analysis method to deeply interpret the essence of the humanities exchange of sports events in China and the challenges of The Times. Through the "Belt and Road" platform, based on the current situation of cooperation and exchange of sports events in China, it strives to explore the new practice of humanities exchange of sports events with Chinese characteristics in the new era. It is concluded that the humanities exchange in Chinese sports events boosted by the "Belt and Road" will play a positive role in promoting China's international image, enhancing the international discourse power of sports, realizing the "people-to-people connection" with countries along the Belt and Road, and consolidating the soft power of Chinese sports culture. Therefore, the humanities exchanges of sports events in China should take the "Belt and Road" as the ideological guidance, carry out scientific and strategic layout of sports events in China and countries and regions along the routes, and strive to build brand sports events with Chinese characteristics in the new era. The purpose of this study is to promote the cooperation and development of sports diplomacy, enhance the discourse power of Chinese sports events in the international arena, and provide theoretical reference for promoting China's development to a sports power.
Optimal Fermentation Time for Jack Bean (Canavalia ensiformis) Tempeh: A Comprehensive Pattern Analysis of Chemical and Enzyme Changes
Authors: Yarlina Vira Putri , Nabilah Fakhira , z Zaida , Nurhasanah Siti , Lani Mohd Nizam
Published: December 2024

The fermentation of Jack bean tempeh, a method that markedly improves its nutritional content, is of considerable significance. The intricate constituents of the Jack bean are altered by microbes, specifically the Rhizopus oligosporus mold. The duration of fermentation plays a crucial role in altering the pH value, water content, protein content, protease activity, and the degree of hydrolysis in tempeh products. This study, which aimed to determine the optimal fermentation time of Jack bean tempeh, is a significant contribution to the field. The research was conducted using experimental Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) analysis methods. Tempeh was fermented for 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 hours and wrapped in Plastic Polypropylene (PP). The results, which revealed that the Jack bean tempeh fermentation time of 48 hours was optimal, underscore the significance of this research. This was supported by the value of protease activity, which reached the optimal point of 34.64±0.16 units/g, followed by a pH value of 7.8, water content of 58.92%±0.06, protein content of 35.59%±0.75, and degree of hydrolysis was 1.83%.
A Cross-Sectional Study for Measuring Undernutrition Through Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure (CIAF) Among Indian Children
Authors: Rathi Suresh Kumar , Mayavanshi Jayant
Published: December 2024

Children's undernourishment remains a severe public health concern and is one of the main causes of illness and early mortality among children of under-five. The analysis in focus was intent to measure the prevalence of and factors associated with nutritional status of under-five children by using the Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure (CIAF). Current cross-sectional study was conducted with a total of 749 children which were selected through cluster sampling methodology. Field staff has been trained in all aspects of data collection including taking consent and measurements. Assessment of the nutritional status of the children was computed through CIAF. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied to analyze the leading factors associated with undernutrition. The overall prevalence of undernutrition was 54.5% among under five children according to CIAF while 9.6% experienced wasting only, 8.8% were classified as both wasting and underweight, 7.2% as wasting underweight and stunting, 11.9% stunting and underweight, 8.0% stunting only and 8.9% underweight only. Most of the mothers were educated to secondary and above level, 55% working mothers, around 40% mothers have age at the time of delivery was 26 years and above. It was observed that female children were more likely to suffer from undernutrition than male children. Children age (13 – 24 Months): [aOR:1.48, CI: 1.10-1.86]; female child: [aOR:2.88, CI: 1.65-4.97]; family monthly income of up to INR 15,000 [aOR: 2.46, CI: 1.77-4.82], underweight mother: [aOR: 2.01, CI: 1.18-3.21]; mother’s education above secondary level: [aOR: 2.68, CI: 1.29-3.01], working mother: [aOR: 1.95, CI: 1.57-2.89], and age of introducing complementary food: [aOR: 1.88, CI: 1.62-2.36] were significantly associated with anthropometric failure among children. Most of the children under five experience anthropometric failure. CIAF is a helpful resource that offers a comprehensive image of the prevalence of undernutrition. However, more evidence is required in similar settings to confirm its usefulness.
Effects of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Dangeard) Proteins Extracts on Storage Stability of Freshwater Shrimp Macrobrachium nipponense (De Haan)
Authors: Su Ke Ying , Li Qian , Zhong Yi Yang , Zhang Xue Wu , Cheng Lai Hoong
Published: December 2024

In this study, the extraction of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Dangeard (C. reinhardtii) protein was optimized through response surface methodology. The optimal extractions parameters were 0.091 mol/L sodium chloride concentration, 31.02 mL/g liquid to solid ratio, a homogenization frequency of 10.17 times per second, and a homogenization time of 12.82 minutes. The optimized protein extraction yield was 52.78%. The C. reinhardtii protein extract at different concentrations (0.1-0.5%) was used to dip-coat East Asian river prawn (Macrobrachium nipponense De Haan). Over a 4-day storage period, the pH value and total viable counts (TVC) of the prawn samples were determined every 24 hours. Results showed that a 0.2% C. reinhardtii protein extract effectively delayed increases in pH and TVC of the prawn samples, suggesting that C. reinhardtii protein extract could be a promising natural preservative.